The Sending Out of the Twelve refers to a significant event in the ministry of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This event marks a pivotal moment in the training and commissioning of the twelve apostles, as Jesus empowers them to extend His ministry of preaching, healing, and casting out demons.

Biblical Accounts

1. Matthew 10:1-15: In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus calls His twelve disciples and gives them authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal every disease and sickness. The passage lists the names of the twelve apostles and provides detailed instructions for their mission. Jesus commands them, "Do not go on the road to the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel" (Matthew 10:5-6). He instructs them to proclaim, "The kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 10:7), and to perform acts of healing and deliverance. The apostles are to travel without gold, silver, or extra provisions, relying on the hospitality of those who receive their message.

2. Mark 6:7-13: Mark's account emphasizes the authority given to the apostles and their mission to preach repentance. Jesus sends them out in pairs, instructing them to take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, bag, or money in their belts. They are to wear sandals but not an extra tunic. Mark notes, "So they 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" (Mark 6:12-13).

3. Luke 9:1-6: Luke's narrative closely parallels the accounts in Matthew and Mark, highlighting the empowerment of the apostles. Jesus "gave them power and authority over all demons, and power to cure diseases" (Luke 9:1). The apostles are sent to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Like in the other accounts, they are instructed to take nothing for the journey and to depend on the hospitality of those who welcome them.

Theological Significance

The Sending Out of the Twelve is a foundational moment in the establishment of the apostolic ministry. It underscores the authority of Jesus as the Messiah, who delegates His power to His chosen representatives. This event foreshadows the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

The instructions given to the apostles highlight the urgency and simplicity of their mission. By traveling light and relying on the hospitality of others, the apostles demonstrate their trust in God's provision and the sincerity of their message. The focus on the "lost sheep of Israel" reflects the initial phase of Jesus' ministry, which prioritizes the Jewish people as the recipients of the Messianic promise.

Practical Implications

For contemporary believers, the Sending Out of the Twelve serves as a model for mission and evangelism. It emphasizes the importance of reliance on God's power and provision, the centrality of proclaiming the kingdom of God, and the call to minister to both spiritual and physical needs. The event also highlights the role of community and hospitality in the spread of the Gospel, encouraging believers to support and welcome those who labor in ministry.

Conclusion

The Sending Out of the Twelve is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and the foundational role of the apostles in the early Church. It serves as a reminder of the call to discipleship and the mission to proclaim the Gospel to all people.