WEBVTT 00:00:01.000 --> 00:00:02.080 Please have a seat. 00:00:03.180 --> 00:00:08.880 And if you will, turn back in your Bibles to Luke chapter 10, and we're going to think 00:00:08.880 --> 00:00:11.320 about that section that we read. 00:00:11.400 --> 00:00:17.760 We're following Jesus on the road to Jerusalem, and here in this section, Jesus sends the 00:00:17.760 --> 00:00:19.620 church on mission. 00:00:20.859 --> 00:00:27.580 As you find this in your Bible, I wonder if you've ever had this kind of experience where 00:00:27.579 --> 00:00:33.060 you're given a task, but certain key information is missing. 00:00:34.100 --> 00:00:36.079 Where am I supposed to do this task? 00:00:36.560 --> 00:00:38.599 How am I supposed to do it, and why? 00:00:39.719 --> 00:00:44.340 Have you ever had that situation where some of those big questions have been left unanswered? 00:00:44.340 --> 00:00:52.280 Give me a real recipe for frustration, confusion, and fear, maybe a lack of motivation. 00:00:52.280 --> 00:01:00.439 I remember when I had an office job for an environmental company, the boss in his wisdom 00:01:00.439 --> 00:01:07.040 sent me on a site visit to go and test some water samples, and it was a disaster, because 00:01:07.040 --> 00:01:08.819 I didn't know where the site was in the first place. 00:01:08.859 --> 00:01:09.719 That was stressful enough. 00:01:09.719 --> 00:01:15.680 I had no idea what the equipment was in my bag, and I had absolutely no idea how to test 00:01:15.680 --> 00:01:16.500 water. 00:01:16.500 --> 00:01:22.260 That was a low point in my very short-lived period in that office. 00:01:22.439 --> 00:01:28.099 Well, last week, if you were here, we met Jesus on the road to Jerusalem, and he was really 00:01:28.099 --> 00:01:30.560 clear about his mission. 00:01:31.040 --> 00:01:33.140 He was on his way to Jerusalem. 00:01:33.640 --> 00:01:39.879 He was going to go to the cross to die, but then he would rise, and he would return to glory. 00:01:39.879 --> 00:01:46.099 And this week, we're now going to focus on the mission of his followers, because he's 00:01:46.099 --> 00:01:53.579 going to send 72 followers, but he's not going to leave them confused and wondering what to 00:01:53.579 --> 00:01:53.819 do. 00:01:54.019 --> 00:01:56.819 Rather, he answers the big questions for them. 00:01:57.519 --> 00:01:59.539 So he tells them where they are sent. 00:02:00.140 --> 00:02:06.640 He gives them guidance on how, how to be a missionary, and he tells them here's why to 00:02:06.640 --> 00:02:06.899 go. 00:02:06.900 --> 00:02:13.800 And there's the wonderful motivation of joy for the church as we go to serve Jesus. 00:02:14.819 --> 00:02:18.200 And so I hope for those of us, at least who are Christians, this will be helpful when we 00:02:18.200 --> 00:02:23.920 think about our role, our calling to represent Jesus, whether we're going to be sent across 00:02:23.920 --> 00:02:29.360 the globe, or whether we're just going to be sent across the street, that we would understand 00:02:29.360 --> 00:02:31.540 our calling to mission. 00:02:31.700 --> 00:02:33.740 So let's begin asking this question. 00:02:34.219 --> 00:02:34.599 Where? 00:02:34.599 --> 00:02:37.560 Where does the church go on mission? 00:02:37.680 --> 00:02:38.620 Back to verse 1. 00:02:39.259 --> 00:02:44.819 After this, the Lord appointed 72 others, sent them two by two ahead of him to every town 00:02:44.819 --> 00:02:46.539 and place where he was about to go. 00:02:47.319 --> 00:02:49.719 So notice, first of all, here's a shift. 00:02:50.460 --> 00:02:53.620 So often the focus is on Jesus' 12 disciples. 00:02:54.159 --> 00:02:55.879 So that inner circle of 12. 00:02:55.879 --> 00:02:59.379 But now, the focus is on 72 others. 00:03:00.460 --> 00:03:05.340 The point that we're supposed to take is that the whole church is sent. 00:03:05.840 --> 00:03:07.439 Not just these 12. 00:03:07.539 --> 00:03:09.500 So it's not just for specialists or for the elite. 00:03:09.759 --> 00:03:11.560 The whole church is sent. 00:03:11.659 --> 00:03:12.599 Where are they sent to? 00:03:12.680 --> 00:03:16.620 Well, on one level, the answer is they're to go to every town and place where he was 00:03:16.620 --> 00:03:17.280 about to go. 00:03:17.280 --> 00:03:22.960 And we get that sense that Jesus has got a really busy journey ahead of him. 00:03:23.340 --> 00:03:28.400 There's 36 pairs of people being sent to prepare the way. 00:03:29.500 --> 00:03:33.599 Announcing to these towns and villages, Jesus, your king, has come. 00:03:34.319 --> 00:03:35.859 It is the time to be ready. 00:03:36.840 --> 00:03:39.620 In a sense, this is our mission and message, too. 00:03:40.560 --> 00:03:42.659 That we declare that Jesus has come. 00:03:42.740 --> 00:03:43.780 He has come once. 00:03:44.219 --> 00:03:45.819 And he has lived the perfect life. 00:03:45.879 --> 00:03:48.439 And he has died a sacrificial death. 00:03:48.500 --> 00:03:50.400 And he has risen again in glory. 00:03:50.740 --> 00:03:56.139 But Jesus will come again to judge and to save and to make everything new. 00:03:56.139 --> 00:04:02.000 And so our calling is to tell people we need to be ready now because Jesus is king. 00:04:02.000 --> 00:04:06.819 But on the second level, where they are sent is actually to the whole world. 