| Back to Home Page | Back to
Book Index |
Matthew Chapter
Ten
Matthew 10
So long as God gives Him access to the people, He
continues His labour of love. Nevertheless, He was conscious of the iniquity
that governed the people, although He did not seek His own glory. Having
exhorted His disciples to pray that labourers might be sent into the harvest,
He begins (chap. 10) to act in accordance with that desire. He calls His twelve
disciples, He gives them power to cast out devils and to heal the sick, and He
sends them to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. We see, in this mission,
how much the ways of God with Israel form the subject of this Gospel. They were
to announce to that people, and to them exclusively, the nearness of the
kingdom, exercising at the same time the power they had received: a striking
testimony to Him who was come, and who could not only work miracles Himself,
but confer power on others to do so likewise. He gave them authority over evil
spirits for this purpose. It is this which characterises the kingdom-man healed
of all sickness and the devil cast out Accordingly, in Hebrews 6, miracles are
called "the powers of the world to come." [1]
They were also, with respect to their need, to depend entirely on Him
who sent them. Emmanuel was there. If miracles were a proof to the world of
their Master's power, the fact that they lacked nothing should be so to their
own hearts The ordinance was abrogated during that period of their ministry
which followed the departure of Jesus from this world (Luke 22:35-37). That
which He here (Matt. 10) commands His disciples appertains to His presence as
Messiah, as Jehovah Himself, on the earth. Therefore the reception of His
messengers, or their rejection, decided the fate of those to whom they were
sent. In rejecting them they rejected the Lord Emmanuel, God with His people. [2] But, in fact, He sent them forth as sheep in
the midst of wolves. They would need the wisdom of serpents, and were to
exhibit the harmlessness of doves (rare union of virtues, found only in those
who, by the Spirit of the Lord, are wise unto that which is good and simple
concerning evil).
If they did not beware of men (sad testimony as to
these), they would but suffer; but when scourged and brought before councils
and governors and kings, all this should become a testimony unto them-a divine
means of presenting the gospel of the kingdom to kings and princes, without
altering its character or accommodating it to the world, or mixing up the
Lord's people with its usages and its false greatness. Moreover circumstances
like these made their testimony much more conspicuous than association with the
great ones of the earth would have done.
And, to accomplish this, they should receive such power
and guidance from the Spirit of their Father as would cause the words they
spoke to be not their own words, but His who inspired them. Here, again, their
relation with their Father, which so distinctly characterises the sermon on the
Mount, is made the basis of their capacity for the service they had to perform.
We must remember that this testimony was addressed to Israel only; only that,
Israel being under the yoke of the Gentiles since the time of Nebuchadnezzar,
the testimony would reach their rulers.
But this testimony would excite an opposition that should
break all family ties, and awaken a hatred that would not spare the life of
those who had been the most beloved. He who in spite of all this should endure
to the end should be saved. Nevertheless the case was urgent. They were not to
resist, but if the opposition took the form of persecution, they were to flee
and preach the Gospel elsewhere, for before they had gone over the cities of
Israel the Son of man should come. [3] They were to proclaim the kingdom. Jehovah,
Emmanuel, was there, in the midst of His people, and the heads of the people
had called the master of the house Beelzebub. This had not stopped His
testimony, but it very strongly characterised the circumstances in which this
testimony was to be rendered He sent them forth, warning them of this state of
things, to maintain this final testimony among His beloved people as long as
possible. This took place at that time, and it is possible, if circumstances
permit, to carry it on until the Son of man comes to execute judgment. Then the
master of the house will nave risen up to shut the door. The "to-day"
of Psalm 95 will be over. Israel in possession of their cities being the object
of this testimony, it is necessarily suspended when they are no longer in their
land. The testimony to the future kingdom given in Israel by the apostles after
the Lord's death, is an accomplishment of this mission, so far as this
testimony was rendered in the land of Israel; for the kingdom might be
proclaimed as to be established while Emmanuel was on the earth; or this might
be by Christ's returning from heaven as announced by Peter in Acts 3. And this
might take place if Israel were in the land, even until Christ should return.
Thus the testimony may be resumed in Israel, whenever they are again in their
land and the requisite spiritual power is sent forth by God.
Meanwhile, the disciples were to share in Christ's own position. If
they called the master of the house Beelzebub, much more they of His household.
But they were not to fear It was the necessary portion of those who were for
God in the midst of the people. But there was nothing hid that should not be
revealed. They themselves were to hold nothing back, but were to proclaim on
the housetops all that they had been taught; for everything should be brought
into the light; their faithfulness to God in this respect, as well as all other
things. This, while it met the secret plottings of their enemies, was itself to
characterise the ways of the disciples. God, who is light, and sees in darkness
as in light, would bring all out into the light, but they were to do this
morally now. Therefore were they to fear nothing while performing this work,
unless it were God Himself, the righteous Judge at the last day. Moreover the
hairs of their heads were numbered. They were precious to their Father, who
took notice of even a sparrow's death. This could not happen without Him who
was their Father.
Finally, they were to be thoroughly imbued with the
conviction that the Lord was not come to send peace on the earth; no, it should
be division, even in the bosom of families. But Christ was to be more precious
than father or mother, and even than a man's own life. He who would save his
life at the expense of his testimony to Christ should lose it; he who would
lose it for the sake of Christ should gain it. He also who should receive this
testimony, in the person of the disciples, received Christ, and, in Christ, Him
that sent Him. God, therefore, being thus acknowledged in the person of His
witnesses on earth, would bestow, on whoever received the latter, a reward according
to the testimony rendered. In thus acknowledging the testimony of the rejected
Lord, were it only by a cup of cold water, he who gave it should not lose his
reward. In an opposing world, he who believes the testimony of God, and
receives (in spite of the world) the man who bears this testimony, really
confesses God, as well as His servant. It is all that we can do. The rejection
of Christ made Him a test, a touchstone.
[1] For
then Satan will be bound and man delivered by the power of Christ. And there
were partial deliverances of the kind.
[2]
There is a division of the Lord's discourse at verse 15. Up to that it is the
then present mission. From verse 16 we have more general reflections on their
mission, looked at as a whole in the midst of Israel on to the end. Evidently
it goes beyond their then present mission and supposes the coming of the Holy
Ghost. The mission by which the church is called as such is a distinct thing.
This applies only to Israel they were forbidden to go to Gentiles. This
necessarily closed with the destruction of Jerusalem and the dispersion of the
Jewish nation, but it is to be renewed at the end, till the Son of man be come.
