Meaning: The quote "Christ had given the apostles a world-wide commission, embracing all the nations; but intellectually they did not understand what He meant. They found that out as they followed the impulse of the Spirit" by Roland Allen, a clergyman, reflects the biblical account of Christ's commission to his apostles to spread the gospel to all nations. This quote encapsulates the idea that the apostles did not initially comprehend the full extent of their mission until they were guided by the spiritual impulse.

In the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew (28:19-20), Jesus instructs his disciples, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." This commission, commonly referred to as the Great Commission, is a central theme in Christianity and serves as the impetus for global evangelism and missionary work.

The quote by Roland Allen highlights the transformative journey of the apostles as they embarked on fulfilling this monumental task. Initially, they may not have comprehended the magnitude of the mission entrusted to them. However, through their obedience and reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, they gradually came to understand and embrace the universal scope of their calling.

Roland Allen, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in the missionary movement of the early 20th century. His insights into the nature of mission and evangelism have had a lasting impact on the theology and practice of spreading the Christian faith. Allen's emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering missionaries aligns with the sentiments expressed in the quote. He believed that the work of mission required a deep spiritual sensitivity and receptivity to the leading of the Spirit.

The concept of intellectual understanding versus spiritual discernment is a recurring theme in Christian theology. The apostles' initial lack of intellectual understanding of the Great Commission parallels the idea that faith and obedience often transcend human comprehension. The unfolding of their understanding as they followed the "impulse of the Spirit" underscores the transformative and illuminating power of divine guidance.

Furthermore, this quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of the Great Commission in contemporary Christian thought and practice. It encourages believers to approach the mission of sharing the gospel with humility, openness to spiritual guidance, and a recognition of the global and inclusive nature of Christ's mandate. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the imperative to reach "all the nations" with the message of hope and redemption remains a fundamental tenet of Christian faith.

In conclusion, Roland Allen's quote captures the essence of the apostles' journey as they grappled with the profound and far-reaching commission given to them by Christ. It underscores the transformative power of spiritual guidance and the expansive, universal nature of the Christian mission. By delving into the historical and theological significance of this quote, we gain valuable insights into the enduring relevance of the Great Commission and the ongoing call for global evangelism within the Christian faith.