1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction.
2 The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;
4 Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
5 These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans,
6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
7 And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’
8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.
9 Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts,
10 And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.
11 And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart.
12 As you enter the house, greet it.
13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.
14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.
15 Truly, I say to you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.
16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues,
18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.
19 When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.
20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death.
22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.”
25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
26 “So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.”
27 What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.
28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.
30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered.
31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
32 So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven,
33 but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.
34 “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.”
35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
36 And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household.
37 Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
40 “Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.
41 The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.
42 And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
The True Meaning of Matthew 10
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Matthew, a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the teachings and ministry of Jesus. Jesus commissions and empowers his twelve disciples to go out and preach the good news of the Kingdom of God in this chapter. He prepares them for the challenges and persecutions they will face, while also reminding them of the importance of their mission and the rewards that await those who remain faithful.
The events described in this chapter foreshadow the growth of the early Christian church, as the disciples are sent out to spread the gospel message to the world. We see echoes of Jesus’ own teachings, such as the call to take up one’s cross and follow him (Matthew 10:38), which are further emphasized in the disciples’ experiences. We will gain a deeper understanding of the early followers of Christ’s unwavering faith and determination as we delve into this chapter, facing sacrifices and challenges as they brought the light of the gospel to all people.
Matthew 10:1-4
Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”
This section of Matthew 10 marks a significant moment in the ministry of Jesus as he chooses his twelve disciples and commissions them to go out and spread the message of the kingdom of God. Jesus empowers them to carry out the work that he has been doing by giving them the authority to drive out impure spirits and heal sickness. The mention of driving out impure spirits speaks to the spiritual warfare present in the world and the disciples’ role in combating it with the power given to them by Jesus.
The list of the twelve apostles is significant as well. While they come from diverse backgrounds and professions, they are all called by Jesus to be his close followers and witnesses to his ministry. Simon Peter is notably mentioned first, highlighting his leadership among the disciples and his prominent role in the early church. The mention of Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Jesus, foreshadows the upcoming betrayal and serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the presence of betrayal even among those closest to Jesus.
This passage in Matthew 10 emphasizes the importance of discipleship, authority in the name of Jesus, and the calling of individuals to carry out the mission of spreading the gospel. It sets the foundation for the disciples to go out into the world, face challenges, and rely on the power of Christ to fulfill their mission. The selection of the twelve apostles reflects the deliberate choice of Jesus in forming a community of believers who would play crucial roles in the establishment and growth of the early church.
Throughout the Gospels, we see the disciples face various trials and struggles as they follow Jesus. Their journey serves as a reminder that being a disciple of Christ is not always easy and may involve sacrifice and persecution. However, they also serve as examples of faithfulness, dedication, and ultimately the transformative power of the gospel in their lives. This passage in Matthew 10 lays the groundwork for the disciples to go out and spread the message of salvation, demonstrating the importance of obedience to Christ’s call and reliance on his authority and power in carrying out the mission.
Matthew 10:5-15
The passage in Matthew 10:5-15 can be broken down into several important sections that hold significant meaning for both the disciples of Jesus at that time and for believers today.
Firstly, in verses 5-6, Jesus instructs his disciples, saying, “These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, ‘Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’” This declaration was made in the context of Jesus sending out his twelve disciples on a mission to preach the kingdom of heaven and to heal the sick. At this point in Jesus’ ministry, the primary focus was on the Jewish people as the chosen nation who were awaiting their Messiah. Jesus was fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah 53:6 by instructing his disciples to go to the lost sheep of Israel, emphasizing his mission to seek and save the lost. Jesus continues in verses 7-8 with the command to proclaim as you go, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.”‘ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.” Here, Jesus not only empowers his disciples with authority to perform miracles but also teaches them the importance of freely giving what they have freely received. This idea of freely giving echoes back to the concept of grace, a central theme in Christianity, where believers are called to share the love and blessings they have received from God with others without expecting anything in return.
Additionally, in verses 9-15, Jesus gives practical instructions to his disciples about how they should conduct themselves during their mission. He tells them not to take any money, extra clothes, or provisions for the journey, but to rely on the hospitality of those they minister to. The disciples were not only demonstrating humility but also fostering relationships within the community they were serving by depending on the kindness of others. Jesus also warns them about the possibility of rejection and persecution, instructing them to shake off the dust from their feet as a testimony against those who refuse to listen to the message of the kingdom. This act symbolizes the separation of the faithful from the unfaithful, showing that rejection should not hinder the disciples from continuing to spread the Gospel. This passage in Matthew 10:5-15 serves as a blueprint for discipleship and evangelism, highlighting the importance of proclaiming the kingdom of God, demonstrating God’s love through acts of service, and persevering in the face of opposition. The principles laid out by Jesus for his disciples in this passage are not only relevant to the context of their mission then but continue to be applicable to believers today as they seek to share the message of salvation with the world.
