Didache: Journal of Christian Education
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): June

A Missio Dei Reinterpretation of Matthew 28:19–20 and Its Implications for Children’s Faith Formation

Yanni Paembonan (Institut Agama Kristen Negeri Toraja)
Yunus D. A. Laukapitang (Sekolah Tinggi Filsafat Theologia Jaffray)
Kesia Kesy Justip (Kingston International College)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Apr 2026

Abstract

This article aims to reinterpret the Great Commission within the framework of missio Dei, highlighting the significance of children’s faith formation as an integral aspect of the church’s mission. The primary issue addressed is the tendency to interpret the Great Commission narrowly, emphasizing verbal evangelism and individual conversion while giving limited attention to long-term character and faith development, particularly within the challenges of a digital society. The theoretical approach includes holistic missiology and linguistic analysis of the Greek text of Matthew 28:19-20, focusing on the imperative “make disciples” and its contextual understanding. The research employs a qualitative method through theological-contextual analysis and a systematic literature review, including exegetical examination of biblical texts and critical reflection on contemporary church mission practices. The findings indicate that reinterpreting the Great Commission through the missio Dei paradigm provides a broader understanding of the role of children’s faith formation within the church’s mission, particularly through collaboration among families, church communities, and modern media to nurture holistic discipleship. The novelty of this research lies in its integration of the missio Dei paradigm with children’s faith formation as a central missional focus an approach that remains underexplored in contemporary missiological studies. The conclusion emphasises the need for a paradigm shift in mission perception and practice to sustain the church’s mission in the digital age.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

DJCE

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Education Other

Description

The scopes of this journal published articles are: Christian Education Church Education Philosophy and Christian Education Theology Learning Technology of Christian Education Management of Christian Education. The professionalism of Christian Education ...