What is the context?
Jesus gathers the twelve and gives them power and authority over demons and disease. He then sends them to proclaim God’s kingdom and heal the sick. Their work extends the preaching and restoration readers have already seen in His own ministry.
The Greek words bring out what He gives: δύναμις, dunamis (DOO-nah-miss), is power or ability; ἐξουσία, exousia (ek-soo-SEE-ah), includes authority or the right to act. Both are supplied by Jesus for this mission. (Thayer, G1411; G1849)
They are to travel without provisions of their own and remain in the house that receives them. If a town refuses them, shaking the dust from their feet is to serve as a testimony against it. The instructions combine dependence on hospitality with the seriousness of the message they carry.
Later Jesus recalls how they lacked nothing on this journey, then gives different instructions for the circumstances ahead. Reading the two scenes together keeps this first mission within the course of His preparation of the disciples. (Luke 22:35–38)
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christian readings commonly see Jesus preparing His chosen messengers to preach and serve under His authority, relying on God’s provision. The Catholic bishops’ note on Luke describes the mission as continuing the work Jesus has been doing. (USCCB note on Luke 9:1–6)
Interpreters explain the differing travel instructions in the Gospel accounts in more than one way. Wesley reads Mark’s allowance of a staff as permission to take one already owned, while the Catholic bishops’ notes on Mark suggest adaptation to different settings of ministry. These are explanations in commentaries and notes, not uniform rulings held by every member of their churches. (Wesley on Mark 6:8–9; USCCB note on Mark 6:8–9)
Where does this fit in God's plan?
At the end of Luke, the risen Jesus sends His witnesses to proclaim repentance and forgiveness to all nations and promises power from on high. Acts continues with the promise of the Holy Spirit and witness to the ends of the earth. This earlier journey is part of the preparation of those who will carry that message. (Luke 24:44–49; Acts 1:4–8)
The mission is therefore larger than learning a travel routine. Jesus is forming people who receive from Him and bring His message and care to others, a purpose that will continue through the suffering, resurrection and outward witness that follow.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.