The Presence of The Church - Luke 10:1-12

Intro

Youth Sundays are the worst

Story of High School Billy believing the church was supposed to be an emotional church camp-like experience all the time.

Lovingly corrected -

What is the church to do or what should the presence of the church mean in our world?

That is the question we are tackling

We In a series called The Dearest Place taken from line in sermon by Spurgeon

“Still, imperfect as it is, [the church] is the dearest place on earth to us…

Every church in every age is imperfect b/c every church filled w/imperfect people

Yet, as we’ve seen, the church exists in the world for God’s glory, church is strengthened by God’s Spirit

Last week we saw that we are Empowered to love one another to the degree that watching world would be compelled to say Jesus is there

God’s love never meant to terminate on us (Dead Sea) (Mineral rich but life can’t happen, it’s too dense…it needs to flow out) but to flow thru us…

Today we turn attention to the presence of the church in the world / What are we supposed to do?

Here is what we will discover

Big Idea: The Church is called to be a faithful, peaceful, and fruitful presence

Lets walk through our passage and see first

1. A Faithful Presence (v1-3)

Luke 10:1–3 (ESV)

After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.

In the Gospel of Luke, we find an account that is both familiar yet challenging

In just three verses, there's a recurring theme - Jesus 'sending.'

It's mentioned four times.

In the previous chapter, the twelve apostles had been sent with a specific mission: to proclaim the Kingdom and to heal the sick.

But here, it’s 72 'others' who are being sent out. Who were these people?

They weren’t the chosen Twelve.

They were everyday people like us.

People saved by the grace of Jesus, commissioned by Him, and sent out with a purpose.

Every follower of Jesus is given the same mandate.

It begs the question: Are we being faithful to that mission?

If you break it down, you realize that these 72 were sent in pairs to 36 towns.

It seems like a daunting task.

Can just two people make an impact on an entire town or village?

According to Jesus, they can.

It makes you stope and think: if two can bring about a difference, imagine the impact of a closely-knit community group or even a our whole church...

Jesus speaks of the 'harvest.' The very people who will embrace the Kingdom of God.

Yet, He laments that while the harvest is plentiful, the laborers are few.

But notice, Jesus doesn’t just pray for more laborers; He prays that the existing laborers would be spurred to action.

It’s a call to each one of us.

So here is the question: Are we laborers standing idle, or are we engaged in the harvest?

George Stott, a one-legged school teacher from Scotland, volunteered for missionary service in China.

When asked why he with only one leg thought of going to China, he said, “I do not see those with two legs going, so I must.”

He served for more than twenty years on the mission field in China.

There are two foundational reasons we are called to 'go.'

Firstly, because Jesus, our King, commands it.

When He speaks, we are to obey.

He's the one who has 'all authority.'

Secondly, and most profoundly, because Jesus Himself was sent for us.

(In college this verse changed the trajectory of my life)

2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV)

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

He left the splendors of heaven, became one of us, faced our temptations, and yet lived a life without sin.

The righteous One went to the cross, becoming the substitute for our sinfulness.

By His resurrection, He conquered all adversities for us.

So, as we are received into His family, we too are sent out.

Just as the Father sent Jesus, He sends us.

The task is not without its challenges.

Jesus warns that He sends us 'as lambs among wolves.' The image is stark.

But what it symbolizes is crucial.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to have the courage to enter into the world knowing the harvest is bountiful.

But equally, we are to have the gentleness of lambs.

The Kingdom of God doesn’t advance through force.

We approach the world, not as imposing conquerors, but with a humble dependence on God.

When Hudson Taylor was director of the China Inland Mission, he often interviewed candidates for the mission field. On one occasion, he met with a group of applicants to determine their motivations for service.

"And why do you wish to go as a foreign missionary?" he asked one.

"I want to go because Christ has commanded us to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature," was the reply.

Another said, "I want to go because millions are perishing without Christ." Others gave different answers.

Hudson Taylor responded, "All of these motives, however good and true, will fail you in times of testings, trials, tribulations, and possible death.

There is but one motive that will sustain you in trial and testing; namely, the love of Christ".

