PARAGRAPH DIVISIONS OF MODERN TRANSLATIONS
| UBS4 | NKJV | NRSV | TEV | NJB |
| The Mission of Twelve | The Twelve Apostles | Commissioning and Instruction of the Twelve | The Twelve Apostles | The Mission of the Twelve |
| (10:1-11:1) | ||||
| 10:1-4 | 10:1-4 | 10:1-4 | 10:1-4 | 10:1 |
| 10:2-5a | ||||
| The Commissioning of the Twelve | Sending Out the Twelve | The Mission of the Twelve | ||
| 10:5-15 | 10:5-15 | 10:5-15 | 10:5-10 | 10:5b-10 |
| 10:11-15 | 10:11-16 | |||
| Coming Persecutions | Persecutions are Coming | Coming Persecutions | The Missionaries Will Be Persecuted | |
| 10:16-23 | 10:16-26 | 10:16-23 | 10:16-20 | |
| 10:17-20 | ||||
| 10:21-23 | 10:21-23 | |||
| 10:24-25 | 10:24-25 | 10:24-25 | 10:24-25 | |
| Whom to Fear | Jesus Teaches the Fear of God | Whom to Fear | Open and Fearless Speech | |
| 10:26-31 | 10:26-31 | 10:26-31 | 10:26-27 | |
| 10:27-31 | ||||
| 10:28-31 | ||||
| Confessing Christ Before Men | Confess Christ Before men | Confessing and Rejecting Christ | ||
| 10:32-33 | 10:32-33 | 10:32-33 | 10:32-33 | 10:32-33 |
| Not Peace, But a Sword | Christ Brings Division | Not Peace, But a Sword | Jesus, the Cause of Dissension | |
| 10:34-39 (35-36) |
10:34-39 | 10:34-39 (35-36) |
10:34-36 | 10:34-36 |
| Renouncing Self to Follow Jesus | ||||
| 10:37-39 | 10:37-39 | |||
| Rewards | A Cup of Cold Water | Rewards | Conclusion of the Instruction | |
| 10:40-11:1 | 10:40-42 | 10:40-11:1 | 10:40-42 | 10:40 |
| 10:41 | ||||
| 10:42 |
READING CYCLE THREE (see
“Bible
Interpretation Seminar”)
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR’S INTENT AT PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which
means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the
light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not
relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects (reading cycle #3). Compare
your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is
the key to following the original author’s intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every
paragraph has one and only one subject.
BACKGROUND TO MATTHEW 10:1-42
- The newly chosen disciples are sent out on a mission trip which was foreshadowed in
Matt. 9:37-38. Jesus also sent, at a later time, a larger group of seventy disciples (cf. Luke 10:1ff). - This passage is paralleled in Mark 3:14-16; 6:7-13; and Luke 9:1-6. There may have
been several of these kinds of mission trips. - Jesus’ message to the Twelve has three divisions marked off by the recurrent phrase
“Truly, I say to you,” Matt. 10:15,23,42.
WORD AND PHRASE STUDY
÷MATTHEW 10:1
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:1
1Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness.
10:1 “twelve” This is the first time this number is stated, possibly corresponding to the twelve tribes
of Israel.
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE NUMBER TWELVE
▣ “disciples” This is literally “learners.” The New Testament emphasizes disciples, not just
decisions (cf. Matt. 28:19; Acts 14:21)!
▣ “gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out” Jesus empowered these followers with
His power. They became His official representatives (i.e., Apostles). The physical miracles were a way of
confirming Jesus’ new message.
SPECIAL TOPIC: AUTHORITY (exousia)
SPECIAL TOPIC: ANGELS AND DEMONS
▣ “unclean spirits. . .heal every kind of disease” Notice a distinction is made between demon
possession and disease. Demons can cause diseases, but not always.
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE DEMONIC (unclean spirits)
÷MATTHEW 10:2-15
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:2-15
2Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; 4Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Him. 5These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them: “Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans; 6but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7As you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’8Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons, freely you received, freely give. 9Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, 10or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support. 11 And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. 12As you enter the house, give it your greeting. 13If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. 14Whoever does not receive you, nor heed your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet. 15Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.”