There was a testimony to the Gentiles only, as brought before them as judges,
as Paul was, and that part of his history even on to Rome in Acts, was amidst
Jews. The latter part, from verse 16, has less to do with the gospel of the
kingdom.
[3]
Observe here the expression "Son of man." This is the character in
which (according to Dan. 7) the Lord will come, in a power and glory much
greater than that of His manifestation as Messiah, the Son of David, and which
will be displayed in a much wider sphere. As the Son of man, He is the heir of
all that God destines for man (see Heb. 2:6-8, and 1 Cor. 15:27). He must, in
consequence, seeing what man's condition is, suffer in order to possess this
inheritance. He was there as the Messiah, but He must be received in His true
character, Emmanuel; and the Jews must thus be tested morally. He will not have
the kingdom on carnal principles. Rejected as Messiah, as Emmanuel, He
postpones the period of those events which will close the ministry of His
disciples with respect to Israel, unto His coming as the Son of man. Meantime
God has brought out other things that had been hidden from the foundation of
the world, the true glory of Jesus the Son of God, His heavenly glory as man
and the church united to Him in heaven. The Judgment of Jerusalem, and the
dispersion of the nation, have suspended the ministry which had begun at the
moment of which the evangelist here speaks. That which has filled up the
interval since then is not the subject here of the Lord's discourse, which
refers solely to the ministry that had the Jews for its object. The counsels of
God with respect to the church, in connection with the glory of Jesus at the
right hand of God, we shall find spoken of elsewhere. Luke will give us in more
detail that which concerns the Son of man In Matthew the Holy Ghost occupies us
with the rejection of Emmanuel.
── John Darby《Synopsis of Matthew》
Matthew 10
Chapter Contents
The apostles called. (1-4) The apostles instructed and
sent forth. (5-15) Directions to the apostles. (16-42)
Commentary on Matthew 10:1-4
(Read Matthew 10:1-4)
The word "apostle" signifies messenger; they
were Christ's messengers, sent forth to proclaim his kingdom. Christ gave them
power to heal all manner of sickness. In the grace of the gospel there is a
slave for every sore, a remedy for every malady. There is no spiritual disease,
but there is power in Christ for the cure of it. There names are recorded, and
it is their honour; yet they had more reason to rejoice that their names were
written in heaven, while the high and mighty names of the great ones of the
earth are buried in the dust.
Commentary on Matthew 10:5-15
(Read Matthew 10:5-15)
The Gentiles must not have the gospel brought them, till
the Jews have refused it. This restraint on the apostles was only in their
first mission. Wherever they went they must proclaim, The kingdom of heaven is
at hand. They preached, to establish the faith; the kingdom, to animate the
hope; of heaven, to inspire the love of heavenly things, and the contempt of
earthly; which is at hand, that men may prepare for it without delay. Christ
gave power to work miracles for the confirming of their doctrine. This is not
necessary now that the kingdom of God is come. It showed that the intent of the
doctrine they preached, was to heal sick souls, and to raise those that were
dead in sin. In proclaiming the gospel of free grace for the healing and saving
of men's souls, we must above all avoid the appearance of the spirit of an
hireling. They are directed what to do in strange towns and cities. The servant
of Christ is the ambassador of peace to whatever place he is sent. His message
is even to the vilest sinners, yet it behoves him to find out the best persons
in every place. It becomes us to pray heartily for all, and to conduct
ourselves courteously to all. They are directed how to act as to those that
refused them. The whole counsel of God must be declared, and those who will not
attend to the gracious message, must be shown that their state is dangerous.
This should be seriously laid to heart by all that hear the gospel, lest their
privileges only serve to increase their condemnation.
Commentary on Matthew 10:16-42
(Read Matthew 10:16-42)
Our Lord warned his disciples to prepare for persecution.
They were to avoid all things which gave advantage to their enemies, all
meddling with worldly or political concerns, all appearance of evil or selfishness,
and all underhand measures. Christ foretold troubles, not only that the
troubles might not be a surprise, but that they might confirm their faith. He
tells them what they should suffer, and from whom. Thus Christ has dealt fairly
and faithfully with us, in telling us the worst we can meet with in his
service; and he would have us deal so with ourselves, in sitting down and
counting the cost. Persecutors are worse than beasts, in that they prey upon
those of their own kind. The strongest bonds of love and duty, have often been
broken through from enmity against Christ. Sufferings from friends and
relations are very grievous; nothing cuts more. It appears plainly, that all
who will live godly in Christ Jesus must suffer persecution; and we must expect
to enter into the kingdom of God through many tribulations. With these
predictions of trouble, are counsels and comforts for a time of trial. The
disciples of Christ are hated and persecuted as serpents, and their ruin is
sought, and they need the serpent's wisdom. Be ye harmless as doves. Not only,
do nobody any hurt, but bear nobody any ill-will. Prudent care there must be,
but not an anxious, perplexing thought; let this care be cast upon God. The
disciples of Christ must think more how to do well, than how to speak well. In
case of great peril, the disciples of Christ may go out of the way of danger,
though they must not go out of the way of duty. No sinful, unlawful means may
be used to escape; for then it is not a door of God's opening. The fear of man brings
a snare, a perplexing snare, that disturbs our peace; an entangling snare, by
which we are drawn into sin; and, therefore, it must be striven and prayed
against. Tribulation, distress, and persecution cannot take away God's love to
them, or theirs to him. Fear Him, who is able to destroy both soul and body in
hell. They must deliver their message publicly, for all are deeply concerned in
the doctrine of the gospel. The whole counsel of God must be made known, Acts 20:27. Christ shows them why they should be
of good cheer. Their sufferings witnessed against those who oppose his gospel.
When God calls us to speak for him, we may depend on him to teach us what to
say. A believing prospect of the end of our troubles, will be of great use to
support us under them. They may be borne to the end, because the sufferers
shall be borne up under them. The strength shall be according to the day. And
it is great encouragement to those who are doing Christ's work, that it is a
work which shall certainly be done. See how the care of Providence extends to
all creatures, even to the sparrows. This should silence all the fears of God's
people; Ye are of more value than many sparrows. And the very hairs of your
head are all numbered. This denotes the account God takes and keeps of his
people. It is our duty, not only to believe in Christ, but to profess that
faith, in suffering for him, when we are called to it, as well as in serving
him. That denial of Christ only is here meant which is persisted in, and that
confession only can have the blessed recompence here promised, which is the
real and constant language of faith and love. Religion is worth every thing;
all who believe the truth of it, will come up to the price, and make every
thing else yield to it. Christ will lead us through sufferings, to glory with
him. Those are best prepared for the life to come, that sit most loose to this
present life. Though the kindness done to Christ's disciples be ever so small,
yet if there be occasion for it, and ability to do no more, it shall be
accepted. Christ does not say that they deserve a reward; for we cannot merit
any thing from the hand of God; but they shall receive a reward from the free
gift of God. Let us boldly confess Christ, and show love to him in all things.
