JMA Missions Mid-Month January 2026
The Great Commission in the New Testament
1,2,3 John
This has been a great series (to me at least!) and a lot of fun to walk through. If you've been getting anything out of it, drop me a note!
When we think of the Great Commission, our minds often go straight to Matthew 28, “Go therefore and make disciples”, because it is still the most famous!
What we've learned in this study is that the Great Commission doesn’t begin or end with going. It focuses on discipleship.
Throughout the New Testament, the Great Commission speaks to:
How believers live,
How truth is guarded, and
How love is practiced in everyday Christian life.
John records his Commission in John 20:19-23 as Jesus' call to continue His life and mission in the earth.
“As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (John 20:21)
And this is where 1, 2, and 3 John come in.
John writes these epistles late in life, no longer a missionary pioneer pushing into new territory, but as a spiritual father guarding what has been planted, and growing. His deep concern is the heart condition of the people claiming to be followers of Jesus.
The Great Commission produces disciples — and disciples are recognized by how they live, not just what they say.
1 John 2:3, “By this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.”
Around the world, in the big "C" church, this makes the difference between the 'real' and the 'plastic banana, phony-bologna'!
In 2 John, John warns that not everyone who claims to teach Christ actually brings His truth. It's still true today! (v7)
Hospitality, partnership, and generosity must always be anchored in discernment.
In 3 John, we see the positive example in v5-8, faithful servants supporting the work, welcoming those sent out :for the sake of the Name." (v7)
In these three short letters, John keeps returning to a simple but demanding test of genuine discipleship:
Do we walk in the light?
Do we hold to the truth about Jesus Christ?
Do we love one another in action, not just in words?
Copyright © 2026 Biblical Life Ministries, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you know Kelly and Kathy Johnson, or are interested in hearing about what is happening with Biblical Life Ministries, or you are simply an above average person!
Your financial partnership is appreciated.
Tax-deductible gifts can be mailed to:
Biblical Life Ministries
2131 W. Republic Rd #3
Springfield, MO 65807
Give online at www.biblicallife.org
Or text an amount to 214-484-0108
Please indicate support for Kelly and Kathy Johnson or one our projects!