10:2 “the names of the twelve apostles” The term ” apostle” (see note at Matt. 10:5) is used only in
Matthew (here) and Mark (3:14) in connection with the list of the apostles’ names, also once more in Mark 6:30.
It is much more common in Luke and Acts.
- Luke 6:13; 9:10; 11:49; 17:5; 22:14; 24:10
- Acts
- the Twelve, Acts 1:2,26; 2:37,42,43; 4:33,35,36,37; 5:2,12,18,29,40; 6:6; 8:1,14,18;
9:27; 11:1; 15:2,4,6,22,23; 16:4 - other apostles (later use of the term)
(1) Paul, Acts 14:4,14 (equal authority with the Twelve)
(2) Barnabas Acts 14:14 (lesser authority)
- the Twelve, Acts 1:2,26; 2:37,42,43; 4:33,35,36,37; 5:2,12,18,29,40; 6:6; 8:1,14,18;
The lists of the Apostles are found in Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:12-16, and Acts 1:13-14. The names and
order change slightly. However, they are always in three groups of four. Peter is always first and Judas Iscariot
is always last. The groupings stay the same. These groupings were possibly a rotating system whereby certain
disciples could go home for short periods to check on their families.
SPECIAL TOPIC: CHART OF APOSTLES’ NAMES
10:3 “Bartholomew” He was also called Nathaniel (cf. John. 1:45-51).
▣ “Matthew” He was also called Levi (cf. Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27).
▣ “Thaddeus” He was also called Judas, the son or brother of James (cf. Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13) or
Lebbaeus (Greek MSS C2, L, and W).
| 10:4 | |
| NASB, NJB, Peshitta, REB, NET | ”Simon the Zealot” |
| NKJV | ”Simon the Canaanite” |
| NRSV | ”Simon the Canaanean” |
| TEV | ”Simon the Patriot” |
He was also called “the Cananean,” which could refer to one from Cana (cf. Mark 3:18). However,
the Greek reflects an Aramaic and Hebrew term “zealous.” He was a Jewish patriot and separatist (cf. Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13).
For Matthew and Simon to be in the same group shows the radical change that Jesus accomplished in these men’s
lives.
▣ “Iscariot” This term can mean a man from a city in Judah, Kerioth (from the Hebrew), or an assassin’s
knife (from the Greek). If he was from Judah, he was the only Apostle from the south.
SPECIAL TOPIC: ISCARIOT (the name)
▣ “the one who betrayed him” There is an interesting book that attempts to interpret Judas in a new,
a more positive way, Judas, Betrayer or Friend of Jesus? by William Klassen, published by Fortress
Press, 1996. However, to do so it completely ignores John’s Gospel.
10:5 “sent” This was from the same Greek root as “apostle” (apostello, used in the LXX for God sending
the prophets to speak for Him), which came to mean “sent one” within rabbinical circles with the
implication of official authority. Mark 6:7 tells us Jesus sent the Apostles out in pairs.
▣ “do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans” This
is probably the source of Paul’s “Jew first and also the Greeks” (cf. Rom 1:16). This was not exclusivism, but
limiting His emphasis so as to give Abraham’s descendants every chance to respond.
The Jews hated the Samaritans because they were considered half-breeds. This referred to the
Assyrian exile of the Northern Ten Tribes of Israel in 722 B.C. Thousands of Jews
were deported to Media and thousands of Gentiles were exiled to take their place in Israel. Over the years
an amalgamation of religion and social customs had occurred (cf. Ezra and Neh.). At this early stage of Jesus’
ministry the inclusion of either of these groups would have negatively affected His ability to reach Jews!
10:6 “the lost sheep” This was an unusual combination of terms; “sheep” often referred to God’s people
(cf. Psalm 23; John. 10), while “lost” implied their spiritual helplessness and vulnerability (cf. Matt. 9:36), especially
if there is no shepherd (cf. Num. 27:17; 1 Kgs. 22:17; Ps. 119:176; Isa. 53:6; Zech. 13:7).