── Matthew Henry《Concise Commentary on Matthew》
Matthew 10
Verse 2
[2] Now
the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called
Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
The first, Simon —
The first who was called to a constant attendance on Christ; although Andrew
had seen him before Simon. Acts 1:13.
Verse 3
[3] Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son
of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus;
Lebbeus —
Commonly called Judas, the brother of James.
Verse 4
[4]
Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
Iscariot — So
called from Iscarioth, (the place of his birth,) a town of the tribe of
Ephraim, near the city of Samaria.
Verse 5
[5]
These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way
of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:
These twelve Jesus sent forth — Herein exercising his supreme authority, as God over all. None but God
can give men authority to preach his word.
Go not —
Their commission was thus confined now, because the calling of the Gentiles was
deferred till after the more plentiful effusion of the Holy Ghost on the day of
pentecost.
Enter not —
Not to preach; but they might to buy what they wanted, John 4:9.
Verse 8
[8] Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely
ye have received, freely give.
Cast out devils — It
is a great relief to the spirits of an infidel, sinking under a dread, that
possibly the Gospel may be true, to find it observed by a learned brother, that
the diseases therein ascribed to the operation of the devil have the very same
symptoms with the natural diseases of lunacy, epilepsy, or convulsions; whence
he readily and very willingly concludes, that the devil had no hand in them.
But it were well to stop and consider a little. Suppose God should suffer an
evil spirit to usurp the same power over a man's body, as the man himself has
naturally; and suppose him actually to exercise that power; could we conclude
the devil had no hand therein, because his body was bent in the very same
manner wherein the man himself might have bent it naturally? And suppose God
gives an evil spirit a greater power, to effect immediately the organ of the
nerves in the brain, by irritating them to produce violent motions, or so
relaxing them that they can produce little or no motion; still the symptoms
will be those of over tense nerves, as in madness, epilepsies, convulsions; or
of relaxed nerves, as in paralytic cases. But could we conclude thence that the
devil had no hand in them? Will any man affirm that God cannot or will not, on
any occasion whatever, give such a power to an evil spirit? Or that effects,
the like of which may be produced by natural causes, cannot possibly be
produced by preternatural? If this be possible, then he who affirms it was so,
in any particular case, cannot be justly charged with falsehood, merely for
affirming the reality of a possible thing. Yet in this manner are the
evangelists treated by those unhappy men, who above all things dread the truth
of the Gospel, because, if it is true, they are of all men the most miserable.
Freely ye have received — All things; in particular the power of working miracles; freely give -
Exert that power wherever you come. Mark 6:7; Luke 9:2.
Verse 9
[9]
Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
Provide not —
The stress seems to lie on this word: they might use what they had ready; but
they might not stay a moment to provide any thing more, neither take any
thought about it. Nor indeed were they to take any thing with them, more than
was strictly necessary. 1. Lest it should retard them. 2. Because they were to
learn hereby to trust to God in all future exigencies.
Verse 10
[10] Nor
scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for
the workman is worthy of his meat.
Neither scrip —
That is, a wallet, or bag to hold provisions: Nor yet a staff - We read, Mark 6:8, Take nothing, save a staff only. He
that had one might take it; they that had none, might not provide any.
For the workman is worthy of his maintenance — The word includes all that is mentioned in the 9th and 10th verses; Matthew 10:9,10 all that they were forbidden to
provide for themselves, so far as it was needful for them. Luke 10:7.
Verse 11
[11] And
into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and
there abide till ye go thence.
Inquire who is worthy — That you should abide with him: who is disposed to receive the Gospel.
There abide — In
that house, till ye leave the town. Mark 6:10; Luke 9:4.
Verse 12
[12] And
when ye come into an house, salute it.
Salute it — In
the usual Jewish form, "Peace (that is, all blessings) be to this
house."
Verse 13
[13] And
if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy,
let your peace return to you.
If the house be worthy — of it, God shall give them the peace you wish them. If not, he shall
give you what they refuse. The same will be the case, when we pray for them
that are not worthy.
Verse 14
[14] And
whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of
that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
Shake off the dust from your feet — The Jews thought the land of Israel so peculiarly holy, that when they
came home from any heathen country, they stopped at the borders and shook or
wiped off the dust of it from their feet, that the holy land might not be
polluted with it. Therefore the action here enjoined was a lively intimation,
that those Jews who had rejected the Gospel were holy no longer, but were on a
level with heathens and idolaters.
Verse 16
[16]
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise
as serpents, and harmless as doves.
Verse 17
[17] But
beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will
scourge you in their synagogues;
But think not that all your innocence and all
your wisdom will screen you from persecution.
They will scourge you in their synagogues — In these the Jews held their courts of judicature, about both civil and
ecclesiastical affairs. Matthew 24:9. 19, Take no thought - Neither at
this time, on any sudden call, need we be careful how or what to answer. Luke 12:11.
Verse 21
[21] And
the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child:
and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put
to death.
Verse 22
[22] And
ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the
end shall be saved.
Of all men —
That know not God. Matthew 24:13.
Verse 23
[23] But
when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say
unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man
be come.
Ye shall not have gone over the cities of
Israel — Make what haste ye will; till the Son of
man be come - To destroy their temple and nation.
Verse 24
[24] The
disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.
Verse 25
[25] It
is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his
lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more
shall they call them of his household?
How much more —
This cannot refer to the quantity of reproach and persecution: (for in this the
servant cannot be above his lord:) but only to the certainty of it. Matthew 12:24.
Verse 26
[26] Fear
them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed;
and hid, that shall not be known.
Therefore fear them not — For ye have only the same usage with your Lord.
There is nothing covered — So that however they may slander you now, your innocence will at length
appear. Mark 4:22; Luke 8:17; 12:2.
Verse 27
[27] What
I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear,
that preach ye upon the housetops.
Even what I now tell you secretly is not to
be kept secret long, but declared publicly. Therefore, What ye hear in the ear,
publish on the house-top - Two customs of the Jews seem to be alluded to here.
