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Matthew 10:29
Verse
Context
Fear God Alone
28Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing?--In Luke (Luk 12:6) it is "five sparrows for two farthings"; so that, if the purchaser took two farthings' worth, he got one in addition--of such small value were they. and one of them shall not fall on the ground--exhausted or killed without your Father--"Not one of them is forgotten before God," as it is in Luke (Luk 12:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. A proverbial expression, showing the perfect knowledge God has, and the exquisite care he takes, in providence, of all his creatures, particularly men, and especially his dear children and faithful ministers; as not a sparrow, so not a single hair of a man's head falls to the ground without the knowledge, and will of God: a way of speaking sometimes used to signify, that not the least hurt or damage should befall a person; see Sa1 14:45 and the phraseology of the text was in use, and very well known by the Jews; for so they represent God speaking (i); "do not I number all the hairs of every creature?'' As our Lord applies this particularly to his disciples, his sense is, that they had no reason to be afraid of men, or fear anything that should befall them, for their bearing a faithful testimony to him; for, their valuable lives were under the special and peculiar care of divine providence; not only the days, months, and years of their lives were with God, and put down in his book of purposes and decrees, which could neither be shortened nor lengthened; and not only the more principal, and even all the members of their bodies were written in his book of providence, and a singular care taken of them; but even their very excrescences, the more minute parts, and which were of no great account with them, the "hairs" of their head", even "all" of them, were not only known, but numbered", taken account of; yea, the thing was done already, it was not to be done; a very strong way of setting forth the doctrine of divine providence: a doctrine which the Jews were not unacquainted with, who say (k); "that the events of man, and accidents which come upon him, , "are all by", or "in the hands of God";'' and (l) that "nothing is by chance, but all things are "with design";'' or, as they elsewhere say (m), "a man does not hurt his finger below, but they proclaim concerning it above;'' that is, as the gloss explains it, , "it is decreed" concerning it: which comes very near to the phrase here used. (i) Pesikta, fol. 18. 4. apud Drusium in loc. (k) Piske Tosaphot ad Cetubot, art. 119. (l) Kimchi in Ps. civ. 4. (m) T. Bab. Cholin, fol. 7. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:29-31 Because God cares about every sparrow, and because Jesus’ disciples are much more valuable, certainly the disciples need not fear—God will providentially care for them.
Matthew 10:29
Fear God Alone
28Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) 4 - Man and the Cultural Mandate
By S. Lewis Johnson1.0K54:18Cultural MandateGEN 1:1MAT 6:26MAT 10:29In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not being afraid of those who interpret the word of God differently. He encourages listeners to study the Bible diligently, as the Holy Spirit will guide them to the truthfulness of God's word. The speaker also highlights the simplicity of the most plausible interpretation of the Bible. He references Genesis 1:1 and 1:27, where God is described as creating the heavens and the earth, and creating man in His own image. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance in fulfilling His purpose and for deliverance from sin through the Holy Spirit.
God Cares
By Anton Bosch1EXO 33:17PSA 142:4PRO 12:10ISA 43:1MAT 10:29JHN 15:13ACT 7:55ROM 8:38PHP 4:61PE 5:7Anton Bosch preaches about the feeling of being uncared for and unnoticed by people, but assures that God truly cares for each individual, knowing them by name and being concerned about every detail of their lives. He emphasizes that God not only knows about our problems but also feels our pain and has compassion on us, unlike people who may remain unaffected by our struggles. Bosch encourages casting all burdens upon God, who is waiting to help and share the load, offering comfort, mercy, and tenderness to those who are struggling.
