WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:06.560 We can turn back to our reading in Matthew's Gospel in the end of chapter 9 into chapter 10. 00:00:07.919 --> 00:00:18.620 ! Our focus in particular is going to be on chapter 10, verse 1 to 15, but we need to see this in the context of what is said at the end of chapter 9. 00:00:18.620 --> 00:00:23.780 These amazing words that we read of Jesus at the end of chapter 9. 00:00:23.780 --> 00:00:37.500 When we think of how people view God in this world, many people have this idea of God as being cruel, unjust, and so many different ways of looking at him. 00:00:38.240 --> 00:00:46.980 But when we think of who God is and how he is in the three persons, God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and as we read of Jesus here, 00:00:47.620 --> 00:00:52.740 we are reminded of the love of God and his concern for his people. 00:00:52.740 --> 00:00:57.900 We see that in Jesus and how he views the people here in verse 36. 00:00:58.260 --> 00:01:07.859 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. 00:01:08.000 --> 00:01:12.840 Then he said to his disciples, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. 00:01:13.280 --> 00:01:19.599 Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 00:01:19.599 --> 00:01:24.759 So that's the context of where we're coming into chapter 10. 00:01:25.239 --> 00:01:30.319 This great compassion that Jesus has for the crowds that he sees. 00:01:30.419 --> 00:01:34.579 They were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. 00:01:35.699 --> 00:01:38.639 And then you come into chapter 10 and he says there, 00:01:38.640 --> 00:01:46.819 He called to him his 12 disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to cast them out and to heal every disease and every affliction. 00:01:47.420 --> 00:01:48.519 We have the names of them. 00:01:49.260 --> 00:01:52.560 And then in verse 5, these 12 Jesus sent out. 00:01:53.019 --> 00:01:54.799 He sent them out. 00:01:54.799 --> 00:02:01.920 So we see here Christ's compassion and his calling in his calling of the disciples, 00:02:02.079 --> 00:02:09.939 but also the call that he gives continually to the church to be those who show compassion to all around us. 00:02:11.280 --> 00:02:13.340 They were like sheep without a shepherd. 00:02:13.340 --> 00:02:21.640 And when he sees them like this, it's not just the case of seeing and doing nothing that Jesus has in mind. 00:02:22.140 --> 00:02:23.719 This leads to action. 00:02:24.740 --> 00:02:28.740 It leads to prayer, as you see at the end of chapter 9. 00:02:29.300 --> 00:02:31.099 Pray to the Lord of the harvest. 00:02:31.219 --> 00:02:34.960 Pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers. 00:02:35.620 --> 00:02:40.319 That there is this compassion, there's this concern for those who are harassed. 00:02:40.319 --> 00:02:48.659 And then as you see in chapter 10, this concern leads to Jesus sending out his disciples into the midst of the crowds. 00:02:49.659 --> 00:02:52.879 It's what he desires for his people then. 00:02:53.000 --> 00:02:55.039 It's what he desires for his people now. 00:02:55.579 --> 00:03:06.219 When you read in 2 Peter 3, verse 9, it says there that God desires none to perish but all to come to repentance. 00:03:06.219 --> 00:03:10.680 And so you ask, well, what's God's desire for people today? 00:03:10.800 --> 00:03:15.419 What's God's desire for the people of our town, our island, our nation? 00:03:16.079 --> 00:03:18.039 God's desire is still the same. 00:03:18.439 --> 00:03:22.840 That none perish but that all come to repentance. 00:03:23.560 --> 00:03:29.319 And so this concern, this compassion that we see in Jesus at the end of chapter 9, 00:03:29.699 --> 00:03:31.579 is it a concern that's finished? 00:03:32.280 --> 00:03:35.020 Is it a concern that's come to an end? 00:03:35.020 --> 00:03:35.620 No. 00:03:36.640 --> 00:03:44.060 It's more of a challenge to ourselves to say, is that still our concern as a church, as a people of God? 00:03:44.700 --> 00:03:49.780 That we see the people around us harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd 00:03:49.780 --> 00:03:55.860 and still have that longing, that desire that they would be brought to know Jesus. 00:03:57.260 --> 00:04:00.740 Are we fulfilling our call from the Lord? 00:04:01.280 --> 00:04:02.760 And what is that call? 00:04:02.759 --> 00:04:10.079 That's what we want to think about this evening in a wider sense and in a narrower sense as well. 00:04:10.500 --> 00:04:13.739 What is our chief calling in life? 00:04:13.919 --> 00:04:17.099 What is your chief calling in life? 00:04:17.279 --> 00:04:20.120 It's maybe often something that we struggle with. 00:04:20.120 --> 00:04:22.399 What does God desire for me? 00:04:22.459 --> 00:04:25.379 What does God want me to be doing in this life? 00:04:25.459 --> 00:04:26.699 What does he have for me? 00:04:27.040 --> 00:04:28.319 Am I in his will? 00:04:28.899 --> 00:04:30.199 Am I in his plan? 00:04:30.740 --> 00:04:32.319 Am I doing as he wants me? 00:04:32.319 --> 00:04:36.500 It's often something that we can struggle with. 00:04:37.719 --> 00:04:40.459 For some people, there's a specific call. 00:04:41.279 --> 00:04:43.759 You think of ministers, there's a specific call. 00:04:44.319 --> 00:04:47.319 Missionaries, there's a specific work they're called to. 00:04:47.319 --> 00:04:56.439 And you can always think of the call of God in that way, that it's all about a specific call and anyone else isn't involved in it. 00:04:57.439 --> 00:05:01.560 But there's a general call that goes to all of God's people. 00:05:02.540 --> 00:05:07.120 Our general call, and if you ask that of yourself, what is my call in life? 00:05:07.120 --> 00:05:12.879 When we look at it in a broad sense, for all God's people, it is to glorify God. 00:05:13.319 --> 00:05:14.920 To glorify God. 00:05:15.500 --> 00:05:19.180 You think of the shorter catechism, the very first questions. 00:05:19.360 --> 00:05:20.240 Man's chief end. 00:05:20.300 --> 00:05:21.980 What is our chief end? 00:05:22.300 --> 00:05:26.300 It is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. 00:05:27.439 --> 00:05:30.540 So there is a wider sense of our calling. 00:05:30.639 --> 00:05:35.379 Our calling is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. 00:05:35.379 --> 00:05:39.219 But then you think, well, how does that work out? 00:05:39.680 --> 00:05:41.879 How does it look in my life? 00:05:42.000 --> 00:05:45.579 How does that play out in what I am doing for him? 00:05:46.040 --> 00:05:48.680 Well, it's to seek the Lord's will. 00:05:49.379 --> 00:05:54.219 It's to seek his guidance and what's your purpose in my life? 00:05:55.639 --> 00:05:58.399 And it's to give glory to him in whatever we are doing. 00:05:59.079 --> 00:06:03.279 That is his call to the people of God far and wide. 00:06:03.279 --> 00:06:06.659 It's not all about being ministers or missionaries. 00:06:07.439 --> 00:06:09.799 There's a wider sense of calling to everyone. 00:06:09.879 --> 00:06:12.099 To give glory to God. 00:06:13.139 --> 00:06:17.659 And that's what we think of when we think here, well, what is God asking of the church? 00:06:18.319 --> 00:06:20.479 What is he asking of the church today? 00:06:20.979 --> 00:06:27.319 To still see a people around us harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. 