Called and Sent--Message from the Heart

Before the disciples were sent into the world, they were called. 

Through the gospels, we see Jesus calling his disciples. The disciples spent time with Jesus during his ministry and truly followed him and absorbed his teachings & instructions. They watched him perform miracles, heal people, and set people free from demons. They watched the power of God be displayed. 

In Matthew 10 they were finally being sent into the very first mission. Jesus gave them The same power and authority that he operated in for the mission (Matthew 10:1). At this time, they were only sent to the people of Israel, the “lost sheep” (Matthew 10:6). Jesus before sending them out, gave them instructions over where to stay and where to go. 

He also warned them about persecution and staying focused on Him. This sounds so familiar. In our own walk with the Lord, He instructs us through His word. He gives us warnings and what to watch for. He shows us how to behave. What is beautiful is that we walk in the same authority and power that the disciples had an officially dwelled within them on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit. 

Later on in Matthew 28 we see the Great Commission being given to the disciples. Jesus said “ GO therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and the son and the Holy Ghost." Jesus told them to teach what he had taught them. Then he beautifully promised the disciples that he would be with them always. 

With the power of the Holy Ghost living in you, you are able to fulfill whatever the Lord places on your heart to do. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power that lives in you. Meaning that Jesus really is with you always. Jesus has called you to be his follower. Once you accept salvation, you start the journey where, through His spirit, He will teach you; He will guide; and even at times convict you to bring you into corrections.  Whether you realize it or not, Jesus is preparing you. 

As a follower, you are a disciple. He’s called you and now he is sending you to go out to teach, witness, and share what He has done for you and everything He has taught you!!! He’s prepared you to do what you are gifted to do through the power of the Holy Ghost and to reach lost people and to make disciples. Your mission field may not look like the disciples in Jesus’s day traveling from town to town. Your mission field may be right there in your hometown,  in the school that you go to, or a book to write. The Lord may have sent you to the job that you’re currently in to be a light and witness. Your family may be who your mission is right now. It doesn’t matter what the mission is, as long as you keep your eyes on Jesus and continue to remember His teachings and instructions, you are staying connected while making a kingdom impact. 

The Great Commission is to be fulfilled all across the world and your small section of the world is still apart of that great plan. So what are you waiting for? Jesus has called you. Go forth; you are sent!

• Do you truly feel like you are sent? 
• What area of the Great Commission could you surrender to the Lord to work in developing boldness? 
• Do you truly trust the plans the Lord has for you?

Lord, 

Thank you first for salvation and the opportunity to say yes to following you. Help me overcome fear and have a Godly boldness in you to share the good news through my everyday life. Help me to be the witness you have called me to be and to serve humbly. 

In Jesus Name,

AMEN