Go Make of All Disciples

“Go Make of All Disciples” was written by Leon M. Adkins in 1959 as a congregational hymn centered on the Great Commission. It is frequently used in services that emphasize mission, evangelism, baptism, and church outreach. The hymn gives voice to Christ’s final command in Matthew 28:18-20, where He instructs His followers to go into all nations, baptize, and teach them to observe all that He commanded.

The hymn’s central theme is obedience. It does not present mission work as optional or limited to a select few. Instead, it reminds the entire church that making disciples is the calling of every believer. This reflects Mark 16:15, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,” and Acts 1:8, where believers are promised power from the Holy Ghost to be witnesses unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Adkins structures the hymn around action rooted in Christ’s authority. The commission begins with Christ declaring that all power in heaven and earth is given unto Him. Therefore, the church goes forward not in its own strength but under His lordship. The hymn captures this sense of confident obedience, grounded in the sovereignty of Christ.

Another important theme is the lifelong nature of discipleship. The command to teach believers to observe all things emphasizes spiritual growth, not mere decision. The hymn calls the church to nurture faith through instruction, fellowship, and faithful proclamation of the Word. This echoes Ephesians 4:11-13, where the purpose of ministry is the perfecting of the saints and the edifying of the body of Christ.

The hymn is often paired with strong, processional tunes that support its commissioning tone. It works especially well at the conclusion of worship services, reminding congregations that worship leads to witness. The gathered church becomes the sent church.

“Go Make of All Disciples” stands as a clear and biblical call to action. It directs believers back to Christ’s command and forward into faithful service. It reminds the church that its mission is not self-preservation but multiplication through the proclamation of the gospel and the formation of obedient disciples.