Matthew 10

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 7 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER X) Chapter 10) Theme: The Work Which Thou Gavest Him to Do) The Charge to The Twelve) The Second Great Discourse) ) 10:1 42 The Charge to The Twelve) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:13 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.7-41.6.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.7-41.6.13|AUTODETECT|” 6:7 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.1-42.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.1-42.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:1 6) 1 25 2 8 0 0 10 And he called to himself his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits to cast them out, and to heal every sickness and every infirmity.) 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are as follows:) first, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and) James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;) 3 Philip and Bartholomew;) Thomas and Matthew the tax collector;) James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;) 4 Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed him.) 5 These twelve Jesus sent out after giving them the following charge:) Into any road of the Gentiles do not turn off, and into any city of the Samaritans do not enter, 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal (the) sick, raise (the) dead, cleanse (the) lepers, cast out (the) demons; freely you received, freely give.) 9 Don t supply yourselves with gold or silver or copper (money) to put into your belts, 10 nor with a traveler s bag, two tunics, or (extra) sandals, or a staff, for the worker is entitled to his support.) 11 Whatever city or village you enter, look for someone there who is deserving, and stay at his house until you leave (the place). 12 When you enter a home pronounce your greeting upon it; 13 and if that home is deserving let your peace come upon it, but if it is not deserving let your peace return to you. 14 And if anyone will not receive you and listen to your words, in going out of that house or of that city shake the dust off your feet. 15 I solemnly declare to you, in the day of judgment it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that city.) 16 Look, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be keen as the serpents, guileless as the doves. 17 And beware of men, for they will hand you over to councils, and in their synagogues they will flog you. 18 On my account you will be dragged before governors and kings for a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 Now whenever they hand you over (to the authorities), do not worry as to how or what you should speak, since what you should say will be given to you in that hour; 20 for it is not you who speak, but it is your Father s Spirit (who is) speaking in you.) 21 Brother will deliver up brother to death, (the) father (his) child, and children will rise up against (their) parents and will kill them. 22 And you will be hated by all for my name s sake; but he that endures to the end, he will be saved. 23 Now whenever they persecute you in this city, flee to the next one; for I solemnly declare to you, you will certainly not finish (going through) the cities of Israel before the Son of man comes.) 24 A pupil does not outrank his teacher, nor a slave his master. 25 Let the pupil be satisfied to share his teacher s lot, and the slave to share his master s. If (even) the master of the house was called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household!) 26 Therefore do not be afraid of them; for there is nothing covered that will not be uncovered, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I say to you in the dark, tell it out in broad daylight; what is whispered into your ear, proclaim it on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.) 29 Are not sparrows sold two for a cent? Yet not one of them shall fall to the ground without (the will of) your Father. 30 And as for yourselves, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Therefore do not fear. You are worth more than many sparrows.) 32 Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven.) 34 Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I came to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 A man s enemies (will be) the members of his household.) 37 He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and he who does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. 39 He who finds his life shall lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake shall find it.) 40 He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. 41 He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet s reward; and he who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person shall receive a righteous person s reward. 42 And whoever gives to one of these little ones even so much as a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, I solemnly declare to you, he shall certainly not lose his reward. ) ) This chapter, from verse 5 to the end, contains one of the Lord s instructive discourses, the second of the six.

For all six see pp. v, vi, 846. Here, as in the preceding chapters, Christ s prophetic, priestly, and royal offices are inextricably intertwined, as follows:) In sending his disciples out on a mission tour Jesus shows them how they should conduct themselves. Accordingly, he appears here as teacher or prophet, revealer of the Father s will. But this title prophet applies to him also in the more restricted sense of predictor of coming events. A single reading of the charge shows that, especially from verse 16 to the end, the One who addresses The Twelve is predicting the future. He is describing what is going to happen when the church brings Christ s message to those lost in sin.) The Lord s priestly office, with its implication of vicarious suffering, is also foreshadowed (see verse 38), though as yet very dimly.

The disciples, in taking up their cross, must follow after their Master. They will be hated because he is hated (cf. verses 22, 24, 25).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.14|AUTODETECT|” Finally, it is as king Lord of lords and King of kings 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 17:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) that Jesus sends out his ambassadors. He arms them with authority (10:1) because he himself is clothed with supreme authority.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Summary) Matthew first gives the setting of the charge-discourse. In reality the background material begins at 9:35 38 (see on these verses). In 10:1 the evangelist makes mention of the summoning of the disciples and of the power Jesus delegates to them. Then (verses 2 4) the roll of The Twelve is called. The actual charge follows (verses 5 42).) As was true in connection with the Sermon on the Mount so also here in this Charge to The Twelve there is no rambling but a very orderly progression of thought. The specifics of the charge are given in what may be considered the first part of the address (verses 5 15).

