Don't Be Caught Unarmed

Luke 22:35-38 (NLT)
Then Jesus asked them, "When I sent you out to preach the Good News and you did not have money, a traveler's bag, or extra clothing, did you lack anything?"
"No," they replied.
"But now," he said, "take your money and a traveler's bag. And if you don't have a sword, sell your clothes and buy one! For the time has come for this prophecy about me to be fulfilled: 'He was counted among those who were rebels.' Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true."
"Lord," they replied, "we have two swords among us."
"That's enough," he said.



Here Jesus reversed his earlier advice regarding how to travel (Luke 9:3). The disciples were to bring bags, money, and swords. They would be facing hatred and persecution and would need to be prepared. When Jesus said “That is enough,” he may have meant it was not time to think of using swords. In either case, mention of a sword vividly communicated the trials they were soon to face.

Jesus is reminding them of how God took care of them in there previous journeys. He says now "take your money and a traveler's bag. And if you don't have a sword, sell your clothes and buy one!" He is not stating that God isn't going to provide, but rather go prepared as the road ahead is a long one and they will encounter many struggles for Christ's sake.

He may tell us today, don't just take what you heard in the pulpit and trust that its enough to keep you safe, but rather be in My word daily on your own, arm yourself with My word and plant it deep in your heart, so when trials come, you will be adequately prepared to defend the gospel of Jesus Christ. Don't be Caught unarmed.