The answer is: House of Israel

Matt 10:6 - They were to go to the Jews first, and saw them like sheep wandering, lost without a shepherd. They were the chosen people of God and it was right that they should be offered the gospel first.

In Matthew 10:6, the directive for the disciples to target the "house of Israel" highlights the importance of their mission and the unique covenant relationship that the Jewish people had with God. It’s intriguing to note that the terminology “lost sheep” is a biblical echo of Ezekiel 34, where the Lord expresses deep concern for the wandering sheep of Israel. This imagery connects the Old and New Testaments, reinforcing the continuity of God’s care for His people.

Now, consider that while Jesus assigned the apostles this specific targeting, he also expanded their mission horizons later on. In Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, his followers were called to "go therefore and make disciples of all nations." This evolution indicates a beautiful arc of inclusion, which is powerful in understanding the universal nature of the message Jesus delivered.

As we contemplate the disciples' journey, we discover they were not all scholars but everyday folks—a mix of fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots. This ragtag group teaches us that the transformational message can come through all kinds of individuals, reminding us that everyone has a role to play in the grand tapestry of faith. Imagine the excitement they must have felt embarking on this mission: mixing together learning from the law, the urgency of repentance, and the promise of community healing. So next time you think of the original disciples, remember their first calling and how it opened the door for a global dialogue that still resonates today!