The disciples, who may now properly be called apostles, are told where they should go, what they have to proclaim, what they must do, in what condition they are to set out on their tour, and with whom they must lodge. In what may be viewed as the second portion of the address (verses 16 42), where the charge, though continuing, begins to blend with prophetic discourse, Jesus describes what will be the people s sharply contrasted response to the apostle s mission: some will accept it; many will reject it. For the missionaries this rejection will mean bitter persecution, probably already implied in verses 13b 15. Jesus shows them how they should respond to this treatment, namely, with courage and with trust in the Lord who is going to reward them for their loyalty.) The reading of verses 13 16 would seem to indicate, however, that what may be considered Part I of the address (verses 5 15) blends into Part II (verses 16 42) so gradually and exquisitely that the entire charge-discourse (verses 5 42) can be treated as a unit; hence verse by verse or paragraph by paragraph without any sub-topics. Result: a division of the chapter into two parts: a. the setting (verses 1 4); and b. the charge (verses 5 42).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17-40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” However, the gradual character of the transition from verses 5 15 to verses 16 42 is not universally admitted. As some see it, Christ s warning that the disciples would not be welcomed everywhere but would be rejected by many is not an adequate introduction to the predictions of the persecution in store for the church. Thus the conclusion is reached that what is found in 10:5 42 is not really a unit but is a combination. Jesus, so it is argued, did not at this time deliver the entire address. On the contrary, when, sometime after Christ s resurrection, persecution began to raise its head the Gospel composer combined an early address of Jesus with some of his later sayings, particularly with those found in his eschatological address 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17-40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:17 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.9-41.13.13|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.9-41.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:9 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.12-42.21.17|AUTODETECT|” and with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.12-42.21.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:12 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.5-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” ). According to this view the result of the combination is what is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.5-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:5 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” . To bolster this combination theory it is further pointed out that the dire prediction of martyrdom (verses 21, 28) was not fulfilled during the apostles first missionary tour; rather, the very opposite occurred 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But since the earliest readers of this Gospel knew very well that the predicted afflictions did not take place before Christ s resurrection but afterward, they would experience no difficulty in understanding the composite nature of that which is here presented as if it were one charge.��430��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Objections:) a. The discourse is presented as if it was delivered as a unit. It is preceded by the words, These twelve Jesus sent out after giving them the following charge [literally, after commanding them, saying ] (10:5). It is followed by, Now when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples he went on from there & (11:1).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.18|AUTODETECT|” b. Jesus had already dimly referred to his own approaching death (9:15). Was it not natural, therefore, that he would even at this time begin to tell the disciples, and through them the church, what would happen after his departure? Though before Christ s resurrection, none of The Twelve was martyred, strong opposition must have arisen immediately (10:14, 15, 23 25), with martyrdom following later 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.18|AUTODETECT|” John 21:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is not clear why both of these links in the chain of persecution could not have been predicted at the same time.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.25|AUTODETECT|” c. Even in his eschatological discourse 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24, 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.0|AUTODETECT|” ) Jesus himself (not merely the evangelist) blends into a single discourse a chronologically far removed event (the second coming), a closer and long continuing transaction (the preaching of the gospel to all the nations), and an imminent tragedy (the fall of Jerusalem). So why may he not have done something similar here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|” d. As has been pointed out before, it is not at all unusual for speakers to repeat earlier important sayings or remarks. Why, for example, would it be unnatural for Jesus to allude to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.21|AUTODETECT|” both here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.16|AUTODETECT|” and also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.0|AUTODETECT|” ? Besides, the difference between the discourse found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and any of Christ s other discourses is far greater than the similarity.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 e. The fact that the phraseology, In their synagogues they will flog you (10:17; cf. 23:34) occurs only in Matthew s Gospel would seem to indicate an early, Palestinian origin for this expression, rather than a later time of persecution.��431��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.5-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” I shall proceed on the assumption, therefore, that the address recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.5-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:5 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 was delivered as a unit, as Matthew indicates.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The Setting) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.12|AUTODETECT|” 10:1. And he called to himself his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every sickness and every infirmity. Matthew seems to take for granted that the readers of his Gospel already know that The Twelve, taken as a group, had been chosen earlier, though he himself does not record this call. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13|AUTODETECT|” this company of twelve had been called just previous to the preaching of the Sermon on the Mount 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.28|AUTODETECT|” ). Now, perhaps somewhat later (during the same summer, namely, of the year a.d. 28?), Jesus sends these men out on a mission tour. They were to be his official ambassadors or apostles, clothed with authority to represent their Sender. That exactly twelve men, no more and no less, were chosen for this task must mean that the Lord designated them to be the nucleus of the new Israel, for the Israel of the old dispensation had been represented by the twelve patriarchs 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.28|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.13|AUTODETECT|” Very interesting and instructive surely is the fact that the very men who had been urged to pray that the Lord of the harvest might thrust out laborers into his harvest (9:38) are now placed in the forefront of these laborers (cf. 18:18). They are, moreover, given authority over unclean spirits 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.13|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 6:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), probably designated by that name because not only are these spirits themselves filthy but among men they are also the instigators of filthy thoughts, words, and deeds.��432��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.16|AUTODETECT|” Exactly what does Matthew mean when he says that Jesus gave to The Twelve authority [that is, power plus the right to exercise it] over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every sickness and every infirmity ? Does he wish to say that by means of, and as a result of, casting out these demons the disciples acquired the authority to heal every sickness and every infirmity? If that is the sense it would almost seem as if every sickness and every infirmity is somehow caused by demons. Now in connection with 9:32 it has already been shown: a. that according to the Gospels in certain cases diseases were indeed associated with demon possession, but also b. that this was by no means always true. At times a physical affliction is ascribed to Satanic influence rather than specifically to demon-possession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Job 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Often neither Satan nor his underlings are even mentioned in connection with human illnesses. It is true that in a very general and indirect way every manifestation of human distress, whether physical or spiritual, can be ascribed to Satan, for had Adam as head of the race resisted the temptation these evils would not now be in evidence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.1|AUTODETECT|” ). All this hardly suffices to justify the conclusion: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 means a. that every sickness and every infirmity is directly caused by demons, and b. that the disciples by receiving authority to drive them out acquired the power to heal every disease. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Grammatically it is entirely legitimate to interpret 10:1 differently, namely, that Jesus gave to The Twelve authority over unclean spirits, so that these men were able and were instructed to cast them out, and he gave them authority to heal every sickness and every infirmity. The shortened manner in which this is expressed in 10:1 may be considered one of the many instances of abbreviated discourse.��433��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.19|AUTODETECT|” The similarity of 10:1 to 4:23 and 9:35 shows that in faithfully carrying out their assignment The Twelve are truly representing their Master, for they are doing what he himself is doing and what they have been ordered to do. In the same manner Jesus himself represents the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.19|AUTODETECT|” John 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 7 2 8 0 0 2. Now the names of the twelve apostles are as follows:) first, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and) James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;) 3. Philip and Bartholomew;) Thomas and Matthew the tax collector;) James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;) 4. Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.2-40.10.4|AUTODETECT|” In the New Testament the names of The Twelve are listed four times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.2-40.10.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.16-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.16-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:16 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.14-42.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.14-42.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.15-44.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ). ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.15-44.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:15 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 records the manner in which Judas Iscariot was replaced by Matthias. As to the Gospel lists, each begins with Peter (so does Acts) and ends with Judas Iscariot. Even the arrangement within the four references shows but little variation. When theoretically the twelve names are viewed in each case as consisting of three groups of four, the following result is obtained:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.35-43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” In Matthew s summary Andrew s name is listed immediately after that of his brother Peter; the brothers James and John are mentioned next. This completes the first group of four. These four may well have been Christ s first disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.35-43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” John 1:35 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.18-40.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; and see above on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.18-40.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:18 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.43-43.1.51|AUTODETECT|” ). The second group of four begins with Philip and Bartholomew (=Nathanael), called to be Christ s disciples immediately after the first group of four 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.43-43.1.51|AUTODETECT|” John 1:43 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and concludes with Thomas and Matthew. In the final group the first three names are those of obscure disciples, that is, men about whom little (Thaddaeus) or next to nothing (James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Cananaean) is known; the last name is that of the traitor Judas. Does this obscurity and (in one case) perversity account for the fact that these four are mentioned last? Or are they mentioned last because they were the last to be called? We do not know.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 In Mark s list the sequence for the first group of four is the same as in Matthew s with the exception that Andrew is now placed last. In Mark s second four we find Matthew and Thomas instead of Thomas and Matthew. With respect to his last four, Matthew s and Mark s lists are identical.) Luke s Gospel list follows Matthew s for the first four names, Mark s for the second four. With respect to the last four names Luke goes his own way, reversing the order of the two middle names as listed in both Matthew and Mark. Besides, he substitutes the name Judas the son [or: the brother] of James for Thaddaeus, undoubtedly having in mind one and the same person. Hence, here Luke has the sequence: James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the one called the Zealot, and Judas the son [or: the brother] of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. ) Luke s list in the book of Acts has the sequence Peter and John and James and Andrew, for the first four; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, for the second four; and ends with James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. The name of Matthias is added in verse 26.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Therefore, not only do the four lists contain the same twelve names 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Matthias instead of Judas Iscariot); they even (again, with exception as noted) have the same names in each group of four.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.7|AUTODETECT|” According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus sent out the twelve two by two. In Matthew, as the and within each pair and the omission of and between each pair indicates, the grouping is in pairs: Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew, etc. Exception: and also occurs between the first two pairs, perhaps because these are two sets of brothers. The possibility that on the journey Philip and Bartholomew actually traveled together, and so also Thomas and Matthew, Peter and Andrew, etc., must be allowed. Yet, there can be no absolute certainty about this, all the less so because the grouping varies somewhat in the four lists, as has been indicated. At any rate the old rhyme makes it easy to remember the names, and also reminds one of the fact that the men were actually sent out in pairs.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 Peter and Andrew, James and John,) Philip and Bartholomew,) Matthew next and Thomas too) [or: Thomas next and Matthew too],) James the Less and Judas the Greater,) Simon the Zealot and Judas the Traitor.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.6-43.13.9|AUTODETECT|” As to the individuals that composed this group of twelve, no one is mentioned more often than colorful, impetuous Peter. His original name was Simon (or Simeon). He was the son of Jonas (or John). By trade he was a fisherman, with his brother Andrew dwelling first in Bethsaida, afterward in Capernaum. Jesus, by whose grace and influence he was to be gradually transformed from a rather unstable person to a faithful, dependable witness, prophetically changed his name from Simon to Cephas (Aramaic), the same as Peter (Greek: Petros), meaning rock. For a description of Peter s character and personality see especially on 4:18 22; 26:58, 69 75; and N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.6-43.13.9|AUTODETECT|” John 13:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” 18:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” 25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ch. 21. Two New Testament books are by tradition credited to Peter, namely, the epistles called I and II Peter. As was shown earlier (see pp. 41, 44, 53) the Gospel writer Mark has not unjustly been called Peter s interpreter. Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 to the name of this disciple, who is variously called Simon, Peter, Simon Peter, and Cephas, is prefixed the word first. He was indeed the leader of the group. In this connection see on 16:16 19. It is hard to overestimate Peter s meaning for the history of the early church.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.41|AUTODETECT|” It was Andrew, also a fisherman, who brought his brother Peter to Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.41|AUTODETECT|” John 1:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ). For other references to Andrew see above (on 4:18 22); also study ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.3|AUTODETECT|” 13:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.8|AUTODETECT|” John 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.22|AUTODETECT|” 12:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . See also below under Philip.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.17|AUTODETECT|” James and John, too, were brothers, sons of Zebedee. Matthew mentions these two fishermen not only here and in 4:21, 22 (see on that passage), but also later on (17:1; and cf. 20:20, 21).��434�� There are also several references to them in the other Gospels. Because of their fiery nature Jesus called James and John sons of thunder 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.54-42.9.56|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.54-42.9.56|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:54 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ). James was the first of the apostles to wear the martyr s crown 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23|AUTODETECT|” ). While he was the first to arrive in heaven, his brother John was in all probability the last to remain on earth. On the life and character of John, considered by many (I believe correctly) as being the disciple whom Jesus loved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23|AUTODETECT|” John 13:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.7|AUTODETECT|” 21:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. I, pp. 18 21. Five New Testament books have by tradition been assigned to John: his Gospel, three epistles (I, II, and III John), and the book of Revelation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.45|AUTODETECT|” Philip was at least for a while a fellow townsman of Peter and Andrew, that is, he too was from Bethsaida. Having himself responded to the call of Jesus, he found Nathanael, and said to him, The one about whom Moses wrote in the law and about whom the prophets wrote, we have found, Jesus, son of Joseph, the one from Nazareth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.45|AUTODETECT|” John 1:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.5|AUTODETECT|” ). When Jesus was about to feed the five thousand he asked Philip, How are we to buy bread-cakes that these (people) may eat? Philip answered, Bread-cakes for two hundred denarii would not be sufficient for them so that each might get a little something 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.5|AUTODETECT|” John 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ). Philip apparently forgot that the power of Jesus surpassed any possibility of calculation. To deduce from this incident the conclusion that Philip was a coldly-calculating type of person, more so than the other apostles, would be basing too much on too little. In the Gospels Philip generally appears in a rather favorable light. Thus, when the Greeks approached him with the request, Sir, we would see Jesus, he went and told Andrew, and these two, Andrew and Philip, brought the enquirers to Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.21|AUTODETECT|” John 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.8|AUTODETECT|” ). It must be admitted that Philip did not always immediately understand the meaning of Christ s profound utterances did the others? but to his credit it must be said that with perfect candor he would reveal his ignorance and ask for further information, as is also clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.8|AUTODETECT|” John 14:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” , Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be content. He received the beautiful and comforting answer, & He who has seen me has seen the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” John 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Bartholomew (meaning: son of Tolmai) is clearly the Nathanael of John s Gospel (1:45 49; 21:2). It was he who said to Philip, Out of Nazareth can any good come? Philip answered, Come and see. When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him he said, Look, truly an Israelite in whom deceit does not exist. This disciple-apostle was one of the seven persons to whom the resurrected Christ appeared at the Sea of Tiberias. Of the other six only Simon Peter, Thomas, and the sons of Zebedee are mentioned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.16|AUTODETECT|” The references to Thomas combine in indicating that despondency and devotion marked this man. He was ever afraid that he might lose his beloved Master. He expected evil, and it was hard for him to believe good tidings when they were brought to him. Yet when the risen Savior in all his tender, condescending love revealed himself to him it was he who exclaimed, My Lord and my God! For more information on Thomas see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.16|AUTODETECT|” John 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.5|AUTODETECT|” 14:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24-43.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24-43.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 20:24 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.2|AUTODETECT|” 21:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Matthew has already been discussed in some detail (see on 9:9).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.56|AUTODETECT|” About James, the son of Alphaeus, by Mark (15:40) called James the Less, which by some is interpreted as meaning James the younger, but by others as James small in stature, we have no further positive information. It is probable, however, that he was the same disciple who is referred to in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.56|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” . If this be correct, his mother s name was Mary, one of the women who accompanied Jesus and stood near the cross. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It has already been shown that the Alphaeus who was the father of Matthew should probably not be identified with Alphaeus the father of James the Less. See above, footnote 113 on p. 95.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.3|AUTODETECT|” Thaddaeus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.18|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.22|AUTODETECT|” ) is in all probability the Judas not Iscariot of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.22|AUTODETECT|” John 14:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” (see on that passage); cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.0|AUTODETECT|” . From what is said about him in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.0|AUTODETECT|” John 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 it would seem that he wanted Jesus to show himself to the world, probably meaning: to get into the limelight.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.15|AUTODETECT|” The second Simon is called the Cananaean, the latter being an Aramaic surname meaning enthusiast or zealot. In fact Luke calls him Simon the Zealot 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” ). In all probability this name is here given him because formerly he had belonged to the party of the Zealots, which party in its hatred for the foreign ruler, who demanded tribute, did not shrink from fomenting rebellion against the Roman government. See Josephus Jewish War II.117, 118; Antiquities XVIII.1 10, 23. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.14|AUTODETECT|” Finally, there was Judas Iscariot, generally interpreted as meaning Judas the man from Kerioth, a place in southern Judea. The Gospels refer to him again and again 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.47|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.47|AUTODETECT|” 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3|AUTODETECT|” 27:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.43|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.43|AUTODETECT|” 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47|AUTODETECT|” 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.71|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.71|AUTODETECT|” John 6:71) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.4|AUTODETECT|” 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.2|AUTODETECT|” 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.2-43.18.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.2-43.18.5|AUTODETECT|” 18:2 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ). He is at times described as Judas who betrayed him, Judas one of the twelve, the betrayer, Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, Judas Iscariot, Simon s son, or simply Judas. It is probably useless to speculate about the reasons which induced Jesus to select this man as one of his disciples. The basic answer may well be embedded in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.28|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.28|AUTODETECT|” 4:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.70|AUTODETECT|” . This man, though thoroughly responsible for his own wicked deeds, was an instrument of the devil 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.70|AUTODETECT|” John 6:70) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.71|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.71|AUTODETECT|” 71) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” ). While other people, when they felt that they could no longer agree with or even tolerate Christ s teachings, would simply disassociate themselves from him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” John 6:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Judas remained, as if he were in full accord with him. Being a very selfish person he was unable or shall we say unwilling ? to understand the unselfish and beautiful deed of Mary of Bethany, who anointed Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” John 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” ff.). He was unable and unwilling to see that the native language of love is lavishness. It was the devil who instigated Judas to betray Jesus, that is, to deliver him into the hands of the enemy. He was a thief; yet it was he who had been entrusted with the treasuryship of the little company, with the predictable result 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” John 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.20-40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” ). When, in connection with the institution of the Lord s Supper, the dramatic moment arrived forever commemorated in Scripture 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.20-40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:20 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.21-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.21-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” John 13:21 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.14-40.26.16|AUTODETECT|” ) and emblazoned in art (Leonardo da Vinci, etc.) in which Jesus startled The Twelve by saying, One of you will betray me, Judas, though having already received from the chief priests the thirty pieces of silver as a reward for his promised deed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.14-40.26.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.49|AUTODETECT|” ), had the incredible audacity to say, Surely not I, Rabbi? Judas served as guide for the detachment of soldiers and the posse of temple police that arrested Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. It was by means of perfidiously kissing his Master, as if he were still a loyal disciple, that this traitor pointed out Jesus to those who had come to seize him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.49|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.50|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.50|AUTODETECT|” 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3-40.27.5|AUTODETECT|” ). As to the manner of Judas self-inflicted demise, see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3-40.27.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.22|AUTODETECT|” . What caused this privileged disciple to become Christ s betrayer? Was it injured pride, disappointed ambition, deeply intrenched greed, fear of being put out of the synagogue 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.22|AUTODETECT|” John 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? No doubt all of these were involved, but could not the most basic reason have been this, that between the utterly selfish heart of Judas and the infinitely unselfish and outgoing heart of Jesus there was a chasm so immense that either Judas must implore the Lord to bestow upon him the grace of regeneration and complete renewal, a request which the traitor wickedly refused to make, or else he must offer his help to get rid of Jesus? One thing is certain: The shocking tragedy of Judas life is proof not of Christ s impotence but of the traitor s impenitence! Woe to that man!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.28|AUTODETECT|” What points up the greatness of Jesus is that he took such men as these, and welded them into an amazingly influential community that would prove to be not only a worthy link with Israel s past but also a solid foundation for the church s future. Yes, he accomplished this multiple miracle with such men as these, with all their faults and foibles, as described on pp. 246, 247. Even when we leave out Judas Iscariot and concentrate only on the others, we cannot fail to be impressed with the majesty of the Savior, whose drawing power, incomparable wisdom, and matchless love were so astounding that he was able to gather round himself and to unite into one family men of entirely different, at times even opposite, backgrounds and temperaments. Included in this little band was Peter the optimist 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 14:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.33|AUTODETECT|” 26:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ), but also Thomas the pessimist 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.16|AUTODETECT|” John 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|” 20:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); Simon the one-time Zealot, hating taxes and eager to overthrow the Roman government, but also Matthew, who had voluntarily offered his tax collecting services to that same Roman government; Peter, John, and Matthew, destined to become renowned through their writings, but also James the Less, who remains obscure but must have fulfilled his mission.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Jesus drew them to himself with the cords of his tender, never-failing compassion. He loved them to the uttermost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” John 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and in the night before he was betrayed and crucified commended them to his Father, saying:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6-43.17.19|AUTODETECT|” I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou gavest me out of the world; thine they were, and thou gavest them to me, and they have kept thy word.& Holy Father, keep them in thy name which thou hast given me, in order that they may be one, even as we are one.& I do not make request that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Consecrate them in the truth; thy word is truth. Just as thou didst send me into the world, so have I also sent them into the world. And for thy sake I consecrate myself, in order that they also may be truly consecrated 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6-43.17.19|AUTODETECT|” John 17:6 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , in part).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The Charge) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.50.6|AUTODETECT|” 5, 6. These twelve Jesus sent out after giving them the following charge: Into any road of the Gentiles do not turn off, and into any city of the Samaritans do not enter, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Though, as just indicated, this group of twelve was to be sent into the world, that did not happen immediately. Initially these men were told to limit their activity to the lost sheep of the house of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.50.6|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 50:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.34.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.34.5|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 34:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.34.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.34.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ). With some important exceptions Jesus himself also followed the rule, To the Jew first, and also to the Greek 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.23|AUTODETECT|” ). Though his teaching was not confined to temple and synagogue, yet for him and his work these retained their basic importance 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.53|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.53|AUTODETECT|” 13:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” John 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Nevertheless, that the Lord was by no means forgetting the Gentiles has already been made clear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” John 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ). But in God s plan it was from Jerusalem that the gospel must spread out among the nations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.18|AUTODETECT|” 18:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.18|AUTODETECT|” 22:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.4|AUTODETECT|” 26:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.25|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” ; also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 49:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.47|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.47|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.54.1-23.54.3|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.54.1-23.54.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 54:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.27|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.27|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.11|AUTODETECT|” Amos 9:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.16-44.15.18|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.16-44.15.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:16 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” ). All this does not subtract one iota from the fact that in principle the nationalism of the Old Testament (with internationalism shining through frequently) is destroyed by the cross, so that today There is no distinction between Jew and Greek 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 10:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” ). The command given in 10:5, 6 was a temporary restriction which later on would be lifted, as is clearly implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.26|AUTODETECT|” . That the apostles actually obeyed the command regarding the proper sequence in spreading the gospel is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.26|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” 13:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.24|AUTODETECT|” So then, for the time being the apostles are told not to go outside of Jewish territory nor even to the Samaritans, people of mixed descent and religion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.24|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 17:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.22|AUTODETECT|” John 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and living between Galilee and Judea. Matthew s recording of this temporary restriction adds force to one of the main purposes of his book, namely, fully to win the Jews for Christ (see above, p. 97). It is as if the evangelist (and God through him) were saying to the Jews: Think of all the privileges you have enjoyed, the work that was bestowed upon you by prophets and priests. Besides, when Messiah arrived, in fulfilment of the predictions and symbols, he saw to it that you were the first to receive the glad tidings. Intensive work to make known salvation through him was carried on first among yourselves. Therefore accept him today as your Lord and Savior! ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Jesus continues: 7. And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. This kingdom theme, proclaimed first by John the Baptist, then by Jesus, and now also by his disciples, has already been explained (see on 3:2; 4:17, 23). Briefly stated it means that the apostles must keep on proclaiming that the dispensation, when through the fulfilment of Messianic prophecy heaven s (i.e., God s) reign in the hearts and lives of men would assert itself more powerfully than ever before, was about to begin, in a sense had even now arrived. The charge continues: 8. Heal (the) sick, raise (the) dead, cleanse (the) lepers, cast out (the) demons; freely you received, freely give.

