The event of Jesus sending out the Twelve Apostles is a significant moment in the New Testament, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 10:1-15, Mark 6:7-13, and Luke 9:1-6. This mission marks a pivotal point in Jesus' ministry, as He empowers His closest followers to extend His work and message.

Context and Background

The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles occurs after a period of teaching and miracles performed by Jesus, demonstrating His authority and the coming of the Kingdom of God. The Twelve Apostles, chosen by Jesus, were His closest disciples, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and symbolizing the restoration of God's people.

The Commission

In Matthew 10:1, Jesus "called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness." This empowerment is a direct extension of Jesus' own authority, signifying the divine nature of their mission.

Instructions for the Mission

Jesus provides specific instructions for the Apostles' journey. In Matthew 10:5-6, He commands them, "Do not go on the road to the Gentiles, and do not enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel." This initial focus on Israel aligns with God's covenantal promises and the prophetic expectation of Israel's restoration.

The Apostles are instructed to proclaim, "The kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 10:7). This message echoes Jesus' own preaching and emphasizes the urgency and imminence of God's reign.

Dependence on God

Jesus instructs the Apostles to travel light, taking no gold, silver, or copper in their belts, no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, sandals, or staff (Matthew 10:9-10). This directive underscores their reliance on God's provision and the hospitality of those who receive their message.

Reception and Rejection

The Apostles are to seek out worthy individuals in each town and stay with them (Matthew 10:11). If welcomed, they are to let their peace rest on the household; if not, they are to shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against that town (Matthew 10:13-14). This act symbolizes the seriousness of rejecting the Gospel message and serves as a warning of impending judgment.

Miraculous Works

In Mark 6:12-13, the Apostles "went out and preached that the people should repent. They also drove out many demons and healed many of the sick, anointing them with oil." These miraculous works authenticate their message and demonstrate the power of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world.

Significance

The sending of the Twelve Apostles is a foundational moment for the early Church. It establishes a pattern of mission and evangelism that continues throughout the New Testament and into the life of the Church. The Apostles' mission foreshadows the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

This event highlights the authority of Jesus, the importance of faith and reliance on God, and the urgency of the Gospel message. It serves as a reminder of the call to discipleship and the responsibility to share the Good News with others.