Session 4: The Harvest

Session Overview

Creedal Statement

Coming soon.

Key Elements

• Key Passage - Matthew 9:35–11:1
• Scripture Memory - All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:18–20
• Catechism - Q: To what work does Jesus call his disciples? A: Mission.

Introduction

How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

True evangelical faith is of such a nature that it cannot lay dormant; but manifests itself in all righteousness and works of love; it dies unto flesh and blood; destroys all forbidden lusts and desires; cordially seeks, serves and fears God; clothes the naked; feeds the hungry; consoles the afflicted; shelters the miserable; aids and consoles all the oppressed; returns good for evil; serves those that injure it; prays for those that persecute it; teaches, admonishes and reproves with the Word of the Lord; seeks that which is lost; binds up that which is wounded; heals that which is diseased and saves that which is sound. The persecution, suffering and anxiety which befalls it for the sake of the truth of the Lord, is to it a glorious joy and consolation.

God is on a mission in the world. Compassionate toward the lost and merciful to sinners, God has a plan to rescue broken and rebellious people and bring them into his kingdom of righteousness. Through the sending of his Son, God demonstrated his willingness to endure great sacrifice for the salvation of sinful humanity. Jesus has sent his church, a community of Christ followers, into the world to continue his ministry to the lost and sinful. Fundamental to the life of a disciple is the work of evangelism. At the core of this evangelistic mission is the proclamation of the gospel. To learn about this great and noble work, no greater place can we turn than the example and teaching of Jesus.

Mobilizing disciples to mission work involves maturing their understanding of the mission. Many obstacles can make evangelistic work challenging. It may be that disciples embrace the call to gospel proclamation but are unaware of basic principles that guide this work. Christians may recognize the importance of sharing the gospel, but are unmoved and unmotivated for this task. Believers likely feel a compulsion to share their faith but cower in fear because of the certain hostility and persecution they anticipate. It is sad (but true) that some have tampered with the message of the gospel in order to reduce the cost of being a Christ follower. And, it is unfortunately common for people to assign the work of evangelism and ministry to a paid group of professional ministers. Too much is at stake for us to be uninformed about and misaligned in God’s mission in the world. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the contemporary church to learn about our evangelistic work from the early Christians.

Jesus sent twelve of his disciples on mission in Matthew 9:35–11:1. Before commissioning the twelve, Jesus modeled a holistic ministry of compassion for the harassed and helpless crowds that his disciples would (in some form) emulate. Jesus sent his disciples as apostolic emissaries to travel from town to town and minister to people the way Jesus taught them: proclaiming the word and performing works of healing. Informing these original apostles (and Christians of all generations) about the dangers of this mission, Jesus warned about persecutions, trials, and hardships that await faithful gospel ministers. Encouraging disciples to endure missional hardships, Jesus called people to cultivate a healthy fear of God, count the cost of discipleship, and embrace the sure promise of future reward.

Although there are some elements unique to the historical setting during which Jesus sent this team of apostles, the principles of this passage serve as a helpful script for gospel mission. Jesus calls his followers to embrace a mission that he himself modeled. Our Master summons his disciples to face persecution that he himself endured. And our Savior calls us to fearless faith and sacrificial ministry with a knowledge that God deeply loves, meticulously protects, and divinely empowers his people in his service. While some may be called to itinerant evangelism like the first apostles, all disciples are called to represent Christ to the wider world. In this sense, the instructions of this passage are more than marching orders for a specially called band of missionaries. Instead, these instructions provide a missional imperative for all Christians to embrace: steadfastly representing Christ in word and deed in the face of harsh persecution. May this passage instruct, ignite, and inspire God’s people to go about this evangelistic work.

Biblical Interpretation: Hearing the Word

Study the Text: The Bible is God’s inspired word to his people. Christian disciples mature in the faith when they are grounded in God’s word. In this movement, you will study the basic details of the biblical text.

Observation Questions

Read (or listen to) the whole passage of Scripture. Discuss the questions below for each section of the story. Pay attention to the details of the text to recall what the passage is saying. Use the focus verses to guide your conversation.

Storycraft

Retell the story in your own words, recounting the overall flow of the narrative, the main segments of the story, and the major developments that take place.

Narrative Elements

Story Retell

Theological Dialogue: Discussing the Plot

Explore the Text: God’s word is his trustworthy and sufficient revelation to his people. We grow as Christ’s disciples by rooting our lives in God’s unchanging truth. In this movement, you will explore vital teachings of this biblical passage.

Discussion Questions

Summarize the biblical story. As a community, discuss the following questions. Be attentive to the truths taught in this text. Use the commentary on the next pages to uncover core principles this passage teaches about the Christian faith.

Biblical Commentary

Use this commentary to help you understand the meaning of the text. Refer to the infographic on the next page to think through how narratives work.

Passage Introduction

Key Idea

Jesus calls his followers to boldly represent him in word and deed, enduring persecution with steadfast faith and hope.