We have a dual calling to be both brave and gentle in our mission, always relying on the One who sends us.

Examine your own hearts and lives in light of Jesus' commission.

Self-Examination: The first and most immediate step is introspection.

Are we living lives that reflect a faithful presence in our communities?

Are we actively seeking opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we go?

Embrace Vulnerability: Being 'lambs among wolves' requires vulnerability.

It's tempting to build walls, especially in a world that often seems hostile to our faith.

Yet, Jesus calls us to step out, even when it feels unsafe, trusting in His protection and guidance.

Where in your life might God be calling you to step into vulnerability for the sake of His name?

Active Participation: The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

This isn’t merely about numbers but about active participation.

What steps can we take to be more engaged in the mission field, whether that's in our neighborhoods, workplaces, or schools?

Community Engagement: Remember the power of two.

If two can impact a town, what more can be done when we combine our efforts with fellow believers?

This week, consider joining with a community group. There's strength in numbers, especially when united in Christ.

Rely on Jesus: Finally, always remember that it's not by our strength or wisdom that we are sent.

As Jesus is the vine and we are the branches, it's only by remaining in Him that we can bear fruit.

Spend time daily in prayer and the Word, seeking His guidance and strength for the mission ahead.

We are faithful yes, be are also a peaceful presence

2. A Peaceful Presence (v.3-7)

Luke 10:3–7 (ESV)

Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house.

As we delve deeper into this passage, Jesus' instructions provide both a challenge and a roadmap for being His ambassadors in our world.

Trust in Jesus

Jesus' call is clear: Go.

Not to a pre-determined location or with a fixed script but with an open heart and a listening ear, to wherever He leads.

Our task is not to chart our own course but to Go where He sends us, to the regions, communities, or neighborhoods where we find ourselves.

This is a call to an active faith, to a context-specific mission where we trust Jesus to provide for our every need.

Our journey in itself becomes a testament to our radical, other-worldly trust in the Lord's provision.

This trust isn't unwarranted.

As Christ reminds his disciples in Luke 22:35

Luke 22:35 (ESV)

And he said to them, “When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “Nothing.”

God has been faithful, we can trust that he will go before His church.

Peace that Jesus gives is not the absence of trouble, but is rather the confidence that He is there with you always.

We can have assurance and peace because He is with us.

Maggie was a renowned surgeon in her city, known not only for her skills but for her calm demeanor, especially during particularly intense procedures.

Residents and fellow surgeons often marveled at how Maggie could remain so steady and focused, even when unforeseen complications arose.

One day, after a particularly challenging surgery, a resident asked her, "Maggie, how do you stay so calm? Most would have panicked with that arterial bleed."

Maggie smiled, taking a moment to think. "When I was a child, I used to watch my mother knead dough for bread," she began.

"Sometimes, the dough wouldn't cooperate—it was too sticky or too tough. But no matter what, my mother had this consistent, steady rhythm. Her hands were firm, her motions precise. I asked her once how she managed it, especially when the dough wasn’t cooperating."

The resident listened, intrigued.

Maggie continued, "My mother told me it was a lot like life. There are always going to be challenges, unexpected turns.

But she believed that with trust in Jesus, she could find a rhythm, a steadiness, even when things felt out of control. It wasn’t about predicting every twist and turn; it was about trusting she’d be guided through them. I took that lesson to heart."

Each time I enter the OR, I remember that steadiness. I trust that, even in the challenging moments, Jesus is guiding my hands. It’s not about blind faith. It’s about a deep-rooted trust built over time—a trust that provides peace and stability even amidst chaos."

As we go we go as agents of peace

We display the peace or "shalom" that only Christ can give.

Shalom is not just the absence of conflict, but wholeness.

Let me ask a question: Are Christians better known for what they oppose or what they stand for?

The answer should be what we are for.

To be an agent of shalom is to be like Jesus, who was called a friend of sinners –

He didn’t simply tolerate sinners; He warmly welcomed them, building relationships that spoke of genuine interest and love.

Jesus tells the 72 to go into homes and meet people.

Let your peace rest there.