00:04:08.020 --> 00:04:09.479 And maybe you're going to ask, how is that? 00:04:09.740 --> 00:04:11.080 Where do we see the whole world in here? 00:04:11.159 --> 00:04:15.159 Well, notice that it's 72 who are sent. 00:04:15.900 --> 00:04:16.040 Okay? 00:04:16.060 --> 00:04:19.540 And in the Bible, often, numbers matter. 00:04:19.879 --> 00:04:21.019 So Jesus sent 72. 00:04:21.399 --> 00:04:22.699 He could have sent 46. 00:04:23.000 --> 00:04:23.899 He could have sent 82. 00:04:23.899 --> 00:04:25.860 But he chose to send 72. 00:04:26.459 --> 00:04:26.939 Why? 00:04:27.939 --> 00:04:31.019 Well, I think we find the answer back in the book of Genesis. 00:04:31.019 --> 00:04:39.319 So in Genesis chapter 10, there's a big, long list of names, sometimes known in our Bible as the table of nations. 00:04:40.159 --> 00:04:46.479 And for a Jewish person, that list of names represented the whole world. 00:04:47.120 --> 00:04:53.699 So the whole world was represented by 72 names representing 72 tribes and peoples. 00:04:53.699 --> 00:05:02.839 That Jesus sends 72, tells us that Jesus has come to bring good news for the whole world. 00:05:04.039 --> 00:05:06.379 That was good news in Genesis 10. 00:05:06.939 --> 00:05:13.180 In Genesis 10, we find a people who are living in exile, far away from God, because of sin. 00:05:13.180 --> 00:05:18.180 They were living under curse instead of blessing because of sin. 00:05:19.079 --> 00:05:22.180 This is a situation we find ourselves in without Jesus. 00:05:23.480 --> 00:05:28.500 But the good news that the 72 bring is that Jesus has come. 00:05:29.300 --> 00:05:34.519 And by his life, death, and resurrection, by faith in him, we can be brought back to God. 00:05:34.519 --> 00:05:37.879 And we can know blessing from our God. 00:05:38.639 --> 00:05:43.219 So these 72 are sent to declare that Jesus is king. 00:05:43.359 --> 00:05:46.659 He rules over all nations because he's the son of God. 00:05:46.959 --> 00:05:50.379 He brings good news to all nations. 00:05:50.379 --> 00:05:57.199 And it's wonderful to recognize that his church, since this day, has grown and developed. 00:05:57.399 --> 00:05:59.120 It crosses continents. 00:05:59.339 --> 00:06:01.100 It spans the globe. 00:06:01.920 --> 00:06:11.459 But the church as God's people also crosses classrooms and workplaces to bring the wonderful message of the hope of Jesus. 00:06:12.360 --> 00:06:18.719 So in our church, we support Craig, who's church planting down in Galassians and the Scottish borders. 00:06:18.720 --> 00:06:24.040 And we support Manuel and Patty doing ministry in Columbia and throughout Latin America. 00:06:24.700 --> 00:06:26.460 But it's not just a mission for them. 00:06:26.780 --> 00:06:36.240 It's also you and I who are sent, as we find ourselves in Edinburgh, to go for Jesus into the world representing him. 00:06:37.240 --> 00:06:40.760 So perhaps the next question then becomes, well, how do we do that? 00:06:40.860 --> 00:06:44.080 How are we to be missionaries? 00:06:44.160 --> 00:06:45.520 So we've got the where question. 00:06:45.520 --> 00:06:48.060 We can go anywhere and everywhere for Jesus. 00:06:48.720 --> 00:06:53.980 How should we go about this task as we are sent by him? 00:06:54.420 --> 00:07:02.060 Well, let's listen in to verses 5 to 16, where Jesus gives four essentials for Christians who are on mission. 00:07:03.060 --> 00:07:05.340 Here's the first one in verse 2. 00:07:05.980 --> 00:07:09.940 As we go on mission, we are to work and pray. 00:07:09.939 --> 00:07:14.360 So in verse 2, we have this harvest image. 00:07:15.000 --> 00:07:19.279 We're getting close to harvest time here in Scotland. 00:07:20.519 --> 00:07:25.160 He told them, verse 2, the harvest is plentiful. 00:07:26.500 --> 00:07:30.360 That tells us there is lots to do. 00:07:31.680 --> 00:07:36.079 Then Jesus goes on to say, but the workers are few. 00:07:36.079 --> 00:07:40.599 So when we're sent on mission, we understand there's lots to do. 00:07:40.859 --> 00:07:42.439 There's no time to delay. 00:07:42.819 --> 00:07:44.959 There's no time to sit back. 00:07:45.060 --> 00:07:48.079 There's an urgent need to bring the harvest in. 00:07:48.139 --> 00:07:51.560 So Jesus says to us, we should work hard on mission. 00:07:52.339 --> 00:07:54.019 In building relationships. 00:07:54.719 --> 00:07:57.120 In listening well and answering questions. 00:07:57.519 --> 00:07:59.539 In looking to build bridges. 00:07:59.540 --> 00:08:04.000 So that people have a chance to encounter God and his word. 00:08:04.400 --> 00:08:07.879 We should work hard to help to build a living community of faith. 00:08:07.960 --> 00:08:13.100 So when people come into this place, they can both hear and experience the love of God. 00:08:13.220 --> 00:08:18.240 Because we want to be able to tell everyone, Jesus Christ has died for you. 00:08:19.200 --> 00:08:20.020 Believe in him. 00:08:20.660 --> 00:08:22.000 So we work hard. 00:08:22.480 --> 00:08:25.060 And we pray hard. 00:08:25.060 --> 00:08:33.100 Because immediately Jesus says, ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers. 00:08:33.779 --> 00:08:36.759 So we're reminded, it's God's harvest. 00:08:37.039 --> 00:08:38.620 It's God's mission. 00:08:39.039 --> 00:08:41.379 So we go with his power and guidance. 00:08:41.480 --> 00:08:43.279 So we are to be a praying people. 00:08:43.360 --> 00:08:46.600 And we're to pray specifically that God would send out workers. 00:08:48.120 --> 00:08:50.200 So there's this wonderful impulse. 