Central Truth

The kingdom of God is at hand. If we believe that, we must let God reign in our lives and tell others. God will use ordinary people, like the disciples and us, to proclaim His greatness.

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Reflections

Jesus calls His disciples together and instructs them to carry on the work He has done. He gives them authority to use His power. I love how God is so clear in His Word. He says, "Freely you received, freely give." (Matthew 10:8b, emphasis added) We do not deserve the gift of salvation that we have received through Jesus' death on the cross. It is free for those who believe that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead. Likewise, Jesus instructs His disciples and us to go tell others and freely proclaim this wonderful news.

I know that this is true, but I struggle with making it happen and putting together an action plan. Am I good enough to tell others about God's kingdom? Am I properly equipped to discuss God's kingdom with others? These are questions that continually enter my mind. The answer is YES! God gives each of us gifts to glorify Him here on earth.

In today's passage Jesus encourages His disciples to give their full attention to telling others about God's kingdom and not to be sidetracked by less important things. Communication is not my gift, but that's okay. I am comforted by the knowledge that when I have asked God for help and for His will to be done in any situation, I have never been let down. Jesus tells me in verses 19-20, "But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you."

Wow! It is unbelievable that God promises that He will help us proclaim His kingdom to others through His Spirit in us. Yet, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us we can believe it. He does not promise it will be easy, but He will be with us. It is a privilege He gives us to follow in His footsteps. Let's get on with it!

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Discussion Questions

1. Do we believe in the power of God's Word and the power of His kingdom? How do others see this power in us?

2. How are we rationalizing that God must more fully equip us before we can proclaim His kingdom to others?

3. In Matthew 10:14-23, Jesus warns his disciples that it will not be easy and gives specific instructions to them. What principles can we take from these verses that we can apply to our lives in 2010?

FAMILY DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Before He sent out the disciples, Jesus gave very clear rules/instructions to guide them and help them experience all He had for them. Where do you have rules/instructions in your life (i.e., cafeteria, sports, home, classroom, from the Lord)? What happens when the rules are not followed?

2. How do these rules help you experience all God has for you?

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