The biblical accounts of Jesus’ ministry often highlight His twelve closest apostles, yet a lesser-known but profoundly significant event involves His commissioning of a larger group of disciples—either 70 or 72, depending on the manuscript tradition. This event, recorded exclusively in Luke 10:1-24, reveals crucial insights into Jesus’ strategy for kingdom expansion, the nature of discipleship, and the authority bestowed upon His followers. Understanding the context and implications of this mission offers a rich tapestry of lessons for believers today.
The Commission of the 70/2: Luke’s Unique Account
Luke’s Gospel stands alone in recounting Jesus’ decision to send out this expanded group of disciples. Following His earlier commissioning of the Twelve (Luke 9:1-6), this broader delegation signifies an acceleration and broadening of His evangelistic efforts. Jesus specifically sends them “ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go” (Luke 10:1), indicating a preparatory role for His imminent arrival. This strategic deployment suggests a deliberate move to permeate more areas with the message of the Kingdom before Jesus’ personal visit. The specific number, whether 70 or 72, holds symbolic weight, often linked to the nations of the world listed in Genesis 10, suggesting a mission with universal implications.
Authority and Instruction for the Mission of the 70/2
The instructions given to the 70/2 disciples are strikingly similar to those provided to the Twelve, emphasizing both their spiritual authority and their dependence on God. Jesus instructs them to pray for more laborers, acknowledging the vast harvest and limited workers (Luke 10:2). He then sends them out “as lambs among wolves” (Luke 10:3), a vivid metaphor highlighting the vulnerability and potential opposition they would face, yet also implying divine protection. They were to travel light, without purse, bag, or sandals, and were not to greet anyone along the road, underscoring the urgency and singularity of their mission (Luke 10:4). This call for detachment from worldly concerns and undivided focus on the task foreshadows the demands of radical discipleship.
Upon entering a town, their first act was to pronounce peace upon a worthy household, and if accepted, to remain there, eating and drinking what was provided (Luke 10:5-7). This practice of “table fellowship” was culturally significant, forging bonds and demonstrating trust. Crucially, they were empowered to heal the sick and declare, “The kingdom of God has come near to you” (Luke 10:9). This demonstration of divine power through healing served as tangible evidence of the Kingdom’s presence and validation of their message. The stern warning given for towns that rejected their message (Luke 10:10-12) underscores the gravity of their commission and the accountability of those who heard it.
The Return of the 70/2 and the Nature of Rejoicing
The disciples returned with joy, exclaiming, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!” (Luke 10:17). This triumphant return highlights the tangible impact of their mission and the reality of the spiritual authority Jesus had delegated. Jesus, in turn, affirms their power, stating, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you” (Luke 10:19). However, He immediately redirects their focus, cautioning them against rejoicing primarily in their power over spirits. Instead, He instructs them: “do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20).
This pivotal teaching reframes the essence of Christian joy and service. While miraculous signs and wonders are powerful affirmations of God’s work, the ultimate source of rejoicing for a disciple is not in their accomplishments or delegated power, but in their secure identity and eternal salvation in Christ. It’s a profound reminder that spiritual effectiveness flows from divine grace and election, not human prowess. Read more about the Kingdom of God
The commissioning of the 70/2 disciples remains a powerful template for understanding missional living. It teaches us about the urgency of the Gospel, the importance of divine empowerment, the necessity of prayer for more workers, and the ultimate source of our spiritual joy. Their story calls all believers to participate in the expansive work of the Kingdom, relying on God’s authority and rejoicing in His eternal salvation.