Mark 6:7-9

FOR SATURDAY, April 13

Passage

Jesus begins to send out the Twelve in pairs.  Jesus gave the disciples authority over the unclean spirits.  He told them to take nothing for their journey except a staff.  They were to not take a bag, bread, or money.  They were to wear sandals and not even have an extra tunic.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Ministry is not something that is to be done alone.  There is a reason that when Jesus begins his ministry He immediately calls disciples.  There is a reason that Jesus sends the disciples out here that they go in pairs.  Even when Jesus gets ready to have the Passover right before He dies, Jesus sends two disciples out to make preparations.  Ministry is more fun with a partner.  Partners catch mistakes that an individual will make.  Partners help the creative process happen.  Partners encourage and help overcome frustration.  There are lots of good things that happen when we have a partner in ministry.

Do you do much ministry on your own?  How can this be dangerous?  Is it difficult to have a partner?

Second Thought:

Jesus gives them authority.  Remember the past several chapters in Mark.  When the people were amazed at Jesus, they were amazed by His authority and power.  Jesus taught as one with authority.  Jesus healed as one with authority.  Jesus now gives this authority to His disciples.  Jesus imparted His most impressive “stuff” onto the disciples as He sent them out.  Jesus equips. 

Do you feel equipped?  What has Jesus equipped you to do?  In what manner can you advance the kingdom of God through the equipping of Jesus Christ?

Third Thought:

Likewise, Jesus tells them to not worry about taking a bag, or an extra tunic, or money.  Jesus is teaching His disciples that He has given them everything that they need.  They don’t need to go out and get extra supplies for their work.  All that they will need has either been provided or will be provided by the Lord going before them (as we’ll see in tomorrow’s reading).

Is it difficult to trust in the Lord’s provision?  Why is there such a temptation to bring any and every supply that you might possibly need?  What does this human trait teach us about how willing we are to rely upon God?

Passage for Tomorrow: Mark 6:10-13