A comparison of 10:8 with 4:23; 9:35 shows that what Jesus means is, Do and continue to do what I am doing and have been doing. The authority to do this had already been imparted to them (10:1). By God s grace they themselves must now apply that power.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.13|AUTODETECT|” There is abundant evidence to show that what is here ordered and predicted actually took place, some of it at once, on this journey or soon afterward, some at a later time, after Christ s resurrection; some through the agency of The Twelve, through their leader Peter, or Peter and John, and some through Paul, who must certainly also be reckoned among the apostles . See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.6-42.9.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.6-42.9.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:6 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.1-44.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.1-44.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.12-44.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.12-44.5.16|AUTODETECT|” 5:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.32-44.9.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.32-44.9.43|AUTODETECT|” 9:32 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.8-44.14.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.8-44.14.10|AUTODETECT|” 14:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.11|AUTODETECT|” 19:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.7-44.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.7-44.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 20:7 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.7-44.28.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.7-44.28.10|AUTODETECT|” 28:7 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.18-44.8.24|AUTODETECT|” . Jesus, moreover, directs The Twelve that they must give their services freely. What they have received freely they must give freely and gladly. There must be no simony of any kind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.18-44.8.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:18 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Jesus has told the apostles where to go, what to proclaim, and what to do. He now tells them in what condition they are to set out on their tour: 9, 10. Don t supply yourselves with gold or silver or copper (money) to put into your belts, nor with a traveler s bag, two tunics or (extra) sandals, or a staff.& Only that which is strictly necessary must be taken along on this trip. Accordingly The Twelve must not supply themselves with money, for they will not need it. They must not attempt to acquire such coins as, for example, the gold aureus, the silver denarius, or even the copper assarion. They must not burden their belts with these.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Some have suggested that money was put into a belt by placing it in a little bag or wallet, which, like a sword, could then be attached to the belt. Others point out that the belt was not always or necessarily made of leather (3:4) but often of linen or wool, as was the tunic. By winding or wrapping such a belt around the body a few times its folds would serve admirably as pockets for money or other valuables.��435�� A knapsack or traveling bag (literally: bag for the road or for traveling) to carry supplies, such as food and clothing, must also be left behind.��436�� Moreover, one tunic will suffice. An extra one, whether simply for reserve or for extra protection against inclement weather 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ) will not be necessary. This warning against taking along extras probably carries over to the next item. If so, Don t supply yourselves with & sandals would mean, Do not take along an extra pair of sandals. The ones you are wearing will suffice. Not only does this interpretation seem to fit the context, it also brings the passage into harmony with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.3.5|AUTODETECT|” . Besides, barefootedness is in Scripture associated with other ideas, such as reverence in the divine presence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.15.2-23.15.5|AUTODETECT|” ), extreme poverty 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.15.2-23.15.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 15:2 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.15.30|AUTODETECT|” ), and grief 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.15.30|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 15:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.24.17|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.24.17|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 24:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ). The acquisition of a new staff to replace the old will also not be necessary and here is not even allowed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” The question will be asked, Why all these restrictions? The answer that immediately suggests itself might well be, Because God will provide. The apostles must place their trust entirely in him. No doubt this is indeed the basic answer. See on 6:19 34, to which add ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.25.4|AUTODETECT|” . Nevertheless, in the present context another thought (not unrelated, to be sure) is added; namely, for the worker is entitled to his support.��437�� To be sure, from the side of the apostles there should be no greed, no desire for enrichment: what they have received freely must be given away freely (verse 8). This, however, by no means cancels the obligation resting upon those who receive the good tidings. Upon them rests the obligation to supply the needs of these twelve men. This is in line with Scripture everywhere. See especially the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.25.4|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 25:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; and N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.18|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” . To every worker God has given the right to partake of the fruits of his work. This includes also physical provision. Very interesting in this connection is Paul s stand on this question. See the ten point summary in N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.3.4|AUTODETECT|” It has become clear, therefore, that God is going to provide for these men on their journey, both now and later on, and that he will use the friends of the gospel to carry out his plan. This implies that the apostles, on their part, must carefully select the families that will lodge them. Therefore, it is not surprising that Jesus now adds: 11. Whatever city or village you enter, look for someone there who is deserving, and stay at his house until you leave (the place). It is probably legitimate to suppose that, arrived in any town of whatever size, the missionaries would first of all preach out in the open, at this or that street corner, in the market-place or square 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Jonah 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” ); or, if invited to do so, in the synagogue. From the response they receive it would not be difficult to determine who, among the listeners, were worthy or deserving to provide hospitality to the bringers of good tidings. They might be the kind of people who were waiting for the consolation of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” ) or the redemption of Jerusalem 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Such people could be expected to rejoice in the opportunity to lodge God s messengers. Having found such a home, let the disciples consider it their headquarters until they leave this town for another place. Since The Twelve were traveling two by two, the privilege of helping the cause of the gospel in this manner might be extended to several people.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.1-1.18.8|AUTODETECT|” In the time and region where all this was happening there was a long tradition of hospitality. Social conditions were such that this practice was almost a necessity, due to the fact that travel was not as yet easy, and inns few and far between. Also, the family that offered shelter today might be in need of receiving the same courtesy the following week. In addition to this it should be noted that those among the listeners who were versed in Israelitish tradition and in view of verses 5 and 6 there were many of them knew that the Scriptures by means of a long list of noble examples in no uncertain way encouraged the practice of entertaining guests. Among those who had in former years extended hospitality were Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.1-1.18.8|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 18:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.25|AUTODETECT|” ), Rebekah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.25|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ), Reuel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.15|AUTODETECT|” ), Manoah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.15|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 13:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.4.8-12.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ), the Shunnamite woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.4.8-12.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 4:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.31.34|AUTODETECT|” ), and Job 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.31.34|AUTODETECT|” Job 31:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.10|AUTODETECT|” ). This practice continued into the next dispensation. Hence, for the New Testament period add the names of such generous persons as Levi 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.5|AUTODETECT|” ), Zacchaeus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Martha and Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” John 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” ), Lydia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” ), Aquila and Priscilla 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Phoebe 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ), Philemon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ), Onesiphorus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.16|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ), and Gaius 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.5|AUTODETECT|” III John 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.13|AUTODETECT|” ). The Bible regards the spirit and practice of hospitality to be one of the indispensable qualities of the Christian life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.10|AUTODETECT|” 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��438��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.23|AUTODETECT|” Continued: 12, 13. When you enter a home pronounce your greeting upon it; and if that home is deserving let your peace come upon it, but if it is not deserving let your peace return to you. Having established themselves in the homes of those who were worthy, the apostles must now go from home to home, bringing the gospel. When they enter any home they must pronounce their greeting upon it. Accordingly, they will use the familiar formula, Peace to you. At that time, as also even today, this was and is a customary greeting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.23|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 43:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.6.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.19.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.19.20|AUTODETECT|” 19:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.6|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.12.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.12.18|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 12:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.122.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.122.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 122:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.6.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.6.25|AUTODETECT|” 6:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.19|AUTODETECT|” 10:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.36|AUTODETECT|” 24:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” John 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.36|AUTODETECT|” ). Nevertheless, it makes a great difference who says it. In the mouth of the unthinking person it may be no more than a conventional phrase. Among friends it was and is undoubtedly the expression of a sincere wish. In the present instance, however and so also in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.36|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” John 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.24-4.6.26|AUTODETECT|” , etc. it is far more than a wish. In the name of their Sender these apostles not only wish peace, they actually bring it. Just as in the Aaronitic benediction 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.24-4.6.26|AUTODETECT|” Num. 6:24 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.13.50|AUTODETECT|” ) the name of Jehovah was put upon the children of Israel, so that his blessing would actually result, so it is here.��439�� Yet, there was nothing magical about this. The special blessing was for those who by grace were worthy to receive it through faith, not for the others. If the home is undeserving let your peace return to you, says Jesus, that is, in that case no blessing will be bestowed. In this connection see the explanation of the fourth beatitude (5:6). Continued: 14, 15. And if anyone will not receive you and listen to your words, in going out of that house or of that city shake the dust off your feet.

