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On May 14, we’ve had one Ascension Day, yes.[1. Photo by Chase Kennedy on Unsplash.] What about second Ascension Day (May 21)? In either case, Ascension Day marks the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “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.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?

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1. Let’s define the Great Commission.

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

—Matthew 28:16–20, ESV

• This command is first for Christ’s disciples and then all Christians.
• It’s not just about getting people saved but a lifelong faith practice.
• This starts at home but expands, including baptism and teaching.
• It doesn’t overrule orders to live simply, work hard, raise families.
• It doesn’t overrule God’s first “commission,” the Creation Mandate.
• In fact, this helps restore people to Jesus so we can do that calling.

2. How do some stories try to act this out?

• In the past, evangelical Christian fiction focuses on nonbelievers.
• They want to tell good stories, yes, but also get the reader saved.
• Sometimes the hero is a nonbeliever forced to confront faith issues.
• In fantasy, we met Jesus-allegories or find prayer is a weapon.
• In sci-fi, we learned aliens are real (demons) and Jesus is better.
• Other stories have featured “backslidden” people who need faith.
• And then other stories push back with more subtle approaches.
• The rise of YA brings simpler themes, often identity and courage.
• Romantasy may reduce “gospel” content, favoring virtues and love.
• Before: overt gospel about God. After: subtle morals about us.
• In either case, the original “evangelical” impulse may remain.
• Authors understandably want to do more than entertain readers.

3. Great stories reflect all God’s commands.

• It’s important to note differences between these two commands.
• So far as we know, the Creation Mandate is forever, an eternal call.