In the story of Jesus sending out the 72 disciples, we see a clear and practical model for evangelism and obedience. Jesus equipped ordinary people to share His message boldly, travel light, and trust God completely. Their mission focused on partnership, peace, and healing — showing that sharing your faith is about more than just words; it’s about actions and attitude too. Importantly, obedience means doing your part without worrying about the outcome, trusting God to work through you.
This passage reminds you that evangelism isn’t just for pastors or experts — it’s for anyone willing to follow Jesus’ example of faith and obedience. Your greatest joy comes from your relationship with Him, not just the results of your efforts. If you’re ready to learn how to apply these lessons to your own life, keep reading for a deeper dive into how the story of the 72 can transform the way you share your faith.
If you’ve ever wondered how Jesus trained His followers to spread His message, the story of Jesus sending out the 72 disciples offers clear, practical lessons. It’s found in Luke 10:1-20, and it’s packed with insights about evangelism and obedience. This passage isn’t just history — it’s a blueprint you can apply today, whether you’re sharing your faith or learning what it means to follow Jesus fully.
Let’s break it down.
1. The Context: Why 72?
You might be familiar with the 12 disciples, but Jesus also sent out 72 others. Why? It shows that Jesus’ mission wasn’t limited to a small group but was meant to expand broadly and quickly.
- Luke 10:1 says, “After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.”
- The number 72 is symbolic. Some scholars link it to the 70 nations mentioned in Genesis 10, implying Jesus intended His message for the whole world.
What’s key here is the scale and intention: Jesus empowered a large group to reach many places fast.
2. Instructions for the Mission
Jesus gave the 72 specific instructions — these are valuable for anyone sharing their faith:
a. Go in Pairs
Jesus sent them out two by two. There’s safety and strength in partnership.
- Evangelism can feel intimidating, but you’re not meant to do it alone.
- Accountability and support come naturally when you work with someone else.
b. Travel Light
Jesus told them to take no purse, bag, or sandals (Luke 10:4). Why?
- It forced them to trust God for provision.
- It helped them focus on the mission, not on material concerns.
- It made them accessible to those they met, showing they weren’t self-serving.
c. Focus on Peace
When entering a home, they were to offer peace (Luke 10:5-6).
- This shows the attitude to carry — peace, not conflict.
- It sets a tone of respect and goodwill before sharing the message.
d. Heal and Proclaim
They were told to heal the sick and declare, “The kingdom of God has come near” (Luke 10:9).
- Healing was both literal and symbolic — demonstrating God’s power and compassion.
- The message was clear and direct.
3. Obedience and Trust
The 72 were to obey Jesus’ instructions exactly, even if it meant discomfort or rejection.
- Luke 10:10-11 tells them what to do if a town rejects them: shake the dust off their feet.
- This shows obedience isn’t just about success; it’s about faithfulness. Your job is to deliver the message, not control how it’s received.
Think about that in your life. Obedience means stepping out even when the outcome’s uncertain.
4. Results and Joy of Evangelism
When the 72 returned, they were excited.
- Luke 10:17 says, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!”
- Jesus responded in Luke 10:20: “Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Here’s what that means for you:
- Evangelism can be powerful and even supernatural.
- But your deepest joy should come from your relationship with Jesus, not just the results of your work.
5. Lessons You Can Apply Today
If you want to take what Jesus taught through the 72 and live it out, here’s how:
1. Partner Up
Find someone to share your faith journey with. It makes the mission less daunting.
2. Travel Light (Metaphorically)
Don’t carry fear, shame, or doubt. Trust God to provide the words and opportunities.
3. Offer Peace First
Before sharing your story, show kindness and respect. People listen better when they feel valued.
4. Be Ready to Heal and Help
Evangelism isn’t just words. It’s actions — showing love, meeting needs, praying for others.
5. Obey Even When It’s Hard
Don’t worry about how people react. Your job is obedience, not persuasion.
6. Celebrate Relationship, Not Just Results
Rejoice that you’re part of God’s family. That’s what lasts.
6. Why This Study Matters
Evangelism isn’t just for pastors or missionaries. Jesus sent the 72, ordinary people, on a mission. That includes you.
This story challenges you to:
- Be bold in sharing your faith. Jesus equipped the 72 with authority and power — He equips you too.
- Trust God fully. Walking in obedience means relying on Him for every step.
- Focus on the eternal. Your name written in heaven is the greatest joy.
Final Thought
Jesus sending out the 72 isn’t an ancient story only. It’s a living call. It’s about stepping out in obedience, trusting God to work through you, and sharing the good news with a world that desperately needs it.
If you’ve ever hesitated, remember: Jesus didn’t just send experts. He sent everyday people willing to obey. You can do the same.
Remember this verse:
“Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.” — Luke 10:3 (NIV)
It’s a tough mission, but you’re not alone — Jesus is with you, just like He was with the 72.
FAQs: Jesus Sends Out the 72: A Study on Evangelism and Obedience
1. What is the main message in “Jesus Sends Out the 72: A Study on Evangelism and Obedience”?
The main message is that Jesus trained ordinary followers to share the Gospel boldly and obediently, emphasizing trust in God, partnership, and focusing on peace and healing while spreading His kingdom.
2. Why did Jesus send out 72 disciples instead of just the 12 apostles?
Jesus sent out 72 to expand the reach of His message quickly and symbolically to all nations, showing that evangelism is a mission for many, not just a select few.
3. What instructions did Jesus give the 72 disciples about evangelism?
He told them to go in pairs, travel light without extra provisions, offer peace to those they met, heal the sick, and proclaim that the kingdom of God was near.
4. How does the story of the 72 relate to obedience?
The disciples were told to obey Jesus’ instructions exactly, even when facing rejection, showing that faithfulness means trusting God’s plan, not controlling results.
5. What can we learn from the 72’s reaction when they returned?
They rejoiced in the spiritual authority they experienced but Jesus reminded them to find their deepest joy in their salvation and relationship with Him.
6. How does this story apply to modern evangelism?
It encourages believers today to partner up, trust God, share the message respectfully, and focus on obedience rather than success.
7. Why is traveling light important in evangelism according to the 72’s mission?
Traveling light symbolizes dependence on God’s provision and helps evangelists stay focused on the mission rather than material concerns.
8. What role does peace play in the evangelism of the 72?
Offering peace sets a respectful and open tone, making people more receptive to the Gospel message.
9. Is the mission of the 72 only for experienced Christians?
No, Jesus sent ordinary people, showing that anyone willing to obey can be used to share the Gospel.
10. What is the ultimate goal of evangelism as taught in the story of the 72?
The goal is not just conversions or miracles but bringing people into God’s kingdom and rejoicing in being part of His family.
