Matthew 10

Summary

 

Matthew 10 records the commissioning of the twelve disciples, provides instructions for their mission, warns of challenges and opposition they will face, and encourages endurance and faithfulness. The chapter highlights the gravity of discipleship and the need for unwavering commitment to Jesus despite potential hardships.

 

  1. Commissioning of the Twelve (Matthew 10:1-4): Jesus selects and commissions twelve of his disciples, giving them authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal various diseases. The names of the twelve are listed.

  2. Instructions for the Mission (Matthew 10:5-15): Jesus sends the disciples on a mission to the lost sheep of Israel, instructing them not to go to the Gentiles or Samaritans at that time. They are to preach the message of the kingdom, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons. They are to rely on the hospitality of those they meet, and Jesus warns them of potential opposition.

  3. Persecution and Endurance (Matthew 10:16-25): Jesus prepares the disciples for opposition, advising them to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. He warns them of persecution, betrayal, and hardships they will face. Despite challenges, they are encouraged to endure, knowing that the truth will ultimately prevail.

  4. Fear God, Not Man (Matthew 10:26-33): Jesus tells the disciples not to fear those who can harm the body but to fear God who has ultimate authority. He assures them that God cares for them, even noting the sparrows and the hairs on their heads. Confessing or denying Jesus before others has eternal significance.

  5. Bringing Division (Matthew 10:34-39): Jesus acknowledges that his message may bring division, even within families. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing loyalty to him over family ties and the necessity of taking up one's cross to follow him.

  6. Receiving and Rewarding Disciples (Matthew 10:40-42): Jesus concludes by emphasizing the significance of receiving his disciples. He assures that those who receive a disciple will receive a reward, even a cup of cold water given in his name will not go unrewarded.

 

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