The 72 disciples were a group of followers appointed by Jesus to go ahead of Him, spreading the message of the Kingdom of God. Unlike the well-known 12 apostles, these men were ordinary believers chosen for an extraordinary mission. They were sent out in pairs to heal, teach, and prepare towns for Jesus’ arrival. Their mission wasn’t just about miracles—it was training for future ministry, a call to trust God completely, and a reminder that the gospel is urgent.
What makes their story powerful is how relatable it is. The 72 weren’t famous or named in Scripture, yet they played a crucial role in God’s plan. That means you don’t need a title to make an impact. If you’re willing, you’re usable. In the rest of this article, we’ll break down why Jesus sent them, what He told them to do, and what you can learn from their example—so keep reading for a deeper dive into this overlooked but powerful moment in the Bible.
When people talk about Jesus’ followers, most immediately think of the 12 apostles—Peter, James, John, and the rest. But Jesus didn’t limit His ministry training to just 12 men. In Luke 10:1, we’re told:
“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.” (Luke 10:1, NIV)
These 72 disciples were ordinary believers—men who weren’t part of the inner 12 but were still trusted to represent Jesus and His message. They were trained, equipped, and sent on a mission. Think of them as an early missionary team—like interns going out to apply what they’d learned.
Some translations say “seventy” instead of “seventy-two” because of manuscript differences, but the point remains: a large group, not just the inner circle, played a vital role in Jesus’ ministry.
Why Did Jesus Send Them Out?
Jesus didn’t send the 72 disciples out just to wander. He gave them a purpose and specific instructions. Let’s break it down.
1. To Prepare People for Jesus’ Arrival
Jesus was traveling to different towns, and the 72 were His advance team. Think of them as setting the stage, like a warm-up act before the main event.
“…sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.” (Luke 10:1)
They prepared hearts and minds to receive Jesus Himself. They preached the coming of the Kingdom of God and called people to repentance and faith.
2. To Spread the Gospel Message
Jesus gave them the same message He preached:
“Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’” (Luke 10:9)
Their job was to show—through words and actions—that God’s Kingdom was breaking into the world. They healed, taught, and performed miracles as signs that God’s power was real.
3. To Train Them for Future Ministry
This was like a field test. Jesus wanted His followers to learn by doing. Later, after His resurrection and ascension, these same men would be leaders in the early church. This mission trip gave them hands-on experience they’d need for later.
What Instructions Did Jesus Give Them?
Jesus didn’t just say, “Go.” He gave very specific guidelines for their mission. Here’s what He told them:
Travel Light
“Do not take a purse or bag or sandals…” (Luke 10:4)
He wanted them to rely on God and the hospitality of others. No overpacking. No backup plans. Just faith and obedience.
Go in Pairs
“Sent them two by two…” (Luke 10:1)
There’s wisdom in this. Two can encourage each other, hold each other accountable, and witness together (see Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
Look for Receptive People
“When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them…” (Luke 10:5-6)
They were told to find people open to the message and stay with them. Don’t move house to house looking for better lodging. Stay focused.
Don’t Waste Time on Rejection
“But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet…’” (Luke 10:10-11)
Jesus made it clear: the message is urgent. If people reject it, move on. There’s no time to argue or beg. Offer the truth and let them decide.
What Happened When They Returned?
After their mission, the 72 came back amazed and excited:
“Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!” (Luke 10:17)
They’d seen real spiritual power at work. Miracles, healings, and authority over evil—it was proof that the message they carried had divine backing.
But Jesus reminded them what mattered most:
“Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)
In other words: don’t get caught up in spiritual success. The most important thing is being part of God’s Kingdom.
Who Were These 72 Disciples Specifically?
The Bible doesn’t list their names. While the 12 apostles are named multiple times (e.g., Matthew 10:2-4), the 72 remain anonymous. Some early church traditions try to identify them—names like Barnabas, Luke, Mark, and others are suggested—but there’s no solid evidence.
And honestly, that’s the point.
Jesus doesn’t only use “famous” or well-known people. The 72 show that you don’t need a big platform or title to serve in God’s mission. You just need to be willing.
What Can You Learn from the 72?
Even though this event happened over 2,000 years ago, the mission Jesus gave the 72 still applies today. Here’s how:
1. Every Believer Has a Role in the Mission
You don’t have to be a pastor, seminary grad, or apostle. If you follow Jesus, you’ve got a message to share. You’re part of the team.
2. God Uses the Willing, Not Just the Talented
The 72 were everyday people. There’s no list of qualifications in Luke 10. Jesus sent them because they were available and obedient.
3. There’s Urgency in the Gospel
Jesus said:
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” (Luke 10:2)
That’s still true. People need to hear about Jesus. The time is now. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—it may never come.
4. Ministry Won’t Always Be Comfortable
Jesus warned the 72:
“Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.” (Luke 10:3)
This isn’t easy work. You might face rejection, opposition, or apathy. But Jesus is with you—and that’s enough.
Final Thoughts
The story of the 72 disciples isn’t just an interesting side note in the Gospel of Luke. It’s a powerful reminder that the mission of God is bigger than the twelve apostles, bigger than church leaders, and it includes you.
You might not feel qualified. You might think someone else is better suited. But if you’re willing, Jesus will send you, just like He sent them.
Your job? Be available. Go where you’re sent. Share the message. And trust that God will do the rest.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus sent 72 disciples to spread His message before Him.
- Their mission included preaching, healing, and preparing people.
- They weren’t famous, but they were faithful.
- Every believer today is invited to that same mission.
FAQs: Who Were the 72 Disciples and Why Were They Sent Out?
1. Who were the 72 disciples mentioned in the Bible?
The 72 disciples were followers of Jesus, separate from the 12 apostles, chosen and sent out in Luke 10:1. They were ordinary believers tasked with preparing towns for Jesus’ arrival and spreading His message.
2. Why were the 72 disciples sent out by Jesus?
Jesus sent out the 72 disciples to preach the Kingdom of God, heal the sick, and spiritually prepare communities for His coming visits. It was both a ministry assignment and a training mission.
3. Where does the Bible talk about the 72 disciples?
The story of the 72 disciples is found in Luke 10:1-24. It’s the only place in the Bible where this specific group is mentioned in detail.
4. Is there a difference between the 12 apostles and the 72 disciples?
Yes. The 12 apostles were Jesus’ closest followers and leaders of the early church. The 72 disciples were a larger group of believers also sent out for ministry, but they were not part of the inner circle.
5. Why do some translations say 70 instead of 72 disciples?
Some ancient manuscripts of Luke 10 say 70 while others say 72. The difference is minor and doesn’t change the meaning. Most modern translations include footnotes explaining this variation.
6. Were the names of the 72 disciples ever listed in the Bible?
No, the Bible does not name the 72 disciples. Some church traditions offer possible names, but there’s no confirmed list in Scripture.
7. What instructions did Jesus give to the 72 disciples?
Jesus told them to travel light, go in pairs, rely on hospitality, preach peace, heal the sick, and move on quickly if rejected (Luke 10:1-11).
8. What happened after the 72 disciples returned from their mission?
They returned joyfully, amazed that even demons obeyed them. Jesus affirmed their success but reminded them to rejoice most that their names were written in heaven (Luke 10:17-20).
9. What lessons can we learn from the 72 disciples today?
We learn that God uses ordinary people, the gospel message is urgent, ministry involves real risk, and obedience matters more than fame or recognition.
10. How can I apply the story of the 72 disciples to my life?
Like the 72, you’re called to be a witness for Christ—wherever you are. You don’t need to be a pastor or theologian. Just be available, faithful, and willing to go where Jesus sends you.
