Summary
The response to the gospel is a mixed bag. The same story that is life to one person is insulting to another. When insulted, people will respond with anger, abuse, and hatred. Jesus warns His disciples that they are going to be persecuted and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. His encouragement to them is to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Jesus teaches them to be both wise and discerning, while also being peaceful and innocent. This balance of peace and power, careful yet bold, wise but willing to be taken advantage of, is the struggle of living out the Christian life. In all of this, we must be careful not to become simply serpents: strategizing in every situation and trusting our own strength. Nor are we to be simply doves: so heavenly minded that we are of no earthly good. Instead, we are called to persevere, to keep striving for the glory of God, no matter what situation we are placed in.
Bible References
- Matthew 10:1 - 25
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