Passage Overview

Jesus did not leave his followers without clarity on how to go about his mission. Showing the essence of mission through the example of his life, Jesus modeled the basic characteristics of Christian witness. During Jesus’ ministry on earth, he commissioned twelve of his disciples on a focused missionary journey. At the time of this commission, Jesus gave instructions for how they should carry out the mission. Sharing the gospel in spoken word and adorning the gospel with good deeds, Christians are called to bear witness to Jesus where open doors present themselves. Certain to face persecution in this work, Jesus’ followers must maintain a healthy fear of and simple trust in God. Amazingly, Jesus invites his people to participate in his mission. Knowing that we are unworthy of this task, we aim to please our Master by following his instructions in faith. In particular, Jesus commends to us that the first activity of his mission is that of prayer. As you read the following commentary and study the text, prayerfully ask God to teach you how he wants you to go about his work in the world.

Passage Outline

Mission Instructions

Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread quickly and be held in honor, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men; for not everyone holds to the faith.

This is the one purpose of God, the great worker in heaven, the source and master of all work, that the glory of His love and power and blessing may be shown. This is the one purpose of Christ, the great worker on earth in human nature, the example and leader of all our work. This is the great purpose of the Holy Spirit, the power that worth in us … As this becomes our deliberate, intelligent purpose, our work will rise to its true level, and lift us into living fellowship with God.

Introduction

Commitment to the mission and obedience to Jesus’ call do not mean we clearly understand the strategy and tactics of the Christian mission. While Christians have reflected on the essence of Christian mission for generations, the basic plan for gospel witness remains simple. Yet, saying that the work of the mission is simple does not mean that it is easy or without great danger. Quite the contrary, the work of gospel ministry will arouse opposition and persecution. Regardless of the hardships that Christians can expect to face, simple and sincere faith in Jesus sustains believers in the life of faith and in the work of Christian witness. Built upon this genuine faith in Christ is a clear understanding of how Jesus wants his disciples to go about gospel witness. Thankfully, the Bible records a narrative of Jesus’ teaching on this important topic.

The narrative framework of Matthew 9:36–11:1 records mission instructions for twelve of Jesus’ disciples who were sent to do ministry in the way of Jesus. These instructions are embedded in a narrative and also form a narrative “plot” of mission engagement. Having modeled a holistic ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing, Jesus invited his disciples to join him in his mission. Compassionate for sinful humans, Jesus turned his disciples into apostles and sent them on a mission on which they traveled from town to town proclaiming the gospel, healing diseases, and exorcising (casting out) demons. Warning that persecution is an inevitable part of Christian discipleship and mission, Jesus warned his disciples (of all generations) that they would face persecution. Jesus called his servants to trust God, pledge their full allegiance to Jesus, and hope for God’s promised reward for faithful service.

The mission instructions of Christ are a helpful resource for contemporary mission. As the church engages in her evangelistic task, the principles of this passage can help God’s people bear witness to Jesus with balance and boldness. Clearly, this passage depicts mission as an outgrowth of discipleship. Having paved the way for his people, Jesus modeled what he commanded. Our witness will be most powerful (and Christlike) when it begins with compassion and prayer. It will be most balanced when it is done in word and deed. It will be most convincing when it is performed with endurance and faith. The ancient narrative before us presents a hopeful picture and a useful grid to guide the work of gospel proclamation. Toward this end, may our hearts be stirred with compassion for the crowds that Jesus wants us to reach!

Plentiful Harvest: Understanding Holistic Ministry from Jesus’ Example

Biblical Narrative (Matthew 9:35–37)

After launching his ministry (4:12–17) and calling his first disciples (4:18–22), Jesus ministered to crowds of people by teaching, healing, and preaching (4:23–25). His famous Sermon on the Mount communicated basic teachings of a disciple’s life (5:1–7:29), and his miraculous healings and astonishing signs demonstrated his kingdom authority and divine power (8:1–9:34). A focused part of this ministry was calling people to follow Jesus in faithful allegiance (8:18–22; 9:1–13).

Having modeled his own teaching and exemplified gospel ministry to his disciples, Jesus commissioned them to follow his example. The opening of this story highlights basic characteristics of Jesus’ mission that his followers were to emulate. Jesus’ ministry was itinerant. He “went through all the towns and villages” (9:35). Exemplifying a holistic ministry that concerned itself with whole persons, Jesus ministry was also well-balanced in word and deed: “teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness” (9:35). Echoing the earlier summary in Matthew 4:23, Jesus elucidated God’s truth through his teaching, demonstrated God’s power through his healing, and offered God’s salvation through his preaching.

Jesus ministered to people because he loved them and understood the dire straits and desperate circumstances they faced. Importantly, Jesus took time to notice the people around him. As Jesus traveled, “He saw the crowds” of people and “was moved with compassion for them” (9:36). Having a divine knowledge of the human condition, Jesus expressed a heartfelt concern for people “because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (9:36). In response to Jesus’ concern for humanity, he explained to his disciples that “the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (9:37). Jesus used this agricultural figure to describe that people were ready to be brought into (i.e., “harvested”) into God’s kingdom. He also emphasized that more servants were needed to go into the field of the world to do this “harvesting” work. Consequently, Jesus told his disciples to “ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest” (9:38). Demonstrating his own ministry in the world, Jesus was now inviting others to participate in his work.

