The primary objects of the Great Commission are “all nations” – people in the world. However, conflicts arise when people believe and submit to Jesus: between believers and their families, between biblical and secular values, and between the church and political powers. These conflicts arise when Christians turn from obeying worldly authorities toward following Jesus’ authority. Therefore, evangelism entails power struggles and conflicts between Jesus and the world. This is why Jesus’ all-encompassing authority is important in evangelism. Knowing that all authority is in Jesus’ hands, we can be courageous in the face of conflicts. The first words in the Great Commission are “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” and so Jesus’ authority is the foundation of evangelism. This authority is not harsh or oppressive; it comes from God, allowing those who willingly submit to Jesus’ authority to live an abundant life. Evangelism is in fact Christians witnessing Christ with their transformed lives, lives that are so attractive that people are drawn to believe. That is, they turn from pursuing the world’s powers, money and status, and willingly submit to Jesus’ authority.

The primary objects of the Great Commission are “all nations” – people in the world. However, conflicts arise when people believe and submit to Jesus: between believers and their families, between biblical and secular values, and between the church and political powers. These conflicts arise when Christians turn from obeying worldly authorities toward following Jesus’ authority. Therefore, evangelism entails power struggles and conflicts between Jesus and the world. This is why Jesus’ all-encompassing authority is important in evangelism. Knowing that all authority is in Jesus’ hands, we can be courageous in the face of conflicts.