GO - Week 1
Living as the sent
Matthew 28
"Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgment seat;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its days I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, “twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say, “Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say ’twas worth it all”;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."
-CT STUDD
Matthew 28:16-20
1. The Power of the Sender: We go because Jesus has all authority (v.18)
- This authority is comprehensive
A. We walk in His authority by being sent in His name
John 20:21 — “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
B. We walk in His authority by abiding in Him
John 15:5 — “Apart from me you can do nothing.”
- Before effective ministry happens publicly those God uses greatly draw close to him privately.
C. We walk in His authority by speaking and acting in alignment with His Word
Colossians 3:17 — “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
- We’re not calling the world to conform to our rules or fit into our culture — we’re calling them to place their trust in Jesus, the only One who can save.
D. We walk in His authority by trusting His power over spiritual opposition
Luke 10:19 — “I have given you authority… over all the power of the enemy; nothing shall hurt you.”
E. We walk in His authority by obeying His commands
We can’t carry Christ’s authority while ignoring Christ’s instructions. Authority grows in the soil of obedience.
2. All nations means no boundaries.
3. The Focus of the Call: Make disciples, not just converts.
4. The Promise of the Presence: “I am with you always.”
3-Day Devotional Guide
Day 1 – Sent with Authority
Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20; John 20:21
Reflection: Jesus begins the Great Commission not with “go” but with “all authority has been given to me.” Our confidence comes from the power and position of the One sending us. Just as He was sent by the Father, He now sends us — not empty-handed, but with His authority and Spirit.
Application: Write down one place or relationship where God is calling you to live “sent.” Pray for boldness to step into that space under His authority, not your own ability.
Prayer: “Lord, I thank You that Your authority covers me. Send me where You want me to go, and remind me that Your power goes before me.”
Day 2 – No Boundaries to the Gospel
Scripture: Revelation 7:9–10; Acts 1:8
Reflection: The scope of God’s mission is all nations, all peoples, all languages. The gospel doesn’t stop at cultural lines, social circles, or political borders. The kingdom of God is radically inclusive — and that calls us to be radically available.
Application: Identify one barrier (cultural, personal, relational) that keeps you from engaging someone with the gospel. Ask God to break down that barrier in your heart.
Prayer: “Father, help me to see people the way You see them — worthy of hearing the good news, no matter their background.”
Day 3 – Presence in the Mission
Scripture: Exodus 33:14–15; Matthew 28:20
Reflection: God’s presence is not just comfort — it’s power for the mission. Just as He was with Moses, Elijah, and Paul, He is with you. His presence makes you courageous when you feel afraid, and strong when you feel weak.
Application: Before starting your day tomorrow, pause to acknowledge Christ’s presence with you. Speak aloud, “You are with me.” Let that awareness shape how you live and speak.
Prayer: “Jesus, thank You for being with me always. Help me to walk today in the confidence of Your presence.”
5 Small Group Discussion Questions
1) Authority in Action: In what ways does knowing Jesus has “all authority” change the way you view your personal mission? Where are you tempted to act in your own strength instead of His?
2) Living Sent: John 20:21 says, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” How does viewing yourself as “sent” change your daily routines, relationships, and priorities?
3) No Boundaries: The gospel is for “all nations.” What cultural, social, or personal barriers might God be calling you to cross to live this out?
4) Making Disciples: What are practical ways we can move beyond “getting decisions” to making disciples? Share an example of someone who walked with you in your discipleship journey.
5) The Promise of His Presence: How does the awareness of Christ’s presence help you face fear, rejection, or opposition? Share a moment where His presence gave you courage.