Question Mark or Exclamation Point

Matthew 10:24-32 - The Sending of the Twelve

Let me provide some context before this scripture. These verses immediately follow Jesus's appointment of His twelve disciples. These men, from varied walks of life, received what could be considered military-style orders. Their mission was clear: to preach that "the kingdom of heaven is at hand." They were to carry this message house to house, operating much like street-preaching ministers, but focusing their efforts exclusively within Jewish neighborhoods. “But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Outreach to Gentiles and Samaritans was strictly off-limits for this initial phase, reserved for a later time.

He also gave them power. Jesus imbued His representatives with supernatural force that could “heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, and cast out demons.” It’s interesting to note that the healing powers given to His followers were never withdrawn. That power was never de-energized! As Christians, we still possess the ability to perform miracles.

His followers were sent off without money or worldly possessions, expecting God to provide for all their needs. But Jesus warned them that they were going on this journey as “sheep in the midst of wolves.” He advised them to be wise and avoid exposing themselves to unnecessary danger. However, also be harmless, without instigating any retaliation. He told them to expect problems from civic and religious organizations. Church and State would both have it in for them. They would be brought in before people with earthly authority. They’d probably be charged with “being righteous without a license.” Jesus told them not to worry about having the words to speak in their defense. The spirit of God would be their representation. Their arguments would be airtight.

Jesus further advised them that this was a matter of life and death. Over the centuries, millions of followers of Jesus Christ have given their lives for their faith. But He promised that if one remains faithful to the end, he will be saved.

Verse 24: “The disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his lord.” If Jesus was slandered and ridiculed, why wouldn’t his followers be treated the same? Charles Spurgeon said, “God was slandered in Paradise, and Christ on Calvary, how can we hope to escape?” Simply put, a follower of Jesus, a servant of the Lord, should strive to be like his Master. Students should evolve into their Teacher. But, guys, it’s not going to be easy!

If we fear proclaiming truth to the nations or suffering repercussions from Jesus’ enemies, then in some measure, Satan has won. He has prevented us from completing our mission. He has short-circuited the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20: “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe all things whatever I have commanded you.”

At this point, Jesus confides in His disciples that no matter what atrocities are done to His followers, no matter what measures the perpetrators take to conceal their sins, they will be exposed to the world. One day, at God's appointed time, there will be justice for all!

God’s Word is for all men. It is not meant for the select few to interpret how they see fit. It should be proclaimed honestly and gloriously “from the rooftops.” We should all understand that God is the One we ought to fear, not those who persecute followers of Jesus. The most they can do is destroy the body. However, acting like a coward in God's eyes for the sake of His Son can lead to eternal consequences.

Jesus tells His disciples —and us —of our extreme value to His Father. Many of us, especially those going through tough times, think we’re worthless, not worth God’s trouble. That’s a lie straight out of the pit of hell. God created us to be heirs to His kingdom; we are children of the Creator of the Universe. Does that sound like we have no value?

Jesus finished His talk with a severe warning. What He did on the cross opened up the gates for our return once again to Paradise. Every sinner and saint, every mother and child, father and son, regardless of race, creed, or color, has an opportunity for salvation. We receive our entry ticket once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Warning: This singular act will not bring peace to the nations, but a sword that will cut deep through families. It cleaves a dividing line between those who accept Him and those who reject Him.

In closing, it all comes down to understanding how to take orders and where we are in the chain of command. Here is a quote from Charles Spurgeon that either raises a question mark or an exclamation point over our lives.

“What Christ is to you on earth, that you will be to Christ in heaven. I shall repeat that truth. Whatever Jesus Christ is to you on earth, you will be to him on the day of judgment. If He be dear and precious to you, you will be precious and dear to Him. If you thought everything of Him, He will think everything of you.”