Now after these things, the Lord also appointed seventy others, and sent them two by two ahead of him into every city and place where he was about to come. Luke 10:1 WEB
With these words, Luke describes the Lord Jeus Christ sending out herolds in groups. The Lord sent them two by two to announce that the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven was near. They were to inform the local population that Jesus Christ, the King of the Jews, would soon pass their way on his way to Jerusalem.
These seventy disciples are to prepare the way for the Lord. They are instructed to spread the good news of the gospel message of Jesus and to heal the sick. Christ commands them to accept the hospitality of those who welcome them.
On the other hand, he informed his servants to speak against those who reject them. Christ in Luke 10:11 to say, “Even the dust from your city that clings to us, we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that God’s Kingdom has come near to you. WEB” The Lord then pronounces that it will be worse for that town than for the inhabitants of Sodom on the last day.
Lambs Among Wolves
The journey ahead of them was sometimes difficult. They were met with hostile environments but the Lord prepared them for that. Sending them out two by two, Jesus tells his disciples in Luke 10:3, “I send you out as lambs among wolves. WEB” But the Lord knew that they would receive care along the way as well. Jesus sent them out without money or even sandals but they wanted for nothing. Through the providence of God manifest in the generosity of those who received the word with enthusiasm, the disciples had all they would need.
Upon their return, the disciples rejoiced and celebrated great success. Luke 10:17 records their report to Christ saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name! WEB” The Lord responds with an affirmation of their salvation saying in Luke 10:20, “Nevertheless, don’t rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the good news of your holy word. Thank you for the men that boldly proclaim it. Give me wisdom to make the most of sharing the truth of Jesus Christ and your eternal love. Guide me to be productive for your purposes. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Half a Year’s Wages