I solemnly declare to you, in the day of judgment it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that city. After traveling through heathen territory Jews had the custom of shaking the dust off their sandals and clothes before re-entering the Holy Land.��440�� They were afraid that otherwise in their own country levitically clean objects might be rendered unclean. What Jesus is saying, therefore, is that even an Israelitish place, be it a house or a city, that refuses to accept the gospel must be considered unclean, as if it were pagan soil. Therefore such a center of unbelief must be treated similarly. Paul and Barnabas did exactly that when a persecution was organized against them in the Jewish district of Antioch in Pisidia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.50|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ). A colossal responsibility, a heavy load of guilt, rests on such a place. Jesus says that in the day of judgment the punishment awaiting the land��441�� of Sodom and Gomorrah, classical examples of wickedness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.20|AUTODETECT|” 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Jude 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.47|AUTODETECT|” ), will be lighter than that which is in store for the city that rejects the gospel. The reason why this is true is clearly stated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.48|AUTODETECT|” 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.3|AUTODETECT|” It is difficult, if not impossible, to read verses 14 and 15 and not feel that the Lord is already suggesting that the proclamation of the kingdom message will meet with severe opposition. In what now follows, the nature of this opposition and the forms in which it will express itself is more sharply defined, and the apostles are shown how they must cope with it. 16. Look,��442�� I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” . Sending them out as sheep 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.22.27|AUTODETECT|” ) is wonderful, but in the midst of or among wolves, vicious and destructive, spells danger. See on 9:36; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.22.27|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 22:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Zeph. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.29|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . There is comfort, however, in the announcement that he, Jesus himself, is sending them. He must have his wise purpose: a. that they may there proclaim the gospel of the kingdom; b. that by doing so sheep may be gathered from among those very people who are now still called wolves ; c. that thus the faith of the apostles may be strengthened; and d. that all of this may redound to the glory of God. Besides, the fact that he himself is sending them means that he is very deeply involved in their ministry, for the phrase, I am sending you, means, I myself am commissioning you to be my apostles, that is, my official representatives,��443�� so that I will be working through you. This certainly implies protection. Come what may, they are under his loving care. If it were not for this they would be helpless, for what can sheep do when they are in the midst of wolves?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.8|AUTODETECT|” In extending this wonderful care Jesus does not, however, exempt them from personal responsibility. So he continues: Therefore be keen as the serpents, guileless as the doves. As to the first 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ), the serpent is here viewed as the very embodiment of intellectual acumen or shrewdness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.15|AUTODETECT|” ). The cautiousness and wariness of serpents had become proverbial. The keenness here recommended as a human quality involves insight into the nature of one s surroundings, both personal and material, circumspection, sanctified common sense, wisdom to do the right thing at the right time and place and in the right manner, a serious attempt always to discover the best means to achieve the highest goal, an earnest and honest search for an answer to such questions as: How will this word or this action of mine look in the end ? How will it affect my own future, that of my neighbor, God s glory? Is this the best way to handle the problem or is there a better way? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” This keenness never implies compromise with evil. Jesus teaches that it is man s duty to be not only keen as the serpents but also guileless or innocent 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ) as the doves. As to doves see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. Song of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Sol. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , my dove, my undefiled. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” An excellent example of those by whom this combination of keenness and innocence is exhibited is the apostle Paul, as his epistles and the book of Acts abundantly indicate. He is, to be sure, all things to all men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.22-44.17.31|AUTODETECT|” ), carefully selecting his approach to suit each distinct situation. See, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.22-44.17.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:22 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.16-44.13.41|AUTODETECT|” as contrasted with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.16-44.13.41|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:16 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6-44.23.8|AUTODETECT|” . He is keen indeed. What he does as reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6-44.23.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 23:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.16|AUTODETECT|” might even be considered clever. Yet, he is guileless 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.16|AUTODETECT|” Acts 24:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ), and exhorts his readers, too, to hold off from every form of evil 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.22|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ) and to live lives that are filled with positive goodness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.0|AUTODETECT|” Among others in whom these two characteristics keenness and guilelessness are combined are David in his relation to envious King Saul, who is persecuting him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.0|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.3.2-17.3.4|AUTODETECT|” and 26); Mordecai, in his reaction to arrogant Haman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.3.2-17.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Esther 3:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.12-17.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.12-17.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 4:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” ); and Abigail, a woman of good understanding and discretion, in her dealings with her foolish husband Nabal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.10|AUTODETECT|” The connection between verses 16 and 17, far from being abrupt, as some have thought, is in reality natural. Jesus has been speaking about wolves, that is, evil men who would try to harm the sheep. So he now continues: 17. And beware of men.& Such evil men were certainly present already before Christ s death on the cross and his resurrection. See 8:3; 9:22, 34. Moreover, was not Judas Iscariot one of Christ s disciples, and was it not going to be his purpose to deliver Jesus over to the authorities? And were there not those who were constantly setting traps for the Savior, that they might have a reason to bring a charge against him? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.15|AUTODETECT|” 22:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.6|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.6|AUTODETECT|” John 8:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” . Does not hatred toward Jesus imply unfriendliness toward his disciples also? See 5:10 12; 10:24; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” John 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The basis for Christ s warning is therefore the present, that is, the condition prevailing right now, during Christ s earthly ministry.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17|AUTODETECT|” In the case of Christ s followers the hatred would be continued and even intensified during the post-resurrection period. Between the persecution which was occurring already, and of which especially Jesus was himself the object, and that of which his disciples were and were to be the objects there was a very close connection, so that the prediction found here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is very natural.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.15|AUTODETECT|” It is in this context that Jesus warns his disciples to beware of ��444�� men. He means, Be on your guard against them. Although there is no way of determining exactly what the Lord may have had in mind when he said this, he probably meant that the disciples, should watch out for men s evil intentions. Probably one or more of the following items could be arranged under this general idea: a. Do not naively entrust yourselves to men; b. Do not without good cause make them angry; c. Do not fall into the traps of their catch-questions, but pray for grace to give them the appropriate answer; and/or d. Do nothing that might enable them to bring a valid charge against you 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.15|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Continued: for they will hand you over to councils, and in their synagogues they will flog you. These councils were probably the local Jewish courts, climaxed in the Jewish supreme court, the Sanhedrin (see on 2:4). It was in the synagogue that those who by the court were convicted of certain definite crimes were scourged.��445��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.25.1-5.25.3|AUTODETECT|” Jewish sources contain detailed regulations regarding such scourging. One judge would recite an appropriate passage from Deuteronomy or from the Psalms, a second would count the blows 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.25.1-5.25.3|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 25:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ), a third would issue a command before each blow, etc.��446�� From the book of Acts (22:19) we learn that Saul (=Paul) of Tarsus caused believers in Christ to receive this horrible punishment. After his conversion he himself was going to be similarly tortured. He was going to write, From the Jews five times I received forty lashes less one 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.24|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ). It was the servant of the synagogue 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) who was charged with the responsibility of delivering the blows.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” The prediction broadens, as Jesus continues: 18. On my account you will be dragged before governors and kings for a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. As to governors, think of such procurators as Pontius Pilate, Felix, and Festus; as to kings, of Herod Agrippa I 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.13|AUTODETECT|” ) and of Agrippa II 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 25:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Even Herod Antipas, who technically was not a king, is also given that title at times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” ). It was Pontius Pilate who sentenced Jesus to die on the cross, after he had sent him to king Herod Antipas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.6-42.23.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.6-42.23.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:6 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ). It was King Herod Agrippa I who killed James (son of Zebedee, and brother of the apostle John). See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.13|AUTODETECT|” . From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 25:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12|AUTODETECT|” it appears that Paul was brought before King Agrippa II and the procurator Festus. He gave a wonderful testimony as he had also done previously before the procurator Felix. It is understandable that such testimonies were also given before other Gentiles, namely, those who were either present or subsequently heard what had been said. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.22|AUTODETECT|” 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Thus the good news would continue to spread.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Thus, a. the initial fulfilment of this prophecy was a matter of the immediate future, as is clear from already existing conditions and attitudes; and b. details concerning its subsequent fulfilment are recorded in the book of Acts and in the epistles. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 2:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.9-66.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.9-66.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 6:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.6|AUTODETECT|” 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.13-66.12.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.13-66.12.17|AUTODETECT|” 13 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.4|AUTODETECT|” What is all-important is the fact that Jesus says this will happen on my account. When anyone persecutes Christ s disciple he is persecuting Christ himself, a fact that was stamped so indelibly upon the mind and heart of Paul (and through him upon Luke s consciousness) that, however much the accounts of Paul s conversion may vary, the words, Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? are found in all three 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.7|AUTODETECT|” 22:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.14|AUTODETECT|” 26:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That means that the persecuted one is never separated from Christ s love and from the strength and the comfort he imparts.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” This comfort is given beautiful expression in verses 19, 20. Now whenever they hand you over (to the authorities), do not worry as to how or what you should speak, since what you should say will be given to you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but it is your Father s Spirit (who is) speaking in you. Being haled to court is a serious matter. How to conduct oneself before judges, including even governors and kings, particularly how to address them, and what to say in defense, might well fill these men with apprehension and horror. Very strikingly Jesus says, Do not worry (see above, on 6:31); that is, Whenever worry raises its head knock it down at once. Here, as in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus forbids not only the habit of worrying but its very beginning.

