The Mission of the Seventy-Two:
A Reflection on Luke 10:1-9
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| Preaching the word |
In the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 10, verses 1-9, we read about Jesus sending out seventy-two of His followers on a mission to prepare the way for His arrival in various towns and places. This passage is rich with insights into the nature of discipleship, mission, and the proclamation of the Kingdom of God.
The Commissioning of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-2)
“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’” (Luke 10:1-2)
Jesus appoints seventy-two followers and sends them out in pairs. This method of sending them two by two emphasizes the importance of companionship and mutual support in mission work. Jesus' instructions also highlight the urgency and vastness of the mission field, encouraging His followers to pray for more workers to join in the mission.
Dependence on God's Provision (Luke 10:3-4)
“Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.” (Luke 10:3-4)
Jesus warns His followers of the challenges they will face, likening them to lambs among wolves. He instructs them to travel light, relying on God’s provision rather than material possessions. This command to avoid distractions and focus on their mission underscores the need for total dependence on God.
Peace and Hospitality (Luke 10:5-7)
“When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you. Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house.” (Luke 10:5-7)
Jesus instructs His followers to offer peace to each house they enter and to accept the hospitality offered to them. This teaching emphasizes the importance of peace and the value of genuine hospitality. It also highlights the principle that those who labor for the gospel should be supported by those who receive the message.
Proclaiming the Kingdom and Healing the Sick (Luke 10:8-9)
“When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you. Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’” (Luke 10:8-9)
The mission of the seventy-two involves both word and deed. They are to proclaim the nearness of God’s Kingdom and to demonstrate its power through acts of healing. This dual approach of preaching and healing embodies the holistic nature of the gospel, addressing both spiritual and physical needs.
Reflection and Application
This passage challenges us to consider our own role in proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Are we willing to step out in faith, relying on God’s provision and support from our faith community? Do we prioritize peace and hospitality in our interactions with others?
The mission of the seventy-two also reminds us of the importance of both word and deed in our witness. As we share the message of God’s Kingdom, we are called to back it up with actions that reflect the love and healing power of Christ.
Conclusion
Luke 10:1-9 offers a powerful example of mission work rooted in faith, dependence on God, and a holistic approach to ministry. As followers of Christ, we are invited to participate in this mission, bringing the message of God’s Kingdom to those around us through both our words and our actions.
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