InstaStudy

Jesus Sends Out the Seventy

An exploration of Jesus sending out the seventy in Luke 10, focusing on the implications for believers today.

1. The Authority Given

1.1 Delegated Power

Verses: Luke 10:1; Luke 10:17
  • Jesus appointed seventy others and sent them ahead of Him, demonstrating a strategic expansion of ministry.
  • The seventy returned with joy, reporting that even demons were subject to them in Jesus' name, highlighting the real and tangible power available to believers.
  • This authority is derived solely from Jesus, emphasizing dependence on Him.

1.2 Overcoming the Enemy

Verses: Luke 10:19; Matthew 28:18
  • Jesus granted authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, symbolizing power over the works of the enemy.
  • This authority is not limited but extends to 'all the power of the enemy,' promising complete victory through Jesus.
  • All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus, and He shares this authority with those who are sent in His name.

2. The Message Proclaimed

2.1 The Kingdom is Near

Verses: Luke 10:9; Luke 10:11
  • The central message was 'The kingdom of God has come near to you,' emphasizing the immediate availability of God's reign and power.
  • This message demanded a response, calling people to repentance and faith.
  • Even rejection of the message served as a witness to the reality of the kingdom's presence.

2.2 Representing Jesus

Verses: Luke 10:16; John 13:20
  • Jesus declared, 'Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me,' highlighting the direct connection between the messengers and the One who sent them.
  • Those who receive the message are, in effect, receiving Jesus Himself.
  • To reject the messenger is to reject the One who sent Him, emphasizing the seriousness of the call to believe.

3. The Urgency of the Call

3.1 Laborers are Few

Verses: Luke 10:2; Matthew 9:37-38
  • Jesus identified the harvest as plentiful but the laborers as few, emphasizing the pressing need for more workers in God's kingdom.
  • He instructed believers to pray for more laborers to be sent out, highlighting the importance of intercession in expanding the ministry.
  • The need for laborers is constant and requires continuous prayer and action.

3.2 Focus and Dedication

Verses: Luke 9:62; Luke 10:4
  • Jesus emphasized the need for undivided attention, stating that no one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom.
  • The instructions to 'carry no purse, no bag, no sandals' highlight the need for simplicity and focus on the mission.
  • Distractions and worldly attachments can hinder effective ministry.

4. The Source of Joy

4.1 Eternal Perspective

Verses: Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:4
  • Jesus cautioned against rejoicing solely in the power over demons, but rather in the fact that their names are written in heaven.
  • True joy comes from knowing that one is eternally secure in Jesus.
  • Focusing on eternal realities brings lasting joy, regardless of earthly circumstances.

4.2 Revealed Truth

Verses: Luke 10:21-22; John 14:26
  • Jesus rejoiced that the Father had hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to little children, highlighting the importance of humility and a teachable spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit reveals truth and understanding to those who are open to receiving it.
  • Spiritual understanding is not based on intellectual ability but on divine revelation.