Sent in Power
Jesus set twelve men apart from all the other men and women who followed him. These specially chosen men were given the task of spreading the word about him, both while he lived and after he rose again. Jesus came at time before social media and before the widespread availability of information. However, that did not mean he came silently. Jesus used the mode of information distribution available to him: word of mouth. In this way, he sent out people with the message of the coming of the Messiah. Notice though that he did not send them out with just words. Verse one tells us that he gave these messengers the ability to perform miracles. He passed on power and authority over demons and disease to his disciples.
Miracles validate the message. Throughout Jesus’ ministry, he pared his message with signs and wonders, miracles and healing. These miraculous events proved that God had given him authority. Remember back in Luke 5:17-26 Jesus encountered the paralyzed man who was lowered through the roof. The Pharisees accused Jesus of blaspheming when he told the paralyzed man his sins were forgiven. Jesus responded, “Why do you question in your heart? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he said to the man who was paralyzed - “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” (Verses 22-24) The miracle proved that Jesus had authority. For this reason, Jesus gave his disciples the authority to heal and cast out demons. These miraculous signs proved the presence of God.
In addition to giving the disciples authority, Jesus gave them strict rules as to how they should travel and respond to the places they visited. Perhaps the instruction to take nothing with them sounds crazy, but it served a purpose. Not only was it customary for rabbis of their day to follow such rules, it created a mindset of complete dependance on God. In order for them to do the work of the Lord, they needed to stay focused on Him. This was a mission of not only delivering the Good News, it was an exercise meant to strengthen the faith of the disciples. Time would lead them to even scarier situations. Jesus here began to prepare them for complete dependance on God to lead, protect, and provide for them.
The truth of God’s character which this sending of the disciples out reveals brings me so much comfort. It reminds me of how David was challenged by a lion and a bear before God led him to the giant. God doesn’t throw us to the wolves without preparing us for success. Daily, He leads us in paths that strengthen our faith, test our responses, and prepares us for the next step. Neither does He send us out without the tools we need. He equipped the disciples with power. He has given you and I the Holy Spirit. We have the tools within us. We have the power of God residing in our lives because we have the Holy Spirit. Wherever God leads you or sends you, trust Him. Take the skills and the power He has given and walk in the faith He deserves. That is when we see mountains move and lives changed.
(Written by Keegan Harkins.)
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