Jesus Sends out His Apostles for Special Ministry

February 12

In Matthew 10, Jesus commissions His apostles. Sending them out in pairs and with His authority, He tells them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and drive out demons. (vv. 6–8) This moment looks back once again to Isaiah’s prophecy of the Messiah’s ministry and the “good news” He would bring. (Isaiah 61:1–2)

Jesus tells His apostles that, while they are worthy of being fed by those they minister to, they aren’t to accept money. In fact, He tells them to not even take a wallet with them or even acquire gold, silver, or copper. (vv. 9–10). Remember that in Matthew 6 Jesus told His disciples to not worry about their basic needs. They were to rely on God to take care of them. Now, it seems, they would have some on-the-job training in that instruction.

As they arrive in a town, the Lord prompts them to find the home of an influential, hospitable resident, and stay there until they leave for the next place. They are to be content with where the Spirit leads them—not shop around for a better place to stay. Here we find another possible nod. In 2 Kings 4:8-10, the Shunammite couple—for no other reason than kindness— routinely provided meals and even built an extra room in their home for the prophet Elisha when he happened through town. Not to be outdone, though, the Lord Himself soon repaid that kindness through the prophet’s word by granting that sweet couple a son!

Just as Elisha then blessed the Shunnamite couple for their hospitality, Jesus commands the apostles to bless the home they stay in. But, if they come to a home or town that is inhospitable, as they leave, they are to shake the dust off their clothes as a sign of God’s judgment on that place.

This heavy note from Jesus transitions us to His final remarks in the chapter: a warning of the persecutions they will face in their future ministry, and a stark reminder to remain faithful to the end, regardless of what comes.

Application

One takeaway for today is Jesus’ caution to those called to vocational ministry: His ministers are never to do it “for the money.” It’s a hard life, but He promises to take care of their needs. He will bring favorable people into their path who will be hospitable and take them in. Others, however, will persecute them for their faith.

But, not only should they not worry about their provisions, He tells them to not be anxious about what they should say in their defense when they are accused. When those moments come, the Holy Spirit will give them the words they need to tell their accusers about God and His kingdom. (vv. 18-20)

For those not called to vocational ministry, an important part of God’s call lies in cultivating hospitable homes and helping shoulder the responsibilities of those “laboring in the field.” Important to note, however, is that those called to special ministry aren’t any more “special” than God’s others followers. To the contrary, the path the helpers follow is also quite special with its responsibilities, potential blessings and pitfalls.

© Copyright 2026 Craig Beaman