Question 1

Why did Jesus send the disciples out two by two in this passage?

Accepted Answer

Jesus sent the disciples in pairs to help and support each other. Two witnesses could confirm what was said, which mattered in that culture. Being together also meant they were not alone among strangers, could encourage each other when things were hard, and could correct one another if needed. This pattern shows that serving God is not meant to be a lonely job. Even today, it reminds believers that working with others, rather than in isolation, is wise and protects both the message and the messenger.

Question 2

Why did Jesus tell them to take no bag, bread, or money for their journey?

Accepted Answer

Jesus told them to travel with almost nothing so they would learn to rely on God and not be tied down by material concerns. They were to take a simple walking staff and sandals, but no extra coat, no bag of supplies, and no money. This showed that their mission was urgent and that their main focus was preaching, not gathering possessions. It also taught that those who receive the message should care for those who bring it. Their simple way of life matched the simple, serious message they preached.

Question 3

What does it mean to shake off the dust under your feet against a town?

Accepted Answer

Shaking off the dust was a sign that the messengers had done their part and were no longer responsible for how the town responded. If people refused to welcome them or listen to the message, the disciples were not to argue endlessly. They were to leave, shake off the dust, and move on. This act was a warning that the town had turned away from a real offer of life and forgiveness. It showed that rejecting the message of Jesus is serious and brings a stricter judgment than simple ignorance.

Question 4

Why does Jesus say it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment?

Accepted Answer

Jesus mentions Sodom and Gomorrha, which were known for great wickedness and severe judgment, to show how serious it is to reject the gospel. Those cities did not have apostles coming to them with the message of the kingdom and with clear signs and healings. A town that hears the good news of Jesus, sees his power at work, and still refuses to listen is even more accountable. This does not mean Sodom and Gomorrha were good, but that greater light brings greater responsibility when people choose to turn away.

Question 5

What did the disciples preach when Jesus sent them out?

Accepted Answer

The passage says the disciples went out and preached that people should repent. To repent means to have a change of mind and heart about sin and to turn back to God in a new way of life. Their message was not about curious ideas or debates, but about real change. They called people to leave their old ways because the kingdom of God had come near in Jesus. This shows that the center of their preaching was turning from sin and turning to God, not just feeling sorry but living differently.

Question 6

What is the meaning of the disciples anointing sick people with oil and healing them?

Accepted Answer

The disciples anointed many sick people with oil and they were healed. Oil was already known in that culture, but here it served as a visible sign that the healing came from God’s power, not from the disciples themselves. The important thing was not the oil but the authority Jesus gave them to heal and to cast out demons. These healings confirmed that their message about repentance and the kingdom was from God. This special gift of healing was given for that time to mark out their preaching in a clear and public way.

Question 7

How does this passage show God’s care for those who serve him?

Accepted Answer

God’s care appears in several ways. Jesus gives the disciples real authority over unclean spirits and over sickness, so they are not sent out empty-handed. He instructs them to travel light, expecting that God will move people to receive them and provide food and shelter. He also tells them what to do when they are rejected, so they are not left confused or bitter. All this shows that when God sends someone, he also equips and guides them, both in success and in rejection, and their work is never wasted in his sight.

Question 8

How can this passage about the twelve disciples apply to believers today?

Accepted Answer

This passage was about a short mission for the twelve, but it still gives patterns that help believers now. It shows that God uses ordinary people who have been with Jesus to carry his message. It highlights traveling light in heart, not letting worry over money or comfort choke out obedience. It reminds Christians to speak honestly about sin and repentance, not just what people like to hear. It also shows that rejection will happen, yet God still calls his people to keep going, trusting that he will provide and use their efforts.

Mark 6:7

And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

The Ministry of the Twelve

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Mark 6:7

And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

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The Ministry of the Twelve

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