Matthew's Gospel Chapter 10- A Study

Sent with his authority

Jesus chooses his disciples and sends them out with his authority to preach and heal the sick. We shouldn't go out without his authority, which he gives to those he calls. He warns of the dangers and explains why we don't need to fear men. In telling us to be as wise as serpents and innocent as doves, he shows us how to find his life and rewards.

Jesus Desires Willing Disciples

The first whom Jesus called were two brothers, Peter and Andrew. He then called two more brothers, James and John. Jesus must have made quite an impact on these families! Matthew the tax collector worked for the Roman rulers, wheras Simon the Zealot was part of a group in opposition to the Romans. It is noteworthy that they were both called by Jesus to work together! Even Judas Iscariot started out as a sincere follower, to later on betray Jesus. Jesus gives us all a chance and we always have the option to desert him if we no longer want to follow him. He doesn't force us to remain with him, even though he has promised never to leave or forsake us! He desires willing, active disciples who will seek him with all their hearts, not passive ones.

Where Should They Go?

Jesus gave them boundaries. They were not to go any further than the House Of Israel, (verse 5,6) for the Kingdom Of God hadn't quite come. Jesus and his disciples came primarily to Israel and so he was able to tell them not to take any luggage with them but to trust him, for their own would receive them. However, if they didn't, they were to move on. There were serious consequences (verse 15) for those who would not listen and receive their message. This was their time, but sadly many missed their opportunity to receive the Son of God. Later on in chapter 28, Jesus gave the Great Commission, the situation changed with the New Covenant, when they would go into all the world. With the coming of the Holy Spirit, they would be able to be victorious over sin and provide for themselves.

For they would be as sheep amongst wolves!

Jesus warns the disciples in verse 16 that as they go out into the world, they will need wisdom, because of all the deception in the world. They should not be easily deceived. They should keep themselves pure and innocent from the evil in the world, that is still ruled by Satan.

Beware of men, do not be deceived, even those in the church would persecute them. Yet Jesus reassures them that in that instant, the Holy Spirit would give them the words to speak.

Verse 22 - Even when hated by all men, if he endures to the end, he shall be saved.

What must we do to endure to the end?

Chapter 24v12-13 tell us that in the end days, because iniquity (sin) shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold, BUT he that shall endure to the end, shall be saved.

If we keep our love for God alive to the end, we will have overcome!

"Fear not" is said so many times in the Bible and here (verses 26, 28, 31). Jesus says it to affirm that he would provide for us in times of persecution. This is also true for us today, if we will take heed and be wise, to not be deceived, but to live in The Spirit.

Verse 25 states that we should expect to be treated in this world as Jesus was, if he is our master. Are we/our church a threat to Satan and his kingdom as Jesus was?

It might seem as if unrighteous people get away with a lot and it might, at times, seem confusing, especially when it happens within the church, but Jesus assures us in verse 26-27 that all will be revealed.

What God says, we shall proclaim!

We should never fear man, only God

• Are we ashamed of Christ? (v32,33)
• Will we deny him by keeping quiet or will we boldly confess him?
• Do we see peace on the earth or a sword? (v34)
• Do we see a sword in the church or peace?
• Will you choose to stand with the Lord or your family, if the two are in conflict? (v35.36)

The clash of wills!

When my will clashes with God's will, there is my cross!

Jesus says in verse 39 that if I hold onto my (self) life, my will, then I will lose it. If I compromise with the world to protect my ego and reputation, I will lose it. But if I die to myself, I will receive the life of Jesus-.

Gold- in exchange for garbage!

• If you receive a (true) prophet and God's word, you will receive a prophet's reward, even though you may not be one yourself.
• God is never in debt to anyone who gives even the smallest thing to his children, in his name.

Verses 40-42