The term "The Sent Ones" refers to individuals who are commissioned and dispatched by God or Jesus Christ to carry out specific missions or tasks, often involving the proclamation of the Gospel and the establishment of the Church. This concept is deeply rooted in the New Testament and is closely associated with the apostles, prophets, and other early Christian leaders who were instrumental in spreading the message of Christianity.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of being "sent" is central to the mission of Jesus Christ Himself, who was sent by the Father to redeem humanity. 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 passage underscores the continuity of the mission from the Father to the Son, and then from the Son to His followers.

The Apostles

The apostles are the most prominent examples of "The Sent Ones" in the New Testament. The Greek word "apostolos" means "one who is sent" and is used to describe the twelve disciples whom Jesus chose and commissioned. In Mark 3:14 , it is written, "He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach." The apostles were given authority to perform miracles, cast out demons, and establish the early Church.

Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles

Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, is another significant figure among "The Sent Ones." Although not one of the original twelve, Paul was uniquely called and sent by Christ to be the apostle to the Gentiles. In Acts 9:15 , the Lord says of Paul, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul's missionary journeys and epistles were foundational in spreading the Gospel beyond Jewish communities.

Prophets and Evangelists

In addition to apostles, the New Testament recognizes prophets and evangelists as "The Sent Ones." Ephesians 4:11 states, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers." These roles were essential for the edification and growth of the early Church, as they were tasked with proclaiming God's word and equipping the saints for ministry.

The Great Commission

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20 , is a pivotal mandate for all believers to be "The Sent Ones." Jesus commands, "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." This commission extends the call to be sent beyond the apostles to all followers of Christ, emphasizing the ongoing mission of the Church to evangelize and disciple the nations.

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit

The empowerment of "The Sent Ones" is closely linked to the work of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 , Jesus promises His disciples, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The Holy Spirit equips and empowers believers to fulfill their calling as "The Sent Ones," providing boldness, wisdom, and spiritual gifts necessary for effective ministry.

Conclusion

The concept of "The Sent Ones" is integral to the mission and expansion of the early Church and continues to be relevant for Christians today. Through the example of the apostles, prophets, evangelists, and all who are called to share the Gospel, the Church is reminded of its ongoing mission to be sent into the world as ambassadors of Christ.