▣ “of the house of Israel” This was an idiomatic way of referring to the descendants of the Patriarchs.
They are also known as
- the house of Jacob (i.e., Luke 1:33, cf. Matt. 15:24; Acts 2:36; Heb. 8:8)
- the house of Judah (i.e., Heb. 8:8)
- children of Abraham (i.e., Matt. 3:9; John 8:33,39)
SPECIAL TOPIC: ISRAEL (the name)
10:7 “as you go” This is a PRESENT ACTIVE PARTICIPLE used as
an IMPERATIVE (cf. Matt. 28:19).
▣ “preach” This was a PRESENT IMPERATIVE. This is a foreshadowing of
- the mission trips of the Twelve and seventy
- the Great Commission of Matt. 28:18-20; Luke 24:46-47; Acts 1:8
▣ “kingdom. . .is at hand” This was to be the content that they were to preach (cf. Matt. 3:2; 4:17;
Mark 1:15; Luke 10:9,11; 11:20; 21:31). The kingdom is the reign of God in human’s hearts now which will one
day be consummated over all the earth (cf. Matt. 6:10). Although the disciples did not understand it yet
(i.e., Luke 24:16,31), it began with the Incarnation of Christ (the Messiah) and will be consummated at
the Second Coming of Christ. Initially Jesus and the disciples preached a message similar to John the Baptist’s
message.
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE KINGDOM OF GOD
10:8 “heal. . .raise. . .cleanse. . .cast out” These are all PRESENT IMPERATIVES
(cf. Matt. 10:1). They went and ministered as Jesus ministered. His power and authority were flowing through them.
These signs confirmed their message about Him.
The Greek manuscripts contain several variations of the phrase “raise the dead.” This may be because
- biblical records are lacking that the twelve Apostles did this
- it is imagery for the spiritually dead
- Matthew used the other three VERBS often without mentioning “raising the dead”
See Bruce Metzger, A Textual Commentary On the Greek New Testament, pp. 27-28. The phrase is
included in the uncial MSS א, B, C, D, N, and many versions.
▣ “lepers” In the OT the disease of leprosy (cf. Leviticus 13-14) was a sign of God’s disfavor
(cf. 2 Chr. 26:16-23).
▣ “cast out demons” Jesus’ power is greater than Satan and the demonic (cf. 1 John. 4:4). The demons
are designated by the terms “spirits,” (cf. Matt. 8:16) and “unclean spirits,”
(cf. Matt. 10:1). The origin of demons is not disclosed in Scripture. The rabbis attribute the origin of evil
in the world to Genesis 6 (Paul says it was Genesis 3, cf. Rom. 5:12-21). They assert that the “sons
of God” mentioned in Genesis 6 became disembodied at their death by the flood of Noah and became the
demons of the NT period seeking another body (cf. 1 Enoch).
SPECIAL TOPIC: SPIRIT (pneuma) IN THE NT
▣ “freely you received, freely give” This is not a passage against salaries for missionaries, but
rather encouraging believers to trust in God while doing Kingdom work in
- His power
- His provisions
- His purposes to be accomplished
These verses are not universal principles, but guidelines for this particular mission trip
(cf. Luke 22:35-36). They are the practical application of Matt. 6:25-34 to the present situation.
10:9 “your money belts” This was how first century Jews carried their coinage.
10:10 “bag” This kind of bag functioned as a suitcase. The disciples were not to carry with them every
thing they might need, but trust God’s daily provision.
▣ “or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff” Comparisons with Mark 6:8-9 have caused great controversy.
The theories are
- “staff” could be used in two different senses: a walking stick or a defensive club
- the two shirts of Matt. 10:10 imply “do not take extras of these items”
- Luke 22:35-36 shows one harmonization
The Gospels were not written for us to compare the details. The key to this text is that believers
are to trust in God for His provisions; rely on His resources!
