22:35-37 Why did Jesus change His mind about what the disciples could carry?
22:35-37 Why did Jesus change His mind about what the disciples could carry?
When Jesus first sent the disciples out He was still with them, and the reason He forbade them to carry the things He now sanctions was because He wanted them to trust Him to supply their needs through the generosity of the people to whom they ministered (cp Mt 10:1-10; Mk 6:7-11; Lk 9:1-4; 10:1-8), but now the disciples must prepare themselves for ministry without Jesus.
He would soon be branded a criminal - numbered among the transgressors (V37) - and crucified. In contrast to the days when they shared Jesus' popularity, the disciples now could no longer count on the charity of fellow Israelites. The sword Jesus recommended they purchase in V36 signified protection, not aggression.