Matthew 28:18-20 New International Version (NIV)
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Friday - June 12 - Read Matthew 28:18-20 We are re-reading this brief passage to highlight something else that is often misunderstood. Jesus says that his followers should “go” and “make disciples” by baptizing and “teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” The original Greek word “tereo” that is often translated as “obey” in English Bibles is better translated as “keep watch over and guard” or “preserve.” Jesus wants us to teach others to watch over, guard, and preserve the Good News of his death and resurrection for all people. On Memorial Day a group visited the various cemeteries in the area around Flanagan in order to watch over, guard and preserve the memory of what those men and women had done for their U.S.A. and their loved ones. This is what Jesus wants us to do and teach others to do concerning what HE has done for us and for all people. Let us keep watch, guard, and preserve the precious gift of the Gospel and teach others to do the same.