Reason: it will be given to you in that hour. This does not mean that the mind of the persecuted apostle is a tabula rasa (blank tablet) and that then in some mechanical fashion God will suddenly begin to write words upon that blank space. On the contrary, neither when these witnesses are brought to trial nor when they think, for example of Matthew, John, and Peter write books or epistles will their personality be suppressed, or will the previous apostolic training which they received from Jesus be nullified. All this will be enlivened and sharpened and raised to a higher plane of activity. It is in that organic sense that what they must speak will be given to them in that hour. The Father s Spirit will be speaking in them, and that very Spirit, namely, the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Holy Trinity, will remind them of everything that Jesus himself said to them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” John 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.11|AUTODETECT|” ). That Spirit was at work already long before Pentecost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But on and after Pentecost he was going to be poured out in all his fulness.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.8-44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” That this prophecy, too, was gloriously fulfilled is evident from the speeches of Peter, or Peter and John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.8-44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:8 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.39-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” , with the effect upon the audience described in 4:13, 14) and from those of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.39-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:39 22:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.1|AUTODETECT|” 23:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.10-44.24.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.10-44.24.21|AUTODETECT|” 24:10 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” 26:1 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Confessing Jesus will create division not only between groups of people for example, between those, on the one hand, who welcome the disciples and their message, and those, on the other hand, who reject both but even within the family circle: 21. Brother will deliver up brother to death, (the) father (his) child, and children will rise up against (their) parents and will kill them. True, this last clause can be softened somewhat to mean and will hand them over to be killed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.55|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.55|AUTODETECT|” 14:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.15|AUTODETECT|” ); basically, however, this makes little if any difference. The person who unjustly causes someone to be put to death is as guilty as if he had committed the act with his own hand. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.15|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.9|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.9|AUTODETECT|” 12:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|” As the wording indicates verse 21 bears some relation to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . In that passage the prophet complains about the lack of loyalty prevailing among his people, the son dishonoring his father, the daughter rising up against her mother, etc. What Jesus says here, as reported by Matthew, can hardly be considered a quotation, however. It cuts more deeply. It is a prediction of actual slaughter which, on his account, will be occurring within families, one member being opposed to Christ, another in agreement with him. The Christ-hating son will hand over his own brother, to be put to death; the father his child, children their parents.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Recently the terrible words were heard, I think kids should kill their parents. ��447�� Now if this means, because these parents are selfish, unwilling to listen to the cries of the hungry and to share their own substance with them, the sentiment thus expressed, though certainly to be condemned, is not nearly as altogether wicked as is the action predicted and described here in 10:21. As the context note, And you will be hated shows, here the meaning is, Children will rise up against (their) parents and will kill them because of the parents loyalty to Christ. Now it is true that Jesus also teaches what is found in 10:37, 38. But it is one thing to express preference and to do so decisively. It is another to kill the one on whose side we do not wish to be found.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.13|AUTODETECT|” The killing here predicted and condemned results from hatred: 22. And you will be hated by all for my name s sake.& The meaning is, You will continue to be hated. ��448�� The form of the expression may well imply that Jesus was not thinking only of what would happen to The Twelve but also of the persecutions to be endured by their successors in future years, in fact until his return. See on verse 23b. The hatred of which Jesus makes mention here is also described by John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ). The words by all must not be taken literally as if referring to every man, woman, and child on earth, or even to all those reached by the gospel. When the Lord accuses Israel of having played the harlot under every green tree 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.6.6|AUTODETECT|” ) we immediately understand that this is hyperbole, a perfectly legitimate figure of speech. The same applies to the passage, All night I make my bed to swim; with my tears I dissolve my couch 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.37|AUTODETECT|” ). The expression hated by all must mean, by men in general, regardless of rank, station, race, nationality, sex, or age. Is not the same true also with respect to the use of all in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.32|AUTODETECT|” 11:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.26|AUTODETECT|” John 3:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ? The words, for my name s sake (cf. for my sake, verse 18) indicate, for the sake of myself, as I reveal myself in word and deed. Because the world hates Christ it also hates his representatives.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” There is comfort, however, in the assurance, But he that endures to the end, he will be saved. He who remains loyal to Christ throughout the period of persecution will enter into glory. For himself this period of persecution will last until death delivers him from this earthly scene 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” John 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ). For the church in general it will last until Christ s return in glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.10-66.11.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.10-66.11.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 11:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.1-23.5.7|AUTODETECT|” The disciples need not despair therefore. Let them work while it is day, making the best possible use of their time. Hence Jesus continues, 23. Now whenever they persecute you in this city, flee to the next one.& The Lord lays down a principle here. This rule is to be put into practice by the disciples and by those who will follow them. What must the messengers of good tidings do when a city rejects them and their gospel? To be sure, they must be patient. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.1-23.5.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 5:1 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.17|AUTODETECT|” . These same passages, however, also teach that there is a limit to God s patience and to that which, in imitation of him, his followers should exercise. Nowhere does the Bible teach that a kingdom worker who, while working in a certain village or town, is being constantly harassed and whose message is being persistently rejected must stay in that same place year after year until he dies. Would not his talents be wasted? Would it be fair to other communities that are crying for help? Let him move out! That the apostles adhered to this principle is clear from many passages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” 13:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.6|AUTODETECT|” 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|” 16:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” 17:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.17.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 9 2 8 0 0 With respect to the words that follow there is a wide difference of opinion among commentators: for I solemnly declare to you, you will certainly not finish (going through) the cities of Israel before the Son of man comes. Among the many explanations of this passage there are a few that I would definitely reject:) 1. Since we know that the second coming did not occur Jesus must have been mistaken.) Answer: If Jesus was mistaken about this important point how do we know that he was not also mistaken about others? Both doctrine and ethics are thus undermined and destroyed.) 2. Matthew misplaced this passage.) Answer: Another easy way to get rid of a difficulty. There is no evidence to support this theory.) 3.

The meaning is: before the Son of man catches up with you. ) 4. The reference is to the terrible judgment upon the Jews in the years 66 70.) Answer to Nos. 3 and 4: There is nothing in the context that in any way calls for or suggests this explanation.) Something else must be borne in mind. These explanations ignore the fact that in the other Matthew passages in which the coming of the Son of man is mentioned and described the reference is linked with the second coming. It is a coming in the glory of his Father, with his angels, to render to every man according to his deeds (16:27, 28); a coming when Christ shall sit on the throne of his glory (19:28); a coming that will be visible (24:27); sudden and unexpected (24:37, 39, 44); a coming on clouds of heaven with power and great glory (24:30; cf. 25:31; 26:64). It would be strange therefore if from 10:23 any reference to Christ s exaltation which attains its climax in the second coming would be wholly excluded. Besides, as to theory No. 4, this is all the more questionable because here in 10:23 the context (see verses 22b, 28 32) is very definitely one of comfort, not one of terror.

The destruction of Jerusalem is predicted not here in chapter 10 but in 22:7; 23:38; see also 24:2, 15 f.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19-43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Even so, however, the question may well be asked, Granted that a reference to Christ s coming in glory cannot be excluded, does 10:23 refer a. to the beginning of that process, or b. to its culmination? In other words, a. was Jesus predicting the manner in which he, as risen Lord, would reveal himself to his immediate disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19-43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” John 20:19 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.16-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” ; see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.16-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:16 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and was he solemnly declaring that this return would occur before they would have finished going through the cities of Israel; or b. was he promising that until the very moment of his glorious return upon the clouds of heaven the good news of salvation would be spread not only among other nations but also among the Jews? Taken in either sense it is a comforting assurance, and this not only for the missionaries themselves, whether The Twelve or their successors, but even for the Jews. For Christ s ambassadors it would mean, Do not be afraid, I will return to you. For Israel it would signify, I am not through with you; your remnant, too, will be saved. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 In favor of a. is the fact that the starting-point of this solemn declaration would seem to be the present situation: the disciples whom Jesus addresses are being sent out here and now, and are being told that if they are persecuted in one city they must flee to the next, to which is immediately added a for -clause, stating the reason for this exhortation. Moreover, does not also 10:28b support this reasoning?��449�� On the other hand, as has been established, the very mention of the coming of the Son of man, an eschatological way of speaking, would certainly point in the direction of b. as being the correct interpretation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.0|AUTODETECT|” Is this, however, an either-or proposition? May not both be right? Is it not possible that Jesus, the Great Prophet, is here unveiling the future, and in so doing is making use of the well-known and firmly established device of prophetic foreshortening, by means of which before our eyes the widely separated mountain peaks of historic events merge and are seen as one? In a sense, are they not really one, for are not Christ s resurrection and his return the results of one and the same activity of the Father whereby he glorifies and exalts his Son as a reward for his accomplished mediatorial work? Also, if it be granted that according to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus makes use of prophetic foreshortening when in vivid colors borrowed from the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans he paints his coming at the close of history, why can we not have something of similar nature here in 10:23? Easter morning and Pentecost are part of the entire picture!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.29|AUTODETECT|” In the preceding verse Jesus spoke about persecution in store for his disciples. They must not be surprised about this, as if something very strange were happening to them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.29|AUTODETECT|” John 14:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.12|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Says Jesus: 24, 25. A pupil does not outrank his teacher, nor a slave his master. Let the pupil be satisfied to share his teacher s lot, and the slave to share his master s. If (even) the master of the house was called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! Just as it is true that a pupil does not outrank his teacher, nor certainly a slave his master or owner, so it is with respect to The Twelve (or all of Christ s followers) in their relation to Christ, their Teacher and Lord.