Matthew 10:16-23
Jesus addresses his disciples before sending them out on a mission to preach the Gospel in Matthew 10:16-23. This passage is rich with important teachings that are not only relevant to the disciples at that time but also carry timeless messages for all believers. Let’s break down this verse into sections and explore their meanings in depth.
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“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Jesus warns his disciples in this section that they will face opposition and danger as they go out to spread the message of the Gospel. Jesus is painting a vivid picture of the challenges that lie ahead by comparing them to sheep among wolves. However, he also advises them to be wise and innocent. This juxtaposition of wisdom and innocence is crucial for believers. It reminds us to navigate the world with discernment and shrewdness, while maintaining our moral purity and integrity. This balance is essential for Christians as they engage with the world around them.
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“Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.” (Matthew 10:17-18)
Here, Jesus is foretelling the persecution and trials that his disciples will face for their faith. He warns them about the harsh treatment they will endure as they stand firm in their testimony of Jesus. This prophecy was not just a prediction for the disciples of that time but serves as a reminder to all believers that following Christ may come at a cost. The mention of being brought before authorities to bear witness is significant because it underscores the importance of boldly proclaiming the Gospel even in the face of adversity. -
“Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. Jesus forewarns the disciples about the profound division that following him may bring within families in these verses. The radical nature of the Gospel message may lead to conflicts even among close relatives. This prediction highlights the challenging nature of discipleship and the need for unwavering commitment to Jesus, even in the face of rejection and persecution. The promise that those who endure to the end will be saved conveys the importance of perseverance and steadfast faith in the midst of trials. This idea of endurance is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in James 1:12, where it says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
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“When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.” (Matthew 10:23)
Jesus ends this passage by instructing his disciples to be wise in the face of persecution. If one town rejects them, they are to move on to the next. This practical advice emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in ministry. Additionally, the reference to the imminent coming of the Son of Man reminds believers of the urgency of spreading the Gospel. This sense of urgency is a recurrent theme throughout the New Testament, encouraging Christians to actively engage in sharing the message of salvation before the return of Christ. Matthew 10:16-23 provides valuable insights for believers on the challenges and expectations of discipleship. It underscores the need for wisdom, perseverance, courage, and endurance in the face of opposition. The timeless messages contained in this passage continue to inspire and guide Christians today as they navigate a world that may be hostile to the Gospel.
Matthew 10:24-31
We can break down a few key sections in Matthew 10:24-31 for a deeper understanding.
Starting with verse 24, Jesus says, “The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master.” This statement emphasizes the idea of discipleship and servant leadership. Jesus, as the teacher and master, sets the example for his disciples to follow. Just as Jesus humbly served and sacrificed for others, so should his followers. This principle highlights the importance of humility and servanthood in the Christian life. It reminds us that we are called to emulate Christ’s character and conduct ourselves accordingly.
Moving on to verses 25 and 26, Jesus states, “It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” Here, Jesus is preparing his disciples for the persecution and opposition they will face as they carry out their mission. The reference to Beelzebul, a name for the devil, suggests that Jesus and his followers will be falsely accused and maligned by those who reject the message of the Gospel. Despite this, Jesus encourages them not to fear, for the truth will ultimately be revealed. This message serves to strengthen the resolve of believers in the face of adversity and reminds them of the sovereignty of God over all things. Jesus continues to provide reassurance to his disciples in verses 27-31. He says, “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” These verses contain profound truths about God’s care and provision for his children. Jesus reminds his disciples of the importance of boldly proclaiming the Gospel, regardless of the opposition they may face. He urges them to prioritize the eternal soul over temporary physical concerns, emphasizing the value of spiritual well-being. The imagery of the sparrows serves to illustrate God’s intimate knowledge and care for every detail of his creation, down to the smallest creature. This message conveys a profound sense of God’s love and protection for his people, instilling confidence and peace in the midst of trials. The verses in Matthew 10:24-31 highlight the themes of discipleship, perseverance in the face of opposition, and God’s unwavering care for his children. These teachings are timeless and relevant for believers today, reminding us of the importance of following Christ wholeheartedly, trusting in his sovereignty, and finding security in his loving provision. Let us take heart in the words of Jesus as we navigate the challenges of life and mission, continuing to walk faithfully in his footsteps.
Matthew 10:32-39
The verse in Matthew 10:32-39 is divided into several significant sections which hold profound meanings and teachings.
