Disciple (n./v.): The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew 10:1-16
Jesus gathers 12 disciples and send them. He authorizes them, instructs them, equips them and then sends them with nothing… or is it everything?
Monday, June 17
Read Matthew 10:1-16. Imagine being one of those 12 apostles. Which part of Jesus’ assignment would be the most remarkable? How well would you do on the trip without money or supplies? Why do you think Jesus insists they go with nothing? Is there a message here for us?
Tuesday, June 18
After reviewing Matthew 10:1-16, read Matthew 9:1-8, Matthew 28:18-20. Jesus has all authority because he is God. In Matthew 10:1, Jesus gives his authority to the disciples. What authority has he given us as baptized members of the Kingdom of God?
Wednesday, June 19
After reviewing Matthew 10:1-16, read Romans 1:1-16. Notice how Matthew refers to the 12 as “apostles.” Paul refers to himself the same way. Apostle means “sent one.” Who did Jesus send the 12 to? Paul? You?
Thursday, June 20
After reviewing Matthew 10:1-16, read Acts 3. Note Peter’s words in verse 6. What did Peter and John have to give to the beggar? What opportunities did Peter and John later have because they gave the man more than a handout?
Friday, June 21
After reviewing Matthew 10:1-16, read Acts 18:1-11. Why do you think Jesus tells the disciples to “shake the dust off their feet” and leave the towns that do not accept them? Is it right for Paul to do so here in Corinth? Are there times when it is right for us to leave a situation where we’re not accepted?
Saturday, June 22
After reviewing Matthew 10:1-16, read Luke 16:1-15. This is perhaps the most difficult of Jesus’ parables to understand. What opportunities do we have to represent Jesus shrewdly in our world without going too far and corrupting our innocence?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com