Commentary on Luke 22:35

Verse Text: "And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing."

Introduction

This verse captures a critical moment in Jesus' discourse with His disciples. It invites reflection on themes of reliance upon God, the nature of ministry, and the sufficiency of divine provision. The response of the disciples indicates their firsthand experience of God’s faithfulness in their mission, which is central to understanding the nature of Christian service.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the context of first-century Judea, itinerant preaching was common. Jesus had previously sent His disciples on missions, instructing them to take nothing for their journey (cf. Luke 9:3; 10:4). This practice not only exemplified the urgent nature of their mission but also their total dependence on God and the hospitality of those they ministered to.

Theological Insights

1. Divine Provision

Matthew Henry observes that this question from Christ about lacking anything serves to remind the disciples of God’s provision during their ministry. It underscores the principle that when sent by God, one lacks nothing essential to fulfill His mission. The disciples affirmed their lack of need, highlighting a crucial aspect of faith – reliance upon God’s sustenance.

2. The Nature of Discipleship

Albert Barnes emphasizes that the lack of material possessions does not equate to a lack of richness in spiritual experience. Discipleship requires a willingness to surrender earthly cares and rely fully on spiritual sustenance. This teaches the importance of prioritizing spiritual over material wealth in the life of a believer.

3. The Call to Trust

Adam Clarke elaborates on the necessity of trusting God in ministry. The question asked by Jesus is rhetorical, designed to provoke thought about the necessity of faith over fear. The disciples’ response reinforces that they were taken care of throughout their period of ministry, which is an encouragement to all who seek to serve.

Practical Applications

• Trust in God’s Provision: Believers are encouraged to trust that when they undertake the work of the Lord, He will provide for their needs. This is crucial for pastors and missionaries who may feel the weight of financial concerns.
• Dependency on Spiritual Resources: The account encourages reliance on spiritual rather than material resources. Pastors can remind their congregations that spiritual gifts and empowerment often outweigh material securities.
• Revisiting Mission Strategies: Churches can learn from this passage to evaluate their mission strategies, ensuring they embody a spirit of trust in God’s guidance and provision rather than merely logistical concerns.

Conclusion

Luke 22:35 serves as a profound reminder of the sufficiency of God in all aspects of life and ministry. Jesus’ question and the disciples’ answer inspire faith, reflecting a central tenet of discipleship: total reliance on divine provision. As faith leaders, may we ensure that we are living testimonies to this truth, affirming with our lives that when God sends us, He supplies our every need.