The risen Jesus tells his disciples that the whole Old Testament, from the law of Moses to the prophets and psalms, finds its center in him. He opens their minds to understand this and commissions them as witnesses of repentance and forgiveness to all nations.

The risen Jesus sends his disciples to make disciples of all nations because all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to him. This commission rests on his rule, not on human strategy, and he promises his presence until the end of the age.

Matthew 28:18 records the risen Jesus declaring universal authority in heaven and on earth, the foundation for disciple-making among all nations.

Matthew 28:20 commands disciples to teach obedience to everything Jesus commanded and promises his covenant presence until the completion of the age.

Matthew 28:19 commands Jesus’ followers to make disciples among all peoples, baptizing them into the triune name and teaching obedient faith.