In Matthew 10:1-15, Jesus called his 12 disciples together. They were Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddeus, Simon and Judas Iscariot. It had been about 1 1/2 years since Jesus had started preaching. He taught the disciples to pray and how to use their faith. Now this was going to be their first time to minister on their own. Jesus gave them instructions on what to do. They were to go to Israel only. God begins at our house first. They were to go as they were. No preparations. They were to use their faith and let God provide. They were to heal the sick, cast out devils, cleanse the lepers and raise the dead. Then Jesus said, freely you have received, freely give. Then He said if any city refused to receive, shake off the dust on your feet. And it will be better for Sodom and Gomorrha than that city. In Matthew 11, Jesus talks about the cities that refused to hear the gospel. The disciples were excited and afraid at the same time. Most of them were uneducated. But Jesus was proving a point, that it is God only that makes all things possible.

Crain Blanchard.

Joseph1637@juno.com

Joseph1637.com