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Jesus sent these twelve1 giving these orders,2 saying, “You should not enter the Gentile road, nor enter a city of the Samaritans.”
| 1 | Sent these twelve: The formation of an official group of representatives (which is what “apostle” means). |
| 2 | Orders: The Greek is PAR-ANGLEILAS and is rendered: KJV: commanded; MOF: instructions. These are not suggestions but precise directives. The Nazarene has his reasons for these evangelizing orders. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Matthew 10:5 as the theme verse of chapter ten – Apostolic Orders. Jesus chooses twelve apostles and gives them authority to preach and heal. [1-4] The Master takes time to explain the apostolic commission: their territory, theme and the need to trust in God. [5-10] He explains how to approach a home with their message. [11-15] Jesus warns the apostles that they are being sent out as sheep among wolves. [16-23] They are not to fear men but to keep proclaiming their message. [23-31] The Nazarene states that he did not come to bring peace but rather division in households. [32-39] A disciple must love and prefer Christ over relatives and friends. Jesus concludes his instructions with comments on how they might be received and the blessings to those who do. [40-42]
Abba our Father bless modern preachers of the good news.
[22 October 2002]
