Main Highlights
Jesus commissions his disciples, affirms his identity as the Christ, teaches about discipleship, and demonstrates his power over demons.
Key Verses
And he called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases.
And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, neither a staff, nor a bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not even have two tunics apiece.
And it happened that while he was praying alone, the disciples were with him, and he questioned them, saying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?”
And behold, a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!”
And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first permit me to say good-bye to those at home.”
Related Scripture
Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit
Scholar Insight
""The mission of the Twelve, and later the Seventy-two, demonstrates the expanding reach of Jesus' ministry and the vital role of his followers in spreading the gospel." - Joel B. Green, The Gospel of Luke (New International Commentary on the New Testament)"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
God is the one who empowers and sends out his servants to minister in His name. "And he called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases."
Christological Connection
Jesus is affirmed as the Christ, the Son of God, and the one to whom people must listen. He is the one who gives power and authority to his disciples. "This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!"
Systematic Theology
Ecclesiology - The church is being established, and the role of discipleship and mission are highlighted.
Law & Grace
Grace is seen in Jesus's willingness to empower his disciples to minister and in his acceptance of those who follow him, even with their weaknesses. "And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, neither a staff, nor a bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not even have two tunics apiece."
Personal Application
People should respond by committing themselves to following Jesus wholeheartedly, prioritizing His will above their own desires, and trusting in His power to accomplish His purposes. "But Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”