Sunday, August 2, 2009

Matthew 10:5-15

Jesus Sends Out The Twelve Apostles.
For Parallels see Mk 6:7-13 and Lk 9:1-6. See also Lk 10:1-12 (sending out the 72).
v.5-6 The disciples are instruction to go to the lost sheep of (Jer 50:6) Israel and not to the Gentiles or Samaritans. The mission was to Jewish Galilee, later the disciples would be sent to the whole world (Acts 1:8). Salvation is from the Jews (Jn 4:22, Rom 1:16). The sheep were lost due to neglect by their shepherds (or lack of a shepherd, Mt 9:36).
v.7-8 They were instructed to proclaim that the kingdom of God is at hand (this presumably included “repent”), heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Freely they received and freely then should they give (but see v.9-10 below). These were extensions of Jesus' own ministry to the people.
v.9-10 They were to take no money, change of clothes, or even a walking stick. But they should accept hospitality because the worker deserves his wages (or food). The disciples were to trust God to supply their basic needs. We should not hesitate to give (1 Tim 5:18) to those God has sent to minister to us (i.e., a pastor, church, or missionaries).
v.11-13 Upon entering a village, the disciples were to seek out the worthy and stay with them while they ministered in that area. When they entered a home, they should give it a blessing. If it turns out not to be a worthy home, then they should take the blessing back. “Worthy” meant that the house or town accepted the disciples message.
v.14-15 If any town refuses to listen to their message the disciples were instructed to shake the dust off their feet when they leave. Sodom and Gomorrah will be better off at the judgment than that town. Shaking the dust off their feet indicated separating themselves from Jews who rejected the Messiah.

Read Matthew 10:5-15

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