▣ “for the worker is worthy of his support” Jesus is probably alluding to the truth of Deut. 25:4
(cf. 1 Cor. 9:6-7,14; 1 Tim. 5:18), which goes back to Deut. 24:14-15 (cf. Lev. 19:13). Gospel preachers are
to be supported by their hearers! The NT guidelines for giving are not OT tithing, but voluntary, sacrificial,
joyful, according to the ability (cf. 2 Corinthians 8-9).
| 10:11 | |
| NASB | ”inquire who is worthy in it; and stay at this house until you leave that city“ |
| NKJV | ”inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out” |
| NRSV | ”find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave” |
| TEV | ”Go in and look for someone who is willing to welcome you, and stay with him untill you leave that place” |
| NJB | ”Seek out someone worthy and stay with him until you leave” |
| Peshitta | ”Ask who is trustworthy in it, and remain there until you leave” |
When they came to a village
- they were to seek out a godly home which desired the blessing of their presence
and were open to the gospel - they were not to move again and again seeking better accommodations
It is possible that the godly home would be one of the first that responded to their preaching.
10:12 “give it your greeting” This referred to the traditional Jewish blessing of peace, shalom.
10:13 “if. . .if” There are two THIRD CLASS CONDITIONAL SENTENCES which meant
potential future action.
10:14 “shake the dust off your feet” This was a Jewish symbol of rejection (cf. Acts 13:51; 18:6).
10:15 This is one passage that implies degrees of judgment based on the amount of light that has been
rejected (cf. Matt. 11:22-24). Also notice the same book which reveals God’s matchless love also reveals
God’s wrath and judgment.
SPECIAL TOPIC: DEGREES OF REWARDS AND PUNISHMENT
▣ “Truly” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: AMEN.
÷MATTHEW 10:16-20
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:16-20
16Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. 17But beware of men, for they will hand you over to the courts and scourge you in their synagogues; 18and you will even be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say. 20For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
10:16 “I send you out as sheep” “Sheep” was imagery for the new faith community which was fragile,
helpless, and in need of constant care and protection, see Luke 10:3 and John. 10. This the first of four
metaphors from the animal kingdom that characterize humanity.
▣ “in the midst of wolves” Wolves represented those who prey on the new community of faith
(cf. Matt. 7:15-27; Luke 10:3; John. 10:12; Acts 20:29; 2 Peter 2).
▣ “shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves” Believers must be wise but innocent (cf. Rom. 16:19).
They were to avoid conflict when possible, but remain bold proclaimers of the gospel.
10:17 “But beware of men” This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE (cf. Matt. 7:15;
16:6,11). Even with the dawn of the new age (Romans 5-6), the old age remains (Romans 7)! This is the
tension of ” the already” and the “not yet” of the overlapping (i.e., two comings of Christ) of the two ages.
SPECIAL TOPIC: THIS AGE AND THE AGE TO COME
▣”the courts” This referred to local Jewish synagogue courts (cf. Matt. 23:34). It is interesting
to note that some of Mark’s eschatological discourse (cf. Mark 13:9-13) of Jesus is repeated here instead of
Matthew 24. Therefore, this mission assignment of the Disciples takes on eschatological implications
(as does Matt. 10:23).
▣ “scourge” This referred to Jewish flogging (cf. Deut. 25:3), which consisted of one less than
forty lashes, one-third on the front of the body and two-thirds on the back (cf. 2 Cor. 11:24).
▣ “in their synagogues” See parallel at Matt. 23:34. This was the local place of worship, education,
and welfare relief.
10:18 “you will even be brought before governors and kings” This referred to the future universal spread
of the gospel (cf. Matt. 28:18-20; Luke 24:46-47; Acts 1:8). It is important that the narrow exclusiveness of
Matt. 10:5 be balanced by this verse. Gordon Fee (How to Read the Bible For All Its Worth, p. 133) makes
the assertion that Matt. 10:5-12 relates to the sending out of the Twelve new apostles, but Matt. 10:10-20 has
instructions for a much later time (i.e., governors, kings, Gentiles) because at first Jesus came only to the
lost sheep of Israel. This illustrates how the Gospel writers “selected, rearranged, and adapted” Jesus’
teachings to meet the needs of the early church.
