What is the central theme of the Great Commission?

The central theme of the Great Commission, as outlined in the Gospel of Matthew, revolves around the command given by Jesus to His disciples to spread the message of the Gospel to all nations. This involves making disciples, which includes the acts of teaching and baptizing them. The emphasis on "teaching and baptizing all nations" highlights the call to evangelism and the importance of both instructing new believers in the faith and initiating them into the Christian community through baptism. The Great Commission serves as a foundational mandate for the Christian faith, establishing the purpose of the church to be outward-focused and mission-oriented, making it clear that the message of Jesus is meant for every person, regardless of their background or nationality. This focus on discipleship and inclusion of all nations illustrates the universal aspect of Christianity.