In Lesson 3, Garrett Bookout leads a discussion on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20), emphasizing that the one true command is to "make disciples," supported by the actions of going, baptizing, and teaching. He highlights Jesus' supreme authority as the foundation for why and how disciples are made, urging the group to prioritize helping people recognize and submit to Christ's lordship rather than focusing solely on baptism numbers. The lesson contrasts superficial evangelism methods with the lifelong, relational process of true discipleship, encouraging the entire church body to participate in various roles toward this shared mission.

In this interactive Bible class session, Minister Garrett Bookout facilitates a group discussion on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20), explaining that Jesus' declaration of "all authority in heaven and on earth" establishes his supreme right to command, making the imperative "make disciples" the central charge, while "going," "baptizing," and "teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" serve as essential participles that support and describe the disciple-making process. He stresses that true discipleship begins with helping people understand and submit to Jesus' authority as Lord, Christ, and King, rather than treating baptism as the primary goal or endpoint. Drawing from personal experience and examples like large baptism campaigns that produced potentially few lasting disciples, Garrett contrasts quick, numbers-focused evangelism with the patient, ongoing, relational work of teaching obedience through life-on-life example and correction. He affirms that the command belongs to the whole church—not just preachers or apostles—as a collective body with diverse roles (planters, waterers, supporters), and that making disciples is a lifelong journey of growth, not a one-time event, requiring time, patience, and willingness to walk with people through their struggles and imperfections.

Opening Prayer — Gratitude for community, Scripture study, and the desire to follow and make disciples.

Review of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)
- Jesus' authority as the foundation ("All authority... has been given to me").
- One imperative verb: "make disciples."
- Three supporting participles: "go," "baptizing," "teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."
- Promise of Jesus' presence: "I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Discussion Question 1: How does Jesus' authority shape our understanding of discipleship?
- His life and example carry unique weight as the authoritative figure.
- Authority titles (Christ, Lord, Son of Man, Son of God) point to kingship and ultimate rule.
- Goal of disciple-making is helping people bow to Jesus' authority, not just achieve baptism.

Discussion Question 2: Who is responsible for making disciples?
- Immediate context: spoken to the apostles.
- Broader application: a command to the whole church as a body (not just individuals or preachers).
- Examples from Acts and epistles: collective involvement with diverse roles (e.g., planters and waterers, supporters of missionaries).
Everyone participates, but not everyone does the same task.

Discussion Question 3: How does "make disciples" differ from usual methods of evangelism?
- Order matters: connect people to Jesus first (his authority and person), then baptism and obedience follow naturally.
- Contrast with: teaching everything before baptism, focusing on numbers/transactions, or treating baptism as the finish line.
- Baptism is necessary but not the goal; discipleship is lifelong growth in observing Jesus' commands.
- Requires time, patience, relational investment, and comfort with imperfection and ongoing correction.

Closing Reflections and Prayer
- Emphasis on lifelong process, cultural challenges (instant gratification mindset), and the beauty of helping people imitate Jesus.
- Prayer for wisdom, courage, dedication, and fruitfulness in making disciples in the community.