Faith in Action, spiritual rejection, empowered by God, biblical authority, healing ministry, discipleship journey, Christian obedience, spiritual courage, Jesus sends the Twelve, gospel mission, trust God's plan, shaken by unbelief
“The Sending of the Twelve” — A Byzantine-style mosaic depicting Jesus Christ commissioning the Twelve Apostles, who depart in pairs to preach, heal, and cast out demons. Rendered in golden tesserae with reverent gestures and sacred symbolism, the scene unfolds in three narrative tiers: the central act of commissioning, their humble journey and ministry, and the miraculous signs that followed.
When Faith Sends Us Forward
Even in the face of rejection, God's calling on our lives continues with power and purpose.
In first-century Jewish culture, honor and shame were deeply rooted in community identity. A prophet being rejected in his own hometown meant a public dismissal of authority and spiritual credibility. Jesus returned to Nazareth, a village that knew Him as the carpenter, not the Christ. Meanwhile, sending out the Twelve in pairs mirrored Jewish customs where testimonies required two witnesses, underscoring the authority of their mission.
Jesus returns to His hometown and teaches in the synagogue, but the locals take offense, questioning His wisdom and authority. Their unbelief astonishes Him and limits the miracles He performs there. Despite this, Jesus continues His mission by sending out the Twelve disciples two by two. He gives them authority over unclean spirits, and they go forth preaching repentance, healing the sick, and casting out demons.
Mark 6:4: “A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown, among his relatives, and in his own household.” – Jesus exposes the painful truth that familiarity can breed contempt, even in spiritual matters.
Mark 6:7: “And He called the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits.” – Christ entrusts His power to ordinary men, sending them on extraordinary missions.
Rejection often wounds the deepest when it comes from those who know us best. Jesus Himself was not immune to such heartache. Yet He did not allow their unbelief to stall His purpose. Instead, He multiplied His mission through His disciples. In a world still skeptical of divine authority and spiritual truth, we too are sent with the gospel, empowered not by our credentials, but by Christ’s commission.
Embrace God's Calling Even Amid Rejection: Your background does not disqualify your calling. Let God's approval be louder than man's dismissal.
Step Out in Spiritual Authority: Like the disciples, walk in the power Christ gives you—you are not sent empty-handed.
Go Together, Not Alone: Spiritual community matters. God designed the mission to be shared; support and accountability are divine tools.
When have I let the sting of rejection quiet my calling?
Do I see myself as empowered by Christ, or limited by my past?
Who is God calling me to walk beside in mission and ministry?
How can I respond when those closest to me misunderstand my spiritual passion?
Heavenly Father,
You know the ache of rejection and the courage it takes to keep going. Help me fix my eyes on Your call rather than man's opinions. When I feel small or overlooked, remind me that You send me with authority and purpose. Strengthen my faith to walk boldly and humbly in Your mission, and surround me with those who will go with me.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it." – Psalm 37:5 (BSB)
Today, prayerfully reach out to someone who needs encouragement in their calling. Speak life where the world has spoken doubt, and go where Christ sends—with courage and compassion.
