UNDERSTAND?

​In the Great Commission found in Matthew 28 there is an often over looked Truth. In V20 we are told to teach disciples to obey or observe all that Jesus has commanded. Usually this is understood to mean that we tell people to obey God and then we tell them the things that they are to do and not do. It certainly is good advice to tell people to obey God and it might be helpful to tell the new believers some things that he needs to do like read the word, pray, etc. But the verb teach in in the New Testament can have 2 slightly different meanings because there are 2 Greek words that are usually translated into English and Spanish as teach. One verb form is to inform. This is the meaning often thought of in v20. We interpret this as we should inform people to obey God and then inform them what they are to obey. However, the meaning in this verse is to instruct, to train, and to explain.
New believers need more than a list of rules and regulations or a list of things to do and not do. Discipleship is not a religion of God but a relationship with God. People need to learn the nature of God and understand Him, His Word, and His ways. The giving of information is but 1 aspect of teaching. Instruction with training is another and very important aspect of teaching. Being a disciple of Jesus involves more than having information. A disciple will have information and understanding because he has been instructed and trained.
Information or knowledge needs to be followed by understanding of that knowledge. When that happens the person will be able to gain Wisdom. The parable of the sower as told in Matthew makes this point in a powerful way. Matthew 13:19 (NASB)
19  "When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one on whom seed was sown beside the road.
Helping someone understand can be hard work. Often it involves more than just informing. Making disciples of Jesus isn’t always easy. But those with understanding and wisdom will serve Him a lifetime and walk in victory.