Another example of this is Matt. 10:23 “until the Son of Man comes” (see note at Matt. 10:23).
Obviously this could have several meanings depending on the historical period.
▣ “governors and kings” If this refers to (1) Jesus’ day, then Pontius Pilate or (2) Paul’s mission
activities then
- “governors” could be the Roman governors of Felix (Acts 23:24) or Festus (Acts 24:27)
- “kings” could be Agrippa I (Acts 12:1) or Agrippa II (Acts 25:13)
They basically stand for governmental authority of any kind.
10:19 This speaks of special illumination and grace during persecution (cf. Mark 13:11; Luke 21:12). This
is not a proof-text for preachers and teachers not studying before proclaiming! This Matt. 10:19 and 26
are AORIST SUBJUNCTIVES with the NEGATIVE PARTICLE
which meant never start an action. Matthew 10:28 and 31, which also deal with fear,
are PRESENT IMPERATIVES with the NEGATIVE PARTICLE
which usually meant stop an act in process.
▣ “hour” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: HOUR
10:20 “it is the Spirit of your Father” Here the Holy Spirit is linked to the Father
(cf. Rom. 8:11,14). In Rom. 8:9; 2 Cor. 3:17; Gal. 4:6; and 1 Pet. 1:11 the Spirit is linked to the Son.
There is a fluidity between the persons of the Trinity. They all participate in the acts of redemption.
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE FATHERHOOD OF GOD
SPECIAL TOPIC: PERSONHOOD OF THE SPIRIT
÷MATTHEW 10:21-22
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:21-22
21Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against his parents and cause them to be put to death. 22You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.
10:21 This speaks of the radical commitment necessary for discipleship which supersedes even family love
and often caused confrontation within families (cf. Matt. 10:34-39).
10:22 “you will be hated by all because of My name” Persecution was expected for disciples of Jesus
(cf. Matt. 5:10-12; John 15:18-21; 16:1-3; 17:14; Acts 14:22; Rom. 5:3-4; 8:17; 2 Cor. 4:16-18; 6:3-10;
11:23-30; Phil. 1:29; 1 Thess. 3:3; 2 Tim. 3:12; James 1:2-4; and all of 1 Peter.
SPECIAL TOPIC: WHY DO CHRISTIANS SUFFER?
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE NAME OF THE LORD (NT)
▣ “it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved” The doctrine of the “perseverance”
is as biblical as “the security of the believers!” (cf. Matt. 24:13; Gal. 6:9;
Rev. 2:7,11,17,26; 3:5,12; 21:7). We must affirm both truths, even though they cause doctrinal tension!
Doctrines are given in tension-filled relationship to other doctrines, not isolated truths. The best illustration
is that biblical truth is revealed as constellations of stars, not as single stars. We must focus on the
patterns of the whole of biblical revelation.
“End” (telos) refers to the end of this age (cf. Matt. 24:6,13,14).
“Saved” can be understood in its OT sense of physical deliverance or its NT
sense of spiritual salvation.
SPECIAL TOPIC: EASTERN LITERATURE (biblical paradoxes)
÷MATTHEW 10:23
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:23
23“But whenever they persecute you in one city, flee to the next; for truly I say to you, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel until the Son of Man comes.”
10:23 “But, whenever they persecute you” This is missing in Luke, but has a parallel in Mark 9:1. See
note and
SPECIAL TOPIC: WHY DO CHRISTIANS SUFFER?.
▣ “flee to the next” Believers must avoid conflict and confrontation when possible. Evangelism must
be the constant goal!
▣ “Truly” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: AMEN.