God's Thoughts for His People
By Erlo Stegen0Forgiveness of SinsGod's KnowledgePSA 32:1PSA 116:15PRO 28:13JER 29:11MAT 10:29Erlo Stegen emphasizes God's intimate knowledge of each individual, highlighting that despite the vastness of humanity, God has good plans for everyone, even those who have sinned. He reflects on Israel's return from exile and their subsequent rejection of idol worship, illustrating God's mercy and the importance of confession. Stegen reminds us that God is aware of all our thoughts and sins, and that true forgiveness comes through confessing and forsaking our sins. He encourages believers to find comfort in the assurance of forgiveness through Jesus' blood, especially when facing death. The sermon concludes with the reminder of the blessedness of having one's sins covered and the preciousness of a saint's death in God's sight.
He Holds All the Keys
By David Wilkerson0God's SovereigntyRevelationJOB 1:21MAT 10:29REV 1:18David Wilkerson emphasizes that profound revelations of God's goodness often emerge during our most challenging times, as illustrated by John’s experience on the Isle of Patmos. In isolation and despair, John received the revelation of Christ in His glory, recognizing Jesus as the one who holds the keys to life and death. This moment of divine insight reassured John, reminding him not to fear, as Jesus is sovereign over all circumstances. Wilkerson encourages believers to find peace in knowing that Jesus holds all the keys, and to respond in faith, much like Job did, acknowledging God's sovereignty in both giving and taking away.
God in Our Common Life
By J.R. Miller0Divine ProvidenceGod's Presence in Daily LifeMAT 10:29J.R. Miller emphasizes that God is intricately involved in the small events of our daily lives, often without our conscious awareness. He illustrates how divine providence guides our decisions and encounters, suggesting that every meeting and experience is part of God's plan. Miller uses biblical examples, such as the story of Elisha and Philip, to demonstrate that God orchestrates our paths for a greater purpose. He encourages believers to recognize the sacredness of their everyday interactions and to respond to divine opportunities with love and service. Ultimately, Miller reassures us that God is present in every aspect of our lives, even in our struggles and challenges.
On Mungo Park's Finding a Tuft of Green Moss in the African Desert
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Hope in DespairGod's Care for CreationMAT 10:29Robert Murray M'Cheyne reflects on Mungo Park's journey through the African desert, emphasizing the contrast between overwhelming danger and the small yet beautiful tuft of green moss that provided him with hope. This moment of admiration for the moss leads M'Cheyne to ponder God's care for His creation, suggesting that if God can nurture such a small plant in a desolate place, He surely cares for humanity. The sermon encourages believers to find hope and inspiration in the midst of life's wilderness, reminding them that even in despair, God is present and attentive to their struggles. M'Cheyne calls for a bold faith that seeks to share the message of salvation, just as Park sought to explore the unknown. Ultimately, the sermon inspires listeners to lift their eyes to God, who brings life and beauty even in the bleakest circumstances.
He Careth for You
By William MacDonald0Assurance in TrialsGod's CareEXO 16:4PSA 56:8ISA 43:2ISA 49:16MAT 6:26MAT 10:29MAT 10:31LUK 12:6HEB 13:51PE 5:7William MacDonald emphasizes God's profound care for His people, illustrating this through biblical examples such as the provision for Israel in the wilderness and the care for sparrows and lilies. He reassures us that we are of greater value to God than these creatures, as evidenced by Christ's sacrificial love and His intimate knowledge of our lives. MacDonald highlights that God is always present with us, bearing our burdens and ensuring our needs are met, even in times of trouble. He concludes with the assurance that God's care extends throughout our lives, from youth to old age, and that He will never abandon us.
On Divine Providence
By John Wesley0Divine ProvidenceTrust in GodMAT 10:29LUK 12:7John Wesley emphasizes the doctrine of divine providence, asserting that God meticulously oversees every aspect of creation, even numbering the hairs on our heads. He argues that this providence is acknowledged by wise men throughout history and is evident in the lives of individuals, including those who may not have formal education. Wesley contrasts the general understanding of providence with the specific care God has for His people, encouraging believers to trust in God's intimate involvement in their lives. He calls for humility and diligence in walking with God, reminding us that while we are under His care, we must not become complacent. Ultimately, Wesley highlights the comfort and security found in knowing that God is actively involved in our lives, providing protection and guidance.
