Called to Teach, Inspire, and Fulfill the Great Commission: Implementing Matthew 28:19–20 in Christian Religious Education

Abstract

Christian Religious Education (CRE) plays a central role in fulfilling the Great Commission as recorded in Matthew 28:19–20. This commission is not merely a mandate to proclaim the Gospel, but also a divine calling to form disciples of Christ through a transformative teaching process. This study aims to explore how Christian educators can implement the calling to teach, inspire, and disciple the next generation through an educational approach grounded in the Word of God. Employing a qualitative-descriptive method and utilizing practical theology and reflective-narrative approaches, this research analyzes biblical texts such as Matthew 28:19–20, Ephesians 4:11–12, and 1 Timothy 4:12 to interpret the strategic role of CRE teachers in contemporary educational contexts. The findings indicate that teaching in CRE is an act of faith and a prophetic ministry that demands life exemplarity and moral integrity. Christian teachers serve as spiritual mentors who do not merely transmit theological knowledge but actively shape Christian character. Amid the challenges of globalization, digitalization, and moral decline, Christian education is called to holistically integrate faith and knowledge, thereby cultivating a generation that is not only intellectually competent but also spiritually grounded and missionally active in fulfilling the Great Commission. CRE is not simply an academic platform, but a strategic instrument for the transformation of both the Church and society.