Passage
Matthew 9:35-10:15 (ESV)
Hezekiah’s Foolishness
2 Kings 20:12-21
Key Verse: 20:17
Jesus Sent out Harvest Workers
Date: May. 19, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 9:38
First, Jesus' motive and vision (9:35-38). Wherever Jesus went, he taught people God's word, proclaimed the message of the kingdom, and healed people. But the need was great; all the world needs a shepherd. Jesus' motive in calling and sending workers is his compassion on harassed and helpless sheep. He shared his vision with his disciples: "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." God is the Lord of the harvest, let's ask for the privilege to work with him in his field.
Second, the Kingdom of heaven has come near (1-15). Jesus' disciples need his authority to work in God's harvest field. Each of them listed here was weak in their own way, but in service to Jesus they could be powerful gospel workers. Jesus sent them to the lost sheep of Israel to do as he did: teach people, proclaim the message of the kingdom and to heal. Jesus gave them principles of ministry to help them depend on God alone, to build relationships in each place, and to value the gospel message above all.
Prayer: Father, still your harvest is going on in earnest. Please send me to work in your field.
One Word: Proclaim the good news of the kingdom
