(a) Jesus called the twelve disciples and sent them out in twos. He gave them authority over the devil and evil spirits. He instructed them not to take bread, bag or money on their journey. They could take a staff, wear sandals and put on one tunic. If they entered a house and they were welcomed they were to stay there till their departure. If any place did not receive them or listen to them, they should shake off the dust from their feet as a testimony against them, as they left there.

(b) The differences between Matthew and Mark accounts are:
(i) The account of Matthew shows that they were sent to the Jews alone to prove that Jesus was their Messiah while Mark said they were generally directed to Jews and non-Jews.
(ii) Matthew makes use of kingdom of heaven while Mark uses kingdom of God.
(iii) Matthew does not mention the names of the twelve apostles but Mark does.