Why did Jesus limit the twelve's mission to Israel?
Jesus limited the twelve’s mission to Israel because the Abrahamic Covenant belonged only to the nation of Israel. He was the covenant’s Framer and was not confused. Although He had a heart for Gentiles, it was not yet time; He came to fulfill the promises made to Abraham, so He sent them to Israel’s lost sheep.
Les explains that the restriction was not bigotry or ignorance. The Abrahamic Covenant had nothing to do with anyone but the nation of Israel, and Jesus knew that because He was the Framer and maker of that covenant. He was not confused or bigoted; He had a heart for Gentiles, but it wasn’t time. He had come to fulfill the promises made all the way back to Abraham, so He commanded the twelve not to go to anyone but the lost sheep of the house of Israel. The Canaanite woman illustrates the same reason: she was a Gentile, and He said He could not give to Gentiles what belongs to the children—Israel. Then in chapter 10, verse 7, as they go, they are to preach that the kingdom of heaven is at hand.