The concept of sending delegates is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting the practice of appointing representatives to convey messages, negotiate, or perform specific tasks on behalf of a larger group or authority. This practice is evident in both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a means of communication and diplomacy among individuals, tribes, and nations.

Old Testament Instances

1. Moses and the Twelve Spies: One of the earliest examples of sending delegates is found in the Book of Numbers. Moses, under God's command, sends twelve spies to explore the land of Canaan. Numbers 13:2 states, "Send out for yourself men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites. Send one leader from each of their fathers’ tribes." This delegation was intended to gather intelligence about the land and its inhabitants, although it resulted in a mixed report that influenced the Israelites' faith and actions.

2. Joshua and the Gibeonites: In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites, fearing the Israelites, send a delegation to make a treaty with Joshua. They deceive the Israelites by pretending to be from a distant land. Joshua 9:4 notes, "they acted with cunning and set out as envoys, carrying on their donkeys worn-out sacks and old wineskins, cracked and mended." This incident highlights the use of delegates in diplomatic negotiations, even when deceit is involved.

3. David and the Ammonites: In 2 Samuel 10, King David sends a delegation to express sympathy to Hanun, the new king of the Ammonites, after the death of his father. However, the Ammonites humiliate David's men, leading to conflict. This event illustrates the potential for misinterpretation and hostility in diplomatic missions.

New Testament Instances

1. The Seventy-Two Disciples: In the New Testament, Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples as His delegates to prepare the way for His ministry. Luke 10:1 records, "After this, the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place He was about to visit." This mission was to proclaim the Kingdom of God and perform acts of healing, demonstrating the role of delegates in spreading the Gospel.

2. The Jerusalem Council: In Acts 15, the early church faces a theological dispute regarding Gentile converts and the Mosaic Law. The apostles and elders in Jerusalem send a delegation, including Paul and Barnabas, to Antioch with a letter outlining their decision. Acts 15:22 states, "Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to select men from among them and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas." This delegation served to communicate the council's decision and maintain unity within the early church.

3. Paul's Letters and Messengers: The Apostle Paul frequently used delegates to deliver his epistles and convey messages to the early Christian communities. For instance, Tychicus is mentioned as a beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, sent to the Ephesians to inform them of Paul's circumstances (Ephesians 6:21-22). These messengers played a crucial role in the dissemination of apostolic teaching and encouragement.

Theological Significance

The sending of delegates in the Bible underscores the importance of representation, communication, and the fulfillment of divine purposes through human agency. Delegates acted as intermediaries, bridging gaps between different parties and facilitating the execution of God's will. This practice reflects the broader biblical theme of God using individuals to accomplish His plans, whether through leadership, prophecy, or the proclamation of the Gospel.