Biblical Principles

Holistic Ministry. Jesus’ ministry was holistic: teaching, preaching, and healing (9:35). As a teacher, Jesus instructed people in God’s revealed truth. As a preacher, he announced the good news of God’s kingdom rule. As a healer, Jesus brought relief, restoration, and renewal to those afflicted with sickness, disease, and misery. Although we will not (and cannot) emulate with exactitude every detail in Jesus’ mission, Jesus’ model ministry is a helpful guide and grid for our own Christian witness. The threefold ministry of preaching, teaching, and healing can help God’s people engage the surrounding world with biblical focus, gospel gravity, and compassionate generosity.

Preaching is foundational to Christian witness. The invitation to join God’s kingdom, to believe the gospel, receive God’s gracious offer of salvation, and to pledge one’s allegiance to Jesus is an indispensable work of Christian ministry. Teaching is also a very important work in Christian witness. Explaining the truth about God, forming people around God’s revelation, instructing people about God’s ways, and establishing the community of faith in God’s word are vital components of a Christian’s duty. The ministry of healing is also foundational to God’s mission. Caring for the sick, restoring those who are broken, healing the diseased, bringing relief to the afflicted, and advocating for the oppressed are examples of this kind of work. Sometimes this work of healing occurs in miraculous demonstrations of God’s power; other times equally meaningful works of healing occur through common acts of benevolence, love, and compassion. Indeed, God still powerfully works miracles to set people free from sickness, disease, and affliction. However, even if God does not perform demonstrative miracles and wonders, there are many good works God’s people can perform that beautify the gospel message.

Christlike Compassion. One vital mark of Jesus’ ministry—a defining characteristic—was compassion. Jesus’ compassion involved a deep concern over humanity’s desperate condition. With genuine care for others, this compassion moved Jesus in pity to act on behalf of hurting and oppressed people to remedy their misery. Importantly, Jesus “saw the crowds” and then “was moved with compassion for them” (9:36). Jesus understood that the crowds of people were harassed, helpless, and lost (9:36). Leaderless, lost, and left to themselves, people are heading toward destruction. Whether or not the people understood their own situation at that time, Jesus was attentive to the situations of others, understanding the true (and desperate) nature of their life situation. As Jesus models for us today, the skill of observation, perception, and awareness activates loving compassion toward others. We must first really see people as they are in order to love them toward God. Once we see people in their afflicted, vulnerable, and wandering state, we should be moved with compassion toward them. Without compassion, gospel witness will wither; armed with a Christlike compassion, the Spirit will move us to sacrificially offer ourselves to lead others to God, the only one who can rescue us from our sinful predicament.

Earnest Prayer. As Jesus described the open doors for ministry—a ripe harvest—Jesus also emphasized the important role of prayer (9:37–38). Specifically, Jesus told his followers to pray earnestly—“ask the Lord of the harvest” (9:38)—for more mission workers. Prayer is the first work of gospel witness. God’s mission is only a work that God can accomplish. God does use people to accomplish his global purposes, but this does not mean that humans have the power, strength, or knowledge to accomplish these purposes on their own. Seeking God’s intervention, whether for the supply of more workers or for the transformation of human hearts, is a crucial component of Christian witness. One of the great services God’s people can make in Christian witness is offering petitions before God for his help.

Workers in the Mission. Disciples are to pray specifically for more workers. In particular, Christ commands his followers to pray that “the Lord of the harvest” would “send out workers into His harvest” (9:38). Just like common workers can be equipped to harvest a ripe field, so everyday believers can participate in God’s evangelistic work. The work of evangelism is not confined to a group of professional ministers or elite church leaders. Since evangelism is like the work of harvesting ripe crops in the field (not ripening the crop, a work God alone can do), every believer can (and should) be engaged in the work of gathering people to faith in Christ.

Sent Out: Embracing Mission by Jesus’ Call

Biblical Narrative (Matthew 10:1–15)

Having expressed the need for laborers in God’s kingdom work (cf. 9:37–38), Jesus commissioned some of his disciples to his gospel work. Jesus had called his “twelve disciples” (10:1) to himself as his followers; now he was deploying them as “twelve apostles” (10:2; cf. 10:5) into the world as “sent ones.” The names of these “disciples-turned-apostles” were Peter, Andrew, James (the son of Zebedee), John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James (the son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the Zealot), and Judas Iscariot (10:2–3). To these followers, Jesus “gave them authority over unclean spirits, so that they could drive them out and heal every disease and sickness” (10:1).

Jesus “sent out” (10:5) these twelve with specific instructions. At this time, Jesus told the twelve apostles to focus their ministry on Jewish people. Giving the apostles a geographical and ethnic focus, Jesus told his servants to “not go onto the road of the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans” (10:5) but to “go rather to the lost sheep of Israel” (10:6). Surely, Jesus’ mission is a global work, expressing compassion and love toward all (Jew and Gentile) people. This is made clear in this passage when the first focus on Jews (10:5–6) becomes an expanded mission before Gentiles (cf. 10:18). This initial attention on the Jewish people does not mean a neglect of other ethnicities. Jesus was not limiting God’s salvation to the Jews; he was ordering and arranging the historical unfolding of his global mission. In fact, focusing first on the Jews was a means to reach the Gentile nations. For those who participate in the ministry of Jesus (and continue the initial work of these first missionaries), we have inherited a mission that is for the whole world.