00:06:27.319 --> 00:06:29.899 And to have compassion on them. 00:06:30.420 --> 00:06:34.740 To have a desire for them to come to know the Lord. 00:06:36.199 --> 00:06:44.079 And so their calling is to follow him or to seek him if we are not already following him. 00:06:44.420 --> 00:06:48.740 Because apart from being in his will, we will never be at ease. 00:06:48.740 --> 00:06:53.040 If we are outside his will, we are never going to be at ease. 00:06:53.120 --> 00:06:58.120 If we are kicking against him, if we are pushing away from him, we're never going to have peace. 00:06:59.199 --> 00:07:05.079 But it's to find what his will is for us and to live in light of what he wants of us. 00:07:05.079 --> 00:07:10.199 So it's to give glory to God in all that we are doing. 00:07:11.039 --> 00:07:15.079 And when we think of ourselves as a congregation here, 00:07:15.879 --> 00:07:19.779 when we think of the preaching of the word, when we think of the mission of the church, 00:07:20.779 --> 00:07:24.740 we want to be encouraged in that sense of this is our foundation. 00:07:25.759 --> 00:07:26.620 The gospel. 00:07:27.319 --> 00:07:28.979 The good news of Jesus. 00:07:29.599 --> 00:07:34.439 And also the fact that we see a need around us. 00:07:35.079 --> 00:07:39.500 That we have that eye of Jesus as we look around the people here. 00:07:40.099 --> 00:07:45.659 That we see the harassed, the helpless, the ones who are struggling, the ones who are lost. 00:07:46.659 --> 00:07:49.300 And that we have that sense of compassion. 00:07:50.439 --> 00:07:52.839 That we have that sense of concern. 00:07:54.219 --> 00:07:57.099 And when we have that as our foundation, then we see, 00:07:57.699 --> 00:07:59.219 well, what are we going to do about it? 00:07:59.740 --> 00:08:02.599 What does God want us to do about it? 00:08:02.600 --> 00:08:06.060 And so this passage has much to teach us. 00:08:06.400 --> 00:08:07.200 It's not just this. 00:08:07.280 --> 00:08:10.800 There's a general, specific call here for the disciples. 00:08:10.800 --> 00:08:16.200 But we can look at it in a broader sense as well, as to what God is asking of us. 00:08:17.060 --> 00:08:19.879 And the first thing we see here as we go into chapter 10, 00:08:19.960 --> 00:08:24.260 with that foundation of the compassion, seeing the crowds in mind, 00:08:24.640 --> 00:08:27.260 the first thing we see is that he called them. 00:08:27.980 --> 00:08:28.980 He called them. 00:08:28.980 --> 00:08:31.580 That's what it says in verse 1. 00:08:31.580 --> 00:08:38.720 And he called to him his 12 disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to cast them out 00:08:38.720 --> 00:08:42.120 and to heal every disease and every affliction. 00:08:42.700 --> 00:08:46.480 And then he lists the names of the 12 there. 00:08:47.639 --> 00:08:48.720 He calls them. 00:08:50.620 --> 00:08:55.720 And when you notice here, he had just said to his disciples in verse 37, 00:08:55.720 --> 00:08:56.820 He said to his disciples, 00:08:56.820 --> 00:08:59.759 The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. 00:09:00.519 --> 00:09:06.500 Pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 00:09:06.660 --> 00:09:13.300 You wonder, did they even have a chance to pray that prayer when he called them to himself 00:09:13.300 --> 00:09:18.100 and he's about to send them out into the labor, into the harvest field. 00:09:18.100 --> 00:09:24.820 They were about to become God's disciples in that sense of going out. 00:09:26.100 --> 00:09:27.940 They had been with Jesus. 00:09:29.000 --> 00:09:31.659 They had been with him seeing his ministry going on. 00:09:32.440 --> 00:09:34.759 But now he's giving them authority. 00:09:35.100 --> 00:09:36.580 He's giving them power. 00:09:37.700 --> 00:09:41.720 But in order to know this, they had first of all to be followers. 00:09:43.000 --> 00:09:44.820 They weren't leaders immediately. 00:09:45.000 --> 00:09:46.580 They had to be followers. 00:09:46.580 --> 00:09:48.720 They had to learn. 00:09:49.820 --> 00:09:52.139 They had to be willing to give themselves. 00:09:52.960 --> 00:09:55.940 To give themselves into the hands of God. 00:09:56.700 --> 00:09:59.860 Saying, here am I, send me, basically. 00:10:00.800 --> 00:10:03.940 That they might be used to the glory of God. 00:10:04.020 --> 00:10:06.300 So it's important for us all to think first. 00:10:06.860 --> 00:10:12.780 When God is calling us, when he's asking us, are we followers of him? 00:10:12.779 --> 00:10:16.480 Not are we leaders, but are we followers? 00:10:17.240 --> 00:10:20.120 Are we followers first and foremost? 00:10:20.699 --> 00:10:24.079 There's a story told of a young woman who wanted to go to college. 00:10:24.860 --> 00:10:27.559 And she had to fill in an application form. 00:10:27.720 --> 00:10:34.120 And as she looked at the application form, her heart sank when she saw one of the questions on it. 00:10:34.120 --> 00:10:38.940 And she said, in the application form, one of the questions was, are you a leader? 00:10:38.940 --> 00:10:42.760 And she looked at this question for a while. 00:10:43.400 --> 00:10:45.900 And she thought, well, I've got to be honest. 00:10:47.160 --> 00:10:48.100 She was honest. 00:10:48.160 --> 00:10:49.200 She was conscientious. 00:10:49.300 --> 00:10:51.080 And she thought, I've got to be honest in this. 00:10:51.100 --> 00:10:53.480 And she wrote her answer, are you a leader? 00:10:54.120 --> 00:10:54.480 No. 00:10:54.480 --> 00:10:54.519 No. 00:10:56.159 --> 00:10:57.840 And she sent her application form. 00:10:57.920 --> 00:10:58.840 She filled out the rest. 00:10:58.940 --> 00:11:02.340 She sent it away and didn't expect to get accepted. 00:11:03.300 --> 00:11:06.220 But then a letter arrived from the college. 00:11:06.320 --> 00:11:07.340 And this was what it said. 00:11:07.399 --> 00:11:15.340 Dear applicant, a study of the application forms reveals that this year our college will have 1,452 leaders. 00:11:16.480 --> 00:11:21.519 We are accepting you because we feel it's imperative that they have at least one follower. 00:11:21.519 --> 00:11:28.740 So many people will just put them forward and say, I'm a leader, when they're not ready to lead. 00:11:29.600 --> 00:11:34.360 When, first of all, it's important to follow and to learn. 00:11:35.100 --> 00:11:37.579 And when you look at Scripture, you see that example. 00:11:38.279 --> 00:11:43.240 You see it again and again going through the Old Testament, going into the New Testament. 00:11:43.360 --> 00:11:46.519 You look at those who we would think of as great leaders. 00:11:47.279 --> 00:11:48.240 You think of Abraham. 00:11:48.720 --> 00:11:51.179 He's described as the father of the faith. 00:11:51.519 --> 00:11:55.480 You think to yourself, well, there was someone who was a leader for God. 00:11:56.240 --> 00:11:58.659 But was he a leader first and foremost? 00:11:59.699 --> 00:12:02.100 No, because God put him to the test. 00:12:03.120 --> 00:12:08.240 God put him through so much to recognize that he could do nothing apart from him. 00:12:09.039 --> 00:12:11.100 That first and foremost, he had to be a follower. 00:12:12.240 --> 00:12:14.840 Follower of God then to become a leader. 00:12:14.840 --> 00:12:16.980 You think of Moses. 00:12:16.980 --> 00:12:17.259 You think of Moses. 00:12:19.019 --> 00:12:20.399 Impetuous in many ways. 00:12:21.060 --> 00:12:22.320 Was he a born leader? 