00:08:50.200 --> 00:08:53.080 There's this wonderful movement that God saves people. 00:08:53.159 --> 00:08:54.240 And he brings them to himself. 00:08:54.240 --> 00:08:56.419 And then he sends his people out. 00:08:56.980 --> 00:09:03.100 On mission we're to pray that there would be that movement within us as his people. 00:09:04.720 --> 00:09:06.740 Sent out with good news to share. 00:09:08.340 --> 00:09:11.799 Some of us will be sent out with good news to share to completely different places. 00:09:12.519 --> 00:09:15.060 Maybe some of us will be going to unreached people groups. 00:09:15.740 --> 00:09:18.960 Maybe to places that were once reached but now have turned their back on Jesus. 00:09:18.960 --> 00:09:21.320 But we are called to work. 00:09:21.700 --> 00:09:23.540 And we're called to pray. 00:09:24.940 --> 00:09:28.580 Knowing that we might be the answer to our own prayers. 00:09:29.680 --> 00:09:35.440 I was reminded of, there's a chap who's now working in France by the name of Alan. 00:09:36.139 --> 00:09:40.180 But he was a church leader for many years in Wales, in the UK. 00:09:40.560 --> 00:09:45.019 He used to lead his church regularly in prayer meetings for mission. 00:09:45.019 --> 00:09:46.799 We'd encourage people to go on mission. 00:09:47.199 --> 00:09:53.980 And after probably 20 years of ministry here in the UK, as he led the church to pray, he felt compelled. 00:09:54.079 --> 00:09:57.620 And now he's church planting in the west coast of France. 00:09:58.980 --> 00:10:01.120 We are to work and we are to pray. 00:10:01.120 --> 00:10:07.720 Let me invite you once again to engine room on Wednesday, if you can, to do the work of mission as we pray together. 00:10:08.960 --> 00:10:11.179 Secondly, how to be a missionary. 00:10:11.860 --> 00:10:16.080 Verse 3 and 4, embrace helplessness. 00:10:16.679 --> 00:10:22.519 Look at these two different pictures of being helpless, of being dependent, of being at the mercy of others. 00:10:23.379 --> 00:10:28.340 Verse 3, go, I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 00:10:29.060 --> 00:10:30.200 What is Jesus doing there? 00:10:30.200 --> 00:10:34.160 He's preparing us for the reality of spiritual opposition. 00:10:35.240 --> 00:10:42.480 That this message that we have will not always be well received and we will not always be well received as messengers for Jesus. 00:10:43.560 --> 00:10:47.220 Then in verse 4, slightly different emphasis. 00:10:48.560 --> 00:10:51.020 We're to go like empty-handed travelers. 00:10:51.259 --> 00:10:55.040 Do not take a purse or bag or sandals and do not greet anyone on the road. 00:10:56.000 --> 00:10:58.400 We're not to be reliant on ourself and our own resources. 00:10:58.399 --> 00:11:02.279 Rather, we go depending on our God. 00:11:04.480 --> 00:11:05.360 Embrace helplessness. 00:11:06.139 --> 00:11:08.360 Be ready to face danger. 00:11:09.360 --> 00:11:10.759 And remember who's speaking this? 00:11:11.319 --> 00:11:12.319 It's Jesus. 00:11:13.159 --> 00:11:14.079 The Son of God. 00:11:14.159 --> 00:11:15.000 The Savior of the world. 00:11:15.059 --> 00:11:17.439 Who's on the road to the cross. 00:11:17.440 --> 00:11:25.360 He walks this road of suffering, of humiliation, of rejection, of death. 00:11:25.360 --> 00:11:36.519 And as he calls us into mission, he calls us to be ready to walk that same road for him and for his kingdom. 00:11:36.519 --> 00:11:45.120 And so as we embrace helplessness, it is vital that we learn to trust our good shepherd. 00:11:46.059 --> 00:11:49.579 To trust him to lead us and to be with us. 00:11:50.079 --> 00:11:58.559 To trust that the Jesus who said, I will never leave you, will walk with us on this journey of faith. 00:11:58.559 --> 00:12:01.039 And as we go on mission. 00:12:02.359 --> 00:12:07.019 When are the times when you and I might feel helpless or feel threatened? 00:12:08.719 --> 00:12:12.419 Perhaps it's when we're the only Christian in our class. 00:12:13.500 --> 00:12:16.659 Perhaps it's when our faith is challenged in our workplace. 00:12:16.659 --> 00:12:22.059 Perhaps you have a friendship group that dislikes your newfound Christian faith. 00:12:23.159 --> 00:12:26.839 Maybe it's as you find yourself in a new city or a new culture. 00:12:27.559 --> 00:12:32.240 There are many times where we might feel helpless as we live for Jesus. 00:12:32.500 --> 00:12:34.539 But beyond our fear. 00:12:36.899 --> 00:12:40.639 Recognize that Jesus is inviting us to trust him. 00:12:40.639 --> 00:12:48.139 That there is that promise in God's word that his grace is made perfect in our weakness. 00:12:49.259 --> 00:12:52.019 And so we're called, as we are called, to embrace helplessness. 00:12:52.080 --> 00:12:53.399 Also to embrace humility. 00:12:53.600 --> 00:12:56.100 To recognize we are dependent children. 00:12:57.439 --> 00:13:04.639 And to have the expectation that God will allow his glory to be displayed through us and indeed despite us. 00:13:06.399 --> 00:13:07.639 So we're called to embrace helplessness. 00:13:07.639 --> 00:13:08.639 Helplessness. 00:13:09.000 --> 00:13:17.080 Thirdly, as we go on mission, we need to speak good news that Jesus is king. 00:13:19.259 --> 00:13:24.720 Notice as they're saying, Jesus anticipates what they are to do and what they are to say. 00:13:24.819 --> 00:13:26.899 First of all, let's look at their message. 00:13:27.600 --> 00:13:28.360 Verse 9. 