Part I
We spend so much time talking about, planning and preparing for the various trips we take throughout our lifetimes. We can choose from a vast array of options: cruise style, adventure style, family style; but do we ever stop and consider what a trip would look like if we took it “Jesus Style?” Luke, chapter 10 does exactly that. This chapter describes two travel narratives. It is perhaps no mistake that the Christian life is often referred to as a journey!
Bird’s eye view:
• Nestled between chapters 9 (sending of the 12, Peter’s confession, the Transfiguration) and 11 (the Lord’s Prayer) the 70/72 are sent. The location of the text, placed between theologically momentous teachings, stresses the importance of what chapter 10 is all about.
Chapter 10’ sending of the Seventy-two:
1. Preparing for the Trip:
The Destination: 10:1: Hebrew significance of 72–all the nations in the world– is foreshadowing the accounts in Acts.
a. Simplicity and urgency, v. 4 (how?)
b. Obedience, v. 3 (when?)
c. Trust, v. 7 (where?)
2. On location:
a. We enter with peace, v. 5. “Peace to this house:” Informed by the Hebrew concept of Shalom (is it really more than: Live long and prosper?).
b. We join in table fellowship, vv. 7, 8.
c. We minister, v.9.
d. How do we deal with rejection, vv. 10-12? Moving on without allowing distractions.
3. Returning home:
a. Rejoicing, but in what, v. 20? Rejoicing in God’s salvation, rather than man’s accomplishments. Celebrating the Creator, not creation.
“Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20
July 4, 2010. The Way Christian Fellowship. The Rev. Dcn. Kirsten Gardner.