1. Jesus' authority and commission (1-6)

Jesus wanted to reach the whole world with the message of his kingdom and his healing ministry. Jesus would do this through his disciples. He called the Twelve together and equipped them with specific authority to drive out demons and cure diseases. Then he told them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. They were to wholly depend on God to provide through others' generous hospitality. They were to wholly follow God's leading in ministry. (5) In simple faith, the Twelve obeyed what Jesus told them. Their work was effective and fruitful. Let us pray for such spiritual authority, faith, trust and obedience to also proclaim the good news and bring healing.

2. "Who, then, is this?" (7-9)

Herod heard all about Jesus' ministry. There were many conflicting opinions about Jesus. Some thought he was John the Baptist or Elijah or some other Old Testament prophet had come back to life. Herod, knowing what he had done to John, was perplexed and so he tried to see Jesus.