Question 1

What does Luke 10:1 mean?

Accepted Answer

Luke 10:1 describes how Jesus appointed seventy other followers and sent them out in pairs ahead of him to every town and place he planned to visit. This verse shows Jesus organizing a larger group of disciples to prepare people for his arrival in various locations. In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his followers, expanding his mission beyond the twelve apostles by involving seventy others. He sends them "two and two," which suggests teamwork and mutual support, and their task is to go ahead of Jesus to places he intends to visit. This moment sets up the following verses, where Jesus gives instructions for their journey and mission.

Question 2

The Greek behind Luke 10:1

Accepted Answer

The word "appointed" (ἀνέδειξεν, anedeixen) means to select or designate for a purpose, highlighting that Jesus chose these seventy intentionally for a specific mission. The phrase "two and two" (δύο δύο, duo duo) emphasizes that the disciples were sent in pairs, which was a common practice for safety and credibility in Jewish tradition. The word "before his face" (πρὸ προσώπου αὐτοῦ, pro prosōpou autou) is a Greek expression meaning "ahead of him" or "in advance of him," showing that these disciples were to prepare the way for Jesus himself.

Question 3

Why Luke 10:1 matters

Accepted Answer

Luke 10:1 clarifies that Jesus’ ministry involved more than just the twelve apostles; a larger group was entrusted with spreading his message and preparing communities for his arrival. The verse highlights the importance of teamwork and partnership in carrying out a mission, as Jesus sent the seventy in pairs rather than alone. This verse connects to the broader theme in Luke’s Gospel of outreach and preparation, setting the stage for Jesus’ teachings about the work and challenges his followers would face.

Luke 10:1 (KJV)