Faith without religion.
Duality and Unity in the Body of Christ
In a recent teaching, we delved into the intriguing accounts of Jesus sending out His followers, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. This exploration revealed a fascinating distinction between the two groups: the twelve apostles and the seventy others. Initially, I mistakenly combined these accounts, but upon closer examination, significant differences emerged, offering deeper insights into the nature of the Body of Christ.
The twelve apostles, as described in Matthew, were called to minister specifically to the lost sheep of Israel, embodying a more feminine aspect of the Body of Christ. They were instructed to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves, facing various fears and challenges. In contrast, the seventy, as recorded in Luke, were appointed and sent out with a broader mission, not restricted to Israel alone. This group, described using masculine terms, was given the assurance that nothing would harm them, and their names were written in heaven.
This distinction between the two groups highlights a broader spiritual metaphor. The apostles, representing the figurative feminine, were called to a nurturing and protective role, while the seventy, embodying the masculine, were appointed to boldly advance the Kingdom. This duality reflects the essence of the Body of Christ, which encompasses both masculine and feminine elements, united in purpose and mission.
The teaching also touched on the symbolic significance of the seventy, drawing parallels to the seventy elders appointed by Moses. This foreshadowing suggests a future where the Body of Christ would transcend traditional roles, embracing a more assertive and inclusive identity.
In conclusion, the accounts of the twelve and the seventy offer profound insights into the diverse and unified nature of the Body of Christ. As believers, we are called to embrace both the nurturing and bold aspects of our faith, working together to fulfill the mission entrusted to us.