For Paul baptism was a sacrament, not just a statement to the community

[stevehut]

And the verb "teach" in v.20 is not in the imperative.  There are only two in the entire sentence; they are "go" and "make".

Ah, almost missed this one.

As I said earlier, the word "make" is not in the original.  The Greek word there (as in KJV) is "teach."  But it's with a nuance that implies a close relationship between teacher and student, such that one becomes a disciple of the other.  Hence the NIV's translation as "make disciples."

[Jimmy]

Good to hear that you're a grammar expert, Jimmy.    I still can't see how that turns Jesus' commands into friendly suggestions that we can ignore with impunity.

Who said anything about ignoring it.  I think He meant what he said.  He said that we are to disciple [μαθητεύω], i.e, make disciples of all the nations through teaching and baptizing.  I believe that to be the firm commandment.

And I am not a grammar expert, but I do try to apply good grammar  in my reading of the Bible.  Even though I am not a grammar expert, I believe that the Holy Spirit was in the presentation of God's word.

[stevehut]

Even though I am not a grammar expert, I believe that the Holy Spirit was in the presentation of God's word.