Their doctors used to whisper in the ear of their disciples what they were to
pronounce aloud to others. And as their houses were low and flat roofed, they
sometimes preached to the people from thence. Luke 12:3.
Verse 28
[28] And
fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but
rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
And be not afraid — of
any thing which ye may suffer for proclaiming it.
Be afraid of him who is able to destroy both
body and soul in hell — It is remarkable, that our Lord commands
those who love God, still to fear him, even on this account, under this notion.
29, 30. The particular providence of God is another reason for your not fearing
man. For this extends to the very smallest things. And if he has such care over
the most inconsiderable creatures, how much more will he take care of you,
(provided you confess him before men, before powerful enemies of the truth,)
and that not only in this life, but in the other also?
Verse 30
[30] But
the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Verse 32
[32]
Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before
my Father which is in heaven.
Whosoever shall confess me — Publicly acknowledge me for the promised Messiah. But this confession
implies the receiving his whole doctrine, Mark 8:38, and obeying all his commandments. Luke 9:26. 33, 34.
Whosoever shall deny me before men — To which ye will be strongly tempted. For Think not that I am come -
That is, think not that universal peace will be the immediate consequence of my
coming. Just the contrary. Both public and private divisions will follow,
wheresoever my Gospel comes with power.
Ye — this is not the
design, though it be the event of his coming, through the opposition of devils
and men.
Verse 34
[34]
Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but
a sword.
. Luke 12:51.
Verse 36
[36] And
a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
And the foes of a man — That loves and follows me. Micah 7:6.
Verse 37
[37] He
that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that
loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
He that loveth father or mother more than me — He that is not ready to give up all these, when they stand in
competition with his duty.
Verse 38
[38] And
he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
He that taketh not his cross — That is, whatever pain or inconvenience cannot be avoided, but by doing
some evil, or omitting some good. Matthew 16:24; Luke 14:27.
Verse 39
[39] He
that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake
shall find it.
He that findeth his life shall lose it — He that saves his life by denying me, shall lose it eternally; and he
that loseth his life by confessing me, shall save it eternally. And as you
shall be thus rewarded, so in proportion shall they who entertain you for my
sake. Matthew 16:25; John 12:25.
Verse 40
[40] He
that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that
sent me.
Matthew 18:5; Luke 10:16; John 13:20.
Verse 41
[41] He
that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's
reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man
shall receive a righteous man's reward.
He that entertaineth a prophet — That is, a preacher of the Gospel: In the name of a prophet - That is,
because he is such, shall share in his reward.
Verse 42
[42] And
whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water
only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose
his reward.
One of these little ones — The very least Christian. Mark 9:41.
── John Wesley《Explanatory Notes on
Matthew》
Chapter 10.
Sermons on Sending out
Freely You Have Received
Freely Give
I. Choose Disciples and Send Them out
II. Difficulties of Serving the Lord
III. Rewards for Serving the Lord
── Chih-Hsin Chang《An Outline of The New Testament》
The Twelve Apostles (10:1-4)
INTRODUCTION
1. Upon what is your faith in Jesus Christ based? a. His miracles? b. His teachings? c. His resurrection from the dead? 2. In reality, our faith is based upon the words of the apostles of Jesus Christ... a. Apart from their gospels and letters, we know virtually nothing about Him b. They are the ones who tell us about His life, miracles, and resurrection 3. Jesus acknowledged that our faith in Him would depend upon their word... a. As indicated in His prayer for us - Jn 17:20 b. The Lord expected us to believe in Him through their word 4. Who are these men upon which our faith is based? a. What does the Bible and history tell us about them? b. Are they credible witnesses that we should believe? c. What is their role in the church of our Lord? 5. In Mt 10:1-4, we find the names of the twelve apostles... a. Matthew lists their names as they were sent on "The Limited Commission" - Mt 10:5-7 b. While Mark and Luke records their names when they were actually appointed as apostles - cf. Mk 3:13-19; Lk 6:13-16 [In this lesson I wish to focus our attention on "The Twelve Apostles",upon whom our faith is based, for whom we should be so grateful. Let'sstart by taking a closer look at...] I. THE IDENTITY OF THE APOSTLES
A. THE FIRST FOUR... 1. Simon, who is called Peter a. Introduced to Jesus by his brother, Andrew - Jn 1:40-41 b. Given the name Cephas (Peter) by Jesus - Jn 1:42 c. A fisherman, called to follow Jesus along with Andrew - Mt 4:18-20 d. Known for being impetuous; for example: 1) When Jesus walked on the sea - Mt 14:25-29 2) When Jesus foretold His death and resurrection - Mt 16:21-23
3) When Jesus foretold of some who would stumble - Mt 26:31-35
4) When Jesus was arrested in the garden - Jn 18:10-11 e. Known for his failures; for example: 1) Doubting when walking to Jesus on the sea - Mt 14:30-31 2) Denying the Lord three times - Mt 26:69-75 3) Leading himself and others into hypocrisy - Ga 2:11-13 f. But eventually living up to meaning of his given name (a rock) 1) Restored by Jesus after His resurrection - Jn 21:15-19 2) Directing the selection to replace Judas Iscariot - Ac1:15-26
3) Preaching the first gospel sermon on the day of Pentecost - Ac 2:14-41 4) Instrumental in the church at Jerusalem years - Ac 3-6; cf. Ga 1:18; 2:1-10 5) The first to proclaim the gospel to the Gentiles - Ac10-11; 15:6-11
2. Andrew, brother of Simon a. A disciple of John the Baptist, he was one of Jesus' first disciples - Jn 1:35-40 b. He led his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus - Jn 1:41-42 c. A fisherman, called to follow Jesus along with Simon - Mt4:18-20
d. He introduced some Greeks to Jesus - Jn 12:20-22 3. James the son of Zebedee a. Brother of John - Mt 10:2 b. A fisherman, called to follow Jesus along with John - Mt 4:21-22
c. Perhaps because of fiery temperment (evidenced in Lk 9:52-54), he and his brother were called "Sons of Thunder"
by Jesus - Mk 3:17 d. While seeking glory, they were promised suffering - Mk 10:35-40
e. Indeed, James was the first of the apostles to be killed - Ac 12:1-2 4. John, brother of James a. Called along with his brother, James - Mt 4:21-22 b. Along with brother and father, they were partners with Peter - Lk 5:10 c. Like his brother, he appeared quick to judge others - cf. Lk 9:49,54 d. But he became "the beloved disciple whom Jesus loved" 1) Who sat next to Jesus during the Last Supper - Jn 13:23 2) Who was given charge to care for Jesus' mother - Jn 19:26-27
3) Who was among the first to see the empty tomb - Jn 20:2-8
4) Who recognized Jesus following the resurrection - Jn 21:7
5) Who made a veiled reference to himself as the author of the Gospel of John - Jn 21:20-24 -- Of these four, Peter, James and John became "the inner circle" of Jesus' disciples. These three were present when Jesus raised Jairus' daughter (Mk 5:37), witnessed the transfiguration (Mt 17:1), and were summoned by Christ for support during His agony in Gethsemane (Mt 26:36-37). B. THE REMAINING EIGHT... 5. Philip a. Called by Jesus, the day after He met Peter and Andrew - Jn1:43
