33 —The Apostolic Commission.

The Apostolic Commission.

Read St. Matt, xxviii. 19, 20.

[19] Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.

1. Our Lord’s all-embracing power was not given to Him for Himself alone, or merely that He might crush His enemies under His feet. As He had taken human flesh for our sakes, for our sakes had been crucified and risen again, so for our sakes all power was given to Him in heaven and in earth. It is that he might through His apostles and their successors reap the fruits of the redemption that He wrought for us. Thus even in His triumph Christ appears as our minister, as serving us. He cannot shake off the character which He expressed in saying that the Son of man came not to be ministered to, but to minister. Even in heaven He tells us that He will serve those who served Him faithfully on earth (St. Luke xiv. 15).

2. “Going, therefore, teach all nations.” In these words Christ again communicates His power to His apostles, confirming His former words, “As my Father sent Me, so I send you.” It is the greatest mark of love, to desire to communicate to others the best gift given to us. So the Lord of heaven and earth gives, as far as He can to sinful man, the wondrous power that was given to Him, that they may go and carry out His work and earn a share in His reward.

3. The apostles are sent to make disciples of all nations. All are to be subject to Christ; the Christian Church is to be Catholic. There is no distinction with Him of race or blood or nationality. Take care that you imitate His universal charity, and beware of the narrow spirit that despises other countries and races.