Nothing Disqualifies Us from the Great Commission

The Great Commission—Christ’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19)—is not just a mandate; it is a calling that transcends human limitations and failings. Yet, many believers face moments when their imperfections or the criticisms of others cause them to question their worthiness to fulfill this divine mission. Let us affirm together: nothing disqualifies us from the Great Commission, and no attack from others should render us useless to God.

A God Who Calls Imperfect People

Throughout Scripture, God chooses imperfect individuals to accomplish His perfect will. Moses doubted his ability to speak. David, though a man after God’s own heart, fell into grievous sin. Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, denied Him three times. Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament, once persecuted Christians. These stories remind us that our imperfections are not a barrier to God’s work; they are the very context in which His grace is revealed.

Paul’s own words in 2 Corinthians 12:9 encapsulate this truth:

It is not our righteousness that qualifies us but Christ’s righteousness working through us.

Rising Above Doubt

The temptation to retreat from ministry as we face our own shortcomings is strong, but we must remember that God’s calling is irrevocable (Romans 11:29). The Great Commission is not contingent on human approval but on divine authority. Jesus’ command to make disciples is a privilege and responsibility given to all believers, regardless of their past or present struggles.

Paul’s response to his own sinfulness offers a model for us. In Romans 7:15-25, Paul admits his ongoing struggle with sin but concludes with gratitude for God’s deliverance through Christ. He did not allow his failings to silence him; instead, he pressed forward, without delay proclaiming the Gospel with greater urgency.

Even those closest to Jesus were not immune to correction. When Peter rebuked Jesus for speaking of His impending death, Jesus responded with the sharp words, “Get thee behind me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:23). This moment illustrates that even the most devoted followers can, at times, act as obstacles to God’s work. The adversary often seeks to hinder the progress of the Lord’s mission, even through well-meaning individuals. This serves as a sobering reminder to all of us: our focus must remain on God’s will, not our own understanding.

When you fall, get back up and do not let yourself believe that your sin renders the work you have done in the name of the Lord useless. To believe otherwise is to fall prey to the adversary’s schemes, likened to Jesus’ rebuke of Peter: “Get thee behind me, Satan.” Our failures do not invalidate our service; they highlight our reliance on God’s grace to accomplish His work.

The Power of a Redeemed Testimony

Your testimony is not invalidated by your imperfections; it is strengthened by them. The very act of sharing how Christ has worked in your life—despite your flaws—magnifies His grace and power. To silence your testimony because of criticism is to deny others the opportunity to see God’s transformative work in you.

As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:15,

If Paul, who called himself the worst of sinners, could boldly proclaim the Gospel, so can we.

Attacks from the enemy and accusations from others will come, but they cannot disqualify you from God’s work. When faced with criticism, respond with humility, leaning on God’s grace and the assurance of His calling. Let the words of Galatians 6:9 inspire you: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

The Great Commission is too important to abandon. It is a divine invitation to participate in the most transformative work of all time—bringing others into the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ. Do not let the words or actions of others render you ineffective. Stand firm in your calling, knowing that God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in your weakness.