Matthew 10:1-23
The twelve disciples have become apostles (v. 2). In listing their names, Matthew the publican recalls his own origin (see Matthew 21:31). They have been instructed by the words and example of the divine Physician and the moment comes when they are sent (meaning of the word "apostle") as labourers into the harvest. A child will not be going to school all its life, it is obvious, although in one sense the believer is always in the school of God. But, sooner or later, we should have learned in our lessons the basic essentials, particularly the truth as to the utter helplessness of our natural state. It is only then that the Lord will be able to make use of us. Let us notice some points of the greatest importance: it is the Lord who calls, prepares, sends, directs, maintains, encourages and rewards His servants. They do not go of their own will and are not sent out by men. They do not expect any salary from them but give freely what they have been freely given. How much are these simple truths lost sight of in Christendom! Under the structure of committees, hierarchies and various organisations, human agents, often with the best intentions, are interposed between the Lord and His workers, to the great injury of the latter and, above all, the work which has been entrusted to them.