Scripture

“Go and announce to them that the kingdom of heaven is near. Heal the sick, cure those with leprosy, raise the dead, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received.

Observation

Jesus chooses the twelve apostles and the sends them out to the people of Israel. They are to announce the good news, heal the sick and raise the dead.

The apostles are not to take any money, but to rely on the hospitality of people in the various towns they visit. If anyone refuses to welcome them, they are to shake the dust from their feet as they leave.

Application

Our task as disciples of Jesus is not complicated. Firstly, we are to tell people that the kingdom of God is here. That means that people should turn away from their selfish ways of living and submit to the authority of King Jesus.

To back up the claim about Jesus’ reign, we are to heal the sick, raise the dead and cast out demons. In other words, our message needs to be confirmed with miracles.

I read today about a couple who went to a remote village in Africa to translate the Bible into the local language. It was difficult at first because, although they had learned French which was an official language in that country, very few of the local people understood French. After several years of learning how to fit into that village, there was a boy who was suffering a life- threatening illness. There was no medical care available, so the missionary said to the pastor, “We should pray.” As he said the word “pray” the boy opened his eyes. They prayed for him and he was healed immediately.

This is the normal christian life. We need to take hold of the authority given to us in Christ and exercise it to His glory.

Prayer

Lord, teach me how to preach your gospel, heal the sick and raise the dead so that I can serve you effectively. Amen.