b. From Bethsaida c. He led Nathaniel to Jesus - Jn 1:45-46 d. He with Andrew brought the inquiring Greeks to Jesus - Jn 12:21-22
e. He was the one who asked Jesus, "Show us the Father" - Jn 14:8-9
6. Bartholomew a. He is traditionally considered to be Nathanael, because he is connected to Philip in the lists of the apostles in the Gospels - Mt 10:2-4; Mk 3:16-19; Lk 6:14-16 b. If so, then he was introduced to Jesus by Philip - Jn 1:45-46
c. And was praised by Jesus as having no guile - Jn 1:47-51 d. He lived in Cana , and saw Jesus after the resurrection - Jn21:1-14
7. Thomas a. He was also called The Twin (Didymus) - Jn 20:24 b. At one point he was willing to die for Jesus - Jn 11:16 c. After the resurrection, he required empirical evidence before he would believe that Jesus was alive - Jn 20:24-25 d. A week later, such evidence was provided - Jn 20:26-28 8. Matthew the tax collector a. Also known as Levi - Mt 9:9; Mk 2:14; Lk 5:27 b. Called the son of Alphaeus, leading some to think he was related to James the son of Alphaeus - Mk 2:14; 10:3 c. Called to follow Jesus from his tax office, and later gave a feast at his home in honor of Jesus - Mt 9:9-13 9. James the son of Alphaeus a. He may be "James the Less", son of Mary (who witnessed Jesus' death, sought to prepare Him for burial, and found the tomb empty) - Mk 15:40; 16:1 b. Other than in the lists of apostles, he is not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture 10. Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus a. Evidently the same as "Judas, not Iscariot" (Jn 14:22) and "Judas, brother of James" - Lk 6:16; Ac 1:13 b. He is not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture 11. Simon the Cananite (Cananaean) a. Also called "the Zealot" - Lk 6:15; Ac 1:13 b. As such he had been a member of a radical party seeking to destroy Roman rule 12. Matthias, who replaced Judas Iscariot the betrayer a. Judas, of course, would later betray Jesus and hang himself - Mt 26:14-16,47-50; 27:3-10 b. In his place, Matthias was chosen - Ac 1:15-26 c. He had evidently been with Jesus from His baptism until His ascension - cf. Ac 1:21-22 [What an amazing and diverse collection of men upon which to trust thecontinuation of His mission! Men with personal failings, from oppositeends of the political spectrum. Yet Jesus took this band of men, worked with them for three years, and through them turned the worldupside down! Let's now consider what is revealed in Scripture about...] II. THE MINISTRY OF THE APOSTLES
A. AS WITNESSES FOR THE RESURRECTION... 1. Jesus had shown Himself alive through various proofs - Ac 1:1-3
2. Jesus commissioned them to testify concerning Him - Ac 1:8 3. Peter explained that the apostles were to be witnesses for the resurrection - Ac 1:21-22 4. Thus they testified again and again - Ac 2:32; 3:15; 4:33; 5:30-32; 10:39-41; 13:29-31
-- The apostles served the important role of providing historical and legal proof that Jesus arose from the dead, so that our faith in Him might rest on a solid basis! B. AS TEACHERS FOR THE DISCIPLES... 1. Jesus did not reveal all during His earthly ministry - Jn 16:12
2. The Holy Spirit would reveal all the truth, working through the apostles - Jn 16:13-14; cf. 14:25-26 3. Thus the apostles' doctrine became the authority for the church, as commissioned by Jesus - Mt 28:20; Ac 2:42 4. This doctrine they preserved in their writings - e.g., 2 Pe 3:1-2
-- Through His apostles, Jesus continues to instruct His church as we continue stedfastly in their teachings! C. AS THE FOUNDATION FOR THE CHURCH... 1. The church is built upon the foundation of the apostles, with Christ as the corner-stone - Ep 2:19-22 a. Their eyewitness testimony is the basis of our faith b. Their teaching is basis of our doctrine and practice 2. Their names are even depicted as written on the foundation for the New Jerusalem, which is the Lamb's bride (the church) - Re 21:9-10,14 [To such a small and simple group of men Jesus entrusted the future ofHis church! Was His trust well-founded? Well, consider what we knowfrom Scripture and tradition concerning...] III. THE DEDICATION OF THE APOSTLES
A. IN CARRYING OUT THE GREAT COMMISSION... 1. They were commanded to make disciples of all the nations - Mt 28:19
a. We read of the early work of the apostles in Jerusalem Judea and Samaria b. We can also read Peter's letters to those througout Asia Minor (Turkey 2. From sources outside the Bible, we are told: a. Peter is thought to have travelled to Rome Babylon b. Andrew is said to have preached in Bithynia , Scythia , Greece c. James the brother of John is said to have preached in India and Spain d. John, brother of James, spent time in Patmos , later in Ephesus churches of Smyrna , Pergamos, Sardis , Philadelphia Laodicea e. Philip ministered in Phrygia f. Bartholomew is said to have taken the gospel of Matthew to India g. Thomas is also thought to have travelled to India h. Matthew is said to have preached 15 years in Palestine and then went to Ethiopia , Macedonia , Syria , Persia Parthia i. James the son of Alphaeus - little is known of any work outside Jerusalem j. Thaddaeus is said to preached in Syria and Edessa k. Simon the Zealot is said to have preached the gospel in Mauritania , Africa, and even in Britain l. Matthias is thought to have gone to Damascus -- While much of the above is not known for sure, it does seem to coincide with Paul's statements concerning the spread of the gospel - Ro 10:14-18; Co 1:23 B. IN GIVING THEIR LIVES FOR THE LORD... 1. The apostles suffered much for the Lord a. As He warned them - Jn 15:18-20 b. As Paul described in 1 Co 4:9-13 2. But they did more than suffer discomfort, in most cases they gave their lives a. Peter - crucified upside down in Rome b. Andrew - imprisoned in Greece, then crucified on a cross, the two ends of which were fixed transversely in the ground (from which came the term, St. Andrew's Cross) c. James - beheaded by Herod - Ac 12:1-2 d. John - the only apostle thought to avoid a violent death e. Philip - scourged, thrown into prison, and afterwards crucified f. Bartholomew - said to have been placed into a sack and thrown into the sea, some say he was crucified g. Thomas - thrust through with a spear in India h. Matthew - said by some to have died a natural death, by others that he died in Ethiopia, being slain with a halberd (pike fitted with an axhead) in the city of Nadabah i. James the son of Alphaeus - stoned by the Jews for preaching Christ j. Thaddaeus - unknown k. Simon the Zealot - suffered martyrdom under Trajan; some think crucified in Britain l. Matthias - said to have been stoned and then beheaded CONCLUSION
1. Do we appreciate the significance of the "supreme sacrifice" these men made? a. Their willingness to suffer and die strengthens the credibility of their testimony b. And what is that testimony? That Jesus died for our sins and rose from the grave! -- They were not motivated by money or power; they were compelled by events they could never deny having seen and heard! 2. Through "The Twelve Apostles", we see the power of faith in Christ, transforming... a. Judgmental disciples into apostles of love (e.g., John) a. Political enemies into beloved brethren! (e.g., Matthew and Simon the Zealot) b. Cowards who denied Jesus into confessors who died for Him (e.g., Peter) 3. In "The Twelve Apostles", we have the basis for faith in Christ, providing... a. The foundation of our faith in Christ through their testimony b. The foundation of our belief and practice through their writings May we who are "built on the foundation of the apostles" (Ep 2:20),never forget these 12 humble disciples who faithfully answered the callof their Lord. May their example inspire us to greater faithfulness inour service to Christ!
