Matthew 10 is a pivotal chapter in the Gospel, marking the moment when Jesus officially sends out his twelve apostles. These men, chosen from among his disciples, receive authority to heal the sick, cast out demons, and proclaim the message of the kingdom. However, this commission comes with a warning—following Jesus will bring persecution, division, and hardship.
What does this mean for us today? This chapter teaches us about faith, obedience, and the cost of discipleship. Let’s explore the key lessons from Matthew 10 and how they apply to our lives.
1. Jesus Calls and Empowers His Apostles
At the beginning of the chapter, Jesus calls his twelve apostles by name. These men come from diverse backgrounds—fishermen, tax collectors, and even a zealot. Despite their ordinary status, Jesus gives them extraordinary power to do the very things he has been doing: healing diseases, casting out demons, and proclaiming the kingdom of heaven.
Key Takeaway:
God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Just like the apostles, we may feel unprepared or unworthy, but when Jesus calls us, He gives us the strength and ability to carry out His mission.
2. The Mission Begins with the Lost Sheep of Israel
Jesus instructs the apostles to go first to the lost sheep of Israel, not to the Gentiles or Samaritans. This doesn’t mean the gospel is only for Israel, but rather that God’s plan starts with His chosen people before spreading to the whole world.
Key Takeaway:
Sometimes, our mission field is right in front of us—our families, friends, and communities. Before looking to serve far away, we should ask, “Who in my life needs to hear the gospel today?”
3. The Cost of Following Jesus
Jesus warns his apostles that their mission won’t be easy. They will be rejected, persecuted, and even hated for His name. Families will be divided over the gospel, and some will even be put to death. But Jesus tells them not to fear those who can kill the body; instead, they should fear God and trust in His protection.
Key Takeaway:
Faith in Jesus is not always popular. Standing for Christ may bring ridicule, rejection, or even persecution. However, Jesus assures us that He knows our struggles and values us more than the sparrows He watches over.
4. Be Wise and Innocent
Jesus gives his disciples a powerful command: “Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). This means being both discerning and pure-hearted. We are called to navigate the world with wisdom, not naivety, while maintaining our integrity.
Key Takeaway:
Christians should be smart and strategic in their faith while remaining honest and kind. Whether at work, school, or in relationships, we should seek wisdom without compromising our character.
5. Trust God to Provide and Speak Through You
Jesus tells the apostles not to bring extra money, clothes, or provisions. Instead, they are to rely on God to provide through the kindness of others. He also reassures them that when they face persecution, the Holy Spirit will give them the words to say.
Key Takeaway:
God is our provider. He calls us to trust Him, even when we don’t have all the answers. When we face difficult conversations about our faith, we don’t have to be afraid—He will give us the right words at the right time.
6. Whoever Receives You, Receives Jesus
Jesus teaches that when people accept His messengers, they are accepting Him. Even a small act of kindness, like offering a cup of water, is noticed and rewarded by God.
Key Takeaway:
How we treat others—especially fellow believers—matters to God. Every act of love, no matter how small, is significant in His eyes.
7. The Reward for Faithfulness
Jesus concludes by reminding His disciples that while following Him is costly, the reward is far greater. Those who endure will find true life.
Key Takeaway:
This world is temporary, but the kingdom of God is eternal. If we hold onto our faith, we will receive a reward far beyond what we can imagine.
Conclusion: Counting the Cost and Trusting Jesus
Matthew 10 challenges us to consider what it truly means to follow Jesus. It is not an easy road, but it is the only one that leads to eternal life. The apostles faced rejection, hardship, and even death, yet they pressed on because they knew Jesus was worth it.
Are we willing to stand firm in our faith, even when it’s unpopular? Are we willing to trust God to provide and guide us? As we reflect on this chapter, let’s commit to following Jesus with boldness, wisdom, and unwavering trust.
Remember: Jesus values you, He sees your struggles, and He will reward your faithfulness. Keep your eyes on Him, and press on toward the kingdom.