00:12:22.639 --> 00:12:23.920 You would say maybe yes. 00:12:25.019 --> 00:12:28.800 But did God not have to put him through many challenges first? 00:12:29.180 --> 00:12:34.700 Before he led the children of Israel out of Egypt into the promised, or to the border of the promised land. 00:12:34.700 --> 00:12:37.840 He had to learn to follow God. 00:12:37.840 --> 00:12:39.600 To obey God. 00:12:40.780 --> 00:12:42.100 You think of David. 00:12:42.420 --> 00:12:43.660 A young shepherd boy. 00:12:44.560 --> 00:12:45.840 Used by God. 00:12:45.980 --> 00:12:50.080 Again, to lead many people in many different situations. 00:12:51.220 --> 00:12:52.720 But what did he have to learn? 00:12:52.780 --> 00:12:53.860 He had to learn to trust. 00:12:53.980 --> 00:12:55.379 To follow the Lord first. 00:12:55.840 --> 00:12:58.020 You think of him going up against Goliath. 00:12:58.120 --> 00:13:01.620 Did he go up in his own strength or with the armor of others? 00:13:01.620 --> 00:13:02.019 No. 00:13:02.799 --> 00:13:04.100 It wouldn't have worked. 00:13:04.200 --> 00:13:06.960 Instead, he went trusting God. 00:13:07.120 --> 00:13:08.100 Following God. 00:13:09.700 --> 00:13:15.120 And so in all of these situations, what you see is that God saw the needs of his people. 00:13:15.259 --> 00:13:18.200 Whether it's with Abraham, Moses, or David, or others. 00:13:18.580 --> 00:13:20.320 Used by God in scripture. 00:13:21.060 --> 00:13:22.560 He called his people. 00:13:24.120 --> 00:13:25.899 He made them followers of him. 00:13:25.919 --> 00:13:27.000 And then he sent them. 00:13:28.580 --> 00:13:31.440 And so we see here an example for us. 00:13:31.620 --> 00:13:35.560 First and foremost, to be followers of God. 00:13:37.240 --> 00:13:43.240 And when you look at the names of the twelve, here's interesting how he names them all there in verse 2. 00:13:43.320 --> 00:13:45.580 The names of the twelve apostles are these. 00:13:46.060 --> 00:13:47.460 And he goes through the list. 00:13:47.580 --> 00:13:48.279 You look at them. 00:13:49.720 --> 00:13:51.320 And you look at these names. 00:13:52.200 --> 00:13:54.139 And you think, well, they were great leaders. 00:13:54.139 --> 00:13:57.360 But when you look at their backgrounds. 00:13:57.480 --> 00:13:59.259 When you look at where they came from. 00:14:00.019 --> 00:14:01.379 Ordinary people. 00:14:02.399 --> 00:14:03.840 From ordinary backgrounds. 00:14:04.620 --> 00:14:06.500 Who were followers of Jesus. 00:14:07.039 --> 00:14:08.639 Before they ever became leaders. 00:14:09.639 --> 00:14:13.059 And strong people who the church was built through. 00:14:13.059 --> 00:14:19.039 But God can use weak instruments for his glory. 00:14:19.039 --> 00:14:21.799 When you look at these names. 00:14:21.799 --> 00:14:23.279 And what they were called to. 00:14:23.399 --> 00:14:23.919 As you see. 00:14:24.139 --> 00:14:26.059 Going through the New Testament. 00:14:26.579 --> 00:14:28.059 How many of us would say. 00:14:28.159 --> 00:14:30.279 That is a call I want to answer. 00:14:32.259 --> 00:14:33.980 That's what I want with God. 00:14:35.379 --> 00:14:37.079 Well, it may not be so specific. 00:14:37.079 --> 00:14:39.299 As to be a disciple. 00:14:39.459 --> 00:14:40.299 In this sense. 00:14:40.299 --> 00:14:43.339 But we should all be saying. 00:14:43.539 --> 00:14:44.299 Here am I. 00:14:45.299 --> 00:14:46.599 Lord, I am yours. 00:14:47.219 --> 00:14:50.059 I want to follow you first and foremost. 00:14:50.179 --> 00:14:51.959 And then I want you to show me. 00:14:52.120 --> 00:14:54.279 What you have for me to do. 00:14:55.279 --> 00:14:56.859 We so often look at ourselves. 00:14:57.019 --> 00:14:57.299 And think. 00:14:57.620 --> 00:14:59.439 We've got nothing to offer. 00:15:00.859 --> 00:15:01.620 And yet God. 00:15:02.059 --> 00:15:03.559 Gives each and every one of us. 00:15:03.699 --> 00:15:04.899 Gifts to use. 00:15:05.259 --> 00:15:06.699 For his glory. 00:15:08.019 --> 00:15:09.659 That's what these twelve. 00:15:09.659 --> 00:15:12.240 Were to be used by God for. 00:15:13.179 --> 00:15:14.579 To spread the gospel. 00:15:14.919 --> 00:15:16.019 To reach the lost. 00:15:16.219 --> 00:15:17.199 To help the poor. 00:15:17.579 --> 00:15:19.039 All of these things. 00:15:20.459 --> 00:15:22.699 And that is what the church is all about. 00:15:23.719 --> 00:15:27.079 God using people to his glory. 00:15:27.620 --> 00:15:29.579 As we make ourselves available. 00:15:29.759 --> 00:15:32.199 We have to draw near to the Lord. 00:15:33.179 --> 00:15:34.559 To follow him first. 00:15:34.639 --> 00:15:35.240 So we can see. 00:15:35.379 --> 00:15:35.899 Well God. 00:15:36.240 --> 00:15:37.679 How can I be used? 00:15:37.679 --> 00:15:38.000 Christ. 00:15:39.000 --> 00:15:39.620 And it's great. 00:15:39.759 --> 00:15:41.259 It's so encouraging to see. 00:15:41.500 --> 00:15:44.139 When there's different things going on in the church. 00:15:44.219 --> 00:15:47.000 How many people are involved in it all. 00:15:47.779 --> 00:15:51.120 We think of the breakfast last weekend. 00:15:51.779 --> 00:15:53.819 We think of the cruise ship days. 00:15:53.819 --> 00:15:55.000 When the church is open. 00:15:55.459 --> 00:15:56.919 We think of the holiday club. 00:15:57.159 --> 00:15:58.379 This coming week. 00:15:58.379 --> 00:16:02.059 We can often look at those who are maybe seen. 00:16:02.200 --> 00:16:04.279 Maybe out front as it were. 00:16:05.700 --> 00:16:08.000 But every one of us is involved. 00:16:08.639 --> 00:16:11.179 Every one of you is involved in it. 00:16:11.840 --> 00:16:14.080 Because everyone's got a part to play. 00:16:14.639 --> 00:16:16.860 Not just those who are in the hall. 00:16:16.860 --> 00:16:18.360 Or in the church. 00:16:19.680 --> 00:16:20.879 Working away there. 00:16:21.960 --> 00:16:23.700 It's so many of the little things. 00:16:23.820 --> 00:16:26.919 The preparation that's been made for the holiday club is incredible. 00:16:27.419 --> 00:16:29.440 How many different people have been involved. 00:16:29.560 --> 00:16:33.379 And everyone who is able to pray for it as well. 00:16:33.379 --> 00:16:36.320 So it's not the work of a few. 00:16:37.039 --> 00:16:38.379 It's the work of us all. 00:16:39.100 --> 00:16:40.679 We are all involved in this. 00:16:41.700 --> 00:16:44.500 You think I've got no part to play in the ministry here. 00:16:44.700 --> 00:16:46.200 In the preaching of the gospel. 00:16:46.679 --> 00:16:47.240 You do. 00:16:48.340 --> 00:16:50.240 Because every one of you has to pray. 00:16:50.480 --> 00:16:52.139 For the preaching of the gospel. 00:16:52.279 --> 00:16:53.299 That it might be blessed. 00:16:54.200 --> 00:16:56.019 And to be aware of those prayers. 00:16:56.500 --> 00:16:57.720 Is such a blessing to me. 00:16:57.779 --> 00:16:59.500 And all who come to preach here. 00:16:59.500 --> 00:17:04.480 And so the work is not just what's seen to the front. 00:17:05.019 --> 00:17:07.680 It's what everyone is involved in. 00:17:07.759 --> 00:17:08.960 When you follow Jesus. 00:17:08.960 --> 00:17:12.799 You are part of the kingdom work that he has. 00:17:12.880 --> 00:17:15.779 We are all called in that sense. 00:17:17.299 --> 00:17:19.160 Matthew Henry once put it like this. 00:17:19.339 --> 00:17:22.880 The best preparation for the work of the ministry. 00:17:23.019 --> 00:17:26.000 Is acquaintance and communion with the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:17:27.579 --> 00:17:29.099 The work of the ministry. 