00:13:29.659 --> 00:13:34.439 Heal those who are ill and tell them the kingdom of God has come near you. 00:13:35.580 --> 00:13:36.700 End of verse 11. 00:13:36.700 --> 00:13:38.560 Yet be sure of this. 00:13:38.660 --> 00:13:41.640 The kingdom of God has come near. 00:13:42.080 --> 00:13:42.240 Okay? 00:13:42.280 --> 00:13:43.879 So Jesus focused for their mission. 00:13:44.200 --> 00:13:45.640 The kingdom of God which has come near. 00:13:45.700 --> 00:13:47.140 So what is the kingdom of God? 00:13:47.920 --> 00:13:51.820 The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God. 00:13:52.700 --> 00:13:57.320 It's a recognition that he controls and governs everything. 00:13:59.259 --> 00:14:01.700 And that his purpose stands. 00:14:01.700 --> 00:14:06.320 So what's the purpose of God as king? 00:14:06.320 --> 00:14:14.520 If you read our Bibles, we discover that God's purpose is to save a people for himself. 00:14:15.080 --> 00:14:20.680 So the kingdom of God speaks to us of God's plan and purpose to save a people for himself. 00:14:20.679 --> 00:14:27.259 And it also reminds us that God has a plan to make this world new. 00:14:27.259 --> 00:14:34.740 So God wants to both rescue and to renew and to restore this world. 00:14:34.740 --> 00:14:38.879 And so the followers of Jesus are sent out with that mission. 00:14:38.980 --> 00:14:41.500 They're told to announce the kingdom of God has come near. 00:14:41.620 --> 00:14:41.980 Why? 00:14:42.740 --> 00:14:44.960 Because Jesus, the king, has come. 00:14:45.740 --> 00:14:47.600 Jesus is the king who saves. 00:14:47.600 --> 00:14:51.860 He saves us from our sin. 00:14:52.639 --> 00:14:57.320 Because in his death on the cross, there is free and full forgiveness from sin. 00:14:58.159 --> 00:15:04.220 He saves us from our separation from our God, which we experience now without Christ. 00:15:04.300 --> 00:15:09.779 And which we would experience for all eternity if we never trust in Jesus. 00:15:10.340 --> 00:15:14.660 By his cross and resurrection, he saves us. 00:15:14.659 --> 00:15:20.360 And Jesus promises also to renew and to restore. 00:15:20.360 --> 00:15:26.000 That just as Jesus has defeated all the forces of darkness at the cross, 00:15:26.339 --> 00:15:34.620 so when he returns at the end of time, he will finally defeat sin and darkness and death forever. 00:15:35.539 --> 00:15:39.159 There will be the victory and triumph of good forevermore. 00:15:39.159 --> 00:15:46.639 And his people, those who trust him, will experience and enjoy that goodness forever. 00:15:47.519 --> 00:15:55.480 So on our mission, we want to speak loud and clear that Jesus is God, that Jesus is king. 00:15:57.139 --> 00:16:02.219 And that Jesus, by his grace, invites us to know the love of God. 00:16:02.220 --> 00:16:04.620 To find forgiveness from God. 00:16:04.820 --> 00:16:09.960 To be invited to know in the future the world that we all want. 00:16:11.240 --> 00:16:13.259 As we turn away from sin. 00:16:13.860 --> 00:16:15.960 As we put our trust in him. 00:16:17.420 --> 00:16:19.639 As God, by his grace, would save us. 00:16:20.440 --> 00:16:21.620 So that's the message. 00:16:21.759 --> 00:16:26.820 But notice as well, briefly, the actions that Jesus gives to his followers. 00:16:26.899 --> 00:16:28.980 Which also point in the same direction. 00:16:28.980 --> 00:16:37.100 So in verses 5 to 9, you have this positive picture of when these followers arrive at a house and they're welcomed. 00:16:37.200 --> 00:16:38.519 And their message is welcome. 00:16:40.159 --> 00:16:43.860 To accept the message is to accept the king. 00:16:44.759 --> 00:16:50.060 And to accept the king, verse 5, is to receive peace. 00:16:50.639 --> 00:16:52.420 What a wonderful promise. 00:16:53.240 --> 00:16:56.519 Jesus would give us peace from God. 00:16:56.519 --> 00:16:59.539 Would reconcile us to God. 00:16:59.819 --> 00:17:02.480 Would give us peace in our hearts. 00:17:03.299 --> 00:17:07.819 And when Jesus the king and his message and messengers are welcomed. 00:17:08.519 --> 00:17:14.480 That these towns and villages are going to see signs of the kingdom. 00:17:15.079 --> 00:17:15.660 Verse 9. 00:17:16.059 --> 00:17:18.779 Heal those who are ill. 00:17:18.779 --> 00:17:23.799 Just as with Jesus, every miracle was a signpost. 00:17:24.339 --> 00:17:27.139 Here is what the world will be like one day. 00:17:27.220 --> 00:17:29.980 Free of sickness and suffering and pain and death. 00:17:30.339 --> 00:17:33.119 The disciples also are invited to give them a preview. 00:17:33.299 --> 00:17:34.559 That these followers are saying, 00:17:35.000 --> 00:17:39.319 To trust in Jesus is to be invited into this wonderful kingdom. 00:17:40.180 --> 00:17:41.980 That's when the message is accepted. 00:17:41.980 --> 00:17:45.700 But what about when the message is rejected? 00:17:46.200 --> 00:17:48.440 In verses 10 to 15. 00:17:49.140 --> 00:17:51.839 We discover that to reject the king. 00:17:52.480 --> 00:17:56.360 Is to receive a warning of coming judgment. 00:17:57.440 --> 00:17:57.880 Verse 10. 00:17:58.039 --> 00:18:00.000 When you enter a town and are not welcomed. 00:18:00.779 --> 00:18:02.480 Go into its streets and say, 00:18:02.940 --> 00:18:07.299 Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet as a warning to you. 00:18:07.299 --> 00:18:09.700 So shake the dust off. 00:18:10.879 --> 00:18:16.099 To reject God is to be rejected by God in the end. 00:18:16.139 --> 00:18:20.220 And there's that somber warning in verses 13 to 15. 