What Is the Great Commission?

Crucial Questions #21

by R.C. Sproul

After His resurrection, Jesus gave His followers a mission: to go to all the nations and make disciples. What does this Great Commission mean? How are disciples made? And does every Christian have a role to play?

In this booklet, Dr. R.C. Sproul explores the Great Commission by defining key terms such as the gospel, evangelism, missions, and discipleship. Dr. Sproul explains that disciple-making requires much more than just sharing the gospel, and two thousand years after Jesus’ commission, this mission continues.

The Crucial Questions booklet series by Dr. R.C. Sproul offers succinct answers to important questions often asked by Christians and thoughtful inquirers.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Evangelism, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian Living, Religion

54 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2015

About the author

Dr. R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian discipleship organization located near Orlando, Fla. He was founding pastor of Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Fla., first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.

Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul’s teachings and the ministry’s other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.

Dr. Sproul’s radio program, Renewing Your Mind, is still broadcast daily on hundreds of radio stations around the world and can also be heard online. Dr. Sproul produced hundreds of lecture series and recorded numerous video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.

He contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, spoke at conferences, churches, and academic institutions around the world, and wrote more than one hundred books, including The Holiness of God, Chosen by God, and Everyone’s a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document. He also served as general editor of the Reformation Study Bible, previously known as the New Geneva Study Bible.

Dr. Sproul had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He was ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.

Reviews

[Sophie Alexander · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m back in the game 2 months later.
A short book of encouragement and a kick up the backside to get out there and help to seek the lost.
“That is the mission of the church, and each of us has a responsibility to make sure that the lost are sought and found. We’re not dealing with coins or sheep, and we’re not dealing with dogs or keys. We are dealing with people whom Christ loves. He said so Himself.”

[India · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really easy to understand. As always, Sproul finds great examples to illustrate and support his ideas. It is also a good reminder of our purpose here on Earth.

[Andy Febrico Bintoro · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read about evangelism, more on basic theological aspect of evangelism.

[Rene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made me think twice what role should I play as christian and part of the church. Loved it

[John Yelverton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic little book on just what it means to evangelize, and how any attempt to refuse this awesome responsibility is to simply disobey the commands of Christ.

[Sheila Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, simple, and to the point. RC Sproul always does a wonderful job answering the question posed in the title in words that even the newest Christian can understand.

[Kary Bogarin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conciso y necesario

Una definición de misión desde la vida de Jesús, una misión activa que busca a los perdidos y no se encierra en 4 paredes a esperarlos.
Desafiante.

[Alex Lozagui · Rating 5 out of 5]

Explica de manera muy entendible lo que es la gran comisión, qué es y qué no es evangelizar. Además incrementa el deseo de cumplir con nuestra responsabilidad como iglesia.

[Rebecca Borghini · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.C. Sproul’s "What is the Great Commission?" is a straightforward & insightful examination of Jesus’ command to His followers to spread the Gospel. In this brief yet impactful book, Sproul explains the significance & urgency of the Great Commission for every Christian.

Sproul starts by defining the Great Commission & its biblical foundations. He explores the mandate given by Jesus to make disciples of all nations, emphasizing the importance of evangelism & discipleship in the life of a believer.

One of the book’s strengths is Sproul’s clear & engaging writing style. He takes complex theological ideas & makes them accessible & relevant. His practical insights help readers understand how they can actively participate in fulfilling the Great Commission in their own lives.

Sproul also addresses common misconceptions & challenges related to evangelism, providing encouragement & guidance for overcoming these obstacles. His focus on the power of the Holy Spirit & reliance on God’s sovereignty is particularly uplifting.

Overall, "What is the Great Commission?" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of their role in spreading the Gospel. Sproul’s clear explanations & practical advice make this book valuable for both personal growth & group study. It’s an important reminder of the mission that lies at the heart of the Christian faith.

[Chloe Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

R.C. Sproul’s What Is the Great Commission? is a brief but insightful exploration of Christ’s command to make disciples of all nations. As always, Sproul writes with clarity, theological depth, and a strong biblical foundation. He unpacks the significance of evangelism, the role of the church, and the authority of Christ in the mission of spreading the gospel.

One of the book’s strengths is its accessibility—Sproul manages to present weighty theological truths in a way that is understandable for both new believers and seasoned Christians. His emphasis on the sovereignty of God in evangelism is particularly encouraging, reminding readers that the success of the Great Commission does not depend on human effort alone but on God’s power.

