Scripture:
Vs. 16 “Behold I am sending you out as sheep among wolves so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. “
Vs. 17 “Beware of man for they will deliver you over to courts …”
Vs. 18 “And you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake to bear witness …”
Vs. 18 “When they deliver you over do not be anxious …”
Vs 22 “you will be hated by all for my names sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”
Observation:
Jesus is sending out the disciples to teach and prepare them for the mission to come…. the Great Commission.
He warns them they will not be treated well by citizens or by governments.
His greatest warning, however, is to endure faith until the end.
Application:
Am I living my life as one who is “sent “?
Am I living my life in such a way that people would even question my faith … my greatest loyalty?
The current culture is one where sincere exercise of faith is indeed being questioned even in the courts and the town square.
Am I shocked by this? I shouldn’t be! Jesus told us this would happen.
I also see an extraordinary amount of anxiousness at this happening throughout the country. This also shouldn’t be. Jesus also told us this would happen and he specifically warned us not to be anxious!
Why would we be questioned and handed over by citizens and government’s?
To bear his witness!
This is a good thing and a good opportunity!
Why should we cry out over the questioning?
We should be exhilarated at the opportunity to “seek first the kingdom of God”!
Why should we not be anxious when we are delivered over?
Because we have a great Deliverer!
Why should we not be anxious when bad things happen due to our faith?
Because we know the end of the story!
This is how we can be both wise and innocent at the same time.
Of course there is tension in this, but I must rely on the Holy Spirit.
I am sent, but I am also delivered, and I am saved!
Prayer:
Thank you again Father for your Word.
Thank you for the wisdom and the warning it gives me.
Help me Holy Spirit to live in a way that deserves question but also to endure in a way that is faithful and peaceful and wives and innocent.
In Jesus name. Amen.