Here is the thing we should be doing the same.

We should get to know our neighbors, build connections with co-workers.

Not just shallow interactions, but deep, intentional relationships where people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Jesus isn't asking us to turn people into projects or to notch up conversions like a scorecard.

He's urging genuine human connection.

This connection often begins with the everyday places and people – your workplace, school, gym, or even within your home.

Every interaction becomes a divine assignment, a chance to show Christ’s love.

Recognize those who are open:

The "son of peace" is symbolic of someone who is hospitable, warm, and open to spiritual truths.

(Riff who do you know that you may have missed - Atheist or Single Mom)

Our mission is not to forcibly convince, but to find and invest in those who are receptive.

Not every ground is fertile; not every heart is ready.

Jesus tells us to be discerning: if someone is open, invest deeply; if not, move forward.

It’s crucial to understand that walking away isn’t a sign of giving up on a person but a recognition of God's perfect timing.

Our lives are not a series of random events. In Acts 17:26-27

Acts 17:26–27 (ESV)

And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us,

We are reminded that God, in His sovereignty, has orchestrated our paths to cross with specific individuals.

He's strategically placed us around people who might be far from Him so that we might be the bridge they walk across to find Him.

It’s about imitating Jesus, drawing others near through our peace, love, and genuine care, and leading them to the source of all peace – Jesus Himself.

As we reflect on the call to be a peaceful presence, take a moment to consider your own lives:

1. When faced with uncertainty or challenges, do we operate out of self-sufficiency or do we lean into God's promise of provision?

This week, what would it look like to take a situation where you feel unequipped and choose to entrust it to God's care.

2. Think of your daily interactions.

Are they transactional or relational?

Think of a relationship where you've been surface-level…what would it look like to intentionally invest time and authentic interest into it.

3. Are you discerning as to whether there is an openness to the gospel?

Are you being discerning?

Think about your interactions: are you trying to force conversations or relationships where there might not be readiness?

Seek God's guidance on where He's leading you to plant seeds and where He's asking you to patiently wait.

4. As you go about your week, stay attentive to those "divine intersections" God places in your path.

Approach them not as coincidences but as intentional moments orchestrated by God for His glory.

Coram Deo when we embody a peaceful presence, our lives become a vibrant testament to the gospel we believe in.

We are a faithful and peaceful presence, and finally we see we are a fruitful presence

3. A Fruitful Presence (v. 8-12, 16)

Luke 10:8–12 (ESV)

Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you. Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ But whenever you enter a town and they do not receive you, go into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near.’ I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.

Luke 10:16 (ESV)

“The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

Remember what towns were they going to?

Samaritan towns.

You can't help but be struck by the backdrop of this mission.

Jesus sends His followers into Samaritan towns, places fraught with cultural tension, and animosity.

These aren’t the scenic routes or welcoming villages, these are the margins of their society.

But in Jesus’ grand design, these margins are precisely where the gospel often shines brightest.

They are to go in these difficult places and bring healing.

When we hear "heal the sick," we might immediately think of the supernatural - of God showing up in ways that defies explanation.

While the 72 disciples had unique empowerment in their mission, healing, in the broader biblical sense, covers so much more ground.

It's about recognizing the myriad aches of humanity - the emotional, the psychological, and the societal.

It's about playing a part, however small, in God's grand design to make all things new.

Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan .

That story, doesn't have any supernatural flair, it’s just a dude taking notice and providing healing right?

It is profound in its depiction of Christ-like compassion.

The Samaritan, in his actions, was mending the fabric of a broken society, thread by thread.

This is our call too, not waiting for some grand divine intervention but stepping into the mundane, into the overlooked, into the everyday needs we see around us.

Why we partner w/Fostering, Homeless,Pregnancy Care Center, Younglife Etc.

Doesn’t need to be church-wide or even church-sponsored / (The church should do x,y,z....)

we can go 2x2

You see needs…don’t assume it is someone else who needs to meet it. Jesus could be stirring your heart to meet that need.

