Jesus
divided the 12 disciples into pairs and sent them out on mission,
giving them authority over impure spirits.
This
sending of the disciples two-by-two has a practical side. Solomon
advises, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return
for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other
up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also,
if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep
warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes
4:9-12, NIV)
There
is a spiritual side as well. Jesus said, “Again,
truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything
they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For
where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
(Matthew
18:19-20, NIV)
The
Book of Acts repeatedly illustrates these pairings:
- Peter & John (Acts 3:1-5)
- Barnabas & Paul (Acts 13:42-43)
- Paul & Silas (Acts 16:16-30)
Following
Jesus' model of working in pairs increases accountability and
provides encouragement. Working in pairs, the disciples experienced
ministry success; they drove out many demons and healed the sick.
(Mark
6:13)
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