▣ “you will not finish going through the cities of Israel until the Son of Man comes” This
was probably initially understood as
- Jesus will rejoin the Twelve after their mission
- Jesus asserts His authority in Jerusalem
- inauguration of the church (i.e., Pentecost)
- Jesus fulfilling His promises to them (i.e., upper room event of John 20:19-23)
- the judgment on Jerusalem in A.D. 70 (NASB Study Bible, p. 1382)
- Jesus’ Second Coming in power as Judge (i.e., Dan. 7:13-14), inaugurating the eternal kingdom
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE ANY-MOMENT RETURN OF JESUS vs. THE NOT YET (NT paradox)
÷MATTHEW 10:24-25
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:24-25
24“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master. 25It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, and the slave like his master. If they have called the head of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign the members of his household!”
10:25 “If” This is a FIRST CLASS CONDITIONAL SENTENCE which is assumed
to be true from the author’s perspective or for his literary purposes.
▣ “Beelzebul” This was a compound term from Ba’al and Zebub. This was the
local Ba’al of Ekron (cf. 2 Kgs. 1:16). The Jews changed the names of pagan rulers and pagan gods
by changing the vowels, to make fun of them. The term can be translated as “Lord of the house,” “Lord
of the flies,” or “Lord of the dung.”
The second term was often spelled Zebul, the chief demon in Jewish folklore
(cf. Matt. 12:24; Luke 11:15). This explains why NASB and NRSV have Beelzebul, while NKJV and NIV
have Beelzebub.
÷MATTHEW 10:26-27
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:26-27
26Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 27What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops.
10:26 “do not fear them” This is a negative aorist passive
(deponent) subjunctive like Matt. 10:19 functioning as
an aorist active imperative like Matt. 10:28 and 31. This construction meant
“do not even start an action.” This verse states that the motives and purposes of the human hearts, both
positive and negative, will be known on Judgment Day.
It is difficult to relate the truth of this verse with the biblical promises that when God forgives,
God forgets (cf. Ps. 103:11-14; Isa. 1:18; 38:17; 43:25; 44:22; Micah 7:19). Possibly unconfessed (believers,
cf. 1 John 1:7-9) sin or unforgiven (unbelievers) sin is being referred to. I so rejoice in the “forgetfulness
of God”! Jesus’ blood cleanses from all sin (cf. Hebrew 9)!
Believers are not to fear humans, but respect/fear God (cf. Matt. 10:28; Heb. 10:31).
Overall I think this verse refers to the motives and actions of
- unworthy houses, Matt. 10:13
- wolves, Matt. 10:16
- evil men, Matt. 10:17
- governors and kings, Matt. 10:18
- brother, Matt. 10:21
- child, Matt. 10:21
- “they” of Matt. 10:23
- “them” of Matt. 10:26
- “those” of Matt. 10:28
10:27 “housetops” The flat rooftops common in Palestine were places of social activity; therefore, what
was told would become public knowledge. Jesus wants His message known by all mankind!
÷MATTHEW 10:28-31
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:28-31
28Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30But the very hairs of your head are numbered. 31So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.
10:28 “Do not fear” See notes at Matt. 10:26.
▣ “to destroy” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: DESTRUCTION (apollumi).
▣ “soul and body” This verse does not refer to a sharp dichotomy between body, soul, and spirit,
but is an expression of the possibility of physical death, but not eternal death for believers.
SPECIAL TOPIC: BODY AND SPIRIT
▣ “in hell” This was the Hebrew term “Gehenna.” It was a compound of “valley” and “(sons of)
Hinnom.” This was a valley outside Jerusalem where a Canaanite fertility and fire god (cf. Lev. 18:21) was
worshiped by sacrificing children (called molech). The Jews turned it into the garbage dump for Jerusalem.
Jesus’ metaphors of eternal punishment were taken from this burning, stinking, worm-infested dump.
SPECIAL TOPIC: WHERE ARE THE DEAD?, II. D.
10:29-30 “sparrows. . .hairs” God cares and knows about every aspect of believers’ lives (cf.
