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 message of the Kingdom of God. 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 6:13-16. 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), and to demonstrate the power of the Kingdom through acts of healing, raising the dead, cleansing lepers, and casting out demons (Matthew 10:8).

Jesus instructs them to travel light, without gold, silver, or extra provisions, relying on the hospitality of those who receive their message (Matthew 10:9-10). This reliance on God’s provision underscores the urgency and faith required for their mission.

Reception and Rejection

The apostles are prepared for both acceptance and rejection. Jesus advises them to find a worthy person in each town and stay there until they leave (Matthew 10:11). If a town or home does not welcome them, they are to "shake the dust off your feet" as a testimony against them (Matthew 10:14). This act symbolizes the severance of responsibility for those who reject the message.

Warnings and Encouragements

Jesus warns the apostles of the persecution they will face, likening them to "sheep among wolves" (Matthew 10:16). He instructs them to be "shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16), emphasizing the need for wisdom and purity. Despite the anticipated opposition, Jesus encourages them not to fear, assuring them of the Father's care and the Spirit's guidance (Matthew 10:19-20).

The Cost of Discipleship

The mission discourse also highlights the cost of discipleship. Jesus speaks of division, even among families, as a consequence of following Him (Matthew 10:34-36). He calls for a commitment that places Him above all earthly ties, stating, "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me" (Matthew 10:37).

Outcome and Significance

The Mission of the Twelve serves as a foundational moment for the early Church, setting a precedent for the spread of the Gospel. It reflects the urgency of the Kingdom message and the necessity of faith and reliance on God. The apostles' mission foreshadows the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

This event underscores the authority of Jesus and His divine mandate, as well as the transformative power of the Gospel. Through the Mission of the Twelve, the message of salvation begins to extend beyond Jesus' immediate presence, laying the groundwork for the global mission of the Church.