Epistle 370
By George Fox0MAT 5:10MAT 10:29JHN 10:15ROM 8:38ROM 12:202CO 6:2EPH 2:6HEB 7:271PE 4:14George Fox preaches to friends in prison and sufferers in the county, reminding them of the eternal power and peace they have in Christ Jesus. He encourages them to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that nothing can separate them from the love of God. Fox urges them to endure persecution for righteousness' sake, rejoicing in their reward in heaven and glorifying God in their sufferings.
Epistle 420
By George Fox0Divine ProvidenceFaithDAN 2:35MAT 5:13MAT 10:29HEB 11:1REV 3:10George Fox encourages believers to find life, salvation, and peace in the Lord Jesus Christ, even amidst worldly troubles and captivity. He emphasizes the importance of faith, citing examples from scripture where the faithful were delivered by God's power, and urges his listeners to stand firm in their faith without complaint. Fox calls on them to be a light in the world, demonstrating good works that glorify God, and to fulfill their divine purpose in every situation. He reminds them of God's providence and the need to remain steadfast in the word of power, patience, and wisdom.
Feathered Friends - Matt. 6:26
By Bernard Fell0GEN 1:21PSA 104:12MAT 6:26MAT 10:29LUK 12:24Bernard Fell preaches on the valuable lessons we can learn from observing the birds of the air, highlighting their care for offspring, diversity, and the provision of God for all creatures. He emphasizes the importance of being thankful for God's provision and care, drawing parallels between how God watches over the birds and His greater love for His people, who are more precious in His sight.
Luke 12:22-34. Christ Warns His Disciples Against Worldly Carefulness.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 104:27ISA 41:10MAT 6:25MAT 10:29PHP 4:19Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the dangers of covetousness and the importance of trusting in God's provision, highlighting how both the rich and the poor can fall into the trap of valuing material possessions over their Creator. He emphasizes the need for dependence on God, who lovingly cares for all His creatures, providing for their needs and demonstrating His faithfulness. Mortimer challenges believers to have unwavering trust in God's watchful care, reminding them of His promises and unfailing love.
In Every Crumb of Blessing
By Anne Dutton0PSA 23:1ISA 43:1MAT 10:29ROM 8:38EPH 3:20Anne Dutton emphasizes the profound truth that God is not only the God of His people collectively but also of each individual believer as if they were the sole recipient of His divine favor. She highlights the intimate relationship between God and His children, where every blessing is a manifestation of God's great Self. Dutton encourages a perspective where every small blessing is seen as a significant display of God's mercy and fullness, leading to deep gratitude and thankfulness for even the slightest favor bestowed.
Dying in the Lord
By John Newton0PSA 139:1PRO 3:5ISA 41:10MAT 10:29ROM 8:28John Newton reassures his friend of God's sovereignty and care, emphasizing that even in moments of darkness and doubt, they can trust in the Lord's love and provision. Newton acknowledges his friend's struggles but points to the greater truth that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding, and every aspect of their life is under His control. He encourages his friend to have faith and confidence in God's guidance, likening life's challenges to a stormy sea where God is the unwavering Pilot leading them safely to their destination.
Of the Providence of God
By Thomas Boston0PSA 103:19PRO 16:33PRO 21:1MAT 10:29ACT 17:28ROM 4:19HEB 1:3HEB 13:5JAS 1:13Thomas Boston preaches on the providence of God, emphasizing how God's care extends even to the smallest details of creation, such as sparrows. He explains that providence involves preserving and governing all creatures and their actions, with God overruling even sinful actions for a good end. Boston urges believers to trust in God's wisdom, power, and holiness, and to submit to His will in all circumstances, avoiding sin and anxiety while relying on God's provision and guidance.
