Courage To Serve Series

Courage to Serve

Matthew 10: 16-22

Jesus had commissioned the twelve for ministry, providing detailed instruction regarding the work they were expected to perform. Jesus had told them where to go, what to take, and how to conduct themselves as they ministered among men. Now Jesus offered insight into what they could expect as they ministered for Him. True to His nature, Jesus was always upfront with the disciples, revealing what they should expect, even though it likely was not what they desired or envisioned. Jesus was well aware that many would reject their message and resist their efforts of proclaiming the Good News.

Some of what Jesus revealed to these men would not happen immediately, but each of these men would deal with circumstances just like Jesus described as they served Him proclaiming the Gospel, following His death, resurrection, and ascension. No doubt these men would remember these words and draw strength from them as they served the Lord later in life.

Twenty years ago, this passage would not have resonated with the average believer in America. Jesus spoke of difficulties that most western Christians had yet to encounter. As we move through these verses, I am certain you will discover their relevance for our day and culture. In order to effectively serve the Lord, we must possess wisdom and courage. This passage provides practical insight for those ministering in today’s culture. As we discuss the various aspects of the text, I want to consider: Courage to Serve.

I. A Day of Obligation – In these verses Jesus points out several areas in which all believers are obligated. We share obligation concerning:

A. Our Commission (16a) – Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: Jesus reveals He is sending His followers out. This was a relevant command for the disciples, as well as all who would come to know Christ. Every born-again believer has been commissioned of Christ to share the gospel. We have been sent forth as ambassadors of the King.

I realize many choose to deny their obligation to the Great Commission, but that doesn’t change our obligation. If you are a child of God, you are responsible to go forth and be a witness for Christ! It is good that we are faithful to attend the house of God, but that isn’t all we’ve been called to do. We are called to go forth and spread the good news!

B. Our Character (16b) – be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Here Jesus deals with the character of those who follow and represent Him. He reveals very different, and yet very distinct characteristics of the believer. We are to be wise as serpents. We are to live among the world quietly and cautiously, always with wisdom. We are to be vigilant in sensing danger, yet quick to avoid adversity. There are times when we must stand our ground and defend the faith; but on the other hand, we must not cast our pearls before the swine, engaging in fruitless conflict that will only bring harm and reproach to the cause of Christ. We need a holy boldness to stand, tempered with wisdom to keep silent or flee when necessary. Remaining silent and avoiding conflict are not always signs of weakness, but often a sign of wisdom. Eph.5:15-17 – See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

We are also to be harmless as doves. Doves are a symbol of peace and purity. They represent a humble nature and we are to possess that harmless, gentle nature. Much damage has been done to the testimony of the church because professing Christians have not possessed a gentle nature. Phil.2:15 – That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. We must be vigilant and stand for truth, but it must be done with a heart of love and tenderness.

C. Our Commitment (22) – And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Jesus reveals the Christian life will not be without persecution. He dealt with much adversity and so shall we, but we must endure the hardships of life. We must determine in our hearts to endure till the end. Don’t misunderstand the text, Jesus isn’t implying that we must work and endure to secure our salvation, but He is emphasizing that we must remain faithful to the call. The redeemed have an obligation to stand firm even during difficult times.