Disciple in Luke

Like Matthew, Luke makes a clear distinction between the larger group of disciples and the twelve apostles. But in Luke, at an early stage the twelve are given authority to proclaim the Kingdom of God (Luke 9:1-6). This commission is not only meant for the twelve: Jesus sends out as many as 72 disciples (Luke 10:1-20).

Luke 10:16 points to a close relationship between Jesus and his disciples, and between Jesus and God:

“Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me; and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.”