00:18:20.859 --> 00:18:22.599 And verse 12 as well. 00:18:22.700 --> 00:18:26.480 Where Jesus lists some terrible places in the Old Testament. 00:18:26.480 --> 00:18:28.599 Known for doing terrible things. 00:18:28.599 --> 00:18:34.139 Jesus says it will be more bearable for those people. 00:18:35.579 --> 00:18:38.879 Than for anyone who rejects Jesus. 00:18:39.219 --> 00:18:41.759 As he has declared in the gospel. 00:18:42.599 --> 00:18:45.959 The more that we know of God's plan of salvation. 00:18:45.959 --> 00:18:50.219 The more that we understand that Jesus is the son of God and the savior. 00:18:50.379 --> 00:18:55.259 To reject him is an eternally significant serious thing. 00:18:55.259 --> 00:18:59.279 And notice too verse 11. 00:19:00.299 --> 00:19:00.500 Again. 00:19:00.740 --> 00:19:03.240 Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet as a warning. 00:19:03.740 --> 00:19:05.319 Yet be sure of this. 00:19:06.220 --> 00:19:08.299 The kingdom of God has come near. 00:19:09.920 --> 00:19:12.579 It's a reminder to us that in the end. 00:19:13.940 --> 00:19:17.299 Our opinion of Jesus does not change the fact that he is king. 00:19:18.500 --> 00:19:20.940 We can say I don't believe Jesus is God. 00:19:21.019 --> 00:19:22.700 Or we can say I don't need him as king. 00:19:22.779 --> 00:19:24.720 But it doesn't change the fact that he is. 00:19:24.720 --> 00:19:26.480 The eternal son of God. 00:19:26.860 --> 00:19:29.559 That he does have authority over all of us. 00:19:29.660 --> 00:19:32.400 Either to save or to judge. 00:19:32.740 --> 00:19:35.920 And so again the call is to be ready. 00:19:36.539 --> 00:19:41.460 In our urgent mission as Christians we need to speak plainly. 00:19:42.079 --> 00:19:45.940 To help people to understand that Jesus is king. 00:19:46.519 --> 00:19:49.360 And they need to receive him and respond to him with faith. 00:19:49.359 --> 00:19:55.599 The last encouragement that we have as we go as missionaries we find in verse 16. 00:19:56.659 --> 00:19:57.199 And it's this. 00:19:57.259 --> 00:20:00.500 That we go as Jesus ambassadors. 00:20:01.939 --> 00:20:04.979 Whoever listens to you listens to me. 00:20:05.639 --> 00:20:07.219 Whoever rejects you rejects me. 00:20:07.299 --> 00:20:11.299 But whoever rejects me rejects him who sent me. 00:20:11.859 --> 00:20:15.879 Think about an ambassador of a king or a government. 00:20:15.880 --> 00:20:17.680 What is their function? 00:20:17.820 --> 00:20:20.960 Their function is to represent that king or that government. 00:20:21.100 --> 00:20:28.440 To speak and act in line with the wishes of their king or of the government and nation they represent. 00:20:28.440 --> 00:20:31.519 Jesus reminds these followers. 00:20:32.160 --> 00:20:33.519 We have a great dignity. 00:20:33.940 --> 00:20:35.500 And a great privilege. 00:20:36.400 --> 00:20:37.539 As we are sent. 00:20:37.620 --> 00:20:39.220 We are sent in Jesus name. 00:20:39.440 --> 00:20:41.279 And we are sent in Jesus authority. 00:20:41.519 --> 00:20:42.740 With Jesus authority. 00:20:42.840 --> 00:20:44.400 But we also have this responsibility. 00:20:46.440 --> 00:20:48.279 That we are speaking and acting for Jesus. 00:20:48.279 --> 00:20:52.779 I wonder how we feel about sharing our faith. 00:20:52.879 --> 00:20:55.379 Maybe especially as we are reminded of potential rejection. 00:20:56.339 --> 00:20:57.799 Sharing our faith can be scary. 00:20:59.559 --> 00:21:01.519 Because we know that rejection might come. 00:21:02.500 --> 00:21:05.559 Perhaps we wonder about the questions that we might get asked. 00:21:05.619 --> 00:21:06.940 Will we have the answers to them? 00:21:07.519 --> 00:21:09.799 Perhaps it's just the embarrassment that we feel. 00:21:10.460 --> 00:21:12.379 About what it's going to cost us socially. 00:21:12.519 --> 00:21:14.359 And we can feel really isolated. 00:21:14.660 --> 00:21:16.279 And we can feel almost paralyzed. 00:21:16.279 --> 00:21:18.599 Because of all these worries. 00:21:18.680 --> 00:21:19.980 What if I lack the skill? 00:21:20.039 --> 00:21:20.960 Or I lack the knowledge. 00:21:21.039 --> 00:21:22.740 If I do the wrong thing. 00:21:22.819 --> 00:21:24.539 Well here in verse 16. 00:21:24.779 --> 00:21:28.700 Is a truth intended to give us strength and courage. 00:21:29.500 --> 00:21:31.000 Whoever listens to you. 00:21:31.259 --> 00:21:32.420 Listens to me. 00:21:32.899 --> 00:21:34.160 It's Jesus mission. 00:21:34.980 --> 00:21:36.519 Jesus stands with us. 00:21:36.779 --> 00:21:38.559 It's Jesus who speaks through us. 00:21:38.740 --> 00:21:40.660 By his spirit. 00:21:41.960 --> 00:21:44.399 There's a wonderful freedom in remembering. 00:21:44.400 --> 00:21:46.540 It's not our job to save anyone. 00:21:47.300 --> 00:21:49.040 We are called to be faithful. 00:21:49.620 --> 00:21:52.240 But it's God alone who saves. 00:21:53.800 --> 00:21:56.040 There's a helpful little book I was thinking about this week. 00:21:56.100 --> 00:21:58.720 And actually there's a little green one right in the top corner. 00:21:58.980 --> 00:21:59.600 On the bookshelf. 00:21:59.660 --> 00:22:00.840 There's two or three of them left. 00:22:01.320 --> 00:22:02.700 That book's sold by the way. 00:22:02.780 --> 00:22:04.280 Is free for anybody to take anything. 00:22:04.740 --> 00:22:07.040 There's a little book called Before You Share Your Faith. 