00:17:29.500 --> 00:17:30.519 Is far reaching. 00:17:31.359 --> 00:17:34.160 But it all comes with an acquaintance and communion. 00:17:34.619 --> 00:17:36.279 With the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:17:37.420 --> 00:17:39.480 To be close to God. 00:17:40.099 --> 00:17:42.759 That is what we see with the twelve who were called. 00:17:43.539 --> 00:17:44.559 They were close. 00:17:45.240 --> 00:17:46.200 They were followers. 00:17:46.920 --> 00:17:50.259 They were being used by God for his glory. 00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:54.460 And that is what we should seek for ourselves as well. 00:17:54.460 --> 00:17:56.240 That close acquaintance. 00:17:56.240 --> 00:17:59.559 That communion with the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:17:59.680 --> 00:18:01.240 To grow in that relationship. 00:18:02.480 --> 00:18:05.819 And therefore from there to be used by God to his glory. 00:18:06.059 --> 00:18:07.539 In all the parts. 00:18:07.660 --> 00:18:08.840 In all the aspects. 00:18:09.200 --> 00:18:11.160 Of our congregation here. 00:18:11.160 --> 00:18:14.120 When you think of the twelve here. 00:18:14.220 --> 00:18:14.820 Who are named. 00:18:15.940 --> 00:18:16.840 Later on. 00:18:17.480 --> 00:18:18.300 In the gospel. 00:18:18.480 --> 00:18:20.000 It was in John's gospel. 00:18:20.140 --> 00:18:21.360 The disciples of Jesus. 00:18:21.600 --> 00:18:23.180 Are described in this way. 00:18:23.259 --> 00:18:25.420 That they had been with Jesus. 00:18:25.420 --> 00:18:27.720 It was clear. 00:18:27.720 --> 00:18:29.940 They had been with Jesus. 00:18:31.340 --> 00:18:32.640 What a compliment. 00:18:33.039 --> 00:18:34.460 That is for them. 00:18:35.580 --> 00:18:36.960 And how they go on. 00:18:37.860 --> 00:18:38.740 And how we say they went. 00:18:38.840 --> 00:18:40.279 They went from followers. 00:18:40.420 --> 00:18:42.140 To being those who the church. 00:18:42.279 --> 00:18:43.800 Would later be built upon. 00:18:44.360 --> 00:18:45.759 Three years later. 00:18:45.900 --> 00:18:48.240 Following the death and resurrection of Jesus. 00:18:48.240 --> 00:18:50.700 What do you find in the book of Acts. 00:18:50.700 --> 00:18:51.599 Chapter one. 00:18:51.740 --> 00:18:53.980 You find a list of names. 00:18:54.140 --> 00:18:55.000 There as well. 00:18:55.980 --> 00:18:57.400 The very same names. 00:18:57.400 --> 00:18:59.240 That you have here in chapter 10. 00:19:00.180 --> 00:19:02.480 In verse 12 of Acts chapter one. 00:19:02.599 --> 00:19:03.799 They returned to Jerusalem. 00:19:03.799 --> 00:19:04.579 From the mount. 00:19:04.900 --> 00:19:05.819 Called Olivet. 00:19:06.079 --> 00:19:07.279 Which is near Jerusalem. 00:19:07.400 --> 00:19:09.160 A Sabbath stay journey away. 00:19:09.700 --> 00:19:10.500 When they had entered. 00:19:10.640 --> 00:19:11.960 They went up to the upper room. 00:19:12.400 --> 00:19:13.539 Where they were staying. 00:19:14.099 --> 00:19:15.140 Peter and John. 00:19:15.259 --> 00:19:15.740 And James. 00:19:15.880 --> 00:19:16.359 And Andrew. 00:19:16.519 --> 00:19:17.400 Philip and Thomas. 00:19:17.660 --> 00:19:18.180 Bartholomew. 00:19:18.599 --> 00:19:19.240 And Matthew. 00:19:19.460 --> 00:19:20.779 James the son of Alphaeus. 00:19:20.859 --> 00:19:21.859 And Simon the cellar. 00:19:22.140 --> 00:19:24.019 And Judas the son of James. 00:19:24.559 --> 00:19:26.539 All these were of one accord. 00:19:27.099 --> 00:19:29.099 Devoting themselves to prayer. 00:19:29.620 --> 00:19:30.720 Together with the woman. 00:19:31.160 --> 00:19:32.720 And Mary the mother of Jesus. 00:19:33.160 --> 00:19:34.400 And his brothers. 00:19:36.019 --> 00:19:37.359 And so there we see. 00:19:37.920 --> 00:19:39.120 They were called. 00:19:40.120 --> 00:19:41.120 And in many ways you can see. 00:19:41.200 --> 00:19:43.220 They continued to follow Jesus. 00:19:43.380 --> 00:19:45.339 But also to become leaders. 00:19:46.200 --> 00:19:47.660 Those who God would use. 00:19:47.660 --> 00:19:49.100 For his glory. 00:19:49.100 --> 00:19:50.220 In building. 00:19:50.220 --> 00:19:50.300 In building. 00:19:50.300 --> 00:19:51.420 The church. 00:19:52.480 --> 00:19:53.920 Someone described. 00:19:54.019 --> 00:19:54.500 A hunger. 00:19:55.060 --> 00:19:55.680 For the Lord. 00:19:55.840 --> 00:19:56.580 In this way. 00:19:57.440 --> 00:19:58.380 Are you a beaver. 00:19:58.660 --> 00:19:59.640 For the Bible. 00:20:01.519 --> 00:20:02.500 Beavering away. 00:20:02.700 --> 00:20:03.380 Is a phrase. 00:20:04.000 --> 00:20:04.940 That we always hear. 00:20:05.000 --> 00:20:06.120 And if you look at beavers. 00:20:06.500 --> 00:20:07.220 The animal. 00:20:07.700 --> 00:20:08.460 They're used. 00:20:08.840 --> 00:20:09.480 To doing. 00:20:09.840 --> 00:20:10.340 So much. 00:20:11.300 --> 00:20:11.920 Bringing down. 00:20:11.920 --> 00:20:12.400 Threes. 00:20:12.560 --> 00:20:13.500 Building dams. 00:20:13.800 --> 00:20:14.680 Making channels. 00:20:14.860 --> 00:20:15.940 They're beavering away. 00:20:15.940 --> 00:20:16.820 All the time. 00:20:17.640 --> 00:20:18.320 Very often. 00:20:18.400 --> 00:20:18.940 It's seen in. 00:20:19.180 --> 00:20:19.360 Just. 00:20:20.039 --> 00:20:20.320 Little. 00:20:20.640 --> 00:20:21.000 Ways. 00:20:22.220 --> 00:20:23.019 But when you see. 00:20:23.140 --> 00:20:24.160 The finished work. 00:20:24.320 --> 00:20:24.920 It's incredible. 00:20:25.080 --> 00:20:26.360 How they can build a dam. 00:20:26.940 --> 00:20:28.080 It's amazing to see. 00:20:28.180 --> 00:20:29.000 You would never think. 00:20:29.060 --> 00:20:30.120 When you see them start. 00:20:30.360 --> 00:20:31.620 That it would be possible. 00:20:32.420 --> 00:20:33.460 And that's the same. 00:20:33.519 --> 00:20:34.200 With ourselves. 00:20:35.200 --> 00:20:36.060 The things that we see. 00:20:36.160 --> 00:20:37.080 It's not possible. 00:20:37.859 --> 00:20:38.859 There's no point. 00:20:39.759 --> 00:20:40.939 By beavering away. 00:20:41.059 --> 00:20:41.679 For the Lord. 00:20:42.179 --> 00:20:42.699 So much. 00:20:42.799 --> 00:20:43.659 Becomes possible. 00:20:44.099 --> 00:20:44.919 As we do all. 00:20:45.099 --> 00:20:45.699 For his. 00:20:46.000 --> 00:20:46.299 Glory. 00:20:46.399 --> 00:20:47.460 So he called them. 00:20:48.359 --> 00:20:49.500 We are all called. 00:20:49.939 --> 00:20:50.859 To be used. 00:20:51.199 --> 00:20:51.939 For him. 00:20:52.399 --> 00:20:53.299 And to his. 00:20:53.740 --> 00:20:54.099 Glory. 00:20:55.500 --> 00:20:56.139 The second thing. 00:20:56.220 --> 00:20:56.699 We see here. 00:20:56.699 --> 00:20:57.079 Is that. 00:20:57.619 --> 00:20:58.399 He sent them. 00:20:59.439 --> 00:21:00.359 He sent them. 00:21:00.500 --> 00:21:01.000 He called. 00:21:01.539 --> 00:21:02.099 The twelve. 00:21:02.279 --> 00:21:02.539 To them. 00:21:02.619 --> 00:21:03.439 And then in verse five. 00:21:03.519 --> 00:21:03.939 It says. 00:21:04.159 --> 00:21:04.339 Then. 00:21:04.819 --> 00:21:05.439 These twelve. 00:21:05.559 --> 00:21:06.899 Jesus sent out. 00:21:07.740 --> 00:21:08.379 Instructing them. 00:21:08.960 --> 00:21:09.839 And he gave them. 00:21:10.639 --> 00:21:11.119 Specific. 00:21:12.079 --> 00:21:12.720 Instructions. 00:21:13.960 --> 00:21:15.779 So he sends them out. 00:21:17.159 --> 00:21:17.819 And again. 00:21:17.899 --> 00:21:18.859 This is what continues. 