163:0.1 A few days after the return of Jesus and the twelve to Magadan from Jerusalem, Abner and a group of some fifty disciples arrived from Bethlehem. At this time there were also assembled at Magadan Camp the evangelistic corps, the women’s corps, and about one hundred and fifty other true and tried disciples from all parts of Palestine. After devoting a few days to visiting and the reorganization of the camp, Jesus and the twelve began a course of intensive training for this special group of believers, and from this well-trained and experienced aggregation of disciples the Master subsequently chose the seventy teachers and sent them forth to proclaim the Gospel of the kingdom. This regular instruction began on Friday, November 4, and continued until Sabbath, November 19.
163:0.2 Jesus gave a talk to this company each morning. Peter taught methods of public preaching; Nathaniel instructed them in the art of teaching; Thomas explained how to answer questions; while Matthew directed the organization of their group finances. The other apostles also participated in this training in accordance with their special experience and natural talents.
This passage describes a period of dedicated preparation led by Jesus, during which He gathered His disciples and trained them intensively for their mission. After returning from Jerusalem, He organized His followers into a powerful group, equipping them to proclaim the Kingdom. Jesus’ training drew on each apostle’s unique talents: Peter taught effective preaching, Nathanael the art of teaching, Thomas how to answer tough questions, and Matthew provided guidance on managing their finances. This time of disciplined instruction and unity readied the group to bear witness to Christ’s message with clarity, purpose, and wisdom.
Later, the chosen seventy were sent out to spread the Gospel, marking a pivotal moment in the foundation of the early Church. These trained disciples became Christ’s ambassadors, sharing the Good News with boldness across the land.
Personal Application
Consider how Jesus prepared His disciples, drawing on each person’s unique strengths for a larger mission. He taught them skills specific to their calling and sent them out to proclaim the Kingdom with purpose. The following is a suggested list of ways to bring this spirit of preparation and mission into your own life.
1. Seek Daily Instruction. Just as Jesus taught His followers every morning, take time each day to reflect on God’s Word. Let it shape your understanding and purpose, as well as renew your strength and focus for the day.
2. Identify and Develop Your Gifts. Jesus knew the unique talents of each disciple and helped them grow in those areas. Reflect on your own strengths and gifts, considering how they might serve others. Pray for guidance to grow in areas where God may want to use you.
3. Prepare for Challenges. Thomas trained the disciples to respond to difficult questions. You can apply this by preparing yourself spiritually and intellectually to face challenges to your faith. Study Scripture, seek deeper understanding, and ask God for wisdom and courage to respond thoughtfully when others question your beliefs.
4. Pursue Practical Stewardship. Matthew instructed the disciples in financial management, ensuring that the mission had the resources it needed. Apply this by being a good steward of your resources—time, finances, and energy—so that you can support not only your own needs but also those of the community around you.
5. Commit to Your Mission. Finally, the disciples’ mission was to spread the Gospel. Whether in your family, community, or workplace, remember that you are called to live out and share your faith. Be a witness to Christ’s love and truth through your actions and words, allowing others to see the light of the Gospel in you.
Questions for Personal Study
1. What does this passage reveal about Jesus’ approach to preparing His disciples for ministry?
2. How did Jesus utilize the unique strengths of each apostle in training the larger group?
3. Why might Jesus have chosen Peter, Nathanael, Thomas, and Matthew specifically to lead certain aspects of the training? What can we learn from their roles?
4. How did the preparation process contribute to the effectiveness of the disciples’ later mission?
5. What was the significance of sending out the seventy disciples, and how did it impact the early Church?
6. How does this passage illustrate the importance of unity and organization in fulfilling a common mission?
7. In what ways can “seeking daily instruction” from God help us today? How might it impact our spiritual growth and direction?
8. What is the importance of recognizing and developing one’s unique gifts in service to others?
9. How can we apply the principle of “preparing for challenges” in today’s context?
10. Why is intellectual and spiritual preparation essential for defending our faith?
11. Why is stewardship over resources highlighted in this passage? What does it imply about the practical side of ministry?
12. What does it mean to “commit to your mission” in a modern context? How can we effectively witness to others in our daily lives?
13. How does this passage encourage us to reflect on our personal strengths and roles within the broader mission of spreading the Gospel?
14. How might this period of preparation have influenced the disciples’ confidence and effectiveness in proclaiming the Kingdom?
Prayer for Commission and Readiness
O Lord Jesus Christ, who gathered Your disciples and prepared them for the work of Your Kingdom, grant us the same spirit of dedication, that we may be strengthened and trained for our own mission. May we, like the seventy, be willing vessels of Your message, equipped with wisdom, courage, and humility, that we might teach, preach, and live by Your Word. Unite our talents and gifts for the glory of Your name, and send us forth as true disciples, steadfast and fearless. Through Your guidance and love, may we bear witness to Your Kingdom, and bring Your light to the hearts of those who seek You. Amen.