Matthew 10
-Jesus gave very specific authority and instructions before
sending out His twelve disciples to preach the gospel, implore people to
repent, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons.
They were to travel light and receive from the righteous along their journeys.
They were told to go everywhere in the land of Israel, but not yet to the
Gentiles or any city of the Samaritans (a half Jewish population hated because
of inbreeding). Jesus had strong words for them and those they came in contact
with, which need to be internalized by us in our own day and age. He warned of
the persecution and whole hearted devotion that was required to be Kingdom
workers. The disciples knew that it was a dying to self and walking in His
power and authority that was the key after Jesus taught them. Jesus, recognizing
and preparing them for the difficulties they would face in testifying of His
goodness and Deity, spoke of endurance and a steadfast spirit, of not giving up
or in. He taught them not to fear man, but God, who was the keeper of their
souls. They were to be bold in their presentation and confess His Name
unashamedly without worry. Soon they would see the power of the Holy Spirit on
their lives and feel His continual presence with them, which gives wisdom and
grace in each situation. *Application*
Our lives should be modeled around this instruction for our own lives. The
disciples were people just like us and had to mature to be all that God wanted
them to be. We also can do the same. Be a strong Christian!
Verses to Memorize:
Matthew 10:8, 20, 22, 26, 37-39
No comments:
Post a Comment