I Resolve To Lead the Lost-Exclusive Or Inclusive? Matthew 28:19-20
Posh resorts, designer clothing and Ivy League schools are all examples of exclusive. Some people spend their lives pursuing the exclusive; that which belongs to a restricted group of people. However exclusive’s restrictive appeal is also what limits its actual influence. But when it comes to the gospel, God has presented us with a great commission that is inclusive, not exclusive and therefore its inclusive appeal is what causes it to be the strongest influencer of all time.
The dictionary defines commission as “an instruction, command or duty given.” Jesus didn’t exclude anyone in His command, so none of us get a pass from the great commission. We are each commanded to go and make disciples. It’s not an invitation; it was a clear directive that was fueled by an unconditional love for the lost, that we should share.
Not only is the command to make disciples inclusive, the gospel message itself is inclusive. It is meant for every people group, every socio-economic level and for every individual. Christ’s clarion call is made with open arms and His words should resonate clearly within our hearts to go into the highways and byways and compel them to come in.
His heart is that ALL believers would walk out His great commission of sharing the gospel with ALL people, teaching them to obey ALL the commands of Christ. His heart is incredibly inclusive, so His Body should be as well! Let us go forth, for the fields are ripe and the Lord of the harvest goes before us!
Pastor Sandy