Even though Jesus had been rejected by those who knew him best, he continued to travel from village to village teaching them about the Kingdom of God. He then sent out the disciples with authority over evil which he had already demonstrated. Everyone who had witnessed these miracles was amazed. Imagine being told to go out and do the same things.

Jesus gave the disciples very specific instructions. They were to take only a staff – no food, no money, no extra clothes and no carry bag. They were to stay in one place, but leave the town immediately if they were not welcomed. Jesus wanted the disciples to completely rely on God’s provision and rely completely on Jesus’ strength and authority as they participated in Jesus’ mission.

The disciples modelled their ministry on Jesus. They went out, preached a message of repentance, drove out demons and healed many sick people. Just as Jesus had brought the Kingdom of God near, so now the disciples were doing the same.

In the same way, all followers of Jesus are sent out into the world. Unlike the disciples, we don’t have specific instructions about what to take with us. However, we need to be just as careful that we are not distracted by worldly things, that we don’t rely on our own strength or talents, and that we minister in Christ’s strength because he is our King. DR

Questions

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you that, in Jesus, we are forgiven, restored, and healed. Send us out into the world to proclaim the Kingdom and the King who forgives, restores and healed all who repent and put their trust in him. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.