Principles Of Evangelism - I (10:5-10)
INTRODUCTION
1. In Mt 28:19-20, Jesus gave what is commonly called "The GreatCommission"...
a. In which His apostles were charged to make disciples of all the nations b. A charge which still holds true today for His church 2. As we seek to carry out "The Great Commission" today... a. What principles should govern our efforts? b. Has the Lord provided any advice or counsel as to how we might best go about the work of evangelism? 3. In Mt 10:5-42, we find what is commonly called "The LimitedCommission"...
a. A charge given to the apostles during the earthly ministry of Jesus - Mt 10:1-5 b. So-called because He limited their work to the house of Israel - Mt 10:5-6 c. In which the Lord gave instructions to govern them as they sought to carry out their work 4. From the instructions of Jesus, we can glean some "Principles OfEvangelism"...
a. Principles that helped them also carry out "The Great Commission" b. Principles that can help us be more successful in evangelism today [In this lesson and one to follow, I want to point out at least ten principles that Jesus applied in sending out His apostles. They are principles that I believe can prove successful today. The first one is...] I. UTILIZE THE POWER OF SYNERGY
A. THE APOSTLES WERE SENT OUT TWO-BY-TWO... 1. As evident from Mark's account - cf. Mt 10:5a with Mk 6:7 2. A practice continued... a. When Jesus sent out the seventy - Lk 10:1 b. When the Spirit sent out Paul and Barnabas - Ac 13:2 c. When Paul and Barnabas went their separate ways - Ac 15:36-40
B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE PRINCIPLE OF SYNERGY... 1. Synergy: "The working together of two things (muscles or drugs for example) to produce an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects" 2. Two or more preachers working together can do more than by working separately a. They encourage one another, and help each other - cf. Ecc 4:9-10
b. A plurality of witnesses lend credibility to their story - cf. Jn 8:17 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. The practice of two or more preachers working together should be encouraged a. Especially in foreign fields or difficult areas b. Through the principle of synergy they can be effective in one area more quickly, and then move on to the next c. This is better than preachers working alone, struggling for years by themselves 2. Small congregations in the same area might need to ask themselves which is better... a. Trying to maintain two struggling works b. Or perhaps becoming one in order to grow faster, swarming later into two separate and larger congregations 3. In one's own personal evangelism... a. Seek out a companion in the congregation with similar interests b. Go together in visiting, teaching home studies, etc. [Perhaps much of the slow growth in evangelism today is a failure toappreciate the principle of synergy which was applied by the Lord andthe early church. Another principle to consider is...] II. EMPLOY THE PRACTICE OF SPECIALIZATION
A. THE APOSTLES WERE SENT TO THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL... 1. Which is why this is called "The Limited Commission" - Mt 10:5-6
a. Circumstances limited the arena in which they were to go b. E.g., their mission was to prepare people for Jesus' coming, and their time was limited - Mt 10:23; cf. Lk 10:1-2
2. Later, in carrying out "The Great Commission", the apostles had their individual "focus groups" a. Peter focused on the circumcised (Jews), while Paul focused on the uncircumcised (Gentiles) - Ga 2:7-9 b. Paul also focused on going where others had not gone - Ro15:20
B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE VALUE OF SPECIALIZATION... 1. Specialization a. The act of specializing; making something suitable for a special purpose b. The special line of work you have adopted as your career 2. Certain skills, backgrounds, circumstances, etc., may make us more suitable to a certain area of endeavor a. We need to appreciate the diversity of function - Ro 12:3-5 b. We should not hesitate to focus in our area of expertise or opportunity - Ro 12:6-8 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Preachers may choose to focus on certain areas or groups of people a. Based upon their background, ethnicity, or personal skills b. Some may be well-suited for foreign work, others for local work; some may be well-suited for holding gospel meetings, others may be better at personal work c. Time is limited, none can do it all 1) We should not expect every preacher to be alike 2) We should appreciate those who focus on their particular "mission field" 2. As a congregation... a. It's focus may depend upon several factors 1) The make up of its members and their abilities 2) The community in which the church is located b. While the congregation should try to reach all, it might focus on certain areas for which it is well-suited 1) E.g., senior citizens or young people 2) E.g., the affluent or poor 3) E.g., certain ethnic groups as opposed to others 3. In one's own personal evangelism... a. You might concentrate on your peer group b. You might focus on a particular type of evangelism for which you are well-suited [Certainly we should not specialize to the point that we refuse to helpthose who come our way; but there is value in utilizing one's strengthsand circumstances, being selective in the direction we go. The next principle is most essential...] III. PROCLAIM THE WORD OF GOD
A. THE APOSTLES WERE SENT TO PREACH... 1. In "The Limited Commission", the subject was the kingdom of heaven - Mt 10:7 2. In "The Great Commission", it was expanded to include the gospel of Christ - Mk 16:15 a. So Philip the evangelist preached when he went to Samaria - Ac 8:12 b. So Paul preached in synagogues and from house to house - Ac 19:8; 20:18-21,25; 28:23,30-31 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES WHAT SHOULD BE OUR THEME... 1. It should always be the Word of God, the Gospel: a. Which is God's power unto salvation - Ro 1:16 b. Able to save the souls of those who receive meekly - Ja 1:21
2. As Paul instructed Timothy: "Preach the word!" - 2 Ti 4:1-5 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Preachers need to avoid things... a. Which entertain, rather than provide sound doctrine b. Based more upon the ideas of men, rather than the Word of God -- Text based, expository preaching can help keep preachers in the Word 2. Churches should consider what message they are presenting to the lost... a. Is it the gospel of health and wealth, or the gospel of Christ? b. Are we calling for people to become just church members, or disciples of Jesus? 3. In one's own evangelism... a. Do not get sidetracked on various issues b. While many subjects may have their place, they may be "second principles" rather than "first principles" c. The lost need to know the gospel of Jesus Christ and His kingdom, first and foremost! [The next principle is also taken from the words of Jesus to His disciples in "The Limited Commission"...] IV. OFFER OUR SERVICES FREELY
A. THE APOSTLES WERE TO "FREELY GIVE"... 1. They were empowered to cast out demons and heal the sick - Mt 10:1
a. Such signs were for the purpose of confirming their message b. As explained later - cf. Mk 16:17-20; He 2:3-4 2. They were to offer this service freely - Mt 10:8 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE IMPORTANCE OF "PRACTICING WHAT YOUPREACH"...
