The Commissioning of the Twelve refers to the event in the New Testament where Jesus Christ appoints His twelve apostles and sends them out to preach the Gospel, heal the sick, and cast out demons. This significant 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' earthly ministry, as He extends His mission through His chosen disciples.

Selection of the Twelve

The selection of the Twelve Apostles is a deliberate and prayerful act by Jesus. According to the Gospel of Mark, "Jesus went up on the mountain and called for those He wanted, and they came to Him. He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:13-15). This group included Simon Peter, James and John (the sons of Zebedee), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Him.

Instructions and Authority

In Matthew's account, Jesus provides specific instructions and authority to the Twelve. He commands them, "Do not go on the road to the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give" (Matthew 10:5-8). This directive emphasizes the initial focus on the Jewish people and the proclamation of the imminent Kingdom of Heaven.

Dependence on God

Jesus instructs the apostles to rely on God's provision, telling 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 command underscores the necessity of faith and dependence on God for their needs as they carry out their mission.

Persecution and Endurance

Jesus also prepares the Twelve for the challenges they will face, warning them of persecution: "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). He assures them of the Holy Spirit's guidance when they are brought before governors and kings, saying, "For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you" (Matthew 10:20).

The Cost of Discipleship

The commissioning includes a sobering reminder of the cost of discipleship. Jesus declares, "Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matthew 10:38-39). This call to self-denial and sacrifice is central to the life of a disciple.

Promise of Reward

Despite the hardships, Jesus promises a reward for those who receive the apostles and their message: "He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me. ... And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward" (Matthew 10:40, 42). This assurance highlights the eternal significance of supporting and accepting the messengers of the Gospel.

The Commissioning of the Twelve is a foundational event that sets the stage for the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of the early Church. Through this commissioning, Jesus empowers His apostles to continue His work, laying the groundwork for the Great Commission that would follow His resurrection.