00:22:07.340 --> 00:22:09.840 And there's one image there that stuck with me. 00:22:09.880 --> 00:22:11.400 When I read it a little while back. 00:22:11.400 --> 00:22:14.120 The guy said Matt Smethorst who wrote it. 00:22:14.180 --> 00:22:16.280 He said we are called as Christians. 00:22:16.820 --> 00:22:20.380 To speak to spiritual corpses. 00:22:21.380 --> 00:22:24.180 You know that imagery in Ezekiel 37. 00:22:24.700 --> 00:22:26.820 Of dead bones dry bones. 00:22:26.980 --> 00:22:28.000 Or Ephesians 2. 00:22:28.360 --> 00:22:30.160 That without Christ spiritually dead. 00:22:30.860 --> 00:22:32.420 As ambassadors for Jesus. 00:22:32.580 --> 00:22:35.519 We are called to speak to spiritual corpses. 00:22:35.759 --> 00:22:38.660 It's as if we speak to a coffin. 00:22:38.660 --> 00:22:43.460 But it's God who cracks the coffin open. 00:22:44.440 --> 00:22:48.860 It's God who gives spiritual life to spiritually dead people. 00:22:49.779 --> 00:22:51.300 So when someone comes to faith. 00:22:51.420 --> 00:22:51.940 It's a miracle. 00:22:52.100 --> 00:22:53.460 And all glory belongs to God. 00:22:53.519 --> 00:22:54.640 And not to us. 00:22:57.200 --> 00:22:58.779 Whoever listens to you. 00:22:59.060 --> 00:23:00.100 Listens to me. 00:23:00.540 --> 00:23:02.180 And so they're sent as ambassadors. 00:23:02.940 --> 00:23:03.600 And think about it. 00:23:03.620 --> 00:23:05.740 As these 72 are sent two by two. 00:23:06.460 --> 00:23:09.200 They are speaking about the king that they both knew. 00:23:09.940 --> 00:23:10.759 And loved. 00:23:12.039 --> 00:23:14.279 They had the opportunity to spend time with Jesus. 00:23:14.440 --> 00:23:14.779 Watching. 00:23:14.960 --> 00:23:15.279 Listening. 00:23:15.500 --> 00:23:15.839 Learning. 00:23:17.680 --> 00:23:20.359 Perhaps we can think about Peter and John in the book of Acts. 00:23:20.819 --> 00:23:22.220 They were boldly preaching. 00:23:22.359 --> 00:23:24.019 And because of that they got thrown into prison. 00:23:24.099 --> 00:23:25.539 And people tell them to be quiet. 00:23:27.220 --> 00:23:28.900 And one thing that they notice. 00:23:29.279 --> 00:23:31.079 As they have joy despite persecution. 00:23:31.079 --> 00:23:33.980 They noted that these men had been with Jesus. 00:23:33.980 --> 00:23:35.839 There's a power. 00:23:35.980 --> 00:23:36.480 There's a boldness. 00:23:36.599 --> 00:23:37.420 There's a joy. 00:23:38.140 --> 00:23:40.660 In representing the king who they knew. 00:23:41.019 --> 00:23:41.980 And loved. 00:23:43.360 --> 00:23:45.440 Before we share our faith. 00:23:46.620 --> 00:23:48.360 We need to spend time with our king. 00:23:49.400 --> 00:23:52.360 We need to enjoy the gospel for ourselves. 00:23:53.819 --> 00:23:56.880 To make it a priority to spend time in God's word. 00:23:57.039 --> 00:23:57.860 And in prayer. 00:23:58.059 --> 00:23:59.120 And in worship. 00:23:59.119 --> 00:24:02.299 Because as we remember good news for ourselves. 00:24:02.739 --> 00:24:06.299 Then we'll have the impulse to share it with others. 00:24:06.739 --> 00:24:10.099 That takes us to the last thing here. 00:24:10.619 --> 00:24:11.899 For this morning. 00:24:12.099 --> 00:24:15.299 Why go on mission for Jesus? 00:24:16.839 --> 00:24:18.399 Maybe this answer will be surprising. 00:24:18.819 --> 00:24:21.399 In light of him saying you're going like lambs among wolves. 00:24:21.959 --> 00:24:24.419 In light of the fact that you will meet rejection. 00:24:24.420 --> 00:24:26.580 It might be a surprise. 00:24:27.140 --> 00:24:28.720 That the theme of joy. 00:24:28.840 --> 00:24:30.180 In verses 17 to 24. 00:24:30.380 --> 00:24:32.160 Keeps on repeating. 00:24:33.240 --> 00:24:36.180 But here we have the antidote to fear. 00:24:36.880 --> 00:24:38.720 Here we have a motivation. 00:24:38.900 --> 00:24:40.160 Despite rejection. 00:24:40.400 --> 00:24:41.259 And it's joy. 00:24:42.080 --> 00:24:44.980 So let's look briefly at this motivation of joy. 00:24:45.080 --> 00:24:46.900 First the joy for the church. 00:24:47.940 --> 00:24:50.200 In verses 17 to 20. 00:24:50.320 --> 00:24:50.920 Did you notice? 00:24:50.920 --> 00:24:53.160 The 72 returned with joy. 00:24:53.279 --> 00:24:54.320 Now what gave them joy? 00:24:55.420 --> 00:24:58.160 Lord even the demons submit to us in your name. 00:24:58.360 --> 00:25:00.779 So they had joy in what they did. 00:25:01.220 --> 00:25:02.960 And isn't it wonderful what they did? 00:25:03.279 --> 00:25:04.680 We should never undermine that. 00:25:05.080 --> 00:25:07.259 Jesus is winning spiritual victory. 00:25:07.700 --> 00:25:09.720 The forces of darkness are being stopped. 00:25:09.820 --> 00:25:11.740 And Jesus sees in this Satan's defeat. 00:25:11.820 --> 00:25:12.759 That's a wonderful thing. 00:25:13.060 --> 00:25:15.460 But Jesus says find greater joy in this. 00:25:17.180 --> 00:25:17.740 Rejoice. 00:25:18.460 --> 00:25:19.860 That your names are written in heaven. 00:25:21.080 --> 00:25:22.440 Don't find your joy. 00:25:22.440 --> 00:25:24.940 And your identity in what you do. 00:25:25.380 --> 00:25:29.320 Find your joy and identity as Christians in who you are. 00:25:29.759 --> 00:25:31.200 And who you belong to. 00:25:31.500 --> 00:25:34.000 That your names are written in heaven. 00:25:34.000 --> 00:25:37.319 When we go on mission. 00:25:37.940 --> 00:25:41.960 It's our joyful delight as children of God. 00:25:42.319 --> 00:25:45.460 Who have a secure inheritance in heaven. 