If Jesus is not revered, his disciple will not even be respected. Therefore if the enemy treats the pupil or slave with the same disdain which he confers upon the superior, that is, if he does not treat the subordinate still worse, let the latter be satisfied.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.24-40.12.27|AUTODETECT|” In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.24-40.12.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:24 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22-41.3.27|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22-41.3.27|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:22 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.15-42.11.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.15-42.11.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:15 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” ) the Pharisees call Jesus Beelzebul s tool. They say that Beelzebul is the source of Christ s exorcistic power and activity. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” John 8:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.25|AUTODETECT|” they call Jesus demon-possessed. Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.14|AUTODETECT|” we are told that they had said that he himself was Beelzebul,��450�� that is, that he was the devil in person. If Christ s enemies are bold enough in this vile manner to calumniate Christ, the master of the house 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.14|AUTODETECT|” John 13:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.27|AUTODETECT|” ), will they not far more readily slander and maltreat the members of his household, 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.27|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.30|AUTODETECT|” 5:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), that is, his disciples?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.29|AUTODETECT|” However, the very fact that they are thus closely associated with Christ, hence also bound in the bond of life with Jehovah their God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.29|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), should encourage them. Accordingly, they must not be afraid of the enemy but must testify boldly.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Summary of Reasons for Fearless Proclamation of the Good News) 1. Your enemies cannot prevent your public vindication nor their own public exposure (verses 26, 27).) 2. They cannot kill your soul, only your body (verse 28).) 3. They can undo neither the Father s will nor his loving care (verses 29 31).) 4. I will confess those who confess me, and deny those who deny me (verses 32, 33).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Beginning with No. 1 Jesus says 26, 27. Therefore do not become afraid of them; for there is nothing covered that will not be uncovered, or hidden that will not be made known. One day whatever is now concealed will be revealed: who these enemies are, what they have done, whom they have persecuted, how they will be punished, etc. Also revealed will be who the righteous are, what they have done, whom they have honored, how precious they are in the sight of God, how they will be rewarded, etc. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” 13:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” . The fact that on that great day Christ s followers will shine forth in all their glory is one good reason why now they must not even begin to be afraid.��451�� Therefore the continuation is: What I say to you in the dark, tell it out in broad daylight; what is whispered into your ear, proclaim it on the housetops. Let them preach openly, frankly, courageously. There were certain basic and important matters which had already been made known to the disciples, for example, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. These things they are to proclaim at this time (verse 7). There was no danger that on this very first trip they would talk about things that had not even been whispered into their ears.

Though, as we know in the light of later revelation, Christ s death on the cross had indeed been vaguely implied (9:15), this was not understood at the time when the words were uttered. Clearer predictions were to follow (see on verse 38). Even then, however, though Jesus spoke openly, it frequently happened that what he said failed to register 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.8.32|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.8.32|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.45|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.45|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 9:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.18.34|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.18.34|AUTODETECT|”

18:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

), as if it had been whispered very softly into the ear.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.12|AUTODETECT|”

Besides, there was much that could not even be revealed until the resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit had occurred 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.12|AUTODETECT|”

John 16:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|”

13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|”

). Before this had taken place the disciples were not as yet ready for it. This is not difficult to understand, for naturally redemptive revelation cannot reach its zenith until the redemptive events such as Christ s death on the cross, his burial, resurrection, ascension, etc. had actually taken place. This may well be one reason why before Christ s resurrection the public disclosure of what happened on the Mount of Transfiguration would have been premature 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|”

In the light of all this it becomes clear that when the disciples are told to tell out in broad daylight what Jesus had told them in the dark, and to proclaim on, hence also from, the flat roofs what they had heard in the ear (thus literally), obedience to this command could not be fully achieved until Easter and Pentecost. To be sure, there was a story to tell even now, a marvelous story indeed, accompanied by deeds of power and compassion. But more, in fact far more, must be reserved until later, when these men would be better qualified. Then, indeed, let them shout in as public a manner as possible 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 28:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

) what previously had been whispered into their ear. Let them not become afraid, for the truthfulness of the story of God s love revealed in Christ would be fully vindicated and so would its messengers. It would be confirmed in the lives of the sinners transformed into saints. Especially would it be validated on the great judgment day, when all the wicked opposition to it would be thoroughly exposed.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

The second reason why whatever could be proclaimed some things now, others later must be heralded fearlessly is stated in verse 28. And do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul.& Whatever the enemies may wish to do, there is one thing they cannot do, namely, kill the psuche, that is, the soul, that part of man which is immaterial and invisible.) As to the distinction in Biblical usage between psuche (soul) and pneuma (spirit), from my book The Bible on the Life Hereafter, Grand Rapids, 1959, pp. 37 39, I quote the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.2.7|AUTODETECT|”

Nowhere does Scripture teach that man is composed of three parts. Read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.2.7|AUTODETECT|”

Gen. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=21.12.7|AUTODETECT|”

, and you will notice that in the story of man s creation his twofold nature is clearly asserted. A long list of passages could be given to indicate that the inspired authors of the Bible were dichotomists. The list would include such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=21.12.7|AUTODETECT|”

Eccl. 12:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.10.28|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.10.28|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.10|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 8:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.5|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.5|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.34|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.34|AUTODETECT|”

7:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

Col. 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.9|AUTODETECT|”

; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.9|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 12:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.14.2|AUTODETECT|”

��452�� & There is only one immaterial and invisible element, though at least two names are given to it. Now, it is true that when the Bible is referring to that immaterial element in its relation to the body, to bodily processes and sensations, and in fact to this entire earthly life, with its feelings, affections, likes and dislikes, it generally employs the term soul (psuche); for example, The Jews stirred up the souls of the Gentiles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.14.2|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 14:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.14.14|AUTODETECT|”

). It is also true that when reference is to the same immaterial element considered as the object of God s grace and as the subject or worship, the term spirit (pneuma) is used most frequently (always in Paul when that meaning is intended); for example, My spirit prays 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.14.14|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.46|AUTODETECT|”

). But the matter is by no means as simple as that. In several instances the two terms soul and spirit are used interchangeably, with no (or very slight) difference in connotation. Let me give one clear example. It is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.46|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 1:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.47|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.47|AUTODETECT|”

47) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

My soul (psuche) magnifies the Lord, And my spirit (pneuma) rejoices in God my Savior. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The conclusion therefore is this: When you are talking about man s invisible and immaterial element, you have a perfect right to call it either soul or spirit. And if anyone, in speaking to you, should maintain that man s soul is necessarily his lower immaterial substance, not nearly as valuable as his spirit, you might ask him whether he does not believe in soul-winning, whether he does not also believe that his soul is saved, and whether he does not agree that it were better for a man to forfeit the whole world and not lose his soul. When you have made your point clear, suggest to him that he and you sing the hymn, O my soul, bless thou Jehovah! ) For the various shades of meaning in which in Matthew s Gospel the word soul is used, see footnote.��453��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” Jesus, then, is warning against the tragic error of being constantly filled with fear because of those who are able to kill the body, as if the body were more important than the soul. He continues: rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. It is hardly necessary to add that the pronoun him refers to God. By omitting the noun itself more emphasis is placed upon God s character and activity, that is, upon whatever he is and what he is able to do. The word destroy is used here in the sense not of annihilation but of the infliction of everlasting punishment upon a person 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.48|AUTODETECT|”

48. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.43-41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” ). As to the word hell, which here in the original is Gehenna 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.43-41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:43 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.6|AUTODETECT|” James 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), it generally refers to the abode of the wicked, body and soul, after the judgment day. When that same abode is called Hades the reference is to the time before the judgment day, though Hades also has other meanings in Scripture.��454��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.13-42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Jesus, then, is saying that there is an everlasting future for both the soul and the body. Neither will ever be annihilated. But everlasting destruction is in store for those who reject him. The attempt to save the body so that it may continue to exist here and now for a very brief span of time, while the everlasting interests of the entire person, soul and body, are being neglected, is foolish indeed, like exchanging a minor for a major peril. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.13-42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:13 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . By proclaiming the message of the kingdom courageously the disciples will receive the assurance of everlasting life to the glory of God. In addition, they will be a blessing to their fellowmen. Let them then stand in awe of God. Let them revere him in whose hands they themselves, with soul and body, are everlastingly secure. Let them not be scared of earthly opponents who can accomplish so very little.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.6|AUTODETECT|” To the two reasons for the fearless proclamation of the good news already given a third is now added, in substance amounting to this, Your enemies can undo neither the Father s will nor his loving care : 29 31. Are not sparrows sold two for a cent? Yet not one of them shall fall to the ground without (the will of) your Father. And as for yourselves, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore do not fear. You are worth more than many sparrows.

Sparrows and other small birds were caught, killed, skinned, roasted, and consumed. They were considered delicacies, as is still the case in certain countries. It is not surprising therefore that they had become an article of commerce, were bought and sold. The price at the time when Jesus spoke these words was two for an as (or: assarion), (cf. 5:26), a Roman copper coin worth only about one-sixteenth of a denarius. We would call it a cent or penny; hence, two for a penny. For the price of two cents an extra sparrow was thrown in; hence, five for two cents 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.91.14-19.91.16|AUTODETECT|” ). But even though relatively speaking these sparrows were so cheap, so insignificant in comparison with costlier articles, Jesus assures his disciples, Not a single sparrow shall fall to the ground without your Father, thus literally; probably meaning, without the involvement or the will of your Father. Note that their Creator is your Father. With emphasis��455�� Jesus declares that not only the soul and the body (see verse 28) of the disciples are matters of importance to their heavenly Father, but even the very hairs of their head are all numbered; and this in the sense that he both knows how many there are and pays attention to each and to all. Each of these hairs is of some value to him, since it is a hair of one of his children. Therefore apart from his sovereign care and loving heart nothing can happen even to any of these hairs.

Here God s general providence with respect to all his creatures and his special providence of which all men are the objects make place for that very special watchfulness which he exercises in behalf of those who by virtue not only of creation but also of redemption are his own. Are they not more precious to him than any number of sparrows? There is something unique about the Father s love for those whom he has chosen as his own, something very special. To appreciate the depth and tenderness of 10:31 it should be read not only in its own context but also in the light of other similarly beautiful assurances, namely, those found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.91.14-19.91.16|AUTODETECT|”

Ps. 91:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.116.15|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.116.15|AUTODETECT|”

116:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.49.16|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.49.16|AUTODETECT|”

Isa. 49:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.11.8|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.11.8|AUTODETECT|”

Hos. 11:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.11.25|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.11.25|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.11.26|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.11.26|AUTODETECT|”

26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.32|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.32|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 12:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|”

John 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|”

14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.24|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.24|AUTODETECT|”

17:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|”

I John 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|”

; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|”

Rev. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

, to mention only a few.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.66.16|AUTODETECT|”

And now the fourth and final reason for the command that the disciples should herald the gospel of the kingdom without trepidation: 32, 33. Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. But whoever shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. The Twelve were being sent out to proclaim the King s message. However, this message must not be coldly objective, not just a recitation of memorized words. The hearts of the disciples must be in their message, that is, they must profess their faith in��456�� Christ. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.66.16|AUTODETECT|”

Ps. 66:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|”

. To profess or confess Christ means to acknowledge him as Lord of one s life, and to do so openly , even in the hearing of those who were opposing him. To deny him means to repudiate him, to refuse to acknowledge him as one s own, to disown him. In the second clause of each member of this fine illustration or antithetic parallelism, i.e., in verses 32b, 33b, Jesus promises to confess before his Father in heaven those who have confessed him, and to deny before him those who have denied him. When Jesus confesses a person he claims him as his own and pleads his cause. That this intercessory activity which he as Mediator performs began already during his earthly ministry is clear from such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 22:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|”

32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.6-43.17.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.6-43.17.11|AUTODETECT|”

John 17:6 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.15-43.17.26|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.15-43.17.26|AUTODETECT|”

15 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|”

. That he is continuing it now is taught in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|”

I John 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|”

. That he will acknowledge his own on the judgment day is clear from 25:34 36, 40. That, in a sense not exactly the same as in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|”

I John 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|”

, he never ceases this work in their behalf, in fact that he not only continues to intercede but ever lives to make intercession for them, is the comforting truth expressed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

