January 30

Matthew 10:1-15 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

“And he (Jesus) called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction.” (v.1)

Observation

Right after Jesus told his disciples to “pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (9:38), here Jesus sent His twelve disciples out to do the ministry. Jesus knew that it would take more than just prayer to raise up the kingdom workers. It begins with prayers, but needs to be followed by selection, equipping, and empowerment of the few individuals. That’s what Jesus was doing. The disciples watched Jesus do the ministry of casting out unclean spirits and healing the sick, as described in Matt. 8 & 9. But now, it’s their turn. No doubt that disciples felt inadequate to carry out these challenging ministries. But what’s so encouraging is that Jesus sent them out with His authority. Jesus knew that what the disciples needed was not money or worldly possessions (v. 9 & 10); all they needed was Jesus’ authority. They were sent out to do some amazing work of Kingdom ministry in the name of Jesus.

Application

I should never forget that God calls me and sends me to do the ministry with His authority, unlimited source given to me in the name of Jesus. I can accomplish great and wonderful work only because of His authority upon me. This truth makes me bold and confident in the Lord, and keeps me humble. I often see myself trying to do God’s ministry with my strength and with my wisdom, boxed in my human capacity instead of relying on Jesus’ authority.

Prayer

Lord, I want to experience your authority visibly unleashed in the ministries I am called to. Lord, I want to be surprised by the demonstration of your power and authority in the ministry. Help me to rely upon you everyday, remembering that you already commissioned me with your authority to do your ministry. I pray for more lives to be transformed and more victories to be won only in the name of Jesus

--Stephen Han