The Commissioning of the Twelve Apostles is a significant event in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ appoints and empowers His closest disciples to carry out His mission. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 10:1-42, Mark 3:13-19, and Luke 9:1-6. It marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, as He extends His authority to His chosen followers, preparing them to spread the message of the Kingdom of God.

Selection and Authority

In the Gospel of Matthew, the commissioning begins with Jesus summoning His twelve disciples and granting them authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal every disease and sickness. Matthew 10:1 states, "Jesus called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, so that they could drive them out and heal every disease and sickness." This empowerment signifies the divine authority bestowed upon the apostles, enabling them to perform miraculous works as a testament to the coming Kingdom.

The Twelve Apostles

The twelve apostles, also referred to as the Twelve, are listed in the Gospels with slight variations in order. They are Simon Peter, James the son of Zebedee, John the brother of James, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus (also known as Judas, son of James), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who later betrays Jesus. These men were chosen from among Jesus' larger group of disciples to be His closest companions and primary messengers.

Instructions and Mission

Jesus provides specific instructions to the Twelve regarding their mission. In Matthew 10:5-6, He commands them, "Do not go on the road to the Gentiles, and do not enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel." This directive emphasizes the initial focus on the Jewish people, fulfilling the covenantal promises made to Israel. The apostles are to proclaim that "the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 10:7) and to demonstrate this message through acts of healing, raising the dead, cleansing lepers, and casting out demons.

Dependence on God

The apostles are instructed to rely on God's provision rather than material resources. Jesus tells them, "Do not carry any gold or silver or copper in your belts. Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions" (Matthew 10:9-10). This reliance on divine providence underscores the spiritual nature of their mission and the trust they must place in God's care.

Persecution and Endurance

Jesus warns the Twelve of the persecution they will face, preparing them for the challenges ahead. He says, "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). The apostles are to expect opposition, yet they are encouraged to endure, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide them in their defense (Matthew 10:19-20).

Eternal Perspective

The commissioning concludes with a call to prioritize eternal values over earthly concerns. Jesus declares, "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matthew 10:39). This paradoxical statement highlights the sacrificial nature of discipleship and the eternal reward awaiting those who faithfully follow Christ.

The Commissioning of the Twelve is a foundational event that sets the stage for the spread of the Gospel. Through this commissioning, Jesus establishes a model of discipleship characterized by faith, dependence on God, and unwavering commitment to the proclamation of His Kingdom.