Chapter 10 tells us the historical mission of the twelve disciples, but also helps us to understand our mission too. “Preach this message ‘the kingdom of Heaven is near’. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.”

The mission is urgent and costly and will result in persecution. In ch10 it is limited to the Jews. Our mission isn’t!

Mission is crucial – they are not in offices, they are sent to the marketplace.
Mission is shared – they are sent out in teams.
Mission is sustained until the end of the age.
Mission is demanding – “anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me”
Mission is all about Jesus – his kingdom

How then?
1) Pray for workers – but don’t be surprised that you are the answer to your own prayer
2) Be trained! Jesus has Demonstrated the task, now he defines it verses 5-13. Then he delegates it by sending them out.
3) The go is two by two for mutual encouragement and support.
They need to go expecting God to work, to be confidentconfident because God in control v26, prepared for opposition but without fear because the Lord reigns.

The last two days readings challenge us not just to be followers but to be on a mission

Having Matthew parties to mix fun and food, Christians and non Christians togethertogether
To be preaching the kingdom, healing the sick, casting out demonsdemons and raising the dead
Let’s go for it together!