The concept of being sent is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine initiative and authority in the mission of God's people. This theme underscores the importance of divine commissioning and the responsibility of those who are sent to fulfill God's purposes.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the idea of being sent is closely associated with the prophets and leaders chosen by God to deliver His messages and lead His people. Moses is a prime example, as God sends him to Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. In Exodus 3:10, God says, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." This divine sending is accompanied by God's assurance of His presence and power, emphasizing that those who are sent do not go in their own strength but in the authority of God.

The prophets, too, were sent by God to call Israel back to faithfulness. Isaiah's commissioning in Isaiah 6:8 is a poignant example: "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!'" This passage highlights the willingness required of those who are sent and the divine initiative in the sending process.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the theme of being sent reaches its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the ultimate sent one, as He is sent by the Father to accomplish the work of salvation. In John 20:21, Jesus says to His disciples, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." This statement not only affirms Jesus' own mission but also establishes the pattern for the disciples' mission. The sending of Jesus by the Father becomes the model for the sending of the disciples by Jesus.

The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 further emphasizes the importance of being sent: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Here, the disciples are sent with a clear mandate and the promise of Christ's presence, underscoring the authority and responsibility inherent in being sent.

The Apostolic Mission

The Acts of the Apostles provides numerous examples of the early church's understanding of being sent. The apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are sent to preach the gospel and establish churches. Acts 13:2-3 describes the sending of Paul and Barnabas: "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off." This passage illustrates the role of the Holy Spirit in the sending process and the communal aspect of commissioning within the church.

Theological Implications

Theologically, being sent implies a divine calling and purpose. It is not merely a task but a vocation that aligns with God's redemptive plan for the world. Those who are sent are ambassadors of Christ, as Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:20, "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God." This ambassadorial role carries with it the weight of representing Christ and His message to the world.

Practical Considerations

Practically, the importance of being sent involves obedience, faith, and reliance on God's provision. Those who are sent must be willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will equip and sustain them. The church plays a crucial role in recognizing and affirming those who are sent, providing support and accountability.

In summary, the importance of being sent is a central biblical theme that highlights the divine initiative in mission, the authority of those who are sent, and the responsibility to fulfill God's purposes in the world.