Main Point: Jesus sends with compassion and authority, so freely offer his kingdom.
1. The Shepherd sends ordinary men with compassion and authority
2. The Shepherd sends with his Word and Grace.
3. The Shepherd stands with those he sends.
Questions:
Why do you think Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ compassion before describing the disciples’ mission? What does that tell us about the motivation behind Christian mission?
In Matthew 9:37–38, Jesus tells his disciples to pray for workers for the harvest. Why do you think he begins with prayer rather than immediately telling them to go?
What is the message the disciples are commanded to proclaim in verse 7, and how do their works of healing and deliverance support that message?
What is your most common response to people who seem far from God: irritation, indifference, guilt, fear, or compassion? Why?
How can remembering that our salvation and our opportunities to serve are gifts of grace change the way we approach ministry?
The disciples are sent out depending on God to provide for their needs. What makes it difficult for us to depend on God when we step out in faith? What might dependence look like in an ordinary conversation about Jesus?
Who are the people in your everyday life who might be especially “harassed and helpless” right now? What would it look like to approach one of them with the compassion of Jesus this week?
What is one practical step you could take this week to pray for someone, serve someone, or share the good news of Jesus with someone who does not know him?