We look at the New Testament today and the parallels between Jesus’ disciples and David’s Mighty Men. Our reading is from Matthew 10 when Jesus sends his disciples out.

How are the exploits of Jesus’ disciples similar to those of David’s Mighty Men? How are they different?

They both do impossible things that can only be done by God. The difference was that the Mighty men were victorious in battle. They killed other men. The disciples brought life and hope. They brought the opposite of death.

When we experience failure, how do we respond (10:14)?

The disciples are told to wipe the dust off their feet and move on. When we experience failure we learn from it and move on. Those who have the greatest success in life often have the greatest failures to go along. The road to success is a bumpy one. It is easy to get discouraged along the way, but hold your head up high. God is with you, and he wants you to succeed in his mission even more than you want to succeed.

Is it easy to be a Mighty Man or Woman of God (10:17-18)? But what is Jesus’ promise (10:19-20)?

No it is not easy. If you are a Mighty Man or Woman of God you will have those who oppose you. But Jesus promises that you will have everything you need to stand for him. Don’t fear because you have the God of the universe on your side.

Why are we able to have courage and not be afraid even when the odds are stacked against us (10:26-31)?

Our life on this earth is nothing. This is not our home. We are only passing through. The life that God intends for us is waiting for us. So while we are here, we can go all out and serve him with everything we got, even if it costs us our life, we have lost nothing, only gained.

What does it mean to acknowledge Jesus before men (10:32)?

It means to live for him. It means not to be ashamed of him. It means that everything we do and say should reflect how he is our God and our Lord.

What does verses 10:37-39 say about being a Mighty Man or Woman for Jesus?

Being a Mighty Man or Woman of God is a selfless thing. The most important thing in our life is Jesus. We will sacrifice and give up everything out of our commitment to him. In the same way the Mighty Men of David would have given everything for the sake of their king. How much more should we who serve the King of Kings.