Matthew-10
Sent Forth: A Devotional Study on Matthew 10
Introduction
As we delve into the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, we discover Jesus' final instructions to His disciples before His arrest and crucifixion. Matthew 10 is a foundational passage for those called to mission and evangelism. Let's reflect on the instructions Jesus gave to His disciples and how they apply to us today.
Section 1: The Commission (Matthew 10:1-4)
Devotional Thought: Jesus' first instruction to His disciples is clear: Go! Jesus' commission is clear – to preach the good news and make disciples. Let's consider the ways in which we've been sent forth, just as Jesus' disciples were, to share the good news.
Reflection Questions:
- In what ways have you been sent forth to share the good news?
- How can you live as an obedient disciple, following Jesus' command to "go" and preach the good news?
Section 2: The Coming Persecution (Matthew 10:5-23)
Devotional Thought: Jesus warns His disciples that as they "go," they will face persecution. The gospel will shake up the status quo, and in some cases, this may result in hostility. Let's consider the ways in which we too may experience persecution as we preach and live out the gospel.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you experienced persecution for your faith?
- How can we prepare ourselves to live out our faith, even in the face of hostility?
Section 3: The Casting Out of Demons (Matthew 10:24-26)
Devotional Thought: As Jesus sends His disciples into the world, He empowers them with His authority. They have the ability to cast out the demons that oppose God's kingdom. Let's reflect on the power that we as believers carry and the ways in which we can tap into it.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you experienced the power of God's authority in casting out demons or opposing forces?
- How can we cultivate our faith to live out this power and authority given to us as believers?
Section 4: The Coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 10:27-31)
Devotional Thought: Jesus' message is clear: He will come, and we must be faithful in sharing the gospel in the meantime. Let's take an honest look at the ways in which we're stewarding the time we have to share the good news.
Reflection Questions:
- How are you stewarding the time and resources that God has given you to share the gospel?
- What can you do today to live out your faithfulness in sharing the good news?
Conclusion:
As we bring our devotional study on Matthew 10 to a close, let's reflect on the ways in which Jesus' commission and instructions apply to us today. We've been sent forth into the world to share the good news, live out our faithfulness, and steward the resources and opportunities He's given us. May we carry this truth with us as we go, preaching the good news and living out our faithfulness, united with Jesus, who is coming soon.