35 Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you out without purse or bag or sandals, did you lack anything?”

“Nothing,” they answered.

36 “Now, however,” He told them, “the one with a purse should take it, and likewise a bag; and the one without a sword should sell his cloak and buy one. 37 For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about Me is reaching its fulfillment.”

38 So they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.”

“That is enough,” He answered.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Ken Wong

Have you ever done something silly because you failed to see changes around you? I have. We went out on a boat ride on a sunny summer's day, but we forgot to read the weather report, and a storm soon rolled in. By God's grace we made it back home although with a few bruises to show for it. In this passage today Jesus is preparing the disciples for the storms to come, so that they won’t be caught out.

First Jesus reminds them that they have tasted the goodness of his kindness. When he sent out the disciples initially for ministry, they lacked nothing on their journey. God's providence was sufficient for them.

In verse 36, there is a distinct change in tone. Jesus tells them to now pack their purse, bag and sword (for protection, not aggression). Where once the focus was on dependence on his provision, the focus is now on preparedness – because both are needed for ministry. For Jesus knows the disciples’ road will soon mirror his own. As Jesus is about to be crucified, he knows persecution will come to his true disciples.

But as always, the disciples don’t quite get it. In fact, it’s quite comical – they respond by handing Jesus two swords, as if this lesson was about swords. Perhaps in exasperation Jesus says, “That is enough!”

As his disciples now, we must be prepared to count the cost of being his disciples and be ready to stand up for our faith. But Jesus also wants to remind us that his sovereignty and providence are still active in our lives. Dependence and preparedness are not mutually exclusive, they go hand in hand. Let's pray that we will always be ready and prepared to show our faith and strive for the gospel, but also remember that we depend completely on his provision and strength. It’s a comfort to know that he stands next to us all the time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ken is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.