00:21:19.299 --> 00:21:19.819 To go on. 00:21:19.879 --> 00:21:20.839 It's not just a case of. 00:21:20.939 --> 00:21:22.279 This was a one off. 00:21:23.240 --> 00:21:24.179 He had a particular. 00:21:24.419 --> 00:21:24.819 Ministry. 00:21:25.379 --> 00:21:25.839 For them. 00:21:25.980 --> 00:21:26.559 To fulfill. 00:21:26.659 --> 00:21:27.419 And we were given. 00:21:27.899 --> 00:21:28.980 Great instructions. 00:21:28.980 --> 00:21:30.639 As to what it was. 00:21:30.779 --> 00:21:31.399 In verse six. 00:21:31.519 --> 00:21:32.319 But go rather. 00:21:32.460 --> 00:21:33.579 To the lost sheep. 00:21:33.980 --> 00:21:34.899 Of the house. 00:21:35.220 --> 00:21:36.059 Of Israel. 00:21:36.059 --> 00:21:37.659 So they were to go. 00:21:37.759 --> 00:21:38.480 To the Jews. 00:21:38.579 --> 00:21:39.619 And not to the Gentiles. 00:21:39.720 --> 00:21:40.819 It's very specific. 00:21:41.039 --> 00:21:41.799 There for us. 00:21:42.339 --> 00:21:42.599 There was. 00:21:43.000 --> 00:21:44.000 These two groups. 00:21:44.000 --> 00:21:44.460 Of people. 00:21:44.539 --> 00:21:45.279 As you look through. 00:21:45.759 --> 00:21:46.679 The New Testament. 00:21:46.799 --> 00:21:47.359 The Jews. 00:21:47.500 --> 00:21:48.679 And the Gentiles. 00:21:49.599 --> 00:21:50.319 And the Jews. 00:21:50.480 --> 00:21:51.059 Were often seen. 00:21:51.059 --> 00:21:51.859 As the people. 00:21:52.019 --> 00:21:53.460 Who were closest to God. 00:21:53.519 --> 00:21:53.859 The people. 00:21:53.859 --> 00:21:54.460 Who belonged. 00:21:55.179 --> 00:21:55.599 To God. 00:21:55.779 --> 00:21:56.779 And he had a particular. 00:21:56.779 --> 00:21:57.759 Ministry for them. 00:21:57.919 --> 00:21:58.200 Here. 00:21:59.039 --> 00:21:59.679 To go. 00:22:00.039 --> 00:22:00.799 To the Jews. 00:22:00.940 --> 00:22:01.419 To bring. 00:22:01.420 --> 00:22:02.759 The good news. 00:22:02.759 --> 00:22:03.560 Of the kingdom. 00:22:03.940 --> 00:22:04.800 To them. 00:22:06.120 --> 00:22:07.039 And so their work. 00:22:07.039 --> 00:22:08.759 Was bearing witness. 00:22:08.759 --> 00:22:09.940 To the Jews. 00:22:10.680 --> 00:22:12.220 And it was for a short. 00:22:12.539 --> 00:22:12.940 Time. 00:22:13.180 --> 00:22:13.460 Here. 00:22:13.960 --> 00:22:14.580 This mission. 00:22:14.580 --> 00:22:16.140 Was for a short time. 00:22:16.400 --> 00:22:17.360 But from there. 00:22:17.519 --> 00:22:18.300 The gospel. 00:22:18.460 --> 00:22:19.200 Goes out. 00:22:19.200 --> 00:22:20.259 The gospel. 00:22:20.940 --> 00:22:21.660 Spreads. 00:22:23.080 --> 00:22:23.519 And. 00:22:23.680 --> 00:22:24.800 He speaks here. 00:22:24.880 --> 00:22:26.019 Into a very specific. 00:22:27.019 --> 00:22:27.460 Situation. 00:22:27.460 --> 00:22:30.140 But in a wider sense. 00:22:30.240 --> 00:22:30.819 It speaks. 00:22:31.259 --> 00:22:32.340 To our situation. 00:22:32.340 --> 00:22:33.059 As well. 00:22:34.059 --> 00:22:35.059 We are always. 00:22:35.240 --> 00:22:36.100 As we are instructed. 00:22:36.360 --> 00:22:37.720 In the scriptures. 00:22:37.920 --> 00:22:39.200 To remember the Jews. 00:22:40.360 --> 00:22:41.480 God's chosen. 00:22:41.860 --> 00:22:42.240 People. 00:22:43.059 --> 00:22:43.539 We see. 00:22:43.779 --> 00:22:43.819 In. 00:22:44.120 --> 00:22:44.640 Maybe especially. 00:22:44.740 --> 00:22:45.559 In the book of Romans. 00:22:45.720 --> 00:22:46.259 How precious. 00:22:46.860 --> 00:22:47.840 They are to him. 00:22:48.640 --> 00:22:49.500 And how we are to pray. 00:22:50.039 --> 00:22:50.579 For them. 00:22:51.660 --> 00:22:52.579 And we are also shown. 00:22:52.740 --> 00:22:53.460 From there too. 00:22:53.620 --> 00:22:53.779 That. 00:22:54.360 --> 00:22:54.920 The gospel. 00:22:55.100 --> 00:22:55.500 Goes out. 00:22:55.620 --> 00:22:56.279 Beyond that. 00:22:56.500 --> 00:22:56.880 As well. 00:22:57.460 --> 00:22:58.400 It goes. 00:22:58.680 --> 00:22:59.680 To the Gentiles. 00:23:00.519 --> 00:23:01.220 He says. 00:23:01.299 --> 00:23:01.620 There I am. 00:23:01.720 --> 00:23:03.240 Sending to the lost sheep. 00:23:03.279 --> 00:23:03.900 Of the house. 00:23:04.140 --> 00:23:05.039 Of Israel. 00:23:06.140 --> 00:23:07.440 But we see too. 00:23:07.559 --> 00:23:07.720 That. 00:23:08.539 --> 00:23:08.660 In. 00:23:08.819 --> 00:23:09.059 In. 00:23:09.340 --> 00:23:10.640 The end of chapter 9. 00:23:11.519 --> 00:23:12.740 When he saw the crowds. 00:23:12.840 --> 00:23:13.600 He had compassion. 00:23:14.079 --> 00:23:15.259 Because they were like sheep. 00:23:15.319 --> 00:23:16.140 Without a shepherd. 00:23:17.079 --> 00:23:18.519 So there was a great crowd. 00:23:18.900 --> 00:23:19.740 A great host. 00:23:19.840 --> 00:23:20.440 Of sheep. 00:23:21.579 --> 00:23:22.059 And. 00:23:22.340 --> 00:23:22.960 He speaks elsewhere. 00:23:23.079 --> 00:23:23.920 I have other sheep. 00:23:24.019 --> 00:23:25.039 Not of this house. 00:23:26.240 --> 00:23:26.900 And we see that. 00:23:26.900 --> 00:23:28.360 The sheep are everywhere. 00:23:28.840 --> 00:23:29.640 The lost sheep. 00:23:29.740 --> 00:23:30.840 The scattered sheep. 00:23:31.100 --> 00:23:32.420 Are all around us. 00:23:32.500 --> 00:23:33.320 The harassed. 00:23:33.620 --> 00:23:34.220 The helpless. 00:23:34.860 --> 00:23:35.620 They are all. 00:23:36.120 --> 00:23:37.080 Around us. 00:23:38.660 --> 00:23:39.400 And so. 00:23:40.060 --> 00:23:40.980 They are to go. 00:23:41.620 --> 00:23:42.560 They are sent. 00:23:43.320 --> 00:23:44.900 But what are they sent with? 00:23:45.860 --> 00:23:46.140 Well. 00:23:46.160 --> 00:23:47.180 They are sent with. 00:23:47.640 --> 00:23:48.880 The good news. 00:23:50.440 --> 00:23:51.340 In verse. 00:23:51.339 --> 00:23:52.439 7 and 8. 00:23:52.439 --> 00:23:53.679 And proclaim. 00:23:53.899 --> 00:23:54.399 As you go. 00:23:54.599 --> 00:23:54.959 Saying. 00:23:55.599 --> 00:23:56.720 The kingdom of heaven. 00:23:57.399 --> 00:23:58.159 Is at hand. 00:23:58.339 --> 00:23:59.059 Heal the sick. 00:23:59.579 --> 00:24:00.319 Raise the dead. 00:24:00.519 --> 00:24:01.379 Cleanse lepers. 00:24:01.619 --> 00:24:02.720 Cast out demons. 00:24:03.799 --> 00:24:04.199 And so. 00:24:04.299 --> 00:24:05.119 It goes on there. 00:24:05.559 --> 00:24:06.319 And you think to yourself. 00:24:06.419 --> 00:24:06.539 Well. 00:24:06.559 --> 00:24:07.079 These are things. 00:24:07.179 --> 00:24:08.039 We cannot do. 00:24:08.519 --> 00:24:08.740 And we. 00:24:08.939 --> 00:24:09.679 Many of these things. 00:24:09.759 --> 00:24:10.299 We can't. 00:24:10.779 --> 00:24:12.500 Jesus gave special authority. 00:24:12.819 --> 00:24:13.980 To these disciples. 00:24:13.980 --> 00:24:14.959 At this point. 00:24:15.619 --> 00:24:16.500 And they are often things. 00:24:16.539 --> 00:24:17.179 That we would love. 00:24:17.299 --> 00:24:17.699 To do. 00:24:17.700 --> 00:24:19.100 But. 00:24:19.480 --> 00:24:20.259 The first part. 00:24:20.360 --> 00:24:21.100 We can do. 00:24:21.960 --> 00:24:22.440 Say. 00:24:22.600 --> 00:24:24.059 The kingdom of heaven. 00:24:24.519 --> 00:24:25.779 Is at hand. 00:24:26.420 --> 00:24:27.920 The kingdom of heaven. 00:24:28.380 --> 00:24:29.660 Is at hand. 00:24:30.059 --> 00:24:31.799 The message of the kingdom of heaven. 00:24:31.920 --> 00:24:32.539 Is applicable. 00:24:33.100 --> 00:24:33.960 In every day. 00:24:34.059 --> 00:24:35.620 In every generation. 00:24:36.600 --> 00:24:38.519 Because that is what the gospel. 