Joy in God's Providence
By Jared Waterbury0PSA 139:16PRO 16:9MAT 10:29ROM 8:28ROM 15:13PHP 4:11Jared Waterbury preaches about the doctrine of a particular providence as taught in the Bible, emphasizing the belief that not even a sparrow falls to the ground apart from the will of God, and that every detail of our lives is noticed and numbered by the Almighty. This doctrine, when practically recognized, becomes a foundation of joy for the pious man, bringing God near and acknowledging His hand in the minutest affairs of life without diminishing His dignity as the Creator of all. By interpreting the will of God in all aspects of life and trusting in His providence, the Christian finds consolation, encouragement, and joy, even in the midst of dark and disastrous circumstances.
Blessing on Littleness
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Value of Small FaithGod's Care for the HumblePSA 115:13MAT 10:29C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that God blesses all who fear Him, regardless of their status or size, offering encouragement to those in humble positions. He illustrates that God values even the smallest aspects of creation, showing that nothing is insignificant in His eyes. Spurgeon reassures that both little and great believers are equally blessed, as even the smallest faith and hope carry divine favor. He draws a parallel between God's care for the small and a mother's tender love for her child, highlighting that God's blessings are abundant for all, regardless of their stature. Ultimately, Spurgeon reminds us that in God's kingdom, the order is 'small and great,' affirming the worth of every individual.
Give Your Child to God
By Neil Anderson0PSA 37:5PRO 22:6MAT 10:29LUK 15:11EPH 6:4PHP 4:6Neil Anderson emphasizes the importance of entrusting our children to God's care and protection, acknowledging that as parents, we cannot control their every decision or path. He draws parallels to the prodigal son story, highlighting the father's willingness to let his son go and the son's eventual return after coming to his senses. Anderson encourages parents to pray for their children, surrendering their will to God's and trusting in His ability to work in their lives even when they are out of sight.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing?--In Luke (Luk 12:6) it is "five sparrows for two farthings"; so that, if the purchaser took two farthings' worth, he got one in addition--of such small value were they. and one of them shall not fall on the ground--exhausted or killed without your Father--"Not one of them is forgotten before God," as it is in Luke (Luk 12:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. A proverbial expression, showing the perfect knowledge God has, and the exquisite care he takes, in providence, of all his creatures, particularly men, and especially his dear children and faithful ministers; as not a sparrow, so not a single hair of a man's head falls to the ground without the knowledge, and will of God: a way of speaking sometimes used to signify, that not the least hurt or damage should befall a person; see Sa1 14:45 and the phraseology of the text was in use, and very well known by the Jews; for so they represent God speaking (i); "do not I number all the hairs of every creature?'' As our Lord applies this particularly to his disciples, his sense is, that they had no reason to be afraid of men, or fear anything that should befall them, for their bearing a faithful testimony to him; for, their valuable lives were under the special and peculiar care of divine providence; not only the days, months, and years of their lives were with God, and put down in his book of purposes and decrees, which could neither be shortened nor lengthened; and not only the more principal, and even all the members of their bodies were written in his book of providence, and a singular care taken of them; but even their very excrescences, the more minute parts, and which were of no great account with them, the "hairs" of their head", even "all" of them, were not only known, but numbered", taken account of; yea, the thing was done already, it was not to be done; a very strong way of setting forth the doctrine of divine providence: a doctrine which the Jews were not unacquainted with, who say (k); "that the events of man, and accidents which come upon him, , "are all by", or "in the hands of God";'' and (l) that "nothing is by chance, but all things are "with design";'' or, as they elsewhere say (m), "a man does not hurt his finger below, but they proclaim concerning it above;'' that is, as the gloss explains it, , "it is decreed" concerning it: which comes very near to the phrase here used. (i) Pesikta, fol. 18. 4. apud Drusium in loc. (k) Piske Tosaphot ad Cetubot, art. 119. (l) Kimchi in Ps. civ. 4. (m) T. Bab. Cholin, fol. 7. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:29-31 Because God cares about every sparrow, and because Jesus’ disciples are much more valuable, certainly the disciples need not fear—God will providentially care for them.