THE CALLING AND SENDING OF DISCIPLES

THE CALLING AND SENDING OF DISCIPLES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 10:1-15

Key Verse: “And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power…” (Matthew 10:1)

Supporting Texts: Mark 3:13-15, John 15:16, Acts 1:8, Luke 9:1-2, Ephesians 4:11-12

Description: This study reveals how Jesus calls, equips, empowers, and sends His disciples for Kingdom assignment and ministry.

INTRODUCTION

Matthew chapter 10 marks an important transition in the ministry of Jesus. After teaching, healing, and demonstrating compassion toward the multitudes, Jesus called His twelve disciples and sent them out to minister. He gave them authority over unclean spirits, sicknesses, and diseases and commissioned them to preach the message of the Kingdom.

Discipleship is not merely about following Jesus privately; it also involves being prepared and sent for Kingdom service. Every believer is called not only to know Christ but also to represent Him in the world.

God still calls people today. He equips, empowers, and sends believers to preach the Gospel, heal the broken, serve humanity, and advance His Kingdom on earth.

1. JESUS CALLS DISCIPLES PERSONALLY

Discipleship begins with a personal call from Christ.

a) Jesus called His disciples unto Himself (Matthew 10:1)
Ministry begins with relationship and fellowship with Christ.

b) God chooses people according to His purpose (John 15:16)
Believers are chosen and appointed for divine assignment.

c) The call of God is based on grace, not perfection (1 Corinthians 1:26-29)
God often uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes.

d) Every believer has a calling and purpose (Ephesians 2:10)
God created each person for good works and Kingdom impact.

Biblical Example:
Moses was called by God at the burning bush and commissioned to deliver Israel from Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10).

2. JESUS EMPOWERS THOSE HE CALLS

God never sends people without giving them spiritual authority and strength.

a) Jesus gave the disciples power over unclean spirits (Matthew 10:1)
Divine assignment requires divine empowerment.

b) The Holy Spirit equips believers for ministry (Acts 1:8)
Spiritual power comes through the Holy Spirit.

c) God provides grace for every assignment (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Divine strength sustains believers in ministry.

d) Spiritual authority flows from relationship with Christ (Luke 10:19)
Victory over the enemy comes through Christ’s authority.

Biblical Example:
Gideon received divine strength and victory after God empowered him to lead Israel (Judges 6:12-16).

3. DISCIPLES ARE SENT TO PREACH AND SERVE

The calling of disciples includes active ministry and service.

a) Jesus sent the disciples to preach the Kingdom (Matthew 10:7)
The Gospel message must be proclaimed everywhere.

b) Ministry includes healing and deliverance (Matthew 10:8)
God’s power brings restoration to broken lives.

c) Believers are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20)
Christians represent God before the world.

d) Ministry should reflect compassion and humility (Mark 10:45)
Kingdom service is rooted in love and sacrifice.

Biblical Example:
Philip preached Christ in Samaria, bringing salvation, healing, and joy to the city (Acts 8:5-8).

4. DISCIPLES MUST DEPEND UPON GOD

Kingdom work requires faith, trust, and obedience.

a) Jesus instructed the disciples to trust God’s provision (Matthew 10:9-10)
Believers must rely upon God rather than worldly security.

b) Obedience is essential in ministry (John 14:15)
Faithfulness to God’s instruction brings fruitfulness.

c) Opposition will arise during Kingdom work (Matthew 10:16-18)
Disciples must remain courageous despite persecution.

d) God rewards faithful servants (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Labour in the Lord is never in vain.

Biblical Example:
Paul endured persecution, hardship, and opposition yet remained faithful to his calling (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

CONCLUSION

Jesus calls, empowers, and sends disciples for Kingdom purpose. Every believer has a role in advancing the Gospel and representing Christ in the world.

The call of discipleship requires surrender, obedience, dependence upon God, and willingness to serve. Those who answer God’s call faithfully will experience His power, guidance, provision, and eternal reward.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me to respond faithfully to Your calling in Jesus name

2. Father, reveal my purpose and assignment clearly to me in Jesus name

3. Lord, fill me with the power of the Holy Spirit for ministry in Jesus name

4. Father, make me a faithful disciple and servant in Your Kingdom in Jesus name

5. Lord, empower me to preach the Gospel boldly in Jesus name

6. Father, help me to depend completely upon Your strength and provision in Jesus name

7. Lord, use my life to bring healing, hope, and salvation to others in Jesus name

8. Father, strengthen me to remain faithful during opposition and challenges in Jesus name

9. Lord, let my life reflect humility, compassion, and obedience in Jesus name

10. Father, help me to fulfil my divine assignment successfully in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. The call of God upon your life shall become clear and powerful!

2. God shall equip and empower you for every divine assignment!

3. You shall walk boldly in spiritual authority and grace!

4. Your life shall become a vessel of healing, salvation, and restoration!

5. Every fear and limitation hindering your calling is broken!

6. God shall provide all you need for your Kingdom assignment!

7. You shall remain faithful and fruitful in the work of God!

8. The Holy Spirit shall guide and strengthen you continually!

9. Your labour in God’s Kingdom shall produce lasting eternal rewards!

10. You shall fulfil your calling with joy, power, and victory!