The Mission of the Twelve refers to the event in the New Testament where Jesus Christ commissions His twelve apostles to go out and preach the Kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons. This significant event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 10:1-42, Mark 6:7-13, and Luke 9:1-6. It marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' earthly ministry, as He extends His mission through His chosen disciples.

Selection and Authority

Jesus' selection of the Twelve Apostles is a deliberate act, symbolizing the restoration of the twelve tribes of Israel. The apostles are named in Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, and Luke 6:14-16. Jesus grants them authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal every disease and sickness. As stated in Matthew 10:1 , "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."

Instructions for the Mission

The instructions given to the apostles are detailed and specific. Jesus commands them to go only to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 10:6), emphasizing the initial focus on the Jewish people. They are to proclaim, "The kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 10:7). The apostles are instructed to rely on God's provision, taking no gold, silver, or copper in their belts, no bag for the journey, and only one tunic (Matthew 10:9-10).

Jesus also prepares them for the challenges they will face, warning of persecution and rejection. He encourages them to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16) and reassures them of the Holy Spirit's guidance when they are brought before governors and kings (Matthew 10:19-20).

Execution of the Mission

The apostles faithfully carry out their mission, as recorded in Mark 6:12-13 : "So they went out and preached that the people should repent. They also drove out many demons and healed many of the sick, anointing them with oil." This mission serves as a precursor to the Great Commission, where Jesus later commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

Significance

The Mission of the Twelve is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates Jesus' authority and His ability to delegate that authority to His followers. It also highlights the importance of faith and reliance on God's provision. The mission serves as a model for Christian ministry, emphasizing the proclamation of the Gospel, the demonstration of God's power through healing and deliverance, and the expectation of opposition and persecution.

The Mission of the Twelve underscores the continuity between Jesus' ministry and the mission of the Church, as the apostles' work foreshadows the global spread of the Gospel. Through this mission, Jesus begins to establish the foundation of the Church, which will continue His work on earth after His ascension.