This promise reminds me of Matthew 10:28 where Jesus tells his disciples, "Do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." Snakes and scorpions in verse 19 refer to the demons, the evil forces marshaled against God's kingdom. The enemy is Satan himself who is called a scorpion in 2 Corinthians 11:3 and Revelation 12:9, 14f, 20:2. (Marshall, 429)
Jesus has another enigmatic comment to offer the seventy. "Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven" (10:20).
The theme of heavenly books in which the names of the faithful are recorded is widespread in Jewish sources as well as throughout the New Testament (Ex. 32:32f; Ps. 68:29; Phil. 4:3; Heb. 12:23; Rev. 3:5). Why did Jesus say this and why did he say it at this point?
It seems to me that he is talking about spiritual pride. He is saying bring your faith and spiritual power along when you come on my Mission Trip, but attribute your successes to God. Leave your ego at home.
Come to think of it, I can't remember a time when I did leave my ego at home when I wished I had brought it along. And I can't think of a time when I brought it along that I was glad I did. We are to be representatives of Jesus, announcing the advent of the kingdom of God. Before you go on your next trip, take your ego out of the suitcase, but make sure you pack your faith and your courage.
Sources Consulted
Howard Marshall,New International Greek Testament Commentary on Luke (William B.
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