And He called the twelve to Himself and began to send them out two by two, and He gave them authority over unclean spirits.
Here begins the more openly apostolic ministry of the Twelve. Until now they were mainly following Christ, learning from His words and observing His works. Now comes the stage when they must enter into active work and bear witness to what they had received from Jesus. He sends them out two by two. This order has both practical and spiritual meaning. Two witnesses are more firmly established than one. They could encourage one another, correct one another, and keep one another in moments of weakness. Moreover, this manner testified that the ministry of the Gospel is not an independent undertaking of a single individual, but a work appointed by God and carried out in brotherly unity. Christ gives them authority over unclean spirits. That is, their ministry must be a testimony not only of word, but also of power. They went out not by their own ability, but by the authority given by Christ. This is an important principle for all times. True service to God is possible only when the calling, the power, and the authority come from the Lord Himself.