The Sending 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.

Context and Background

The event occurs after Jesus has gathered His twelve apostles, who are named in the Gospels. These men were chosen from among His larger group of disciples to be His closest followers and to receive special instruction and authority. The twelve apostles are: Simon Peter, James the son of Zebedee, John the brother of James, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus (also known as Judas the son of James), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.

Commission and Instructions

In Matthew 10:1, Jesus "called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness." This authority was a direct extension of Jesus' own power, enabling the apostles to perform miracles as a testament to the divine nature of their message.

Jesus' instructions to the apostles are detailed and specific. He 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), a message central to Jesus' own preaching.

The apostles are instructed to travel light, taking no gold, silver, or copper in their belts, no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, sandals, or staff (Matthew 10:9-10). This reliance on God’s provision and the hospitality of those they minister to underscores the urgency and faith required for their mission.

Miracles and Reception

The apostles are empowered to perform miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, cleansing lepers, and casting out demons (Matthew 10:8). These acts serve as signs of the Kingdom and authenticate their message.

Jesus also prepares the apostles for varying receptions. He warns them of potential persecution and rejection, instructing them to "shake the dust off your feet" as a testimony against any town or home that does not welcome them or listen to their words (Matthew 10:14). This act symbolizes a severance of responsibility and a warning of judgment.

Spiritual and Eschatological Implications

The Sending of the Twelve is not merely a historical event but carries deep spiritual and eschatological significance. It prefigures the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and the global mission of the Church. The apostles' mission to Israel foreshadows the broader mission to all nations, as the message of the Kingdom transcends ethnic and geographical boundaries.

Jesus' instructions also highlight the cost of discipleship. He warns of persecution, familial division, and the necessity of taking up one's cross (Matthew 10:34-39). These teachings emphasize the radical commitment required to follow Christ and the eternal rewards promised to those who endure.

Conclusion

The Sending of the Twelve is a foundational event in the New Testament, illustrating the transition from Jesus' personal ministry to the apostolic mission. It underscores the authority and power given to the apostles, the urgency of the Kingdom message, and the challenges and rewards of discipleship. Through this event, the groundwork is laid for the expansion of the Gospel and the establishment of the early Church.