Series Details
During Jesus’ final days with His disciples, He left them with an objective—what we now call “The Great Commission.” Jesus told His closest followers to “make disciples of all nations.”
Initially, this parting command left the disciples scratching their heads. We too might wonder how we can participate in this seemingly impossible task today.
Join Pastor Chuck Swindoll in this vital series as he presents God’s plan for fulfilling the Great Commission and shares his own heart for reaching the lost.
Final words are often a person’s most significant, and the final earthly words of the Son of God are no exception. Before His ascension, Jesus left His disciples with a clear objective: to “make disciples of all nations.” While this parting command initially left the disciples—and often leaves us today—wondering how such a monumental task could be accomplished, this series provides clarity. Chuck Swindoll explores God’s strategic plan for reaching the world, emphasizing that the Great Commission is not just for a few, but is a vital mission for every believer.
Kick-Starting a Plan to Reach the World
Sermon Summary The mission to reach the world did not begin with human ingenuity but with a divine “kick-start.” This message focuses on the remarkable moment recorded in Acts 1, where Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure. Chuck discusses the transition from Jesus’ physical presence to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. We learn that the plan to reach the world is fueled by God’s power and directed by His sovereign timing, moving us from passive waiting to active witnessing.
Key Facts & Themes
- The Importance of Final Words: Recognizing the Great Commission as Christ’s primary directive for the Church.
- Divine Empowerment: Understanding that the mission is impossible without the Holy Spirit.
Primary Scripture Reference
- Acts 1:6–11
Essential Fuel for Fulfilling the Mission
Sermon Summary Fulfilling a global mission requires “essential fuel” to prevent burnout and discouragement. This message explores the spiritual resources necessary for the long-term work of discipleship. Chuck emphasizes the roles of fervent prayer, deep reliance on the Spirit, and a clear understanding of the Gospel. Without this fuel, the Great Commission becomes a heavy burden; with it, it becomes a joyous privilege empowered by the grace of God.
Key Facts & Themes
- Spiritual Sustenance: The necessity of prayer and the Word in sustaining a missional heart.
- The Role of the Spirit: How the Holy Spirit provides the courage and wisdom needed for outreach.
An Original Snapshot of the First Church
Sermon Summary How did the very first followers of Jesus live out the Great Commission? This message provides an “original snapshot” of the early church in Acts. We see a community characterized by devotion to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, and a radical generosity that drew others to Christ. Chuck shows that the most effective tool for reaching the lost is a healthy, loving, and Christ-centered church body that lives out the truth it proclaims.
Key Facts & Themes
- Authentic Community: How the lifestyle of the church serves as a witness to the world.
- The Growth of the Kingdom: Seeing how God “added to their number daily” as they lived in unity.
An E-Ticket for Reaching the Lost
Sermon Summary Reaching the lost should be viewed as a thrilling adventure rather than a daunting chore. Using the “E-Ticket” metaphor for life’s most exciting experiences, Chuck provides practical encouragement for personal evangelism. We learn how to share the Good News with a sense of joy and anticipation, trusting that God is already at work in the hearts of those around us. This message helps remove the fear of “witnessing” by focusing on the beauty of the message we carry.
Key Facts & Themes
- The Thrill of Evangelism: Finding personal joy in sharing the Gospel.
- Overcoming Obstacles: Practical tips for starting spiritual conversations.
Needed: A Few Good Neighbors
Sermon Summary The Great Commission often begins in our own neighborhoods. This message focuses on the power of “neighboring”—living out the love of Christ to those who live right next door. Chuck discusses the importance of building authentic, kind, and present relationships with those in our immediate community. By being “good neighbors,” we earn the right to be heard and create natural bridges for the Gospel to cross into the lives of others.
Key Facts & Themes
- Local Impact: Recognizing your neighborhood as your primary mission field.
- Relational Bridge-Building: The importance of kindness and integrity in outreach.