1. We preach a gospel of salvation offered as a gift - Ro 6:23 2. Jesus certainly gave Himself freely, that we might be rich - 2 Co 8:9 3. To charge people for the message we preach would be incongruous to the spirit of the message a. Do we want them to take our message of sacrificial love and the gift of salvation seriously? b. Then what we have to offer the lost should be without charge! C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Preachers have to be careful a. They do have a right for support (see next point) b. But they should not seek to get rich through their ministry 1) It is one thing to charge for the cost of producing materials 2) It is another to charge above expenses with the view of making money c. One sign of a false teacher or prophet is to exploit others by engaging in "covetous practices" - cf. 2 Pe 2:3,14 2. Churches should also consider what they offer the community a. E.g., services such as television and radio programs, audio tapes, videos, Bible correspondence courses, etc. b. Congregations which offer such things freely... 1) Display the spirit of the gospel 2) Avoid the appearance of "being interested only in people's money" 3. In one's own evangelism... a. Offer your message freely b. What gifts or abilities to serve you might have, offer without cost c. By the grace of God you are what you are, follow the example of Jesus and His apostles in offering themselves freely to the lost [At the same time, there is another principle of evangelism which relates to when one might receive support for their labor...] V. SUPPORT THOSE WILLING TO WORK
A. THE APOSTLES WERE ALLOWED MONETARY SUPPORT... 1. For which reason they were not to take anything - Mt 10:9-10 2. They could be supported by those who willing to provide for them - cf. Lk 10:7-8 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE PRINCIPLE OF SUPPORTING WORKERS... 1. As expounded upon by Paul in 1 Co 4:4-14 a. The right to forego secular work in order to serve in spiritual matters b. The right to receive carnal things in return for spiritual service c. A principle taught in the Law, and by Christ Himself 2. Applied to elders who rule well - 1 Ti 5:17-18 3. A practice encouraged by John many years later - 3 Jn 5-8 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Preachers may rightly receive support for their labors a. It allows them to concentrate their efforts in matters of the gospel b. Of course, this support should come from those who are Christians, and should not be a means of accumulating wealth (see previous point) 2. Churches have an important role in such support a. Churches can provide support of preachers - 2 Co 11:8-9 b. Much foreign evangelism goes undone today, not because preachers are unwilling to go, but because churches have not been willing to send and support - cf. Ro 10:15 3. In one's own efforts... a. There is nothing limiting an individual from helping to support preachers b. While one might help support a local congregation's effort to send and support, one can also help through direct support CONCLUSION
1. Here are "The Principles Of Evangelism" we have gleaned so far from our Lord's instructions in giving "The Limited Commission"... a. Utilize the power of synergy b. Employ the practice of specialization c. Proclaim the word of God d. Offer our services freely e. Support those willing to work 2. As we saw, these principles were later employed by the early church... a. Which may help explain the rapid spread of the gospel in the first century b. Which can still be useful to the Lord's church today -- Could it be that failure to implement any of these may be reasons why the church is not growing like it did then? In our next lesson, we shall examine yet another five principles of evangelism from the instructions Jesus gave to His apostles...
