The answer is: None of these

Matt 10:9-10

In the context of Matthew 10:9-10, Jesus sends his 12 disciples on a mission to heal the sick and preach the good news, but he instructs them not to take what we might consider basic travel essentials, such as silver or gold, a bag for their journey, or extra clothes. This prompts a fascinating inquiry into the reliance on faith rather than material possessions.

The appearance of that “no bag” rule might seem a bit surprising, but it underscores a vital lesson: trust in divine provision. Jesus was encouraging his followers to depend on the hospitality of those they encountered rather than prepare for every contingency. This not-so-conventional approach connects with many biblical stories showcasing faith—think of the Israelites in the desert receiving manna, or Elijah being fed by ravens. These narratives deadline the idea that God will provide for his faithful.

It also resonates with much broader wisdom, as people from various traditions throughout history attest that continual reliance on external provisions can lead to a disconnection from deeper spiritual truths. Just like today, this dependency highlights an interesting tension between faith and preparation. The disciples ultimately witnessed remarkable things that often stemmed from stepping into the unknown, relying wholly upon the grace and goodness of others, and, importantly, on the mission they were called to carry out—shining examples of the kinds of journeys that challenge conventions and invoke deeper reflections on faith in action. If we look closely, these mini-adventures during their missions offer pearls of spiritual insights valuable even now.