In the biblical narrative, the concept of "men sent" often refers to individuals who are commissioned or dispatched by God or His representatives to fulfill a specific purpose or mission. This theme is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the divine orchestration in the unfolding of God's plan.

Old Testament Instances

1. Moses: One of the most prominent figures in the Old Testament, Moses was sent by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 3:10, God commands Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Moses' mission was not only to lead the Israelites to freedom but also to establish them as a covenant people under God's law.

2. Prophets: Throughout the Old Testament, prophets were often sent by God to deliver His messages to the people of Israel and Judah. For instance, Isaiah was sent to call the nation to repentance and to foretell the coming of the Messiah. In Isaiah 6:8, the prophet responds to God's call, "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

3. Jonah: The account of Jonah illustrates a reluctant prophet sent to the city of Nineveh to proclaim God's impending judgment. Despite his initial resistance, Jonah eventually fulfills his mission, leading to the repentance of the Ninevites (Jonah 1:1-2).

New Testament Instances

1. The Apostles: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself sends out the apostles to spread the Gospel and establish the early Church. In John 20:21, Jesus says, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." This commissioning underscores the continuity of God's mission through His chosen representatives.

2. Paul: The Apostle Paul is a significant example of a man sent by God to the Gentiles. In Acts 9:15, the Lord speaks to Ananias about Paul, saying, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul's missionary journeys and epistles played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity.

3. The Seventy-Two: In Luke 10:1, Jesus appoints seventy-two others and sends them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go. This sending emphasizes the importance of preparation and proclamation in the ministry of Jesus.

Theological Significance

The sending of men in the Bible reflects the divine initiative in the redemption and restoration of humanity. It demonstrates God's sovereignty and His desire to involve human agents in His work. Those who are sent often face challenges and opposition, yet their obedience and faithfulness contribute to the fulfillment of God's purposes. The theme of "men sent" serves as a reminder of the call to mission and the responsibility of believers to participate in God's redemptive plan for the world.