00:24:38.960 --> 00:24:39.580 Is about. 00:24:40.360 --> 00:24:41.840 The kingdom of God. 00:24:42.380 --> 00:24:43.340 Is at hand. 00:24:43.960 --> 00:24:44.960 God is near. 00:24:45.559 --> 00:24:46.519 And our time. 00:24:46.519 --> 00:24:47.920 Is short. 00:24:48.799 --> 00:24:49.940 And we have people. 00:24:50.619 --> 00:24:52.000 All around us. 00:24:52.180 --> 00:24:53.319 Who need to hear. 00:24:53.799 --> 00:24:55.039 This good news. 00:24:55.460 --> 00:24:56.259 The good news. 00:24:56.259 --> 00:24:57.059 Of the kingdom. 00:24:57.539 --> 00:24:58.339 Of God. 00:24:59.019 --> 00:25:00.099 We are sent. 00:25:00.299 --> 00:25:01.119 To the people. 00:25:01.240 --> 00:25:02.259 Who are around us. 00:25:02.900 --> 00:25:03.619 We are sent. 00:25:03.799 --> 00:25:04.579 To our communities. 00:25:04.779 --> 00:25:05.319 We are sent. 00:25:05.539 --> 00:25:06.480 To the families. 00:25:06.480 --> 00:25:07.319 That we have around us. 00:25:07.400 --> 00:25:08.039 To the homes. 00:25:08.339 --> 00:25:09.579 That we see around us. 00:25:09.799 --> 00:25:10.879 Not just to the people. 00:25:10.940 --> 00:25:11.440 That we know. 00:25:12.019 --> 00:25:13.019 Not just to the people. 00:25:13.119 --> 00:25:14.379 We are comfortable with. 00:25:14.380 --> 00:25:15.880 But to all. 00:25:16.280 --> 00:25:17.220 Who are helpless. 00:25:17.420 --> 00:25:18.160 And harassed. 00:25:18.160 --> 00:25:18.740 Like sheep. 00:25:19.080 --> 00:25:20.000 Without a shepherd. 00:25:20.680 --> 00:25:21.640 We come back to. 00:25:21.740 --> 00:25:22.180 Well what is. 00:25:22.520 --> 00:25:23.440 God's desire. 00:25:23.820 --> 00:25:24.740 For people. 00:25:25.740 --> 00:25:27.200 It's that all be saved. 00:25:27.840 --> 00:25:28.940 Not just a few. 00:25:29.580 --> 00:25:30.920 But that all be saved. 00:25:30.980 --> 00:25:31.520 And come. 00:25:31.840 --> 00:25:32.720 To repentance. 00:25:33.800 --> 00:25:35.040 So it's not for us. 00:25:35.040 --> 00:25:36.080 To look and say. 00:25:36.520 --> 00:25:37.900 They don't deserve it. 00:25:38.280 --> 00:25:39.360 They're not interested. 00:25:39.540 --> 00:25:40.640 They don't want it. 00:25:40.640 --> 00:25:42.220 We are to take. 00:25:42.420 --> 00:25:42.940 The gospel. 00:25:43.080 --> 00:25:43.700 The good news. 00:25:43.860 --> 00:25:44.180 To them. 00:25:44.880 --> 00:25:45.860 And then we can see. 00:25:46.020 --> 00:25:46.940 As we go down there. 00:25:47.340 --> 00:25:47.759 He says. 00:25:47.820 --> 00:25:48.800 If they receive it. 00:25:48.860 --> 00:25:49.640 That's great. 00:25:50.540 --> 00:25:51.700 If they turn away. 00:25:51.780 --> 00:25:52.200 He says. 00:25:52.259 --> 00:25:53.259 Then shake the dust. 00:25:53.259 --> 00:25:54.160 Off your feet. 00:25:55.300 --> 00:25:56.300 But we have given. 00:25:56.520 --> 00:25:57.340 The gospel. 00:25:58.140 --> 00:25:59.680 That no one could say. 00:25:59.940 --> 00:26:01.740 When it comes to the day of judgment. 00:26:01.740 --> 00:26:02.980 I never heard. 00:26:03.520 --> 00:26:04.759 I never knew. 00:26:04.900 --> 00:26:06.000 Nobody told me. 00:26:06.000 --> 00:26:08.839 We preach. 00:26:09.160 --> 00:26:09.900 We proclaim. 00:26:10.259 --> 00:26:11.140 The gospel. 00:26:11.319 --> 00:26:11.839 We show. 00:26:12.059 --> 00:26:13.240 The love of Christ. 00:26:13.440 --> 00:26:14.339 To all around us. 00:26:14.400 --> 00:26:15.779 We show that compassion. 00:26:16.339 --> 00:26:17.160 To the helpless. 00:26:17.579 --> 00:26:18.619 To the harassed. 00:26:19.779 --> 00:26:21.240 And God will do. 00:26:21.680 --> 00:26:23.039 What he wants with that. 00:26:23.920 --> 00:26:24.660 But he is saying. 00:26:24.740 --> 00:26:25.799 We are to be faithful. 00:26:26.940 --> 00:26:28.559 They were sent out. 00:26:29.160 --> 00:26:29.799 To villages. 00:26:30.259 --> 00:26:30.900 To towns. 00:26:31.059 --> 00:26:31.640 To people. 00:26:32.019 --> 00:26:32.359 Here. 00:26:32.359 --> 00:26:32.480 There. 00:26:32.819 --> 00:26:33.400 And everywhere. 00:26:34.000 --> 00:26:34.759 They were sent. 00:26:34.960 --> 00:26:35.599 To proclaim. 00:26:36.000 --> 00:26:37.559 The kingdom of God. 00:26:38.000 --> 00:26:38.859 Is at hand. 00:26:39.519 --> 00:26:40.480 And that is what we. 00:26:40.740 --> 00:26:42.180 Are to be about as well. 00:26:43.019 --> 00:26:45.059 To bring the gospel. 00:26:45.539 --> 00:26:46.220 To all. 00:26:46.680 --> 00:26:47.839 Who we see around us. 00:26:47.900 --> 00:26:49.319 We have that purpose. 00:26:50.599 --> 00:26:52.380 We have that call. 00:26:52.960 --> 00:26:53.920 To be a people. 00:26:54.359 --> 00:26:56.259 Who show the love of Christ. 00:26:56.680 --> 00:26:57.299 To all. 00:26:57.900 --> 00:26:58.740 Around us. 00:26:59.700 --> 00:27:00.880 So we are sent. 00:27:01.380 --> 00:27:02.019 As well. 00:27:02.700 --> 00:27:04.480 The third and final thing. 00:27:04.599 --> 00:27:05.599 We see here is. 00:27:05.599 --> 00:27:07.199 He equipped them. 00:27:08.199 --> 00:27:09.359 He equipped them. 00:27:10.619 --> 00:27:11.619 In verse nine. 00:27:11.619 --> 00:27:12.959 Acquire no gold. 00:27:13.099 --> 00:27:13.719 Nor silver. 00:27:13.859 --> 00:27:14.480 Nor copper. 00:27:14.480 --> 00:27:15.379 For your belts. 00:27:15.559 --> 00:27:16.079 No bag. 00:27:16.179 --> 00:27:16.899 For your journey. 00:27:17.039 --> 00:27:18.119 No two tunics. 00:27:18.279 --> 00:27:19.079 Nor sandals. 00:27:19.199 --> 00:27:19.939 Nor staff. 00:27:20.740 --> 00:27:21.419 The laborer. 00:27:21.419 --> 00:27:22.719 Deserves his food. 00:27:23.439 --> 00:27:24.539 And so he is saying there. 00:27:25.299 --> 00:27:26.619 He will provide. 00:27:27.619 --> 00:27:28.599 He will provide. 00:27:28.719 --> 00:27:29.799 They weren't to take. 00:27:30.480 --> 00:27:31.519 He would provide. 00:27:31.519 --> 00:27:33.400 You may have heard. 00:27:33.400 --> 00:27:34.079 The phrase. 00:27:34.680 --> 00:27:35.859 Put in some way. 00:27:35.859 --> 00:27:37.099 God doesn't call. 00:27:37.160 --> 00:27:37.660 The equipped. 00:27:37.799 --> 00:27:38.400 He equips. 00:27:38.519 --> 00:27:39.139 The called. 00:27:40.859 --> 00:27:42.180 Or whom he calls. 00:27:42.299 --> 00:27:43.019 He equips. 00:27:43.539 --> 00:27:44.160 Both of these. 00:27:44.240 --> 00:27:44.759 Are kind of. 00:27:44.759 --> 00:27:45.660 The phrases. 00:27:45.660 --> 00:27:46.359 That you hear. 00:27:46.680 --> 00:27:48.039 First time I heard that. 00:27:48.160 --> 00:27:48.519 I thought. 00:27:48.759 --> 00:27:50.140 What version of the bible. 00:27:50.140 --> 00:27:50.960 Is this from? 00:27:51.579 --> 00:27:52.619 Where do you read that? 00:27:53.079 --> 00:27:53.660 And as I went. 00:27:53.779 --> 00:27:54.559 Searching forward. 00:27:54.680 --> 00:27:55.960 I couldn't find it. 00:27:56.480 --> 00:27:57.859 God doesn't call. 00:27:57.960 --> 00:27:58.400 The equipped. 00:27:58.519 --> 00:27:59.019 He equips. 00:27:59.119 --> 00:27:59.660 The called. 00:27:59.799 --> 00:27:59.859 Or. 00:28:00.700 --> 00:28:02.000 Those whom he calls. 00:28:02.119 --> 00:28:02.680 He equips. 00:28:02.819 --> 00:28:03.079 I thought. 00:28:03.140 --> 00:28:04.240 I couldn't find it. 00:28:05.299 --> 00:28:05.680 And yet. 00:28:05.720 --> 00:28:06.720 It made sense. 00:28:07.200 --> 00:28:07.819 Made sense. 00:28:07.819 --> 00:28:09.059 He still does to me. 00:28:09.819 --> 00:28:11.099 Because God does. 00:28:11.099 --> 00:28:11.679 Equip. 00:28:12.099 --> 00:28:13.319 All who he calls. 