As the apostles traveled, they were to embrace a ministry of proclamation and healing. Jesus told them, “As you go, preach this message” (10:7). Specifically, the content of the message was: “The kingdom of heaven is near” (10:7). Granting these disciples power over evil spirits and diseases (cf. 10:1), Jesus instructed the apostles to “heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons” (10:8). These demonstrations of power would be signs that God’s kingdom had arrived. Giving credibility to the gospel message, these miraculous deeds would validate the message and persuade people to become followers of Christ.

Jesus also instructed his disciples on how they should go about this preaching and healing ministry. Jesus told his apostles that, as a demonstration of trust in God and sincerity of motives, they were to limit their belongings: “Do not carry any gold or silver or copper in your belts. Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff” (10:9–10). The apostles received freely and should minister to others without payment (10:8). Certainly, “the worker is worthy of his provisions” (10:10), but God would provide for his emissaries through the generosity of others. Truly, this was a unique life of dependence and faith that mission workers were called to embrace.

Providing guidance for a mission strategy, Jesus told his apostolic band to focus their work on those who are hospitable to the kingdom message. Specifically, when the apostles entered a village or town, they were instructed to “find out who is worthy there and stay at his house until you move on” (10:11). They should warmly greet those in the house (10:12). Those accepting of the message would receive a blessing (10:13), and those who would “not welcome you or heed your words” (10:14) should be dismissed. In fact, toward unreceptive people, Jesus told the apostles to “shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town” (10:14) as a testimony against them. Such a rejection of these apostolic words would mean grave punishment: “It will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town” (10:15) that rejects the gospel message. Truly, a rejection of Jesus’ messengers is a rejection of Jesus.

Biblical Principles

Disciples and Apostles. Jesus commissioned his followers to be his representatives in the world. After calling his disciples to him (10:1), Jesus sent this initial group of believers into the world as apostles (10:2). Jesus not only “gave them authority” (10:1) but also gave them responsibility, sending them out with clear mission instructions (10:5). Truly, believers are servants of Jesus’ purposes in the world. To faithfully follow Christ means to fully pledge one’s life and work to God. Although contemporary believers do not serve in the unique role of the first apostles, all Christians are a part of God’s mission work. The call to discipleship gets worked out “as you go” (10:7) on mission. Discipleship is an invitation to mission, and mission is an outlet for a discipled life. Discipleship prepares Christians to participate in God’s global work; mission helps strengthen and mature the foundations of a disciple’s life. In a real sense, all disciples are “sent ones,” representatives of Christ commissioned into the world. Separating discipleship and mission injures both of these core aspects of the faith, which were always meant to be held in tandem.

Preaching and Miracles. Jesus’ mission involved a ministry of word and deed. Jesus spoke God’s truth to people and tended to their immediate needs. Notably, Jesus commissioned his first disciples to a similar work. On the one hand, Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, diseases, and afflictions (10:1) and commanded them to “heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons” (10:8). On the other hand, Jesus commanded his apostolic representatives to proclaim the good news of the kingdom (10:7) through spoken word and testimony (10:14; cf. 10:18, 32–33). Miracles of healing and exorcism still occur throughout the world, and they demonstrate the faithfulness of the gospel. While all contemporary disciples may not work or witness powerful miracles in the way the first apostles did, they should still focus their ministry on meeting the needs of people. Christ’s servants are called to boldly announce the good news to others. Good works of healing lend credibility to the gospel and demonstrate the righteousness of God’s kingdom. The bold proclamation of the gospel announces how broken people can become citizens of this kingdom.

Jews and Gentiles. When Jesus commissioned his apostles, he specifically told them to focus their witness among Jews (10:5–6). Historically and theologically, God wanted this apostolic mission to be among the Jews because of the specific place that Israel had in salvation history. God chose Israel to be his covenant people and his representatives in the world. However important Israel was to God’s plan of redemption, his beginning witness among the Jews was not exclusive. While the mission to the Jews should continue, the Jews would not be fully reached because some would reject him (10:23). God planned for this mission among the Jews to expand to the whole world. Even in Jesus’ instructions to his disciples, he expected that they would testify among governors and kings “as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles” (10:18). At the same time, the work of witness is particular and universal: God is saving covenant people for himself, which will be comprised of people from all ethnicities in the world.

Open Doors. Jesus instructed his disciples to be attentive to open doors for gospel witness. In addition, Jesus warned his followers about those who would reject their message. While Christians should be hospitable and inviting to all they encounter (10:12), they should also discern who is open to receive the message of salvation (10:13–14). In the work of gospel witness, Jesus’ representatives are nimble, embracing lifestyles of simplicity and contentment. Often using other people as agents of provision, God would supply for the needs of his mission workers (10:10–11). Because of divine provision that would sustain his mission workers, disciples should not pack excess resources for their mission journeys (10:9–10). Preaching a message of judgment (10:15) and salvation (10:7), Christians bear bold witness to Jesus. Those who accept the message with faith receive God’s gracious salvation and entrance into God’s kingdom. Those who reject the message have accepted a sentence of divine punishment.