Luke 12:6; 21:18; 1 Pet. 5:7). This is a promise of individual (not corporate) concern.
▣ “a cent” This is literally “assarion,” which was a Roman copper coin. One assarion
could buy several sparrows.
SPECIAL TOPIC: COINS USED IN PALESTINE IN JESUS’ DAY
10:31 “So do not fear” See notes at Matt. 10:19 and 26.
÷MATTHEW 10:32-33
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:32-33
32“Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. 33But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is heaven.”
10:32 “who confesses Me before men” This meant “publicly acknowledge” (cf. Mark 8:38; Luke 12:8-9).
Matthew 10:32 and 33 are contrasting parallel statements. Christianity is a God-offered covenant that must be
personally, publicly received, obeyed and maintained.
SPECIAL TOPIC: What Does It Mean To “Receive,”
“Believe,” “Confess/Profess,” and “Call Upon?”
SPECIAL TOPIC: CONFESSION/PROFESSION
▣ “My Father in heaven” There are several different PRONOUNS used
with Father.
- your – Matt. 5:16,45; 6:1; 7:11
- our – Matt. 6:9
- My – Matt. 7:21; 10:32,33; 12:50
I think Matt. 12:50 is crucial, one who does the Father’s will, as Jesus does, is part of the family.
One who refuses is not part of the family. It must have been particularly irritating to the Jewish leaders of
Jesus’ day to hear Him, an unofficial rabbi and Galilean upstate, to use “Father” to refer to YHWH, the Holy
One of Israel. Even more so to allow the outcast to be included in God’s family!
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE HEAVENS AND THE THIRD HEAVEN
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE FATHERHOOD OF GOD
10:33 The ANTONYM of “confess” (homologeō, cf. Matt. 10:32 [twice]) is “deny”
(arneomai, cf. Matt. 10:33 [twice]; Matt. 26:70,72 [aparneomai in Matt. 26:35,75]).
This is a shocking verse, as is 2 Tim. 2:12. It must be remembered that public acknowledgment
in word (cf. Rom. 10:9-13) and deed (cf. Matt. 13:1-23; 25:36-46) is crucial. The decisions made now relate
to eternity (cf. Matt. 25:46).
SPECIAL TOPIC: CONFESSION/PROFESSION
÷MATTHEW 10:34-36
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:34-36
34“Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.”
10:34 “Do not think” According to the Analytical Greek New Testament by Barbara and Timothy
Friberg, this VERB is an AORIST ACTIVE SUBJUNCTIVE
used as an AORIST ACTIVE IMPERATIVE.
Jesus was probably speaking these words against the backdrop of the Jewish expectations
concerning the Messiah, who was called the “Prince of Peace” (cf. Isa. 9:6). The Jews expected the Messiah to
usher in a military order and a nationalistic peace on the Jews’ behalf (cf. Luke 12:49-53).
▣ “peace” This term’s etymology was “to bring together that which was broken” (cf. John. 14:24).
▣ “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword” Jesus did not come to bring war or strife, but the
fact that He has come forces humans to make a radical decision between “followship” or rejection (cf. John. 3:17;
Luke 12:51-53).
10:35 “for I came to set a man against his father” See Matt. 10:21. The parallel in Luke 14:26 has the
Hebrew idiom, “hate father,” which was an idiom of comparison. We must recognize this as a Hebrew idiom instead
of interpreting it literally (cf. Gen. 29:31, 33; Deuteronomy. 15; Mal. 1:2-3; John. 12:25). This speaks of a
radical priority commitment to Jesus which supercedes all earthly ties.
10:35-36 This is a quote from Micah 7:6. This passage was often quoted in eschatological settings
(cf. Mark 13:12 and Luke 12:53).
10:36 “a man’s enemies will be the members of his household” A good example of this type of familial pressure
can be seen in Peter’s response to Jesus’ claim to Messiahship (cf. Matt. 16:22).
÷MATTHEW 10:37-39
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:37-39
37“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it.”
