Obedience to the Great Commission: Lessons from Ghana

I remember stepping off the plane in Ghana, feeling the weight of the task ahead. The sound of unfamiliar tongues and the sight of bustling markets reminded me of one thing: obedience to the Great Commission would be my guiding light here. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations” (Matthew 28:19) echoed in my mind. That command resonated deeply as I looked around at the people and the culture that would soon become part of my life. It was clear that this was more than a mission; it was a call to action that would transform every part of my ministry.

Understanding Obedience to the Great Commission

When we first arrived in Ghana, the task seemed monumental. Obedience to the Great Commission is not just a checkbox on a to-do list. It is a lifestyle. For Laura and me, it meant immersing ourselves in the culture, learning the language, and building relationships with those we were called to serve. This obedience was not about immediate results. It was about steadfast commitment, trusting that God would use our efforts in His time.

Every conversation, every Bible study, and every church service was a step in fulfilling this divine mandate. Our mission was clear: to share the gospel with those who had not heard it before. This was not just an obligation; it was a privilege. We were part of something much bigger than ourselves. As I often share on our Consfords Blog, it’s the small steps of obedience that lead to monumental changes.

One evening, as we sat under the starry African sky, I realized the importance of being present. A local elder, who had watched us adjust to life in Ghana, approached me. He shared how our willingness to understand and engage with their culture had impacted the community. This was a powerful reminder that obedience involves not just actions, but an attentive heart. It is about seeing and valuing individuals as God does.

Overcoming Language Barriers

Language was one of our biggest challenges. In Ghana, there are over 80 languages spoken, and English is not always understood. I remember my first attempt at preaching in the local dialect. It was humbling, to say the least. However, each struggle with language was a lesson in patience and persistence. It was a reminder that obedience doesn’t always come easy. It requires effort and a willingness to look foolish at times.

Learning the language taught me more than just words. It taught me about the people. It opened doors to conversations and friendships that would have been impossible otherwise. This effort was an act of obedience to the Great Commission, ensuring that the message of the gospel was clear and accessible. As an encouragement, I often remind others on my podcast, Missionary on Fire, that language should never be a barrier to sharing God’s love.

Each new phrase learned was a bridge built. During one particularly challenging service, a young man approached me afterward. He had been listening intently and wanted to discuss the sermon further. Despite my linguistic limitations, he appreciated the effort and sincerity. That moment reinforced that language, while important, is secondary to the love and truth we convey.

Building Genuine Relationships

In Ghana, relationships are the cornerstone of any successful ministry. People here value trust and connection over formality and efficiency. I quickly learned that ministry was not about programs or events but about people. Obedience to the Great Commission meant investing time and energy into building genuine relationships with the locals.

This approach meant sharing meals, attending local events, and simply being present in the community. Over time, these relationships became the foundation for our church planting efforts. They were built on mutual respect and love, reflecting the heart of the Great Commission. As I often say, “The mission field clarifies things quickly. There is only the work.” This work is deeply personal and profoundly relational.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our work has been witnessing the transformation in individuals who initially seemed distant or skeptical. Through consistent engagement and genuine interest in their lives, these individuals have become invaluable partners in our ministry. Their testimonies now echo the message of hope we strive to share every day.

Lessons in Perseverance

Obedience to the Great Commission also taught us perseverance. There were days when progress seemed slow, and discouragement loomed large. But in those moments, I was reminded of Hebrews 10:36, “For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” This verse served as a beacon, encouraging us to press on despite the challenges.

Perseverance is not about ignoring setbacks; it’s about choosing to move forward anyway. It’s about trusting that God is at work, even when we can’t see it. Our journey in Ghana has been marked by both triumphs and trials, each teaching us to rely more fully on God’s strength. I often share these stories and lessons on our Consfords Blog, hoping to encourage others in their own walks of faith.

There were days when the heat and exhaustion seemed unbearable, yet those were the very days we saw God’s provision most clearly. Whether it was a kind word from a local friend or an unexpected opportunity to share the gospel, these moments were reminders that God honors perseverance with His presence and support.

The Impact of Obedience

The impact of obedience to the Great Commission is ultimately seen in the lives transformed by the gospel. Over the years, we have witnessed individuals come to faith, families restored, and communities changed. These stories are a testament to the power of God’s word and the importance of our obedience.

According to Pew Research, Christianity is projected to remain the world’s largest religion, with the number of Christians in sub-Saharan Africa expected to grow significantly by 2050. Source

Our church planting efforts have seen growth and fruitfulness, not because of our skills, but because of God’s faithfulness. “So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:7). This truth keeps us grounded and reminds us that all glory belongs to Him.

Recently, a young woman shared her testimony at one of our services. Her life had been marked by hardship, but through the church, she found hope and purpose. Her story is one of many that illustrate the profound impact of a life surrendered to God’s call. These transformations remind us why we are here and why obedience is so critical.

Continuing the Journey

As we continue our work in Ghana, the call to obedience remains at the forefront. It is the driving force behind every decision and action. We are constantly reminded that this mission is not about us, but about the kingdom of God and His glory. It is a journey that requires faith, endurance, and a willing heart.

For those who are inspired by this journey and wish to learn more about our experiences and insights, I invite you to explore our Consfords Blog. It’s a place where we share our stories, lessons, and the ongoing work God is doing in Ghana. Keep pressing on in obedience, and watch how God uses you for His purposes.

To understand more about the global impact of missions, visit Lausanne Movement for insights and resources.

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