May 31 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:16-20
Sermon: Make Disciples of All Nations
Matthew 28:16-20
The Commissioning of the Disciples
16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him, but they doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Last Sunday we focused on trusting Jesus and waiting for the gift of his living Spirit. Since Christ is in charge, we humbly open our hearts for this promised gift, ready to move as the Spirit directs. Today we celebrate that the promise has been fulfilled—the Holy Spirit is here and available. As in the story told in Acts 2, the Spirit comes to us in unexpected ways. The Spirit’s presence warms the heart, illumines the mind, strengthens our witness, and works through us in surprising ways. Be aware, some will always oppose the work of the Spirit in us.
Key Idea of the Sermon
In the concluding words of Matthew’s Gospel, the Risen Jesus meets his followers on a mountain in the region where Jesus’ ministry began. Up to this point Matthew has stressed faithful obedience as the mark of discipleship. The conclusion stresses faithful worship and the call to mission. Of course, all three are essential. The Risen One is worthy of worship and sends his followers forth to welcome all others with Divine power and presence. No matter where we are on the spectrum of belief and doubt we are invited to advance Jesus’ way of grace and peace, and to embrace the promise that we are never alone.
Questions for Reflection
• The disciples do not have to search for the Divine, they are met by God in Christ. How does Christ meet you along your daily journey?
• This passage reminds us that discipleship is not dependent on a complete belief in Christ. We are accepted with our doubts and shortcomings as we turn to Christ with an open heart. What is getting in the way of your relationship with the Risen Jesus? Be honest with Christ about your challenges to faith and follow any way!
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Let the Season of Pentecost be a time of making disciples. Who in your circle of influence would benefit from knowing the grace and peace of Christ? Look for the opportunities Christ gives you to share why following the Way matters. Invite those who show an interest in discipleship to worship and serve with you.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
