Planting EkklesiaMatthew Authorized by the King: Ekklesia Commissioning ServiceToday’s text unpacks and answers the question: Why do we want to plant churches? Big Idea: Based on Christ's all encompassing authority and the promise of his presence, he commissions his followers to make disciples of all nations. 1. Because a Glorious Announcement Has Been Made (18) 2. Because a Great Assignment Has Been Given (19–20a) 3. Because a Guaranteed Assurance Has Been Promised (20) Takeaways. Christ has all authority. Christ has commanded us to make disciples by going, baptizing, and teaching. Christ has promised to be with us. Personal Words to Ekklesia (As you Go)Be reminded that Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise Be convinced of the gospel of Jesus Christ as the only truthBe courageous knowing that Christ is with you Be eager to grow in your obedience to whatever Christ has commandedBe diligent in your discipleship of one anotherBe humble and desire to be discipled into someone more mature in the faith Be intentional to reach the nations in this community Be prayerful as you rely upon God for everything Be ready for something extraordinary because God is doing a new thing Personal Words to Moises and to the Elders (the Shepherds). Keep preaching the whole counsel of GodKeep administering the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s supperKeep sending churches out from youKeep being a faithful example to the flockKeep watch on yourself and the doctrinePersonal Words to FBC Irving (the Senders). Rejoice for we are participating in a good work. Embrace this model of ministry. Abide in Jesus and his authority in the days ahead. Devote yourselves to one another.