THURSDAY- 14^TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME –B

Gospel: Matthew 10:7-15: You received without charge, give without charge.

I Reading: Hosea 11:1. 3-4.8-9: My heart recoils from it.

The Messiah’s Commission to His Disciples, Mt 10:5-15

This is the commission of our Lord Jesus Christ to his disciples. It was the very first expedition they had been sent out on all alone. Note how carefully Jesus instructed them and the clear implications for his followers in every generation.

1.     Jesus sent out his disciples, instructing them (v.5)

2.     First, go to Israel: to the lost of one’s own house (v.6)

3.     Second, preach: the kingdom of heaven is near (v.7)

4.     Third, minister, sharing freely (v.8)

5.     Fourth, receive compensation (v.9-10)

a.     Do not seek material gain

b.    Seek only to be adequately cared for

6.     Fifth, seek a worthy host for lodging (v.11)

7.     Sixth, plan your ministry and your visits (v.12-15)

a.     Approach cordially

b.    If accepted, share your peace

c.      If rejected, leave and symbolize judgement

d.    Rejected are to be judged

Thought: A person is sent forth by Jesus; he does not choose to go forth. If he does, he goes forth in his own strength and power. He cannot expect the power of Jesus.

A ministry is not a profession; it is a commission. Christ calls and commissions.

Ministering to the needs of the people shows two things.

1.     God loves and cares for people.

2.     The minister is a minister of love and care.