Lutheran Lens Commentary: Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission)

## Lutheran Lens Reading of Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission)

### Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as both Law and Gospel. The command to 'make disciples of all nations' (Law) exposes our failure to evangelize as we ought, revealing our dependence on God's grace. Yet, it is primarily Gospel because it delivers Christ's promise of His abiding presence 'to the end of the age,' assuring us of His work through us. The emphasis is on the means of grace — Word and Sacrament — through which disciples are made and sustained. The passage is Christological, with Christ Himself assuring us of His authority and presence in the mission of the Church.

### Key Language Decisions