.��457��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.7.21-40.7.23|AUTODETECT|”

On the contrary, that before the Father in heaven he will deny, disown, repudiate those who will have persisted in their denial of him, having never repented of their evil conduct, is taught in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.7.21-40.7.23|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 7:21 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.25.41-40.25.43|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.25.41-40.25.43|AUTODETECT|”

25:41 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.25.45|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.25.45|AUTODETECT|”

45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.62|AUTODETECT|”

. For those who during the day of grace repent of their sin there is forgiveness and restoration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.62|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 22:62) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”

John 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.5.45|AUTODETECT|”

The fact that among men there will be, on the one hand, those who confess Jesus, and on the other, those who deny him, indicates that the coming of Christ brought division (see verse 21). This thought is expressed in a pithy manner in the words of Jesus as reported in verses 34, 35. Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I came to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. We have here a mashal; that is, a paradoxical saying, one that sounds unbelievable! That it is contrary to prevailing opinion is indicated by the opening words, Do not think that.& Cf. 3:9; 5:17; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.5.45|AUTODETECT|”

John 5:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|”

. What Jesus says here causes the one who hears or reads it to startle in shocked disbelief. The natural reaction to the surprising statement would be: How can this saying be true? Is not Christ the Prince of Peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|”

Isa. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

)? Is he not the One who pronounces a blessing on those who make peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|”

)? If he did not come in order to bring peace how can the following passages be true: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|”

Ps. 72:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.72.7|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.72.7|AUTODETECT|”

7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 1:79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.7.50|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.7.50|AUTODETECT|”

7:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.8.48|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.8.48|AUTODETECT|”

8:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|”

John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|”

16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|”

20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|”

21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.10.15|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.10.15|AUTODETECT|”

10:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|”

14:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|”

Col. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.6.20-58.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.6.20-58.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 6:20 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

? Do not all of them in the strongest terms proclaim Jesus as the Bringer of peace? ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|”

We should remember, however, that it is the characteristic of many a mashal to place emphasis on one aspect of the truth rather than on a proposition that is universally valid. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 5:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|”

, Do not take any oath at all. The merit of such aphorisms is that they stop a person short and make him think. So here also. A little reflection will soon convince the earnest student of Scripture that there is a sense in which the coming of Christ into this world not only brought division but was even intended to do so. If that had not been its immediate purpose would not all men have been lost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|”

John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|”

5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 3:9 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.14.22|AUTODETECT|”

)? Would they not all have rushed onward toward their doom? Besides, even in the lives of those who are ultimately saved is it not true that through many tribulations they must enter into the kingdom of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.14.22|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 14:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|”

)? Is not the life of the believer one of Sturm und Drang (storm and stress)? To be sure, in the end all is peace, but the same Paul who exclaims, I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord also complains, Wretched man that I am! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|”

25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.51|AUTODETECT|”

In addition, there will be bitter opponents. Here on earth, that is, during this present dispensation, the followers of Christ must expect the sword. This word is here used to symbolize the very opposite of peace; hence, division 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.51|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 12:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=6.5.13|AUTODETECT|”

), resulting in persecution. It is thus that it will become evident who is on the Lord s side and who is not. It is thus that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=6.5.13|AUTODETECT|”

Josh. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=6.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=6.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.21.44|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.21.44|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 21:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.34|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.34|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.35|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.35|AUTODETECT|”

35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.20.18|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.20.18|AUTODETECT|”

20:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). The entrance of Christ into this world divides in two, splits apart, cleaves asunder, and in so doing sets or turns one person against another.��458��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.52|AUTODETECT|”

Faith not only creates division between one race and another, one people and another, one church and another; it even brings about division in the family, in fact often the sharpest division of all. In this connection ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.52|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 12:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.53|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.53|AUTODETECT|”

53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

mentions five family-members all living under the same roof: father, mother, unmarried daughter, married son and his wife (the parents daughter-in-law). Because of the relation which these various members assume toward Christ there is intense friction between them. Here in Matthew the best interpretation would seem to be that the mother, because of her faith in Christ, is being opposed by the unmarried daughter and by the daughter-in-law; similarly, the believing father by his son.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|”

With allusion to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=33.7.6|AUTODETECT|”

Mic. 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

(see on verse 21) a summary of verses 34, 35 follows in verse 36. A man s enemies (will be) the members of his household. Among the Biblical illustrations of faith as being in a sense a divider of families are the following, in each of which pair it is the first member that opposes the faith. It is he who is the real personal enemy and must therefore bear the responsibility for the division: Cain versus his brother Abel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

Gen. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.3.12|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.3.12|AUTODETECT|”

I John 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.15.13|AUTODETECT|”

); Maacah arrayed against her son Asa 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.15.13|AUTODETECT|”

I Kings 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.2|AUTODETECT|”

); and Nabal opposed to his wife Abigail 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.2|AUTODETECT|”

I Sam. 25:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|”

3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.10|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.10|AUTODETECT|”

10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.11|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.11|AUTODETECT|”

11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.23-9.25.31|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.23-9.25.31|AUTODETECT|”

23 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.18.33|AUTODETECT|”

). In the last two instances the story emphasizes the reaction of faith rather than the action of unbelief. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.18.33|AUTODETECT|”

II Sam. 18:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.27.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.27.10|AUTODETECT|”

Ps. 27:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.12-46.7.16|AUTODETECT|”

; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.12-46.7.16|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 7:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|”

A choice must be made. It must be the right choice, even if this should mean the alienation of a child from his parents or vice versa: 37. He who loves��459�� father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.& To belong to Christ is a privilege so inestimable that no other relationship can replace it. It is a duty so imperative that no other obligation is more binding. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

. If the choice is between a parent or Christ, the parent s wish, no matter how ardent, should be rejected; if between a child or Christ, the child s wish, no matter how vehement must be overridden. This must be done out of predominating love for Christ. Those who refuse this supreme loyalty to Jesus are not worthy of him, that is, not deserving of belonging to him and being honored by him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.19.17|AUTODETECT|”

Willingness to sacrifice for Christ and his cause must be total. Therefore the words, He who loves father and mother & son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me, are immediately followed by verse 38. and he who does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. The underlying figure is derived from the then prevailing custom according to which a man who had been sentenced to die by crucifixion was compelled to carry his own cross to the place of execution 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.19.17|AUTODETECT|”

John 19:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). Bearing a cross after Jesus thus became a symbol of willingness to endure pain, shame, and persecution for his sake and in his cause. It should be stressed in this connection that the term cross-bearing is not being used properly, that is, in the full Biblical sense, when it is made to refer very generally to any kind of affliction visited upon a person during the course of his earthly life; for example, rheumatism or loss of hearing.) 1 5 2 8 0 0

A somewhat similar error must also be guarded against. In speaking of cross-bearing one should be careful not to deprive Christ s suffering of its unique value and significance. This is done at times; for example, when the following lines, ascribed to Thomas Shepherd (1665 1739), are misinterpreted:) Must Jesus bear the cross alone,) And all the world go free?) No, there s a cross for everyone,) And there s a cross for me.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|”

If this is explained to mean that Christ s bitter agony was simply one among many, what is there left of the truth with reference to the vicarious character and infinite value of his sacrifice? In the light of full biblical revelation cross-bearing, applied to the believer, can have only one meaning, namely, submissively and in a sense even joyfully bearing his [Christ s] reproach 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.5.41|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.5.41|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 5:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.13.15|AUTODETECT|”

). This is true of those who, come what may, follow where he leads, trust in his redeeming blood, reflect his mind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.13.15|AUTODETECT|”

John 13:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.7|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.7|AUTODETECT|”

II Cor. 8:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.4.32-49.5.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.4.32-49.5.2|AUTODETECT|”

Eph. 4:32 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.2.21|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.2.21|AUTODETECT|”

I Peter 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

); and proclaim him. For is not worthy of me see on the preceding verse.) 1 1 2 8 0 0

On the basis of Christ s saying as reported here in verse 38 did the disciples at this time understand that Jesus was going to be literally crucified? Probably not; for, a. this passage lays down a principle, teaches a lesson, that has meaning even apart from the assumption of Calvary s cross; and b. if even Christ s later clear predictions about his own approaching death on the cross (16:21; 17:22, 23; 20:17 19; and parallel passages in the other Gospels) were not understood by them (see above, on verse 27), is it at all probable that at this earlier stage they interpreted what is reported in verse 38 to refer in any sense to Calvary? To us the Calvary reference is clear.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|”

The person who refuses to take to heart the lesson of verse 38 will suffer total loss. For the opposite kind there is a rich reward: verse 39. He who finds his life shall lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake shall find it. What does his life mean in such a connection?��460�� In all probability influenced by the Hebrew idiom, it simply means himself. This is clear from passages in which the two terms life and self are used interchangeably: The Son of man came to give his life a ransom in exchange for many 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|”

; see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|”

Isa. 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|”

and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|”

John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.6|AUTODETECT|”

). Now compare & who gave himself a ransom for all 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.6|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|”

). Even better, for it is closer to the thought of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 10:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|”

, is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.24|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.24|AUTODETECT|”

24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

If any one would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life shall lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake, he shall save it. ��461��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Accordingly, and also in the light of parallel passages, Christ s words may be paraphrased as follows: The person who, when the issue is between me and what he considers his own interests, chooses the latter, thinking that by so doing he is going to find himself, that is, secure a firmer hold on the full life, will be bitterly disappointed. He will lose rather than gain. His happiness and usefulness will shrink and shrivel rather than increase. At last he will perish everlastingly. On the other hand, the one who, confronted with the choice, gives himself away, that is, denies himself out of loyalty to me, being willing if need be to pay the supreme sacrifice, will attain to complete self-realization. He will have life and will have it more abundantly until at last he will share with me the glory of my return and of the new heaven and earth. Among the passages in which the same or at least a similar thought is expressed, and which shed light on the meaning of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|” , are 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.24|AUTODETECT|”

24. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.26|AUTODETECT|” ): ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.34-41.8.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.34-41.8.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:34 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 17:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.33|AUTODETECT|”
25. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.25|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.25|AUTODETECT|” John 12:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.26|AUTODETECT|”
26. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Illustration of the two dispositions contrasted in verse 39: a. the lake or sea that has an inlet but no outlet, contrasted with one that has both; b. the raging torrent before it has been dammed, contrasted with that same stream after a dam has been constructed across part of it, producing a useful lake and channels for irrigation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.37|AUTODETECT|” From the further encouragements found in the remaining verses it becomes evident that this time, in contrast with the Sermon on the Mount (see 7:27), Jesus is going to end his discourse on a positive note: 40. He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. Such is the promise for those who, in spite of knowing full well that they will be looked down upon and perhaps even persecuted by their neighbors, etc., welcome and continue to welcome the disciples and their message. They are told that when they accept these men in their true capacity, as fully authorized representatives of Christ, they are accepting Christ himself. Not only this, but since Jesus, in turn, was sent from the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.6|AUTODETECT|” 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.16|AUTODETECT|” 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” John 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|”
27. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.24|AUTODETECT|”
28. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.40|AUTODETECT|”
29. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.4|AUTODETECT|” 9:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.7|AUTODETECT|”
30. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.36|AUTODETECT|” 10:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.9|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.), that is, from the loving heart of the very Father who had authorized his Son to commission these disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.18|AUTODETECT|” John 17:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 20:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), they, the welcomers, are accepting the Father himself into their hearts, lives, and homes. Is it even possible to imagine a blessing that could be richer than this?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 This same promise is spelled out even more definitely in verse 41. He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet s reward. Literally the original reads, He who receives a prophet in (the) name of a prophet. But since in English this translation is not very clear, and since we already know that in Scripture the name indicates the person himself, and describes what he is in his relation to his surroundings, neighbors, etc., we agree with many other translators��462�� in rendering the passage: He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet.& The meaning, then, is this: He who welcomes a prophet not necessarily one of The Twelve but anyone who has the right to proclaim God s truth and does this not merely out of considerations of politeness or cordiality but very definitely because he regards this messenger to be a prophet indeed, and therefore in welcoming him wishes to welcome his Sender, shall receive the same reward as if he, the welcomer, were himself a prophet.) Lest there be any misunderstanding, as if the reward of grace and glory would be granted only to those who welcomed a specially commissioned messenger, Jesus adds, and he who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person shall receive a righteous person s reward. Here again for because he is the original has in the name of. The explanation is similar.

