Peace – an unconditional invitation The unconditionality of peace according to Luke 10:5

Abstract

The sending of the 72 disciples is a special passage in the Gospel of Luke that emphasises the active role Jesus took in the selection and sending of the messengers. A central aspect in this narrative is the proclamation of peace (“shalom”) as an unconditional offer to all people by God. This peace greeting (and wishing) is given freely without condition or expectation – it is God’s gift to humanity. The expressions šālôm and eirēnē reflect a shift from material dimensions of wellbeing to a comprehensive concept of internal and external salvation.
Lukas deliberately distinguishes between the 72 and the 12 disciples but highlights their common mission: to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. The messengers are sent out in pairs of witnesses to ensure credibility, while the metaphors of the harvest and the sheep among wolves point to the urgency and perilousness of their mission. The instructions to undertake their journey with humility and hospitality symbolise the messenger’s dependency on God and their complete commitment to spreading peace. A peace that remains and exists even when met with rejection – a peace that is unconditional and inalienable.