Jesus’ Strategy for Establishing New Ministry
Jesus discipled next generation leaders. They were the next in that most of them were quite young, it seems. They were also the first generation of Christian leaders following the sacrificial death and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. As such, Jesus mentored these men in how to establish ministry even in potentially hostile environments.
The ministry pattern taught by Jesus in Luke 10 is applicable in most parts of the world today. The truth is that the gospel is not welcomed in much of the world. Still, it is advancing with power and glory in even the most repressive environments because of magnificent grace of God. And because His followers have learned the Luke 10 pattern for establishing new ministry.
Text: Luke 10:1-9
ESSENTIAL ASSUMPTIONS
Five general assumptions are presented in verses 1 and 2.
1. Apostolic (sent ones) ministry is essential to God’s plan.
2. Jesus only sends to places where He intends to show up!
3. A large harvest of souls is waiting to be reaped.
4. The problem is not converts but workers willing to go.
5. Prayer changes things.
ESSENTIAL PATTERN
Jesus then presents a pattern for establishing the Kingdom in potentially hostile environments. Here is His pattern:
1. Go when and to where Jesus says Go (v 1 & 3)
2. Be realistic about the dangers (sheep among wolves).
3. Take precautions (v 4):
Travel modestly
Travel quietly
Be discerning about people you meet along the way
4. Bless those whom you meet in the new location. (v 5)
5. Find a ‘man of peace’ who will emerge by God’s design. This person provides the first safe (peaceful) place for ministry to begin. (v 6)
6. Take time to establish a personal relationship with this person/family. (v 7-8)
7. When a need arises, pray for God to meet the need. (v 9)
8. Let the answer to prayer be the moment to announce that ‘the Kingdom of God’ has come near - and present the gospel. (v 9)
May the Lord expand your territory and extend His Kingdom as you follow His pattern!
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