Day 289 – Matthew 10

Talking Points

• Jesus has called and now commissions the twelve apostles. It is important for us today to have a biblically informed definition of the title Apostle, as there are many distortions. The Greek word “apostle” translates “sent one.” In the Christian understanding, an apostle is one sent and commissioned by Christ Himself, one witness to the resurrected Jesus, and one granted the supernatural ability to speak the Word of God (much like the Old Testament office of prophet). By this definition, the office of apostle has ceased to exist in the New Testament church.
• As the apostles carry out their ministry, they are to be careful in word and deed, acting shrewdly and in innocence (Matthew 10:16). Even so, Jesus warned them of coming harsh treatment. The cost would be high, and Jesus told them that they could expect to suffer just as Jesus did. It would be in these moments of suffering that they would have to rely on the Holy Spirit and respond in a manner that honors God. We should follow the same perspective in times of hardship.
• A weird truth about the gospel is that it unites us with God, and, in doing so, it divides us from the world opposed to God. The unexpected reality is the gospel divides even the closest of earthly relationships. A timeless fact is revealed to the apostles — hatred for the message will result in hatred for the messenger.

Thoughts

In the midst of such stark warnings of persecution against God’s spokesmen, we find a sweet promise from God. In the abuse and hatred that will surely be heaped on the proclaimers of Christ’s good news, they might be tempted to despair in loneliness. It is a hard thing to be hated. It’s difficult to stand alone. They might even wonder if the cost is too much to bear. It is in that context that Jesus says,

“Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.” (10:29-31)

Our kind Savior gently reminds us — God sees. He knows. We have nothing to fear. The God who created the stars and placed them in the sky knows the number of hairs on our heads.

His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.

Praise the Lord!