The concept of God sending His servants is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, illustrating His divine plan and purpose in guiding, instructing, and redeeming His people. This theme is evident in both the Old and New Testaments, where God commissions individuals to fulfill specific roles and missions.

Old Testament

In the Old Testament, God frequently sends prophets, judges, and leaders to guide the Israelites. These servants are often called to deliver messages, lead the people, or enact God's will. One of the earliest examples is Moses, whom God sends to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 3:10 , God says to Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt."

The prophets are another significant group of God's sent servants. Isaiah, for instance, receives his commission in a vision where he responds to God's call: "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!'" (Isaiah 6:8). Similarly, Jeremiah is appointed by God to be a prophet to the nations, as stated in Jeremiah 1:7 : "But the LORD told me: 'Do not say, "I am only a boy." For to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak.'"

New Testament

In the New Testament, the sending of God's servants takes on a new dimension with the coming of Jesus Christ, who is Himself sent by the Father. Jesus frequently speaks of His mission as being sent by God, as seen in John 20:21 : "Again Jesus said to them, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.'"

The apostles are also sent by Jesus to continue His work. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 encapsulates this sending: "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."

The Apostle Paul is another prominent example of a servant sent by God. His conversion and commissioning are described in Acts 9:15 , where the Lord says to Ananias, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel."

Purpose and Impact

The sending of God's servants serves multiple purposes: to communicate His will, to lead His people, to bring about repentance, and to spread the Gospel. These servants often face challenges and opposition, yet they are empowered by God to fulfill their missions. The impact of their obedience and faithfulness is seen in the transformation of individuals, communities, and nations throughout biblical history.

The theme of sending underscores the active involvement of God in the world and His desire to reach humanity through chosen individuals. It highlights the responsibility and privilege of being called by God to serve His purposes, a calling that continues to resonate with believers today.