Principles Of Evangelism - II (10:11-42)
INTRODUCTION
1. In our previous study, we began looking at the instructions Jesus gave in charging His apostles with "The Limited Commission"... a. In which He sent them to preach to the house of Israel - Mt 10:5-10
b. To prepare the way for Jesus to come to them personally - cf. Mt 10:23; 11:1; Lk 10:1 2. In that study, we observed five "Principles Of Evangelism"... a. Utilize the power of synergy b. Employ the practice of specialization c. Proclaim the word of God d. Offer our services freely e. Support those willing to work -- Principles that were utilized by the early church with great success, and worthy of our emulation today 3. In this study, we shall consider the rest of Jesus words in giving "The Limited Commission"... a. Gleaning at least five more "Principles of Evangelism" b. Noticing principles applied by the early church and applicable today as well [Beginning with Mt 10:11-15, we find Jesus telling His apostles...] I. BE SELECTIVE
A. THE APOSTLES WERE TO FOCUS ON THOSE WHO WERE "WORTHY"... 1. Those who were both hospitable and willing to listen - Mt 10:11-13
2. But they were to "shake off the dust from your feet" when leaving a city that would not receive them or hear their words - Mt 10:14 3. It would be more tolerable in the day of judgment for Sodom and Gomorrah than for such people - Mt 10:15 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE NEED TO BE SELECTIVE... 1. We are not to "cast your pearls before swine" - Mt 7:6 2. People judge themselves unworthy of the gospel by their lack of interest a. Paul was willing to preach again if people were interested - Ac 13:42-44 b. But when people rejected the gospel, he turned elsewhere - Ac 13:45-46 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. We are to preach the gospel to every creature - Mk 16:15 a. But once people display lack of interest, we are not obligated to keep trying b. Rather than "cast our pearls" before those who don't appreciate it, we should move on to someone else 2. Admittedly, there is room for judgment... a. As to how long we try to reach someone before going on b. Some may not show much interest at first, but do later on 3. But at some point, there may be other souls who need the gospel more than our friends, family and neighbors who show no interest [Another principle of evangelism we do well to remember is to...] II. ANTICIPATE PERSECUTION
A. THE APOSTLES WERE TOLD TO EXPECT PERSECUTION... 1. Jesus was sending them as sheep in the midst of wolves - Mt10:16
2. He gave them a picture of what to expect - Mt 10:17-23 3. As His disciples, they should expect treatment similar to what He had received - Mt 10:24-25 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE NEED TO ANTICIPATE PERSECUTION... 1. Jesus later reminded His apostles they would be hated by the world - Jn 15:18-20 2. The apostles would later tell the disciples of persecution to come - Ac 14:22; 1 Th 3:4; 2 Ti 3:12 3. But the disciples were prepared to react in the proper way a. To rejoice that they were worthy to suffer in Christ's name - Mt 5:10-12 b. To rejoice knowing that trials can make them better - Ro 5:3-5
C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Don't expect everyone to gladly receive your message of salvation in Christ 2. Rather, expect some to be offended and angry... a. For many don't like to be told they are sinners, in need of salvation b. They may become defensive when told repentance is necessary c. You might lose friends, be ostracized, and in some places, physically abused 3. But being forewarned is forearmed, able to respond in the proper way a. Blessing those who curse you, praying for those who despise you - Mt 5:44 b. Rejoicing for the good that can come out of persecution - Ja 1:2-4 [Evangelism is often short-circuited when met with resistance; anticipating persecution is an importance principle that will help usto not lose heart. Closely related to this is another principle of evangelism...] III. FEAR GOD, NOT MAN
A. THE APOSTLES WERE TOLD WHOM TO FEAR... 1. They were not to fear those who would resist them - Mt 10:26-27
2. They were not to fear those who could kill them - Mt 10:28 3. They were to fear God if they desired to be free from the fear of men a. For God had the power to destroy both body and soul - Mt10:28
b. But God also knew everything about them and valued them highly - Mt 10:29-31 4. Confessing Jesus before men would ensure their being confessed before God - Mt 10:32-33 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE NEED TO BE MORE CONCERNED WITH WHAT GODTHINKS...
1. Fear of rejection often hinders many evangelistic efforts a. We want to be accepted by friends, family, neighbors b. We don't want to be turned away from them -- But they are not the ones who will judge us in the last day! 2. Paul reminds us that pleasing God rather than man is what makes one a servant of Christ - Ga 1:10 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Christians need to have a healthy reverence for God - Ph 2:12 2. When we revere God more than we fear man, the fear of rejection will not hinder our efforts to teach others a. We will stop trying to please others, and seek to please God! b. We will seek His favor, rather than the favor of men 3. With the proper fear of God, we will not rest until we are doing something in the area of evangelism, for that is His will for us! [Fearing God over fearing men is a matter of keeping our prioritiesstraight. Along the same vein is the next principle of evangelism thatJesus taught...] IV. PUT THE LORD FIRST
A. THE APOSTLES WERE TOLD HOW THE LORD MUST COME FIRST... 1. Jesus described the kind of conflicts that would often arise - Mt 10:34-36 a. His coming and the gospel of the kingdom would often divide family members b. The members of one's own household might become enemies 2. To be worthy, they must love Him more than family and self - Mt 10:37-39 a. They must be willing to take up their cross and follow Him b. They must be willing to lose their life in service to Him to truly find their life B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP... 1. A cost Jesus encouraged all to count before becoming His disciples - Lk 14:25-33 2. A cost Jesus reminded one disciple who sought to put family first - Mt 8:21-22 C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Service to God is hindered by allowing family and personal interests to come first a. You see this in how some put relatives and family before the church b. We have a responsibility to our families (1 Ti 5:8), but we must not let that get in the way of serving Jesus 2. Evangelism, especially foreign evangelism, will never be what it should be as long as we allow family and personal considerations hold us back a. Think of the early Christians, who "went everywhere preaching the word" - Ac 8:4 b. Likely there were children, parents, and others saying "Don't go"; but neither persecution nor family ties kept them from spreading the Word! [We come to the last point, which ties in with the last point of theprevious lesson (Support those willing to work)...] V. SUPPORTERS SHARE IN THE REWARD
A. THIS WOULD ENCOURAGE THOSE WHO RECEIVED THE APOSTLES... 1. For in receiving them, they receive Christ and God who sent Him - Mt 10:40 2. They would share in the rewards of the prophets and righteous men they supported - Mt 10:41 3. Even a cup of cold water would not go unnoticed - Mt 10:42 B. THIS ILLUSTRATES THE PRINCIPLE ESTABLISHED BY DAVID... 1. Back when David and his men were pursuing the Amalekites - 1 Sam 30:9-10,18-25 a. When some had to be left with the supplies while others fought the enemy b. David decreed that all should share alike - both those at the base, and those at the front 2. Thus those who support have fellowship in both the work and reward of those they support! C. MAKING APPLICATION TODAY... 1. Never underestimate the role of supporting those who go ("How shall they preach unless they are sent?") - cf. Ro 10:14-15 2. If you cannot go or teach yourself, then do what you can to support those who can 3. Take comfort in knowing: a. It is Christ you are serving, not just a servant of Christ! b. You can receive a prophet's reward without necessarily being a prophet! CONCLUSION
1. In summation, here are ten "Principles Of Evangelism" found in "The Limited Commission"... a. Utilize the power of synergy f. Be selective b. Employ the practice of specialization g. Anticipate persecution c. Proclaim the word of God h. Fear God, not man d. Offer our services freely i. Put the Lord first e. Support those willing to work j. Supporters share in the reward 2. As we attempt to fulfill "The Great Commission" (Mt 28:19)... a. Can we improve on the principles taught by our Savior? b. Did not the early Christians implement them as they went forth with the gospel? As preachers or simply disciples, as churches or as individuals, success in evangelism can only be increased by remembering what ourLord told His twelve apostles before He sent them out to preach thegood news of the kingdom...
－－《Executable
Outlines》