Matthew 10 records Jesus commissioning His twelve disciples, giving them authority, instructing them on their mission, and preparing them for the challenges they will face. This chapter highlights the cost of discipleship and the necessity of unwavering faith in Jesus.
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve
Jesus calls His twelve disciples and grants them authority over unclean spirits and diseases. He names them: Simon (Peter), Andrew, James (son of Zebedee), John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew (the tax collector), James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who later betrays Him. These twelve men are chosen to carry out His mission, demonstrating His power and proclaiming the kingdom of heaven.
Instructions for the Mission
Jesus sends them only to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” forbidding them from going to the Gentiles or Samaritans at this stage. Their primary message is simple yet profound:
- “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”
Along with preaching, they are commanded to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons. These miracles serve as signs of God’s kingdom breaking into the world. Importantly, Jesus tells them to serve freely, saying:
- “Freely you received, so freely give.”
This instruction emphasizes that ministry should not be about personal gain but about extending God’s grace to others.
Dependence on God
Jesus instructs His disciples not to take money, extra clothing, or provisions for their journey. Instead, they must rely on the hospitality of those who welcome them. If a household receives them, they are to bless it with peace. However, if they are rejected, they are to shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against that town. This symbolizes that the people had rejected not just the messengers, but the very message of God.
Jesus warns them that their mission will not be easy:
- “Behold, I send you out as sheep among wolves. Therefore, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”
This imagery highlights the dangers they will face—hostility, persecution, and opposition. However, they must remain both shrewd and innocent, avoiding unnecessary conflict while staying true to their calling.
Persecution Will Come
Jesus forewarns His disciples that they will be handed over to councils, flogged in synagogues, and even betrayed by their own families. Despite this, they are not to fear because:
- “It is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”
This is a powerful assurance that God will give them the right words when they stand before rulers and authorities. He also encourages them to endure, stating:
- “He who endures to the end will be saved.”
Though persecution is inevitable, their faithfulness will not go unnoticed by God.
Fear God, Not Man
Jesus reminds His followers that opposition is to be expected, but they should not be afraid of those who can only kill the body. Instead, He says:
- “Rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.”
This shifts the focus from earthly threats to eternal realities. Jesus then reassures them that God values them deeply:
- “Aren’t two sparrows sold for an assarion? Not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will… You are of more value than many sparrows.”
This is a profound reminder that God’s sovereignty extends even to the smallest details, and He watches over those who follow Him.
Acknowledging Jesus Before Others
Jesus declares that those who acknowledge Him publicly will be acknowledged before God, but those who deny Him will be denied. This underscores the importance of standing firm in faith, even under pressure.
He also makes a bold statement that His coming will bring division:
- “Don’t think that I came to send peace on the earth. I didn’t come to send peace, but a sword.”
This does not mean Jesus promotes violence, but rather that following Him will create divisions—even among family members—because His message requires total commitment.
The Cost of Discipleship
Jesus then sets a high standard for discipleship:
- “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me. He who loves son or daughter more than me isn’t worthy of me.”
This call to loyalty emphasizes that devotion to Jesus must come before all earthly relationships. He continues:
- “He who doesn’t take his cross and follow after me isn’t worthy of me.”
This powerful statement foreshadows His own crucifixion and highlights that following Jesus requires self-denial, sacrifice, and willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel.
Rewards for Those Who Welcome His Messengers
Jesus concludes by emphasizing that those who receive His messengers are ultimately receiving Him. Even small acts of kindness, such as giving a cup of cold water, will not go unnoticed by God.
- “Whoever receives a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward.”
This shows that God values even the smallest acts of faithfulness in supporting His kingdom.
Matthew 10 is a powerful call to discipleship, faith, and endurance. Jesus equips His disciples with authority, sends them out with clear instructions, and warns them of the hardships ahead. However, He also assures them of God’s provision, guidance, and ultimate reward.
This chapter challenges us to consider our own commitment to Christ. Are we willing to follow Him even when it is difficult? Do we trust Him to provide for our needs? Do we acknowledge Him openly, even when facing opposition?
Following Jesus is not always easy, but He reminds us that every sacrifice made for His sake will be rewarded. Our faithfulness in small and large ways is seen by God, and He will ultimately honor those who endure to the end.