Jesus Sends Out the Twelve

Luke 9:1-9

Key Verse 9:2

1. Before sending out the Twelve, how did Jesus equip them? (1) What does this provision indicate about the way to serve the Lord's mission successfully (and joyfully)?

2. According to verse 2 Jesus had two purposes in sending them out: 1) to preach the kingdom of God; and 2) to heal the sick. How are the two related?

3. In verses 3-4 Jesus told them to take "nothing" for the journey, but to rely on what their sponsor(s) might provide for them. Compare this instruction with Jesus' words in Luke 22:35-36. Why the difference?

4. Verse 5 describes what the disciples should do to those who do not welcome them. Before shaking the dust off their feet, what should a disciple do first? In what respect would shaking the dust off their feet serve as a "testimony against" those who do not welcome them? 

5. Think about God's work described in verse 6. How would you characterize this work of God? What wisdom is there for us to learn in reaching out to many in our generation?

6. Consider the way Herod responded to the great work of God through Jesus and his disciples. Why did Herod respond this way? (9)