As Sheep in the Midst of Wolves: Enduring Persecution and Suffering in Jesus’ Name

Biblical Narrative (Matthew 10:16–25)

Jesus warned his disciples that they would experience persecution as they participated in his mission. In a vivid description of this situation, Jesus told his disciples that he was sending them “like sheep among wolves” (10:16). Because of the difficulty and hardship they would face, mission servants would need to be watchful—“beware of men” (10:17)—and wise—“as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (10:16). Jesus called for alertness and watchfulness while they were on his mission. He told them that people who oppose the gospel would oppose God’s servants: “hand you over to their councils” (10:17), “flog you in their synagogues” (10:17), and drag you “before governors and kings” (10:18).

Far from persecution as a sign of defeat, Jesus emphasized that this suffering would be “on My account” (10:18). In service of Christ, the apostles would be mistreated and tried, but their suffering would give them a chance to be “witnesses” (10:18) before leaders and Gentiles. In the midst of intense and hostile circumstances, Jesus admonished his mission representatives to “not worry about how to respond or what to say” (10:19). Jesus assured his messengers that what they needed to say would be given to them at the very time they stood at these trials (10:19). The ability to offer a timely and appropriate response to accusers would be possible because “it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (10:20). Christ’s disciples were mere mouthpieces of the gospel, used by God to proclaim his word to the nations.

Empowered by the Spirit, believers would be able to endure severe opposition and betrayal. Jesus predicted siblings betraying siblings, fathers betraying children, and children betraying parents (10:21). Showing the intense animosity against Christians, Jesus told these first missionaries that they would “be hated by everyone” (10:22). Again, highlighting that this hatred was not a sign of defeat, Jesus reminded his followers that they would be hated “because of My name” (10:22). Persecution would cause believers to flee from town to town (10:23). Although believers would not fully evangelize all the Jews (10:23), they should not give up this evangelistic work. For believers on mission, “the one who perseveres to the end will be saved” (10:22).

As a comfort and guide for believers on mission, Jesus told his followers that “a disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master” (10:24). Jesus warned that not only should disciples expect to be mistreated because Jesus was mistreated, but believers should also seek to follow the example of their master (10:25). Christ told his apostles they should expect to be maligned because Jesus himself was mistreated. As a guide for interpreting one’s life and mission experiences, the following teaching would give gospel servants their bearings: “It is enough for a disciple to be like his teacher, and a servant like his master” (10:25). Jesus paved the way of witness in the midst of persecution to give us a guided path to do the same.

Biblical Principles

Suffering. Jesus warned his followers about the hardship they would face in their Christian witness. In narrative form, Jesus forecasted the flogging (10:17), trials (10:17–18), betrayal (10:21), animosity (10:22), persecution (10:23), and maligning (10:25) that his people would experience. Suffering and persecution are normal experiences of the Christian life. Scripture and church history have proven this to be true. Therefore, the sufferings detailed in this section of the narrative are not only true for the first apostles; they have been the difficult experiences and ordeals Christians have experienced throughout the generations. In short, Christians should expect to face persecution as they bear witness to Jesus.

The suffering described in this passage does not refer to the hardships people experience from living in a sinful world. Neither are these sufferings ones that transpire because of the consequences of sinful actions. Rather, the suffering Jesus describes is suffering “on My account” (10:18; cf. 10:22, 39). That is, Jesus predicted that his people would endure persecution because of their testimony of Jesus. When people place their faith in Christ, they become a target of mistreatment, not only because they are affiliated with Jesus but also because they proclaim the gospel. In the work of Christian witness, disciples should expect to face all manner of trial, abuse, and affliction as they bear witness to the name of Jesus.

Christian Virtue. Jesus provided guidance for how his people should respond to targeted persecution. When confronted with mistreatment for the name of Christ, Christians should be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (10:16). The virtues of wisdom and innocence call Christians to navigate persecution with prudence (fearlessly enduring hardship without foolishly inviting unnecessary trouble on ourselves or the church community) and purity (maintaining no glaring breach of character that would impugn the gospel’s testimony). Such a character will require Christians to be alert and watchful (10:17) without being afraid or anxious (10:19). Christians should boldly bear witness before powerful leaders (10:18) and still know when to flee to the next town (10:23). Disciples should be fully aware that Jesus is sending them into the world “like sheep among wolves” (10:16). Living in enemy occupied territory, Christians should be armed with the virtue of endurance (10:22). As servants, Christians should follow Jesus’ example (10:24). Understanding the work of evangelism like an unfolding narrative, Christians should not only anticipate opposition and affliction but should prepare themselves ahead of time for these godly responses to suffering.

Have No Fear: Approaching the Fears of Mission with Jesus’ Strength

Biblical Narrative (Matthew 10:26–31)

Participating in Jesus’ mission is a sign of true discipleship. The invitation to follow Jesus is a call to represent Jesus throughout the world. In the face of mission challenges, each disciple’s faith is tested. Therefore, having warned about oncoming persecution that awaited Jesus’ messengers, Jesus instructed them to “not be afraid” of their persecutors (10:26). Through the proclamation of the gospel across the globe and God’s universal judgment of all people, God would expose all deeds: “There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, and nothing hidden that will not be made known” (10:26). Jesus commissioned his disciples to announce the message of God’s salvation and judgment. This work involves bringing the message “in the daylight” and announcing it “from the housetops” (10:27).

