Jesus sent His twelve disciples with a mission that was initially focused on the Jewish people. This instruction was part of a broader strategy in His ministry. The Jewish people were the original recipients of God's promises, and Jesus aimed to fulfill these promises by starting His ministry among them. This approach underscores the importance of beginning with one's immediate community and the fulfillment of God's covenant with Israel.
While this directive might seem exclusive, it was part of a larger plan that would eventually include all nations. After His resurrection, Jesus would command His followers to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. This initial focus on the Jewish people was a step in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. It teaches us about the importance of obedience, patience, and the understanding that God's plans often unfold in stages. The disciples' mission was to proclaim the kingdom of heaven and demonstrate God's power through healing and miracles, preparing the way for a broader outreach.