00:28:14.839 --> 00:28:15.500 And yet. 00:28:15.579 --> 00:28:16.439 You can find it. 00:28:16.700 --> 00:28:17.339 In scripture. 00:28:17.559 --> 00:28:18.740 In a general sense. 00:28:19.099 --> 00:28:20.460 In Hebrews 13. 00:28:20.599 --> 00:28:21.379 Verse 20. 00:28:21.759 --> 00:28:22.480 And 21. 00:28:23.799 --> 00:28:24.559 Because there. 00:28:24.659 --> 00:28:26.039 You see the principle of it. 00:28:26.859 --> 00:28:28.200 It's the benediction. 00:28:28.200 --> 00:28:28.839 At the end. 00:28:28.919 --> 00:28:30.019 Of the book of Hebrews. 00:28:30.980 --> 00:28:32.599 Now may the God of peace. 00:28:32.879 --> 00:28:33.419 Who brought. 00:28:33.759 --> 00:28:34.899 Again from the dead. 00:28:34.980 --> 00:28:35.839 Our Lord Jesus. 00:28:35.839 --> 00:28:37.579 The great shepherd. 00:28:37.579 --> 00:28:38.559 Of the sheep. 00:28:38.839 --> 00:28:39.579 By the blood. 00:28:39.639 --> 00:28:40.879 Of the eternal covenant. 00:28:41.619 --> 00:28:42.139 Equip. 00:28:42.439 --> 00:28:42.579 You. 00:28:42.699 --> 00:28:43.839 With everything good. 00:28:44.319 --> 00:28:45.240 That you may do. 00:28:45.319 --> 00:28:45.939 His will. 00:28:46.500 --> 00:28:47.099 Working. 00:28:47.259 --> 00:28:47.799 In us. 00:28:47.959 --> 00:28:49.159 That which is pleasing. 00:28:49.159 --> 00:28:50.220 In his sight. 00:28:50.679 --> 00:28:52.059 Through Jesus Christ. 00:28:52.179 --> 00:28:53.319 To whom be glory. 00:28:53.859 --> 00:28:54.279 Forever. 00:28:54.740 --> 00:28:55.619 And ever. 00:28:56.279 --> 00:28:56.879 Amen. 00:28:58.139 --> 00:28:59.759 So we are reminded there. 00:29:00.259 --> 00:29:02.019 Of the power of God. 00:29:02.099 --> 00:29:03.379 And the peace of God. 00:29:03.939 --> 00:29:04.500 The peace. 00:29:04.500 --> 00:29:05.579 And the power. 00:29:05.579 --> 00:29:06.099 That brought. 00:29:07.000 --> 00:29:07.899 From the dead. 00:29:07.980 --> 00:29:08.839 Our Lord Jesus. 00:29:09.639 --> 00:29:10.619 And he describes. 00:29:10.799 --> 00:29:11.740 The great shepherd. 00:29:12.179 --> 00:29:13.139 Of the sheep. 00:29:13.960 --> 00:29:15.480 And how he equips you. 00:29:15.599 --> 00:29:16.619 With everything good. 00:29:17.059 --> 00:29:17.879 That you may do. 00:29:18.319 --> 00:29:19.019 His will. 00:29:19.139 --> 00:29:19.819 So there is. 00:29:20.359 --> 00:29:21.819 That sense of God. 00:29:22.179 --> 00:29:22.899 Will equip. 00:29:23.259 --> 00:29:23.639 Those. 00:29:23.879 --> 00:29:24.819 Whom he calls. 00:29:26.759 --> 00:29:27.579 And what you notice. 00:29:27.819 --> 00:29:28.579 In this verse. 00:29:28.659 --> 00:29:29.619 Nine and ten. 00:29:30.399 --> 00:29:30.919 Is that. 00:29:31.439 --> 00:29:32.679 The Lord will care. 00:29:33.179 --> 00:29:33.699 For those. 00:29:33.819 --> 00:29:34.639 Whom he calls. 00:29:34.640 --> 00:29:35.540 He will provide. 00:29:35.540 --> 00:29:36.740 For them. 00:29:37.220 --> 00:29:38.540 Do not acquire. 00:29:38.860 --> 00:29:40.240 All of these things. 00:29:40.320 --> 00:29:40.680 He says. 00:29:40.720 --> 00:29:41.140 Instead. 00:29:41.660 --> 00:29:42.300 Trust. 00:29:42.759 --> 00:29:43.460 The Lord. 00:29:45.160 --> 00:29:45.680 Trust. 00:29:45.680 --> 00:29:46.520 The Lord. 00:29:47.240 --> 00:29:48.600 And when we think of it. 00:29:48.680 --> 00:29:49.240 Ourselves. 00:29:49.480 --> 00:29:49.820 Here. 00:29:50.540 --> 00:29:52.280 That is what we are to do. 00:29:52.360 --> 00:29:52.880 As well. 00:29:53.540 --> 00:29:54.600 To trust. 00:29:55.160 --> 00:29:55.700 The Lord. 00:29:56.520 --> 00:29:57.759 That he will provide. 00:29:57.860 --> 00:29:59.420 And we see amazing provisions. 00:29:59.420 --> 00:30:01.320 Again and again. 00:30:01.320 --> 00:30:02.380 Made for the work. 00:30:02.380 --> 00:30:03.120 Of the gospel. 00:30:03.120 --> 00:30:03.519 Here. 00:30:04.240 --> 00:30:05.440 Whatever the work. 00:30:05.440 --> 00:30:06.200 That's going on. 00:30:06.279 --> 00:30:07.360 Whatever we are doing. 00:30:07.640 --> 00:30:09.539 We always get encouragement. 00:30:09.800 --> 00:30:11.200 That God provides. 00:30:12.019 --> 00:30:13.200 Through people. 00:30:14.100 --> 00:30:15.420 Through encouragements. 00:30:15.800 --> 00:30:16.480 Through means. 00:30:17.140 --> 00:30:18.400 God equips. 00:30:18.400 --> 00:30:19.400 God. 00:30:19.400 --> 00:30:20.980 When we think of. 00:30:21.500 --> 00:30:22.759 The many things going on. 00:30:22.840 --> 00:30:23.440 Over the summer. 00:30:23.580 --> 00:30:24.759 The busyness of it. 00:30:25.320 --> 00:30:26.660 It's been amazing to see. 00:30:26.800 --> 00:30:27.380 How God. 00:30:27.940 --> 00:30:29.440 Through the generosity of his people. 00:30:29.580 --> 00:30:30.240 Has provided. 00:30:31.540 --> 00:30:33.240 Because there's a sense of. 00:30:33.759 --> 00:30:34.780 We all long. 00:30:35.320 --> 00:30:36.640 For the kingdom of God. 00:30:36.720 --> 00:30:37.300 To be known. 00:30:38.140 --> 00:30:39.480 For the power of God. 00:30:39.860 --> 00:30:40.860 To be in our midst. 00:30:41.420 --> 00:30:42.540 To fulfill. 00:30:42.920 --> 00:30:44.200 Our ministry here. 00:30:44.200 --> 00:30:45.640 We all. 00:30:45.920 --> 00:30:46.880 Have a part. 00:30:47.200 --> 00:30:47.720 To play. 00:30:48.880 --> 00:30:49.559 And the greatest. 00:30:49.819 --> 00:30:50.680 Encouragement is. 00:30:50.759 --> 00:30:51.799 That as we go. 00:30:52.519 --> 00:30:53.880 He is with us. 00:30:55.299 --> 00:30:56.200 We have here. 00:30:56.360 --> 00:30:57.299 A commissioning. 00:30:57.380 --> 00:30:57.759 If you like. 00:30:57.819 --> 00:30:58.640 Of the disciples. 00:30:59.500 --> 00:31:01.019 But at the end of Matthew. 00:31:01.160 --> 00:31:02.440 You have the great commission. 00:31:03.240 --> 00:31:04.400 Matthew 28. 00:31:04.580 --> 00:31:05.259 Go therefore. 00:31:05.440 --> 00:31:06.340 And make disciples. 00:31:06.340 --> 00:31:07.480 Of all nations. 00:31:08.100 --> 00:31:08.940 All nations. 00:31:10.580 --> 00:31:11.220 Baptizing them. 00:31:11.299 --> 00:31:12.240 In the name of the Father. 00:31:12.319 --> 00:31:12.819 And the Son. 00:31:12.860 --> 00:31:13.860 And the Holy Spirit. 00:31:13.859 --> 00:31:14.679 Teaching them. 00:31:14.759 --> 00:31:15.339 To observe. 00:31:15.439 --> 00:31:16.899 All that I have commanded you. 00:31:17.500 --> 00:31:18.259 And behold. 00:31:18.639 --> 00:31:20.159 I am with you always. 00:31:20.579 --> 00:31:21.479 To the end. 00:31:21.819 --> 00:31:22.659 Of the age. 00:31:24.459 --> 00:31:25.259 He equips. 00:31:26.359 --> 00:31:27.119 He is with. 00:31:28.059 --> 00:31:29.399 And that's the great blessing. 00:31:30.299 --> 00:31:31.539 Then whatever we do. 00:31:32.219 --> 00:31:33.859 As we see the disciples here. 00:31:33.939 --> 00:31:35.079 The Lord was with them. 00:31:35.719 --> 00:31:37.379 We see it for ourselves. 00:31:37.379 --> 00:31:38.259 As well. 00:31:39.379 --> 00:31:40.179 So as we go. 00:31:40.339 --> 00:31:41.819 To the sheep around us. 00:31:41.819 --> 00:31:43.599 Those who are helpless. 00:31:43.599 --> 00:31:43.599 00:31:43.599 --> 00:31:44.740 And harassed. 00:31:45.299 --> 00:31:46.599 Those who are like sheep. 00:31:46.659 --> 00:31:47.539 Without a shepherd. 00:31:48.240 --> 00:31:49.879 As we fulfill our commission. 00:31:50.519 --> 00:31:51.839 He will provide. 00:31:53.720 --> 00:31:54.819 So we see. 00:31:55.319 --> 00:31:56.619 The lost sheep. 00:31:57.899 --> 00:31:59.980 We have a feeling of being inadequate. 