However, given the brevity of the book, some readers may find it lacking in practical application. While Sproul lays a strong theological foundation, those looking for detailed guidance on how to engage in evangelism might need to supplement this book with other resources.

Overall, What Is the Great Commission? is a solid introduction to the topic, faithful to Scripture and deeply encouraging. It’s a great read for those wanting to understand the biblical mandate for evangelism, though those looking for a more in-depth, practical approach may wish to explore additional works.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good reminder. This was to the point and easy to read but without being trivial. In this short booklet, R. C. Sproul shows his passion for the Gospel and makes clear that he wants his readers to share that passion. Sproul weaves Biblical exposition together with personal stories in a way that few others can, so that his writing is both informative and motivating. I appreciated the well-rounded view of the Great Commision that shows that it is not just evangelism (although that certainly is part of it), but also the teaching the commands of Scripture.

[Albert L Schaubel · Rating 5 out of 5]

How will they believe?

It's interesting... Lawyers put up shingles and people who need legal advice come to them. A church opens it's doors but those who need to be saved don't enter. The Lost hate God not realizing they need the salvation He offers. Dr. Sproul begins by defining what missions are and then explaining the purpose and process God has Instituted to bring the lost to Christ.

[GABRIEL MUÑOZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

La misión de toda la iglesia

Este pequeño libro me ayudó a cambiar mi concepto de misiones como un programa voluntario para aquellos que les atrae este tipo de cosas, ahora entiendo que misión es ser enviado y es una responsabilidad para cada uno de los miembros de la iglesia de Jesucristo.

[Christopher Derrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Book on What Evangelism Is Motivated By

This book is a nice quick read on the focus and source of Evangelism, what it's motivated by biblically and how Christians should look at it, whether an optional addition to life or a mandate from God. Also found the explanation of witness vs evangelism very helpful in understanding it.

[Glenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The end of the book is the best summary: That is the mission of the church, and each of us has a responsibility to make sure that the lost are sought and found. We are not dealing with things that don't matter, we are dealing with people whom Jesus Christ loves. He said so himself...

Highly recommended.

[Lesetja · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good small book about what the Great Commission is, and the importance of the local church's involvement in fulfilling it. This is a good small book to read if you're looking for a quick overview of the biblical basis for evangelism and missions.

[Shaun Marksbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

To my knowledge, this is the first of the Crucial Questions books I've read. Sproul is clear, concise, and compelling, explaining in layman's terms the title's question. I commend it to you as a starting point if you have never read anything on the Great Commission.

[Mathew Nix · Rating 4 out of 5]

All of Sproul's Crucial Questions series' books are clear, concise and should be read by every Christian to gain a better foundation in the doctrines they claim to believe. This one covers topics mainly surrounding Christian mission and evangelism.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick and easy reading.

I enjoy reading R.C. as he has a great way of explaining the scriptures. You can tell he enjoys talking about God and Jesus. His enthusiasm pours right into you.

[Byron Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Al buen estilo de RC Sproul presenta de forma simple principios eternos a la luz de la Palabra De Dios, defiendo las responsabilidades del Evangelismo y lo que es y no es. Lectura obligatoria en este tema.

[Timothy Coplin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Sproul - what you think can be answered in 100 words or less eloquently, logically, and scripturally stretches to a six chapter, 55 paged, booklet which leaves this reader challenged and encouraged.

[Scott Worden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but Excellent

RC Sproul gets to the point of what it means to fulfill the Great Commission. It’s not about waiting for people to come to church. It’s about going out and seeking the lost.

[Jenna Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good! Definitely focuses on the theological side of the Great Commission more than the action/practical application side; but it is an R.C. Sproul book, so that didn't shock me at all. I always love a good, theologically-focused read every once in a while.

[Phillip Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great information!

Every follower of Christ should read this book on the primary mission of the church. It’s the responsibility of each member to be a witness for Christ!

[James Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on evangelism from a great teacher.

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

The great commission.

Another short read but a convicting one about our need to fulfill the great commission. It should make us all think about what we are doing or not doing.

[Missy Bergquist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and informative.

Sproul did a great job of making this subject understandable. His writing style is as if you and him are sitting and chatting together.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well taught!

[Christian Cha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. If you want to go into ministry overseas, this is a must-read. Strongly recommend!

[Brad Weatherbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good information about the role of the laity in evangelism, but almost nothing about the great commission