Jesus called his disciples to a fearless witness. His faithful followers should not fear the violence, threats, or intimidation of men—these could only temporarily harm the body and cannot endanger the soul (10:28). Instead, Jesus commended his followers to fear God above all (10:28). He alone has the power over body and soul. In the midst of bold mission witness, Jesus’ disciples would need to know about the fear of God and the provision of God. God knows what happens to every sparrow—an inexpensive and widely overlooked bird—and he numbers the hairs of each person’s head (10:29). God’s knowledge and care about the details of the world are particular and good. Jesus reasoned with his disciples that God’s care for his people would exceed his care for the natural world. In the midst of harrowing times and hostile opposition, Christian disciples are to live fearless and peace-filled lives.

Biblical Principles

Having the Right Fear. Humans do not wield more power than God. Since persecutors cannot ultimately sabotage God’s global work, Christians need not fear “those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul” (10:28). The only one Christians should fear is God, “the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (10:28). God is not only a firm and righteous judge to those who oppose him, but a loving and caring Father to those who trust in him. If God cares for the “insignificant” and “inexpensive” lives of sparrows (10:29), how much more will he care for his people? In fact, God cares so much for his people that he numbers the hairs on their head (10:30). God’s care for the natural world guarantees his care for his people, who are “worth more than many sparrows” (10:31). In light of this truth, believers do not need to fear anything, even the persecutions they face.

The prospect of suffering and persecution could evoke paralyzing fear within Jesus’ disciples. However harsh or fierce persecution may be, Christians need not fear those who oppose them. To emphasize this, Jesus told his first followers (and disciples of all future generations) not to fear (10:26, 28, 31). While Christians should not have a fear of any human, Christians should cultivate a healthy fear of God (10:28). The temporary torment and passing affliction that humans can bring against Christians do not compare with the eternal punishment God will bring against his enemies. Christians endure suffering by combating a fear of man with a healthy fear of God. Armed with this faith in God, Christians are empowered to “proclaim from the housetops” (10:27) the message of judgment and salvation in the gospel.

Truths. Certain truths can help believers face suffering without fear and continue in Christian witness. Right belief is a vital component of enduring persecution for our evangelistic work. In this section, Jesus articulated important truths that triumph over human fears. Right now, God knows all things and, in the end, God will expose all things(10:26–27). Our good and righteous God will judge and evaluate all things. No evil deed will be unnoticed or unaccounted for. With meticulous precision, God is fully aware of every aspect of our lives (10:29–30). He is not only aware of the hairs on our heads but also considers us of great value (10:30–31). God cares for his people as a loving Father (10:29). Nuancing what it means to fear God, Christians bask in the love, provision, care, power, and knowledge of a good God.

Whoever Will: Understanding the Great Cost and Great Reward of Jesus’ Service

Biblical Narrative (Matthew 10:32–11:1)

After enjoining his disciples to a life of fearless faith and peace-filled trust, Jesus reinforced his call of discipleship to his followers. Essentially, this was a costly call of service in following Christ. Jesus commended those who confessed Jesus before people (10:32), and he warned about the consequences for those who publicly deny Jesus (10:33). Jesus explained that true disciples would represent Jesus to the watching world regardless of the cost. In fact, genuine Christ followers would feel this cost in their own families. Jesus told his followers that he did not come simply to alleviate tension between family relations. Instead, he came to call people to undivided loyalty in a way that may divide families (10:34–35). When it came to faith in Christ, a man may form enemies with “the members of his own household” (10:36) because faith in Christ is a complete and uncompromising commitment. Genuine commitment to Christ involves loving Jesus most of all (10:37), taking up one’s cross in suffering (10:38), and losing one’s life for Jesus’ sake (10:39).

But the loss and cost of a disciple’s life would not go unrewarded. Jesus explained that receiving him meant receiving God the Father as well (10:40). In fact, Jesus is the only way to gain a reconciled relationship with God the Father. Similarly, those who accept God’s messengers will receive a corresponding reward (10:41-42). Accepting these messengers puts a person on the path to accepting the message of these servants: Jesus Christ. Those who accept Jesus come into the favor of God the Father. In essence, Jesus explains that those who serve Jesus and receive Jesus will gain a reward that cannot be lost.

After Jesus completed his mission instructions to his disciples, “He went on from there to teach and preach in their cities” (11:1). Empowering his followers for mission and continuing in the ministry himself, Jesus demonstrated an ideal balance of practitioner and trainer. Through his teaching and example, Jesus demonstrated full commitment to gospel ministry. Certainly, his teaching is worth heeding, and his example is worth following.

Biblical Principles

Serving and Following Jesus. Approaching the life of faith, the work of witness, and the endurance of suffering with faith, Christians can embrace Jesus’ mission with great boldness and hope. Christians have hope that their open testimony of Jesus before others is a sign of genuine faith in Christ. (10:32–33). Those who acknowledge Jesus before others have confidence that Jesus will acknowledge them before God the Father. Those who deny Jesus before others should fear that Jesus will deny them before God the Father.