10:37 “He who loves. . .more than Me” The key here is radical priority commitment. Discipleship, unlike
decision, is a life-long commitment of followship and obedience! The Great Commission (cf. Matt. 28:19-20) is a call to
radical discipleship, not a fleeting decision that does not impact all of one’s life!
▣ “is not worthy of Me” See notes at Luke 9:62.
10:38 “take his cross and follow after Me” This is a graphic metaphorical summons to total commitment
to Christ for life. Jesus is demanding that possible followers count the cost (cf. Luke 14:25-35).
The cross was a Phoenician method of execution that was taken over by the Romans and developed
into an ordeal involving several days of excruciating pain before death. Its purpose was to discourage non-Romans
from criminal activity. There was a historical precedent of its use in Palestine:
- Antiochus IV “Epiphanes” crucified eight hundred Pharisees
- Varus, a Roman general, put down a revolt and crucified two thousand Jews along the highways
of Palestine (cf. Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews 17:10:10) - Herod planned on crucifying many Pharisees at his death so that people would grieve
This metaphor does not refer to some particular problem in your life. It refers to death — death
to self (cf. 2 Cor. 5:14-15; Gal. 2:20; 1 John. 3:16).
10:39 “life. . .life” This was the Greek term psuche. This term was often synonymous with
“spirit” [pneuma]. In this context, however, it seems to refer to an individual person or self. This
statement involved a radical crucifixion of self interest in light of Jesus’ interest (cf. Matt. 10:39;
16:25; Mark 8:35; Luke 9:24; 17:33; John. 12:25). Salvation involves far more than a decision or prayer. It
demands one’s all (possessions, family, reputation, time, and energy)! Nothing less will do!
▣ “lose” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: DESTRUCTION (apollumi).
÷MATTHEW 10:40-42
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: MATTHEW 10:40-42
40“He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. 41He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. 42And whoever in the name of a disciple gives to one of these little ones even a cup of water to drink, truly I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.”
10:40,41 “He who receives you receives Me. . .a prophet. . .a righteous man” The context seems to imply
that Jesus is referred to personally by all three of these terms. The term “prophet” alludes to Deut. 18:15 and 18.
The term “righteous man” equals “the Righteous One” of Acts 7:52 and possibly the Dead Sea Scrolls phrase
“teacher of righteousness.”
Jesus’ radical new message was directed to those who would trust Him and His words. One must
first repent and receive Him as their savior and hope. In so doing they become identified with the new
spiritual kingdom of God. The disciple represents Jesus Himself and His message, therefore, whoever receives
them and their message, receives Jesus and to receive Jesus is to receive the Father (cf. John 8:19; 16:3;
17:3; 1 John 2:23; 4:15; 5:1,10-12; 2 John 9). One cannot know or fellowship with the Father except through
the Son (cf. John 14:6-7,8-11).
▣ “receives” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: RECEIVE
▣ “Him who sent Me” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: SEND (apostellō)
10:42 “gives to one of these little ones” Loving help by one Christian should be given to another
simply because they are both related to Jesus Christ. “Little ones” are not children, but new believers
(cf. Matt. 18:6).
▣ “Truly” See
SPECIAL TOPIC: AMEN.
▣ “reward” The Bible is replete with statements concerning the Christian’s reward. These rewards
are based on the Spirit’s activity in believers and their yieldedness to His activity. However, in the
bountiful grace of God believers will be rewarded for their Christlike yieldedness and the effective operation
of the Spirit working through their spiritual giftedness!
SPECIAL TOPIC: DEGREES OF REWARDS AND PUNISHMENT
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own
interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are
priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this
section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
- Why did Jesus limit Himself mostly to the Jews? Can you list the exceptions?
- Why do Matthew, Mark, and Luke differ in their accounts of Jesus’ life?
- Are there degrees of reward and punishment? Based on what?
- What is Matt. 10:23 referring to?
- Why is public acknowledgment of faith in Jesus so important?
- Why does Jesus cause such controversy?
- What does it mean to take up one’s cross and follow Him?
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