01/19/2023
Today I tried a different journaling approach for the reading in Matthew. Chapter 10 has stuck with me for a few days now, as I was reading and writing it out, several questions came to mind which lead me on a diving deeper journey. It was difficult to select just one verse, topic or message to journal about in my Bible, so I selected several.
What do you think of this format?
If you would love to hear why I selected each of these topics, just keep reading....
I think the main reason chapter 10 grabbed my attention so is because we see Jesus giving the disciples their ministry "marching orders". Being someone in ministry, I really wanted to understand their purpose as given personally by Jesus.
1. Called by Name
The 12 Apostles... although the story of each disciple's calling is not told in this chapter, Matthew does include each's name. We often hear people in ministry refer to themselves as "being called" by God. And here Jesus exemplifies this as he personally "called" each of the 12 Apostles.
2. Sent on Mission
In verses 5-15, Jesus tells his disciples exactly what he wants them to do.
a. He tells them where to go, who to talk to, and who not to talk to. This might seem confusing for us at first, because today we know the message of the gospel is available to everyone. But then, God wanted it presented to the children of Israel first. God had a plan. Just like with the disciples, when God sends us, we need to follow his directions, even though we may not understand. We must exercise our faith and trust God's direction.
b. He tells them what to say. Jesus gave them the specific message he wanted shared with the Israelites. He has given us the gospel message to share as well. Why do we think we need to change or modify or 'improve' on the words of God?
c. He tells them specifically what to do. When God calls us to minister, he also will tell us what to do. He's never asked me to do these things the disciples were instructed to do, but he does provide instruction to each of us. So, I have to keep asking myself, is what's on my to-do list is directed by God or penciled in by me?
d. He tells them not to receive. Not to accept any payment or money. Why? At that time, the religious leaders were often found to be extorting money or financially profiting from the people. Jesus did not want the disciples to appear to show any type of favoritism or seen to be selling miracles to the highest bidder. Of course, we could talk about ministry and money all day, but for this purpose, Jesus told the disciples, "You received without paying; give without pay." Jesus was the one who gave them the ability to perform these miracles, and he wanted them to give these blessings to the people.
3. Persecution Will Come, But Do Not Fear
In verses 16-33 Jesus forewarns them – they will be persecuted. Hunted like sheep by wolves, incur legal and physical harm, be rejected by and separated from family and friends, be publicly persecuted, hated and possibly killed. Not “might” but “will”. I wonder if they truly understood what was coming? So far, Jesus was popular and drawing crowds of followers. But this would change and he would be hated and rejected by the people. This makes me question, as Christians in ministry today, why do we expect to be popular and garner large numbers of followers?
4. Not Peace
In verses 34-39, Jesus tells the apostles what following him will cost them. Division and separation from their loved ones. Jesus says he [the Prince of Peace] did not come to bring peace but a sword [of division]. A sword to separate believers from non-believers. One commentary read, “fellowship with Me [Jesus] will involve separation from the dearest on earth, yet the reward will be great.” Has being a Christian cost you a relationship with a loved one? Exclusion from gatherings of friends? What pains my heart – and convicts me – is wondering if we have given more emphasis on living at peace with non-believers through a desire to be inclusive but all to the detriment of accurately delivering Jesus’ message of ultimate separation from God for the non-believer?
5. Rewards
And closing chapter 10 of Matthew, Jesus gives us this beautiful promise. This is the reason the disciples are following Jesus, why they are leaving their homes and families, their communities, giving up worldly things, enduring hatred and persecution… all so those who hear their message and believe in Jesus Christ will receive God the Father. THAT is the reward.
Who gives everything, all so someone else can benefit?
What a portrait Matthew has painted in chapter 10 of a disciple of Christ.
If you have hung out this long, I would love to hear your thoughts about any of these observations. How has God spoken to you through Matthew chapter 10?
Blessings Soul Friends