Following Jesus and bearing witness to him throughout the world comes with a great cost. Not only will the proclaimed gospel invite opposition, but it will also cause division between those who accept it and reject it. Jesus warned his followers that he did not come to “bring peace, but a sword” (10:34). Certainly, this did not mean that Jesus’ mission was one of physical violence or militant aggression. Rather, the simple message of Christ would turn “a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law” (10:35). Membership in Jesus’ community and vocational alignment with his global purposes is so costly that “a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household” (10:36).

People cannot love anyone or anything more than Jesus and still be his follower or representative. Jesus explained that anyone who loves family members—father, mother, son, or daughter—more than Jesus was “not worthy of [him]” (10:37). This meant that following Jesus required self-denial and sacrifice. To be Jesus’ follower, each disciple must display undivided and exclusive devotion: “take up his cross and follow [Jesus]” (10:38). Highlighting the great cost of discipleship and mission, Jesus gave this teaching: “whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it” (10:39).

Christians follow Christ, endure hardship, and proclaim the gospel with hope. To proclaim Jesus in the face of suffering is to be Jesus’ representatives in the world. The way that people treat his representatives reflects the way that they treat Jesus. Jesus explained to his disciples, “He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me” (10:40). Jesus is the only way to a restored relationship with God the Father, and Christian disciples are representatives of Jesus to the world (10:41). Therefore, if people truly receive Jesus’ messengers, they can share in the blessing with these messengers. If people accept the witness of a righteous person, they can share in the reward of the righteous. Those who welcome gospel messengers (and in essence hospitably embrace the gospel message) will fully enjoy the promised reward. Although the labor is hard, the risk is high, and the cost is great, bearing witness to Jesus (and accepting him in faith) promises great reward.

Jesus as Center. Jesus is the center of all human history. One’s relationship with Jesus determines their present earthly existence and eternal future destiny. Jesus compared his mission on earth with the work of a sword (10:34). Again, this is not a call to violence, aggression, or belligerence. Jesus was simply stating that people will ultimately not be defined by their blood relations but by the faith (or lack thereof) in Jesus. So central is Jesus that he is the only means of salvation. Supreme and sovereign, Jesus demands full allegiance. All-sufficient and all-satisfying, Jesus calls for our complete affection, renouncing anything or anyone that would compete for our love. Such is the nature of true faith in Christ.

Two Choices. Because Jesus is central, supreme, and sufficient, people fall into two categories: those who are aligned with Christ and those who are opposed to Christ. People are defined by whether they acknowledge or deny Jesus before people (10:31–32). The nature of a person’s faith is made obvious by whether they love Jesus more than their family members (10:34–37). For those who are willing to practice self-denial (10:38) and sacrifice the comforts of the world (10:39), their faith in Jesus has a sterling quality. In fact, the degree to which people receive or reject Jesus’ messengers (10:40–42) will determine whether they are true followers of Jesus. Following Jesus involves great cost, but it promises great reward. As followers of Christ participate in God’s global work, they should count the cost of discipleship and mission with a hopeful eye for everlasting reward. Because the basis of the whole Christian life and witness is faith, the demands and duties of discipleship are rooted in glorious promises of God acting on behalf of his people.

Modeled Ministry. Jesus is the Master of evangelism. We witness Jesus’ ministry at the beginning of the passage—a ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing (9:35)—and we encounter it again at the end of this story (11:1). In the middle of these two statements of Jesus’ ministry is a set of instructions for how his followers are to emulate his work in the world (10:1–42). Jesus did not command his disciples to evangelize without practicing evangelism himself. Conversely, Jesus did not limit evangelism to himself (although he is the best candidate for the work), but he graciously distributed the responsibility for gospel witness among his followers. Jesus modeled what he commanded and commended how he ministered. The best way to learn about evangelistic work is to attend to the example and teaching of Christ. Once we do so, we not only learn how to bear witness to Christ in the world, but we also learn how to multiply our evangelistic efforts by training and developing other disciples in this task. The work of the mission, distributed to the whole church, involves modeling the work of gospel witness, mobilizing disciples to action, and multiplying laborers for this work.

Conclusion

This gripping narrative of Jesus’ commissioning his twelve disciples stands as an instructive passage on mission for the church of all ages. Jesus exemplified a holistic ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing. Jesus invited his own followers into his mission. Jesus called his disciples, empowered them with his authority, and sent them out in a ministry of word and deed. Jesus gave many instructions about how his mission should unfold. Warning about the fierce persecution that would come, Jesus encouraged his disciples to fear God more than people, knowing that God protects, sustains, and values his people. Jesus is the fulcrum upon which every human destiny and future turns. Those aligned with Jesus and his messengers will enjoy eternal reward, while those who reject Jesus and his messengers will face divine judgment.

