Knowing The Word in Luke 9:1-6, Jesus sends out the 12 Apostles

When considering the twelve disciples, we should not think they were always together, as they had family in the surrounding villages with whom they spent time. Now Jesus calls them together and shares his power and authority—all he had for his own ministry—and sends them out to preach and heal. This is an extension of his ministry, particularly because these were his two primary ministries. To be a Christian is to be a “little Christ,” doing the things Jesus did. These disciples are the first Christians, trusting in God’s provision and not on their own planning, going as they are because the need is urgent. Jews were to shake off the dust from their sandals when they left a Gentile land. The meaning behind the symbol, in regards to what Jesus tells his disciples to do when they are not welcomed in Jewish towns, is that the Jews who do not receive them are no better than the Gentiles.

1 And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. 4 And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5 And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.

Prayer:

Lead, kingly light, amid the encircling gloom,

Lead thou me on;

The night is dark, and I am far from home;

Lead thou me on.

Keep thou my feet; I do not ask to see

The distant scene: one step enough for me.

John Henry Newman, 1801-1890