Matthew 10:16-25, Persecution Will Come

16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. 19 When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. 20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, 22 and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.

Comments

Now Jesus gives a dire warning: there are wolves out there as well as sheep! Life will not be easy for his apostles. They will be in constant danger and can expect persecution, yet God will use difficult circumstances for his good purposes. He will provide the words they will need, even in life-threatening circumstances. Therefore, disciples and apostles must be wise, observant, and faithful to their master. Their role is to share Jesus’ work and represent him, expecting to receive the same kind of treatment as Jesus received.

Prayer

Jesus, some days and at some times I am afraid of following you, but you are always faithful and provide what I need. Through your Spirit, fill me with faith, remove my anxiety, strengthen my commitment, and use me always for your good purposes.