Jesus gave the apostles power to do the same as he did (preaching and healing: Matthew 10:8, Matthew 9:35)—as signs of the coming and reign of the Messiah (see Matthew 11:3–5). The fact that Jesus here entrusts his apostles with the same ministry that he himself conducted shows his glory even more, as he is shown not merely to be an exceptionally gifted person, but the sovereign Giver of good gifts himself.
The task given to the apostles here in Matthew 10:8 (preaching and healing) is the same as that which characterized Jesus’ ministry (see Matthew 9:35). Healing the sick, raising the dead, and cleansing the lepers all served as signs of the arrival of the Messiah and his reign (see Matthew 11:3–5)1
The fact that Jesus here entrusts his apostles with the very same ministry that he himself conducted amplifies his greatness even more, as he is shown not merely to be an exceptionally gifted person, but the sovereign Giver of good gifts himself. The greatness of the Giver is amplified when his followers exhibit these gifts. Their actions testify to the fact that the kingdom of heaven is at hand.2
7 And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’