00:25:45.859 --> 00:25:50.259 And it's out of that secure identity and secure destiny. 00:25:50.259 --> 00:25:53.339 That we find the joy to want to share good news. 00:25:53.640 --> 00:25:54.160 Even. 00:25:54.619 --> 00:25:55.660 Even when it's hard. 00:25:56.420 --> 00:25:58.839 So there's the joy of belonging to God. 00:25:59.059 --> 00:26:02.180 There's more joy for the church towards the end of these verses. 00:26:02.319 --> 00:26:05.180 There's the joy of knowing Jesus as Savior. 00:26:06.039 --> 00:26:08.140 Notice Jesus turned to his disciples and say. 00:26:08.200 --> 00:26:10.579 Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 00:26:10.579 --> 00:26:14.819 For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see. 00:26:15.119 --> 00:26:16.679 But did not see it. 00:26:16.740 --> 00:26:17.539 What's his point? 00:26:18.279 --> 00:26:22.859 The church has greater privilege than the Old Testament believers. 00:26:22.980 --> 00:26:25.759 The Old Testament believers lived looking forward. 00:26:25.899 --> 00:26:26.259 Wondering. 00:26:26.519 --> 00:26:29.859 When is God going to fulfill all his wonderful promises? 00:26:31.039 --> 00:26:32.099 Anybody now. 00:26:32.299 --> 00:26:33.919 Since the time of Jesus can say. 00:26:34.119 --> 00:26:36.220 I know how he fulfills all those promises. 00:26:36.519 --> 00:26:37.500 Through his son. 00:26:38.099 --> 00:26:39.019 Through the king. 00:26:39.019 --> 00:26:40.400 Through King Jesus. 00:26:41.079 --> 00:26:43.099 So there is joy for the church. 00:26:43.740 --> 00:26:45.019 As we understand and discover. 00:26:45.200 --> 00:26:46.460 Jesus is God's way. 00:26:46.839 --> 00:26:49.019 To complete his plan of salvation. 00:26:49.139 --> 00:26:50.639 And it's out of that joy. 00:26:51.299 --> 00:26:52.619 That we're able to speak. 00:26:53.639 --> 00:26:54.480 Of the son of God. 00:26:54.539 --> 00:26:56.700 Who loved us and gave himself for us. 00:26:56.960 --> 00:26:58.180 Who is the reason. 00:26:58.579 --> 00:26:59.960 For the hope that we have. 00:27:00.059 --> 00:27:01.339 Now and forever. 00:27:01.759 --> 00:27:03.139 So there is real joy. 00:27:03.279 --> 00:27:04.039 For the church. 00:27:04.059 --> 00:27:05.119 As we think about mission. 00:27:06.000 --> 00:27:07.319 But notice too. 00:27:07.319 --> 00:27:10.919 That we get to share in the joy of Jesus himself. 00:27:12.019 --> 00:27:13.500 Isn't it wonderful in verse 21. 00:27:13.659 --> 00:27:14.379 That we discover. 00:27:14.700 --> 00:27:17.279 Here is something that gives Jesus joy. 00:27:17.799 --> 00:27:18.480 At that time. 00:27:18.939 --> 00:27:20.339 Jesus full of joy. 00:27:20.579 --> 00:27:22.000 Through the Holy Spirit said. 00:27:22.539 --> 00:27:24.099 I praise you Father. 00:27:24.240 --> 00:27:25.419 Lord of heaven and earth. 00:27:25.799 --> 00:27:27.379 Because you have hidden these things. 00:27:27.439 --> 00:27:28.519 From the wise and learned. 00:27:29.039 --> 00:27:31.460 And revealed them to little children. 00:27:31.460 --> 00:27:34.680 There is joy for Jesus. 00:27:35.420 --> 00:27:37.960 In God graciously revealing himself. 00:27:37.960 --> 00:27:40.259 And his salvation to people. 00:27:41.079 --> 00:27:43.120 Not to the wise and the great and the good. 00:27:44.340 --> 00:27:45.480 But to little children. 00:27:46.279 --> 00:27:47.340 To the dependent. 00:27:48.079 --> 00:27:49.220 To the trusting. 00:27:49.980 --> 00:27:52.640 Those who receive this gift of grace readily. 00:27:53.279 --> 00:27:56.100 And notice that the father is pleased also. 00:27:56.279 --> 00:27:57.000 Jesus is pleased. 00:27:57.100 --> 00:27:58.200 The father is pleased. 00:27:58.200 --> 00:28:00.380 To call people to himself. 00:28:00.680 --> 00:28:02.559 To show people his glory. 00:28:03.220 --> 00:28:04.319 And all for his praise. 00:28:05.420 --> 00:28:07.880 So Jesus has joy in that revelation. 00:28:08.460 --> 00:28:10.779 And there is more joy for Jesus in verse 22. 00:28:12.059 --> 00:28:15.140 There is joy for Jesus in revealing God to us. 00:28:15.680 --> 00:28:18.380 All things have been committed to being by my father. 00:28:18.380 --> 00:28:21.260 No one knows who the father is except the father. 00:28:21.860 --> 00:28:24.460 And no one knows who the father is except the son. 00:28:24.980 --> 00:28:28.800 And those to whom the son chooses to reveal him. 00:28:29.940 --> 00:28:34.180 There is joy for Jesus in revealing God. 00:28:34.300 --> 00:28:36.320 In revealing the way back to God. 00:28:36.400 --> 00:28:39.200 In being the way back to God. 00:28:39.980 --> 00:28:43.460 The one relationship that you and I were made for. 00:28:43.540 --> 00:28:45.440 As image bearers of God. 00:28:45.440 --> 00:28:48.519 We are made to know and enjoy our creator. 00:28:49.000 --> 00:28:51.700 That relationship that was lost because of sin. 00:28:52.039 --> 00:28:52.880 And rebellion. 00:28:53.259 --> 00:28:54.580 Is regained. 00:28:55.400 --> 00:28:57.059 Through trusting in Jesus. 00:28:58.180 --> 00:29:00.779 In Jesus we see the glory of God revealed. 00:29:01.360 --> 00:29:03.580 And we discover the way back to him. 00:29:05.200 --> 00:29:06.700 So our mission. 00:29:08.039 --> 00:29:10.500 Is and always should be a joyful mission. 00:29:10.680 --> 00:29:11.740 Yes there is pain. 00:29:11.820 --> 00:29:12.720 And there is toil. 00:29:12.720 --> 00:29:14.180 But there is joy. 00:29:15.700 --> 00:29:17.579 As we share who God is. 00:29:18.319 --> 00:29:20.640 As we share what God has done for us in Jesus. 