Sending Out the Twelve

“Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

At this point in Jesus’ ministry, it is time to spread his message faster and farther. Jesus commissions the twelve disciples to go to different towns while equipping them with power to heal and drive out demons, tools God will use to garner people’s attention and authenticate the gospel message that they will preach. Mark 6:7 tells us they were sent in pairs, not alone, but this still had to be intimidating. Up until now, they have accompanied Jesus in a group, learning from him and helping him, but Jesus is telling them to take what they have learned and go do it. This takes faith on their part.

Not only are they going without their teacher, but he tells them not to take anything, to just go as they are. Jesus says, “Take nothing for your journey: no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money–not even an extra tunic.” That would be today’s equivalent to no snacks, credit card, clothes, or phone. Can you imagine? Again, Jesus is asking for faith and trust. This keeps his disciples from feeling self-sufficient or thinking that the power to do all they will do is coming from anyone but God. They need to travel light, pick up and move quickly, and involve each town’s population by offering them the opportunity to extend hospitality, perhaps making them eager to hear more, or even choosing to spread the message themselves.

Lastly, the disciples were told to stay in only one home and, if not welcomed in a place, “as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” Staying in one home kept them from offending a host by moving to a more prestigious or comfortable place and from staying too long in a town. Shaking the dust from their feet was a cultural practice to show separation, normally done after passing through Gentile cities. But in this case, this action would reflect upon the Jewish towns that rejected the message and show that the disciples were not responsible for how the people responded. Jesus gave specific guidelines to carry out his plan. The twelve needed to obey, trust, and believe. We are called to follow their example.

Lord Jesus, give me faith and trust that you will provide in all that you ask me to do. Amen.

NANCY PLOTTS
Assistant to the Dean
Truett Seminary