Luke Chapter 9
The chapter starts by saying that the twelve disciples were given “power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases” (1). Whereas the disciples had merely followed Jesus and witnessed Him performing miracles before this, they were now also given the responsibility to preach (2).
The fact that the disciples did the work themselves was necessary, since Jesus would be received up soon (51), after which He would no longer be physically present. Let us take a look at some records of them participating in the ministry.
Since the disciples were given power over demons and over diseases, they were able to heal as they preached; they reported these to Jesus as well (10).
Even so, we read of a man crying out for Jesus’ help, because the disciples were unable to cast this rather stubborn demon out of his son (38-39). The passage provides a hint as to why the disciples could not handle the demon themselves – they were faithless (41). Elsewhere, Jesus elaborated that they also needed to pray and fast on top of simply having faith (Mt 17:20-21).
Besides, though we see the faith of the disciples, for instance, in Peter’s conviction that Jesus is Christ (20), we also read of the disciples’ immaturity in multiple instances.
“A dispute arose among them as to which fo them would greatest.” (46) In another instance, when they encountered unbelieving Samaritans, James and John asked whether Jesus wanted a fiery judgement for them (53).
However, despite their weaknesses and imperfections, i.e. their lack of faith and maturity here, they were called by Jesus Himself into the ministry, and even played major roles after Jesus ascended to heaven. I
t’s the same in the church today. All church workers, full-time or not, have their own weaknesses. This is true even for the general member. Therefore, in our church lives together, let us be accepting of each others’ weaknesses, and build up the church as a united body, glorifying to the Lord.
