The Mission of the Seventy

101 Later the Master selected seventy and sent them ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he intended to go. 2 He gave them this charge: "What a huge harvest! And how few the harvest hands. So on your knees; ask the God of the Harvest to send harvest hands. 3 "On your way! But be careful - this is hazardous work. You're like lambs in a wolf pack. 4 "Travel light. Comb and toothbrush and no extra luggage. "Don't loiter and make small talk with everyone you meet along the way. 5 "When you enter a home, greet the family, 'Peace.' 6 If your greeting is received, then it's a good place to stay. But if it's not received, take it back and get out. Don't impose yourself. 7 "Stay at one home, taking your meals there, for a worker deserves three square meals. Don't move from house to house, looking for the best cook in town. 8 "When you enter a town and are received, eat what they set before you, 9 heal anyone who is sick, and tell them, 'God's kingdom is right on your doorstep!'

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 10:1-9

Commentary on Luke 10:1-16

(Read Luke 10:1-16)

Christ sent the seventy disciples, two and two, that they might strengthen and encourage one another. The ministry of the gospel calls men to receive Christ as a Prince and a Saviour; and he will surely come in the power of his Spirit to all places whither he sends his faithful servants. But the doom of those who receive the grace of God in vain, will be very fearful Those who despise the faithful ministers of Christ, who think meanly of them, and look scornfully upon them, will be reckoned as despisers of God and Christ.