God’s given you eyes to see brokenness, suffering, enslavement to sin Eph. 2:10

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

But that’s not all / Notice it’s both/and / Heal & proclaim / Ministry & msg of rec. 2 Cor. 5

One of most compassionate things we can do is proclaim KoG is near What does that mean?

I think of Mark 2 – Paralytic lowered / Sins forgiven / Not why I came, I wanted physical healing/ Jesus meets both his physical and his Deeper need…

If church is unwilling to meet real felt needs of people, why would they ever listen to our message?

If church unwilling to share gospel, we aren’t ultimately loving, meeting deepest need

Without proclamation might render our deeds as just another act of kindness.

Proclamation lends our deeds eternal weight.

In a small town, there was an old gardener.

He was famous for his green thumb, he seemed like he could resuscitate any plant.

One day, a young woman approached him with a request. She pointed towards an old, withering apple tree in her yard and said, "Can you make it bloom again?"

The gardener inspected the tree and noticed two issues: the tree had several diseased branches, and its roots seemed to be struggling in the compacted, poor-quality soil.

He told her, "There are two things this tree needs. Immediate care and long-term nourishment."

He first attended to the immediate problem, pruning away the diseased branches, making the tree look healthier. But he knew that wasn't enough.

He then turned his attention to the soil, enriching it with nutrients and ensuring it was well-aerated, addressing the deeper problem. "This," he said, pointing to the enriched ground, "will ensure the tree not only survives but thrives in the years to come."

Sure enough, in the following spring, the tree bloomed beautifully, bearing juicy apples.

Like the tree, people have both immediate and deeper needs.

We can address a visible problem, but without addressing the underlying cause, the brokenness of life just resurfaces.

The church, in its role of healing and proclaiming, tends to both these layers of needs.

It's not just about the immediate relief but ensuring that there's a lasting change, a deep-rooted transformation brought by the message of Christ.

Will there be times it is Awkward? / Maybe / But harvest plentiful /

This means there are people who are More willing to receive than us to share

Some will reject… / Our responsibility is simply to bear witness

Luke 10:16 (ESV)

“The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

If they hear you, it’s me thru you / Reject you, reject me… Father

Don’t need gift of ‘evangelism’ / We evangelize all the time about stuff that doesn’t matter

Even if you can’t explain message in detail / Can you tell about your experience?

John 9 – (What happened to you?) I was blind, now I can see / I was blind, now I see / I was blind…

As we reflect on our role, let's consider:

The uncomfortable terrains God might be leading us into.

It's easy to stay within our comfort zones, within familiar terrains.

Yet, Jesus often calls us to step into the unfamiliar, to be His hands and feet in places we'd rather avoid.

Think about the needs we can address this week.

Needs aren’t always glaring. Sometimes they're subtle, hidden behind closed doors or masked behind brave faces. But with a discerning heart, we can spot them and respond.

Consider your personal encounter with Jesus.

Every one of us has a story. It might not be dramatic, but it's uniquely ours.

Let's find opportunities to share it, not as a rehearsed pitch but as a heartfelt sharing of what Jesus has done in our lives.

As the church, our calling isn't just about gatherings or services.

It's about being a tangible, transformative presence in the world.

Through our actions and our words, we're entrusted with the profound privilege of making the invisible Kingdom visible, of bringing glimpses of heaven down to earth.

Let’s embrace this mission wholeheartedly, for in it, we find our truest purpose.

We are called to be a faithful, peaceful, and fruitful presence in our community.

Are you willing to trust the Lord, and take the gospel out

David Livingstone, pioneer missionary to Africa, received a letter saying, “Have you found a good road to where you are? If so, we want to know how to send other men to join you.”

Livingstone replied, “If you have men who will come only if there is a good road, I do not want them. I want those who will come if there is no road at all.”

Are you willing to build roads Coram Deo?

Application Questions:

Where might God be pushing me out of my comfort zone to serve, and am I willing to step into those places?

As I go about my week, what needs can I discern around me, and how can I respond with Christ-like compassion?

How often do I pray for the Lord to send laborers into the harvest, and do I see myself as one of those laborers?

Who in my immediate circles seems most open to gospel discussions, and how can I lovingly draw nearer to them?