The first section, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven,” highlights the importance of openly professing one’s faith in Jesus Christ. This act of publicly acknowledging and standing firm in one’s faith is crucial in the life of a believer. One not only declares their allegiance to Him but also invites His acknowledgment and approval before God the Father by openly professing one’s faith in Christ. This statement emphasizes the significance of boldness and conviction in the face of adversity or opposition. It is a call to be unashamed of one’s faith, even when faced with challenges or persecution.
The next section, “But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven,” serves as a stark warning against denying Christ. The act of disowning or renouncing Jesus carries severe consequences, as it signifies a rejection of His sacrifice and teachings. This denial not only distances one from the saving grace of Christ but also results in being disowned by Him before God. This sentiment underscores the gravity of turning away from the faith and the dire implications it carries in terms of spiritual consequence.
Furthermore, the verse continues with, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” This statement by Jesus brings attention to the divisive nature of His message. While Jesus is often known as the Prince of Peace, His teachings can also create division among people. The truth of the Gospel can challenge beliefs, ideologies, and systems, leading to conflicts and separation even within families. This verse highlights the reality that following Christ may not always result in harmony and unity with everyone, as there may be a need to stand firm in one’s convictions even when faced with opposition.
The section that follows, “For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household,’” dives deeper into the repercussions of following Christ. This statement underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, which may disrupt existing familial or societal structures. The allegiance to Christ above all else may lead to conflicts within families or communities, as not everyone may accept or embrace the message of Jesus. This verse prepares believers for the reality that their faith may be met with resistance and animosity from those closest to them. It requires a strong commitment to Christ, even in the face of familial discord or persecution. Matthew 10:32-39 encapsulates essential teachings about the cost of discipleship and the radical nature of following Christ. It emphasizes the need for unwavering faith, bold confession, and a willingness to endure hardships for the sake of the Gospel. The verses remind believers of the transformative power of Christ’s message, which may bring about division and challenges in their lives. These teachings ultimately encourage believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else, even if they have to face opposition or persecution. Believers can strengthen their faith and walk confidently in the path set by Jesus by understanding and internalizing these profound truths, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter along the way.
Matthew 10:40-42
Jesus is addressing his disciples in Matthew 10:40-42, preparing them for their mission to spread the Gospel. Let’s break down this verse into sections for a detailed analysis.
“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.”
This part of the verse emphasizes the connection between Jesus, his disciples, and God the Father. When someone welcomes a disciple and receives their message, it is as if they are welcoming and receiving Jesus himself. This is a powerful statement that highlights the unity and oneness within the Trinity. It underscores the importance of respecting and honoring all those who are doing God’s work, as by doing so, one is ultimately respecting and honoring God.
“Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.”
Here, Jesus speaks about the importance of recognizing and honoring the roles and callings of different individuals. Prophets and righteous people are mentioned specifically. Throughout the Bible, prophets were chosen by God to deliver important messages to His people. Their obedience and faithfulness in delivering these messages often led to persecution and rejection. One shows respect for God’s appointed messengers and representatives by receiving a prophet or a righteous person in these roles. This action is not only crucial for affirming their message but also comes with a spiritual reward from God.
**”And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. Jesus emphasizes the significance of even the smallest acts of kindness and support towards His disciples in this final section. The image of offering a cup of cold water symbolizes a simple, yet a compassionate act of care. One actively participates in the work of the Kingdom by showing kindness and support to a disciple. These small acts of service, no matter how insignificant they may seem, are noticed and valued by God. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of caring for and supporting all believers, no matter their status or role in the church. Jesus’ teachings on hospitality, humility, and service are reflected in the broader context of the Bible. They remind believers of the interconnectedness within the body of Christ and the importance of mutual respect, support, and care for one another. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of hospitality being a significant aspect of Christian living, such as Abraham’s welcome of the three visitors in Genesis 18 and the teachings on hospitality in Hebrews 13:2. The principle of “what you do for the least of these, you do for me” (Matthew 25:40) is echoed in this verse, emphasizing the importance of serving others with love and kindness. Believers are challenged by Matthew 10:40-42 to treat others with respect, hospitality, and generosity, knowing that in doing so, they are ultimately honoring and serving God. It highlights the interconnectedness of Christian fellowship and the value of even the smallest acts of service in the Kingdom of God.
After Matthew 10
Jesus sends out His twelve disciples to preach the message of the kingdom of heaven in this chapter. He instructs them on how to conduct themselves, the miracles they should perform, and the persecution they may face. The disciples go out, following His commands, spreading the good news and healing the sick. We reflect on the disciples’ obedience and faithfulness in carrying out Jesus’ instructions, reminding us of our own call to share the gospel and minister to those in need. Just as the disciples relied on God’s provision and guidance, so too are we called to trust in Him as we step out in faith. Their example should encourage us, and we should continue to boldly proclaim the message of salvation to all who will listen.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.