Instructions I

Scripture: Matthew 10:5-10 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

5 Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: “Don’t go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, 6 but only to the people of Israel—God’s lost sheep. 7 Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received! 9 “Don’t take any money in your money belts—no gold, silver, or even copper coins. 10 Don’t carry a traveler’s bag with a change of clothes and sandals or even a walking stick. Don’t hesitate to accept hospitality, because those who work deserve to be fed. (Matthew 10:5–10 NLT)

It had always been God’s plan that his people the Jews would embrace his ways and his kingdom and share the Good News with the world. God’s Kingdom message has always been for everyone to receive. But it was given first to the Jews, and then through them to the world. As they received God’s Kingdom message, they were to carry the good news to others.

Like these disciples, you and I are sent to people like us, to people in our community, in our workplaces, our schools, our neighborhoods. We’re not, in most cases, being sent out to walk from town to village on dusty roads with no wallet or backpack. So we’re looking for the principle that applies to us in our real-life situation.

We are given authority, commissioned, and sent. We’re to preach the Good News (not merely give good advice) and then do the works that demonstrate the power of the Kingdom. We needn’t be hesitant or embarrassed to offer prayer for the sick and for all kinds of needs. Freely you have received, freely give. God calls us by grace and empowers us by grace, so don’t hold back on passing his blessings to others.

“Don’t take any money with you!” For most of us, this is an admonition to trust God and to expect to receive what you need from God! Don’t trust in people or demand from them, but be prepared to receive God’s blessings through them! The principle holds true today. When God calls some away from business, job, and career to minister, those who receive their ministry give to meet their needs.

Prayer:

Father, Here’s another instance in which we know this applies to us, but we need wisdom and insight to apply it wisely and well. Guide us by your Spirit as we tell the Good News and offer the grace and benefits of your Kingdom to our world.  Amen.