How Many Times Did Jesus Send Out His Disciples?

Jesus Christ had many disciples during his time on earth, and he sent them out on various occasions to spread his teachings and heal the sick. But how many times did Jesus send out his disciples exactly? Let’s take a closer look at the Bible to find out.

The First Sending

The first time Jesus sent out his disciples was recorded in Matthew 10:5-15. Here, we see Jesus calling his twelve disciples together and giving them authority to drive out impure spirits and heal every disease and sickness.

He then sends them out with specific instructions to go only to the lost sheep of Israel and not to the Gentiles or Samaritans. They were also instructed not to take any money or extra clothing with them but instead rely on the hospitality of those they meet.

The Second Sending

The second time Jesus sends out his disciples is recorded in Luke 9:1-6. Here, Jesus calls together the twelve again, giving them power and authority over all demons and diseases.

This time, he instructs them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts. They were also instructed to stay in one house in each town they visit until they leave that town.

The Third Sending

The third time Jesus sends out his disciples is recorded in Luke 10:1-12. This time he sends out seventy-two other disciples, giving them similar instructions as before but with a few variations.

They were instructed not to greet anyone on the road but instead go straight to their destination. They were also told that if they enter a house and are welcomed, they should stay there and eat whatever is offered to them.

The Fourth Sending

The fourth sending of Jesus’ disciples is recorded in Mark 6:7-13. Here we see Jesus sending out the twelve again, giving them authority over evil spirits and instructing them to take nothing for the journey except a staff. They were also instructed to wear sandals but not to take an extra tunic.

The Fifth Sending

The fifth and final sending of Jesus’ disciples is recorded in Matthew 28:19-20. This time, however, it was not just the twelve or the seventy-two, but all of his disciples that Jesus sent out. This is known as the Great Commission, where Jesus commands his followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything he had commanded.

In Conclusion

In total, Jesus sent out his disciples five times during his ministry on earth. Each time was unique in its instructions and purpose, but they all had one thing in common: spreading the Good News of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. As modern-day believers, we too are called to follow in their footsteps and share this message with others.