00:29:21.140 --> 00:29:24.380 There is joy as we recognize that people can meet God. 00:29:24.660 --> 00:29:26.420 Through his word and through the gospel. 00:29:27.200 --> 00:29:28.940 That God is pleased to save people. 00:29:30.059 --> 00:29:34.400 So Jesus sends the church on a mission of good news. 00:29:35.380 --> 00:29:39.180 The mission of the church is not like that bad work experience I had. 00:29:39.220 --> 00:29:40.100 That maybe you have had. 00:29:40.099 --> 00:29:42.059 Jesus prepares us. 00:29:42.859 --> 00:29:44.699 Jesus answers our questions. 00:29:45.579 --> 00:29:47.240 Jesus motivates us. 00:29:49.419 --> 00:29:52.779 So the next time we have an opportunity to share our faith. 00:29:52.839 --> 00:29:54.899 And maybe we feel our palms begin to sweat. 00:29:55.019 --> 00:29:55.519 And we wonder. 00:29:55.959 --> 00:29:58.000 Is this the moment where I should say something? 00:29:58.240 --> 00:29:58.719 Remember. 00:29:59.419 --> 00:30:01.779 That God sends us on mission. 00:30:02.779 --> 00:30:04.679 To share the good news of Jesus the King. 00:30:04.740 --> 00:30:06.240 With the whole world. 00:30:06.240 --> 00:30:08.740 And every Christian is called to that. 00:30:09.700 --> 00:30:13.099 Remember that we go on this mission for Jesus. 00:30:13.579 --> 00:30:15.420 Declaring that he is the King who saves. 00:30:15.839 --> 00:30:18.220 And we go with Jesus. 00:30:18.960 --> 00:30:22.160 That he is present with power to help us. 00:30:22.160 --> 00:30:28.200 And remember and hold on to the joy behind our mission. 00:30:29.800 --> 00:30:37.140 Think about the joy that we can have in inviting weary souls to know Jesus the loving Savior. 00:30:38.019 --> 00:30:43.980 Think about the joy that we can experience as the church in speaking of our wonderful Savior. 00:30:43.980 --> 00:30:48.420 And think about the joy of Jesus himself. 00:30:48.940 --> 00:30:52.779 Who loves to save sinners for his glory. 00:30:53.420 --> 00:30:54.860 Let's pray briefly together. 00:30:56.160 --> 00:30:57.900 Lord God we thank you. 00:30:58.940 --> 00:31:00.099 That in your wisdom. 00:31:01.059 --> 00:31:03.279 You have chosen to continue. 00:31:03.819 --> 00:31:05.980 Your work through your people. 00:31:06.120 --> 00:31:06.680 The church. 00:31:06.680 --> 00:31:11.560 And sometimes we are amazed at that. 00:31:11.720 --> 00:31:14.140 As we recognize our own weakness and limitations. 00:31:14.360 --> 00:31:17.500 But Lord we thank you for your grace and your goodness. 00:31:17.720 --> 00:31:20.060 Your mercy and your strength that sustain us. 00:31:20.940 --> 00:31:23.600 Lord we do pray that you would enable us to go. 00:31:24.140 --> 00:31:26.440 And to make disciples of all nations. 00:31:27.480 --> 00:31:30.660 We pray that we would do so working and praying. 00:31:31.340 --> 00:31:34.660 That we would be ready to embrace helplessness. 00:31:34.660 --> 00:31:37.480 Helplessness while we are trusting in you. 00:31:38.480 --> 00:31:41.440 Lord we pray that you would give us words to speak. 00:31:42.040 --> 00:31:43.519 Of Jesus the King. 00:31:44.240 --> 00:31:46.720 That we would be faithful as ambassadors. 00:31:47.900 --> 00:31:50.040 And that you would give us joy in the gospel. 00:31:50.800 --> 00:31:52.759 Help us to rejoice in the Lord Jesus. 00:31:52.900 --> 00:31:55.700 That we would want to share that joy with others. 00:31:56.900 --> 00:31:59.940 And we do ask that you would be pleased to work through this church. 00:32:00.500 --> 00:32:02.800 To bring men and women and boys and girls. 00:32:02.799 --> 00:32:05.519 To the joy of knowing Jesus as saviour for themselves. 00:32:06.240 --> 00:32:07.480 And we pray in his name. 00:32:07.940 --> 00:32:08.220 Amen. 00:32:12.379 --> 00:32:15.200 Now we'll finish with the hymn. 00:32:15.839 --> 00:32:18.339 Crown him with many crowns. 00:32:18.359 --> 00:32:21.159 And again let's stand as we sing together. 00:32:21.159 --> 00:32:21.259 Amen. 00:32:21.259 --> 00:32:24.359 Amen. 00:32:24.359 --> 00:32:24.900 Amen. 00:32:24.900 --> 00:32:25.960 Amen. 00:32:26.000 --> 00:32:26.359 Amen. 00:32:26.359 --> 00:32:26.720 Amen. 00:32:29.140 --> 00:32:29.900 Amen. 00:32:29.900 --> 00:32:30.759 Amen. 00:32:30.759 --> 00:32:30.940 Amen. 00:32:30.940 --> 00:32:31.359 Amen. 00:32:31.359 --> 00:32:32.379 Amen. 00:32:32.440 --> 00:32:32.859 Amen. 00:32:32.859 --> 00:32:34.980 Amen. 00:32:34.980 --> 00:32:35.119 Amen. 00:32:35.119 --> 00:32:36.059 Amen. 00:32:36.059 --> 00:32:37.099 Amen. 00:32:37.099 --> 00:32:37.539 Amen. 00:32:37.539 --> 00:32:37.879 Amen. 00:32:37.879 --> 00:32:38.259 Amen. 00:32:38.259 --> 00:32:38.559 Amen. 00:32:38.559 --> 00:32:39.799 Amen. 00:32:39.799 --> 00:32:40.640 Amen. 00:32:40.640 --> 00:32:40.980 Amen. 00:32:40.980 --> 00:32:42.960 Amen. 00:32:43.440 --> 00:32:44.420 Amen. 00:32:44.420 --> 00:32:44.539 Amen. 00:32:44.539 --> 00:32:44.559 Amen. 00:32:44.559 --> 00:32:44.759 Amen. 00:32:44.759 --> 00:32:45.039 Amen. 00:32:45.039 --> 00:32:45.099 Amen. 00:32:46.480 --> 00:32:46.779 Amen. 00:32:46.779 --> 00:32:46.879 Amen. 00:32:46.879 --> 00:32:46.940 Amen. 00:32:46.940 --> 00:32:47.279 Amen. 00:32:47.279 --> 00:32:48.379 Amen. 00:32:48.379 --> 00:32:48.839 Amen. 00:32:48.839 --> 00:32:49.440 Amen. 00:32:49.460 --> 00:32:49.519 Amen. 00:32:49.519 --> 00:32:50.039 Amen. 00:32:50.039 --> 00:32:51.220 Amen.