00:32:01.099 --> 00:32:02.679 Ill-equipped in many ways. 00:32:03.200 --> 00:32:03.939 To fulfill. 00:32:04.399 --> 00:32:06.079 God's purpose for us. 00:32:06.079 --> 00:32:07.079 God's purpose for us. 00:32:07.079 --> 00:32:08.119 And yet. 00:32:08.119 --> 00:32:10.619 We have everything that we need. 00:32:10.859 --> 00:32:11.519 With him. 00:32:12.339 --> 00:32:13.480 So let us go. 00:32:13.799 --> 00:32:14.799 In faith. 00:32:15.740 --> 00:32:17.559 And continue to do in faith. 00:32:18.039 --> 00:32:19.919 In everything that we are doing. 00:32:20.460 --> 00:32:23.000 Our chief end is to glorify God. 00:32:23.000 --> 00:32:25.180 And to enjoy him forever. 00:32:26.180 --> 00:32:28.420 There are specific calls on people. 00:32:29.220 --> 00:32:32.039 But there is a general call to us all as well. 00:32:32.619 --> 00:32:34.259 To see God's kingdom. 00:32:34.799 --> 00:32:36.119 Come in our midst. 00:32:36.880 --> 00:32:38.740 To see a people saved. 00:32:39.579 --> 00:32:41.339 To see a people going on. 00:32:41.779 --> 00:32:43.980 In the strength of the Lord. 00:32:45.359 --> 00:32:47.400 Two quotes just to finish. 00:32:48.660 --> 00:32:50.759 Maud Royden said this. 00:32:50.759 --> 00:32:54.259 When you have nothing left but God. 00:32:54.859 --> 00:32:56.279 Then you become aware. 00:32:56.660 --> 00:32:58.140 That God is enough. 00:32:59.660 --> 00:33:01.799 When you have nothing left but God. 00:33:02.240 --> 00:33:03.559 Then you become aware. 00:33:04.039 --> 00:33:05.200 That God is enough. 00:33:06.579 --> 00:33:08.319 We have to come to that point. 00:33:08.400 --> 00:33:09.039 Where we see. 00:33:09.579 --> 00:33:10.500 When we have God. 00:33:10.720 --> 00:33:11.879 We have enough. 00:33:13.119 --> 00:33:14.299 And then C.S. Lewis. 00:33:14.900 --> 00:33:15.799 Who said this. 00:33:15.879 --> 00:33:18.359 He who has God and many other things. 00:33:18.720 --> 00:33:20.559 Has no more than he. 00:33:20.759 --> 00:33:22.140 Who has God alone. 00:33:23.140 --> 00:33:24.259 We need God. 00:33:25.180 --> 00:33:26.559 In all things. 00:33:27.359 --> 00:33:29.119 But that's the amazing promise. 00:33:29.759 --> 00:33:31.240 That we are to be followers. 00:33:31.460 --> 00:33:32.559 First and foremost. 00:33:33.339 --> 00:33:34.440 We are called. 00:33:35.319 --> 00:33:36.700 And then when we are sent. 00:33:36.819 --> 00:33:38.859 When we do his work. 00:33:39.400 --> 00:33:40.900 We see the promise. 00:33:41.400 --> 00:33:42.819 That he is with us. 00:33:42.819 --> 00:33:44.460 And that he is more. 00:33:45.059 --> 00:33:45.680 Than enough. 00:33:46.339 --> 00:33:47.279 Let us pray. 00:33:47.279 --> 00:33:52.160 Lord our gracious God. 00:33:52.279 --> 00:33:53.920 We thank you for the ministry. 00:33:53.920 --> 00:33:55.039 That you give to us. 00:33:55.039 --> 00:33:56.259 Each and every one of us. 00:33:56.660 --> 00:33:58.039 We thank you for the call. 00:33:58.139 --> 00:33:59.220 You put on our lives. 00:33:59.339 --> 00:33:59.899 To follow. 00:34:00.399 --> 00:34:01.619 To follow Jesus. 00:34:01.799 --> 00:34:02.660 As our Lord. 00:34:03.119 --> 00:34:04.359 And as our Savior. 00:34:04.660 --> 00:34:05.960 And as we follow him. 00:34:06.399 --> 00:34:08.380 To seek his will for us. 00:34:08.539 --> 00:34:09.559 In all that we do. 00:34:10.099 --> 00:34:11.420 Whether it's a specific. 00:34:11.420 --> 00:34:13.019 ministry for us. 00:34:13.059 --> 00:34:14.420 Or whether it's just a general. 00:34:14.960 --> 00:34:16.840 Ministry that we are involved in. 00:34:17.180 --> 00:34:18.420 All is to be done. 00:34:18.619 --> 00:34:20.579 With the glory of God in mind. 00:34:21.139 --> 00:34:21.860 And we thank you. 00:34:21.900 --> 00:34:22.980 That you encourage us. 00:34:23.039 --> 00:34:23.860 In our involvement. 00:34:24.579 --> 00:34:25.960 That you bless us Lord. 00:34:26.039 --> 00:34:26.900 As we go about. 00:34:27.300 --> 00:34:28.820 The work of your kingdom. 00:34:29.360 --> 00:34:29.920 And we pray. 00:34:30.000 --> 00:34:30.639 That you will continue. 00:34:30.720 --> 00:34:31.559 To be with us. 00:34:31.920 --> 00:34:32.980 That we would see. 00:34:33.079 --> 00:34:33.820 That with God. 00:34:33.880 --> 00:34:34.440 With us. 00:34:34.440 --> 00:34:36.179 We have all that we need. 00:34:36.720 --> 00:34:38.659 So may you remain faithful to us. 00:34:38.700 --> 00:34:40.960 As we seek to remain faithful to you. 00:34:41.639 --> 00:34:42.220 Bless us. 00:34:42.420 --> 00:34:42.960 Keep us. 00:34:43.099 --> 00:34:44.119 Go before us. 00:34:44.579 --> 00:34:45.780 Pardoning all our sin. 00:34:45.860 --> 00:34:46.800 In Jesus name. 00:34:47.380 --> 00:34:47.760 Amen. 00:34:51.780 --> 00:34:53.720 We're going to conclude. 00:34:53.840 --> 00:34:55.300 By singing to God's praise. 00:34:55.400 --> 00:34:56.800 In Psalm 126. 00:34:56.920 --> 00:34:58.280 The Sing Psalms version. 00:35:02.079 --> 00:35:04.079 Page 171. 00:35:04.440 --> 00:35:08.220 Psalm 126. 00:35:08.320 --> 00:35:09.440 The tune is Denfield. 00:35:09.940 --> 00:35:12.200 We'll sing the whole of this psalm. 00:35:13.659 --> 00:35:15.619 When Sion's fortunes. 00:35:15.740 --> 00:35:16.679 God restored. 00:35:16.820 --> 00:35:18.340 It was a dream come through. 00:35:18.480 --> 00:35:19.519 Our mouths were then. 00:35:19.659 --> 00:35:20.740 With laughter filled. 00:35:21.220 --> 00:35:22.019 Our tongues. 00:35:22.300 --> 00:35:23.420 With songs anew. 00:35:24.099 --> 00:35:24.740 Verse 6. 00:35:24.820 --> 00:35:26.599 The man who bearing seed to sow. 00:35:26.760 --> 00:35:28.460 Goes out with tears of grief. 00:35:28.579 --> 00:35:29.460 Will come again. 00:35:29.800 --> 00:35:31.179 With songs of joy. 00:35:31.340 --> 00:35:33.679 Bearing the harvest sheaf. 00:35:33.679 --> 00:35:34.739 We have that hope. 00:35:34.739 --> 00:35:35.699 In God. 00:35:35.779 --> 00:35:36.539 That he will bring. 00:35:36.980 --> 00:35:38.039 His harvest in. 00:35:38.119 --> 00:35:39.500 We'll sing Psalm 126. 00:35:39.579 --> 00:35:40.500 The whole of this psalm. 00:35:40.919 --> 00:35:41.859 To God's praise. 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:42.019 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:55.860 When Zion's fortune coming short, it was a dream come true. 00:35:55.860 --> 00:36:02.639 Our mouths were there, and we'd love their fill. 00:36:03.059 --> 00:36:08.199 Our chance, their songs are here. 00:36:08.199 --> 00:36:20.119 The nations said, the Lord has done great things for Israel. 00:36:21.739 --> 00:36:34.439 The Lord did mighty things for us, and joined our hearts to well. 00:36:34.440 --> 00:36:46.440 Free stone and fortune's gracious Lord, like things in this earth's joy. 00:36:47.900 --> 00:37:00.400 A joyful harvest will reward the leading sowers' joy. 00:37:00.400 --> 00:37:13.760 The mountaineering, sing to soul, rose out with tears of fear. 00:37:14.180 --> 00:37:26.240 Welcome again, blessed songs of joy, in His highest year. 00:37:26.239 --> 00:37:27.239 Amen. 00:37:28.419 --> 00:37:30.919 After the benediction, I'll go to the door to my left. 00:37:31.039 --> 00:37:32.099 We'll close with the benediction. 00:37:32.979 --> 00:37:37.919 Now may grace, mercy, and peace from God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, 00:37:38.500 --> 00:37:41.879 rest upon and abide with you all now and forevermore. 00:37:42.299 --> 00:37:42.699 Amen. 00:37:42.699 --> 00:37:42.799 Amen. 00:37:42.799 --> 00:37:42.859 Amen.