Luke 9:1-9

Contemporary English Version

Instructions for the Twelve Apostles

(Matthew 10.5-15; Mark 6.7-13)

9 Jesus called together his twelve apostles and gave them complete power over all demons and diseases. ² Then he sent them to tell about God's kingdom and to heal the sick. ^3 (A) He told them, “Don't take anything with you! Don't take a walking stick or a traveling bag or food or money or even a change of clothes. ⁴ When you are welcomed into a home, stay there until you leave that town. ^5 (B) If people won't welcome you, leave the town and shake the dust from your feet^[a] as a warning to them.”

⁶ The apostles left and went from village to village, telling the good news and healing people everywhere.

Herod Is Worried

(Matthew 14.1-12; Mark 6.14-29)

^7 (C) Herod^[b] the ruler heard about all that was happening, and he was worried. Some people were saying John the Baptist had come back to life. ⁸ Others were saying Elijah had come^[c] or one of the prophets from long ago had come back to life. ⁹ But Herod said, “I had John's head cut off! Who is this I hear so much about?” Herod was eager to meet Jesus.