The reward is promised because in the man who knocks at his door the welcomer recognizes a righteous person, that is, one who practices the true religion. The man who devotes his life to the performance of the urgently necessary and eminently noble task of providing lodging for, cooperating with, and encouraging God s traveling children is promised the same reward as are those whom he befriends.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Beautifully Jesus climaxes this discourse by saying: 42. And whoever gives to one of these little ones even so much as a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, I solemnly declare to you, he shall certainly not lose his reward. With a term of endearment Jesus speaks about one of these little ones, one who acknowledges his dependence on him and reposes his trust in him. To the world this disciple may be a nobody, insignificant in fame and fortune. Nevertheless, anything that is given to such a disciple is by Jesus regarded as if given to himself. The gift may be as inexpensive as a cup of cold water. It is not the gift as such but rather the motive that matters 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If it be given to the little one because he is a disciple ��463�� the reward will not be lacking.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.13|AUTODETECT|” The quality of the gift and of the giving receives special emphasis. According to what is probably the best reading the act of love is described as giving a cup of cold water only (thus literally), meaning even so much as a cup of cold water. For I solemnly declare see on 5:18. Jesus then is saying, I solemnly declare to you that for such a gift the reward will not be lacking. In fact, he shall certainly not��464�� lose his reward. What reward? Think of peace of mind now 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), public acknowledgment by Christ himself at his return (25:34 ff.), and ever afterward all the blessings that are bestowed solely by grace, according to works (16:27).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” 430 Along this line H. N. Ridderbos, op. cit., Vol. I, p. 203. It is but fair to add that he grants the possibility of the correctness of the opposite view. For a view similar in some respects to that of Ridderbos see W. C. Allen, op. cit., p. 101. F. W. Grosheide in his preliminary summary of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17-40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:17 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 states that we are compelled to believe that Matthew combined two pieces spoken at different occasions. R. V. G. Tasker presents a fine summary of the arguments that have been presented in favor of the combination theory. He himself leans toward the single unit view, op. cit., pp. 104, 105. Finally, see the discussion in D. J. Chapman, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, London, 1937, pp. 236 242.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 431 See K. Schneider s article on �������� and related words, Th.D.N.T., Vol. IV, p. 515 519.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 432 That the task assigned to these twelve men was not limited to what is mentioned here in 10:1 is shown in verses 7, 8, 14, 19, 20, 27; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” 433 See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” John 5:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 11 2 8 0 0 N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 434 I fail to understand Lenski s statement that besides Judas Matthew mentions only Peter in the rest of his Gospel; op. cit., p. 378.) 435 A Sizoo, op. cit., p. 52.) 436 The addition for the road would seem to indicate that the idea here is a bag containing supplies or provisions that you think you might need as you are traveling, rather than a bag for collecting alms. Accordingly, A. Deissmann s idea (op. cit., p. 109) that there is here a reference to the beggar s collecting bag should probably be rejected.) 437 Literally, to his nourishment , but in line with the immediately preceding context the somewhat broader meaning is perhaps intended.) 438 On the subject of hospitality, including a paragraph showing why it would not be wise for today s missionaries to pagan lands in every detail to try literally to apply the same methods which Jesus here urges upon The Twelve, see the excellent article, Hospitality, by B. S.

Easton, I.S.B.E., Vol. III, pp. 1432, 1433.) 439 See N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 43 45.) 440 S.BK. I, p. 571.) 441 As in 4:15 the word land indicates the people who inhabit it. So, here in verse 15, does the word city. ) 442 See footnote 133 on p. 131.) 443 For I am sending Jesus might have used the weaker verb �����, but he uses the stronger �������� (cf. ��������), and besides makes the expression even more emphatic by fully spelling out the first person singular pronoun I. He says �| ��������: I myself am sending. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 444 The verb ������� (here 2nd per. pl. pres. imperative ���������) has various meanings. Basically it means: to turn (the mind) to, pay attention to; and so be concerned about 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ), apply onself to 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.13|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ), be addicted to 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ), cling to 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.3|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.46|AUTODETECT|” ), and so also: to be on one s guard against 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 20:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Take care that you do not ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17|AUTODETECT|” 445 M.M., p. 604, entry ���������, regard ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 as referring to the local Jewish courts of Justice attached to the synagogue, and so finally to the great council at Jerusalem, the Sanhedrin.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 446 For further details on this see K. Schneider s article on ��������, in Th.D.N.T., Vol. IV, pp. 515 519.) 447 Quoted in the Princeton Seminary Bulletin, Vol LXII, No. 3, autumn 1969, p. 59.) 448 Periphrastic future passive, probably with durative force, as if to say: this will be going on and on throughout the ages. The original has ����� ����������.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.13|AUTODETECT|” 449 Against this interpretation, according to which a fleeing from city to city may have occurred already before Golgotha and Olivet, it has been argued that not until after Christ s resurrection were the disciples persecuted. But it is hard to reconcile that position with such passages as the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.13|AUTODETECT|” John 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.22|AUTODETECT|” 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.42|AUTODETECT|” 12:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.10-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.10-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.11|AUTODETECT|” 9:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.14|AUTODETECT|” 10:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.16-40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.16-40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” 16 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.1|AUTODETECT|” 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.27-40.19.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.27-40.19.29|AUTODETECT|” 19:27 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . If it were true that, from a human point of view, before Christ s resurrection close association with Jesus had been perfectly safe, why did Peter deny his Master?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 450 It was as Baal-zebub 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.2|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.1.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.12.24-40.12.27|AUTODETECT|” ; LXX ���� �����), that is, lord of the carrion-fly, and thus also protector against this nuisance, that Baal was worshiped at Ekron. King Ahazia, who sent messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub whether he would recover from the results of his fall, was told that because of this disloyalty to Jehovah he would die. The New Testament passages substitute Beel[=Baal] zebul for -zebub. Beelzebul means lord of the dwelling. The reason for the change in spelling is not clear. It may have amounted to no more than an accident of popular pronunciation.

Another explanation is that there is here a play on words, for -zebul resembles zebel: dung. Thus, those who despised the Baal of Ekron were able, by means of a slight change in pronunciation, to heap scorn upon him by conveying the thought that he was nothing but a lord of dung. But, however this may be, in New Testament usage Beelzebul is definitely the prince of the demons, as a comparison of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.24-40.12.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:24 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.34|AUTODETECT|” (and parallel passages) with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 proves. Beelzebul is Satan (cf. 12:26 with 12:27).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 451 The distinction between the aorist middle subjunctive �������� in verse 26 and the present middle imperative �������� in verse 28 somewhat reminds one of the two verbs that center around a synonymous theme that of anxiety in 6:25 and 6:31, where the sequence is reversed: first present imperative, then aorist subjunctive.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 452 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is no exception to this rule. See N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 141, 142; also in that book the note on pp. 146 150.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 453 In this Gospel the term ���� occurs sixteen times. In 2:20 and twice in 6:25 it is obviously the animating principle of man s physical existence and well-being. In such cases the translation life is correct. In our present passage (10:28, twice) it is clearly the immaterial and invisible part of man, as contrasted with the material and visible. In such passages as 10:39 twice; 11:29; 12:18; 16:25 twice; 16:26 twice; and 20:28, due to Semitic influence, the meaning self (hence, himself, yourself, yourselves, or even I, the exact connotation depending on the specific context in each case) deserves serious consideration, especially in the light of parallelisms and parallel passages. In 22:37 ���� approaches the meaning of ������.

It is the human soul or spirit in its relation to God. Finally in 26:38 ���� indicates the invisible part of man viewed as the principle of thinking, willing, or desiring. If in such cases there is any distinction between ������ and ����, it would be that ������ is used more often in connection with mental, ���� in connection with emotional, activity. Thus it is the ������ that perceives 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ), plans 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ), and knows 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.38|AUTODETECT|” ), It is the ���� which is sorrowful 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.38|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.14|AUTODETECT|” ). The ������ prays 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.14|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.30|AUTODETECT|” ); the ���� loves 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.12.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Also ���� is often more general, broader in scope, at times indicating the sum-total of life that rises above the physical; while ������ is more restricted, frequently indicating the human spirit in its relation to God. In such cases it describes man as the subject in acts of worship or acts related to worship, such as praying, bearing witness, serving the Lord. But these distinctions are not rigid. There is overlapping.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 454 See my book The Bible on the Life Hereafter; on Hades, pp. 83 86; on Gehenna, pp. 195 199.) 455 Note position of Q��� at the head of verse 30, and thus immediately after the Q��� of the preceding clause.) 456 In both of the balancing clauses of verse 32 the verb for confessing (A��������� in the first clause; A�������� in the second) is followed by the preposition �. This is probably due to Aramaic influence, added proof that Jesus generally spoke in that language. See Gram.N.T., p. 475.) 457 See on this entire subject H. H. Meeter, The Heavenly Highpriesthood of Christ (doctoral dissertation submitted to the Free University at Amsterdam), Grand Rapids (no date).) 458 Note ������� aor. act. infin. of ������; followed three times by ����, down on, against.) 459 Note the present participle ����� fr. �����; hence, literally, the one loving, thus also in verse 37b. The fact that this verb rather than a form of ����� is here used has no special significance.

It stands to reason that within the family circle love is basically spontaneous natural affection, in which the emotions often play a more prominent role than either the intellect or the will. Though it is true that the object me, namely Christ, is governed by the same verb, nevertheless the starting-point in the comparison is love within the family. Besides, between ����� and ����� there is much overlapping. For the rest, see the lengthy discussion and complete tabulation of these two verbs in N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, footnote 306 on pp. 494 501.) 460 For the various shades of meaning of the words ���� and ������ see N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 148 150. See also above, on 10:28, including footnote 453 on p. 471.) 461 I do not agree with the reasoning of Lenski, op. cit. p. 406.

In order to arrive at the meaning of ���� we are not here exclusively dependent on Hebrew and/or Aramaic. Context and parallel passages should also be given their due.) 462 Beck, Berkeley, Norlie, Phillips, R.S.V., Ridderbos, Twentieth Century, Weymouth.) 463 Once more, as twice in the preceding verse, in the name of. ) 464 Very emphatic: �P ��.)