Disciples Who Go

Matthew 8-10 

“He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness…As you go, preach this message: The kingdom of heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts;…For the worker is worth his keep.”

Matthew 10:1, 7, 9, 10

Disciple-making, in the way of Jesus, happens as we go, not as we stay. Our authority comes from Jesus and it speaks to all forms of bondages, addictions, afflictions, and sin-strongholds. The gospel of the kingdom must be experienced not just heard. There is freedom today from prescription drug addictions, pornography, sickness and disease. Jesus’ young disciples followed him for a short time, and then were sent out to put their limited knowledge into practice by preaching and praying for those looking for life.

Why would we want to disciple people any differently?

If we are not activating our knowledge, it’s not discipleship-knowledge in the way of Jesus. To activate our discipleship-knowledge we must combine knowledge with faith and obedience - faith that God’s Word is true and transforms lives, and obedience that applies the Word in our daily life. Today, as we go to work, or to school, or to the store, remember that we are disciples of Jesus sent to proclaim and live the gospel of the kingdom. It’s good news!

“Lord Jesus, send us out again as your disciples who know the spiritual authority you have given us, for your glory.”