Friend, I love chapter ten. When I have discussions with believers who think that they do not know what their purpose is, I point them to this chapter. Although our methods of completing our purpose varies, we are all on one mission! So as you grow in your relationship with God, He will reveal your specific method. Also, I encourage you to have conversations with your pastor regarding your method as he/she is your shepherd and has God’s insight regarding you.
In verse one, Jesus gathers His disciples and gives them authority; the same authority that He possesses to cast out evil spirits and heal every kind of sickness and illness. After He gave them authority, He gave them a territory, target population, and instructions. In verses six through eight, He commanded them to go to the people of Israel (God’s lost sheep) and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near; He commanded them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those of leprosy, cast out demons and give as freely as they had received from Him. What I love about Jesus is that He also gave warning of consequences for following Him. In verse 16, He told them that He was sending them out as sheep amongst wolves. In verses 17 and 18, He told them that they would be handed over to the courts, flogged with whips, stand trial, and be persecuted. But even during those times, He instructed them to see these circumstances as opportunities to tell the rulers and unbelievers about Him. But Jesus didn’t stop there. Next, He told that they would be protected. In verses 28 through 31, Jesus provided encouragement to the disciples by telling them not to be afraid of people who desired to kill their bodies as those people could not touch their souls; but to fear God who could destroy both the soul and body in hell. Jesus spoke of their value as well when He mentioned that the hairs on their heads were numbered; this brought further encouragement.
Friend, we are tasked with the same instructions Jesus gave the disciples. Our purpose is to announce the Good News and lead lost souls to Jesus. We have the same authority that He gave to the disciples. Although we will not suffer the consequences of that time, we will suffer consequences for following Him. Just think of the things that have occurred or the people you have lost since making the decision to live for Jesus. But even through the consequences, Jesus continues to show us His love, grace, and mercy. It is better to go through with Jesus!
In verses 37 through 39, Jesus reiterates leaving everything and everyone behind and following Him. He even told them if they did not give up their lives for Him, they would lose them. God is number one, even above yourself.
Real Talk with Keve 