The mission instructions of this passage are a true guide for Christian witness. The narrative highlights Jesus’ own work in the ministry and his empowerment of future leaders. As the apostles continued the ministry of Jesus on earth during their lifetime, so does the church today carry on Jesus’ work in the world. The path of mission will involve hardship and tribulation, opposition and rejection, and persecution and betrayal. Nevertheless, God assures his people a rich and enduring reward in the life to come. Surely, there is no distinction between a disciple who follows Jesus and a disciple who represents Jesus to the wider world. The work of the mission is intrinsic to the disciple’s life. Heartfelt compassion, clear teaching, bold proclamation, patient endurance, fearless trust, and complete allegiance will characterize disciples who approach Jesus’ work in Jesus’ way.

Session Synopsis

SESSION 4 SYNOPSIS
The Sending Nature of God’s Mission	In this passage, we learn about the nature of God’s evangelistic missionary work. In his life, Jesus compassionately ministered to crowds of people with preaching, teaching, and healing. He invited his followers into his mission work and then sent his twelve disciples as apostles on an itinerant mission. Following Jesus’ example, they were to minister in word and deed: preaching and healing. Jesus told them to practice simplicity, depending upon God to provide for them. He also warned them that suffering and persecution would come. Armed with a healthy fear of God, faithful mission servants would not need to fear any human opponent. God cared for his people and would bring all deeds into judgment. Jesus told his apostles that they should expect persecution. Jesus came to be a dividing line for all humanity. Those who truly follow Jesus would receive life. Those who rejected Jesus would receive judgment. This passage offers many principles and teachings on the nature of mission work in the world. A summary of this story’s principles is outlined below.
Main Elements of Christ’s Mission	The main elements of ministry for Jesus and his early disciples were preaching (9:35; 10:14, 27; 11:1), teaching (9:35; 11:1), and healing (9:35; 10:1, 8). Christian mission is evangelistic—bearing testimony of Christ (10:19–20, 32–33) in word and deed. Christian mission is modeled after the ministry of Jesus (9:35; 10:7–8, 24–25; 11:1). All Christians are called to share the gospel in word and deed. All deeds (miracles or acts of compassion) are to reinforce the gospel message (10:7, 14, 18, 32–33).
Audience and Open Doors	Christ’s disciples are called to minister to all people: Jews and Gentiles (10:5–6, 18, 23). They should look for open doors where people are receptive to the gospel message (10:11–15).
Mode of Mission Work	Jesus called his first followers as disciples (10:1) and sent them into the world as apostles (10:2). He gave them authority (10:1) and instructions (10:5) for their itinerant mission work (10:6–7) and called them to live a life of simplicity (10:9–10).
Heart of Mission Work	God calls his people to a holistic ministry of word and deed (9:35). Like Jesus, Christians are to participate in this mission with a heart of compassion (9:36) and earnest prayer (9:37–38). Jesus commands us to pray for workers to be sent into the world like workers in a ripe harvest (9:38).
Jesus at the Center	Jesus is the dividing line of all people (10:32–42). Faith in Christ determines a person’s life and eternal destiny. The call of Christian mission is a work of discipleship (10:32, 38–40). Christ’s disciples are called to preach a message of judgment (10:15) and salvation (10:7) to the world.
Suffering and Persecution	God’s people will face suffering and persecution for their mission work (10:16–26). This suffering will come in forms such as physical beating (10:17), trials (10:17–18), betrayal (10:21), animosity (10:22), mistreatment (10:23), and maligning (10:25). Christ’s disciples suffer not because of sin but because of their testimony of Jesus Christ (10:18, 22, 39).
Healthy Fears and Unhealthy Fears	Disciples should have a healthy fear of God (10:28) that removes fear of men (10:26, 28, 31). In the face of persecution, believers should be armed with truths about God (10:26–31).
Christian Virtue	Suffering helps to form Christian character. Christians persevere in suffering by means of Christian character. In the face of persecution and suffering, Christians should be wise (10:16, 23), innocent of wrongdoing (10:16), watchful (10:17), bold (10:18), fearless (10:19), and enduring (10:22).

Personal Reflection: Entering the Story

Apply the Text: The word of God is binding and authoritative, the only reliable guide for faith and godliness. True disciples submit themselves to God’s word. In this movement, you will apply God’s word to your lives.

Reflection Questions

Encourage one person to share a testimony about how this story has impacted them so far. Use the reflection questions to examine your life in light of this biblical passage.

Spiritual Practice

Mission Prayer

Read Jesus’ first instructions to his disciples in this narrative. Spend time writing a prayer that asks Jesus to raise more workers for the harvest and to give you a heart of compassion for the world. When you gather with your community, have each person pray their prayer before the group.

Ministry Practice: Rehearsing the Script

Minister the Text: God’s word is living and active. Through God’s word, the Christian community is edified. In this movement, you will utilize the biblical passage to minister to other believers and build them up in their faith.

Application Questions

Look at the infographic below. Use the questions to think about how to minister this text to other believers.

Missional Outreach: Publicizing the Truth

Witness the Text: The Bible is a message of God’s gracious salvation to the world. In word and deed, God’s people proclaim the good news of the gospel. In this movement, you will use this biblical passage to reach out to unbelievers.

Strategy Questions

Reflect on the infographic below. Consider how you can use this passage to witness to the surrounding world. Use the suggested ideas to prime your imagination. Then, put together a plan to share this passage with unbelievers, Afterward, reflect on this mission experience.