In today’s episode, we are going to find gospel gorgeous encouragement in a strange biblical place. A passage of Scripture that can feel rather benign will light up powerfully when we see it anchored in its historical, cultural context. Matthew 10:1-4 is our biblical pearl and it is GOOD news for you and me. This passage courages me forward. This passage causes me to take heart. 

Today we will look at a brief historical and cultural sketch of some of the 12 disciples listed in Matthew 10. Practicing the way of Jesus is partnering with Jesus. These are the 12 principle men Jesus chose to follow Him, practice His way and partner with Him. Partner with Him in what? The tikkun olam – the repair of the world.  

When Jesus chose the 12, surely He chose the strongest, fastest, smartest, etc. Today we will see that the Kingdom of God operates on a different system of “choosing” compared to the way of the world and empire. Jesus chose sons of thunder, tax collectors and zealots to walk with Him, learn His way and partner with Him in repairing the world. 

If He chose them, He’ll choose you and me. I’m praying for us all as we seek to practice the way of Jesus in the earth so that we too can partner with Him in repairing the world.