Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission)

Roman Catholic Lens Reading of Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as Christ's authoritative commissioning of the apostles, and by extension, the Church, to continue His salvific mission. The instructions to 'make disciples of all nations' and to 'baptize them' emphasize the sacramental nature of initiation into the Christian life, underscoring Baptism as the entryway to grace. The command to teach 'all that I have commanded you' aligns with our understanding of Sacred Tradition as the living transmission of Christ's teachings, safeguarded by the Magisterium. This passage confirms the Church's apostolic mission and underscores the importance of the sacramental life.

Key Language Decisions

In the original Greek, the term 'baptizontes' (baptizing) highlights the sacramental act of Baptism, which is integral to initiation into the Christian community. The word 'ethne' (nations) signifies the universal call of the Church, reinforcing the catholicity of our mission. The imperative 'matheteusate' (make disciples) denotes a lifelong process of transformation, not merely conversion, resonating with our emphasis on sanctification and ongoing catechesis.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike traditions that may emphasize individual conversion experiences predominately, we stress the communal and sacramental dimensions of discipleship as initiated by Baptism. This contrasts with some Protestant interpretations that highlight 'faith alone' without the same sacramental context. Our emphasis on the Magisterium contrasts with 'sola Scriptura' traditions that do not recognize an authoritative teaching office beyond Scripture itself.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we must emphasize that this commissioning is not merely historical but an ongoing mandate for the Church. We are called to be active participants in Christ's mission through evangelization and catechesis, always pointing towards the Eucharistic celebration where the faithful encounter Christ's Real Presence. Our congregations should be reminded of their baptismal call to holiness and the importance of living out their faith actively within the Church. This passage challenges us to embrace our role in the communion of saints, participating in the sacramental life and the Church's mission to 'go forth' with the Gospel.

Cross-References: Acts 2:38, which emphasizes Baptism for the forgiveness of sins; John 20:21-23, where Jesus imparts the Holy Spirit for the mission; Ephesians 4:11-13, which outlines the roles within the Church for building up the Body; 1 Peter 2:9, which speaks of the Church as a royal priesthood; and Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraphs 849-856 on the missionary mandate.

Doctrinal Connections: The Sacrament of Baptism as the gateway to the Christian life; Apostolic Succession ensuring the continuity of sacred teaching; the Magisterium's role in safeguarding and interpreting Tradition; the universality of the Church's mission (catholicity); and the necessity of catechesis for ongoing conversion and discipleship.