Loyalty Tested
Matthew 10:16–20, 26–34
Snakes and Doves (16–20)
Jesus is sending out His disciples with power and authority. Matthew lists the disciples by name, and Jesus instructs them to go “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” He basically tells them to travel light and count on God’s provision through good people. Jesus is sending them out as sheep among the wolves.
He knows He is sending them out to a hostile world. He warns them to be wise like snakes but innocent and gentle as doves.
The disciples would not operate with worldly power. These unlearned men would testify before governors and kings.
Jesus tells them they will be persecuted and arrested. Some may pay the ultimate price with their very lives. He gives them the promise that the Holy Spirit will give them the words to speak at the proper time.
We have seen animosity directed against Christians in America and around the world as we speak truth in the public square.
Sparrows and Hairs (26–31)
The discussion about persecution continues as Jesus tells them that as His followers, they will be persecuted just as He was persecuted. However, He tells them not to be afraid and to be bold in sharing the good news of the Kingdom.
I have shared the gospel with 150-plus student-athletes at our Fellowship of Christian Athletes pizza event at Overfelt High School, a “tough” public high school in San Jose, California. As I stood each time to share with these rowdy athletes, the room suddenly fell quiet, and you could hear a pin drop.
The Holy Spirit hovered over that gym, and each time there would be a number of young people giving their lives to Jesus Christ. I am reminded that even in hostile environments, the power and provision of God are present.
Next, Jesus reminds them of God’s care for the sparrows and the intimate knowledge He has of the people. He knows the number of hairs on their heads.
I grew up listening to Ethel Waters sing “His Eye is on the Sparrow.” The words of the chorus are a joyful reminder. “I sing because I’m happy/ I sing because I’m free/ For His eye is on the sparrow/ And I know He watches me.”
Peace and Swords (32–34)
Following Jesus is not for the faint of heart. In 2024, there were more than 380 million Christians in 75 countries who endured persecution. Sub-Saharan Africa is the epicenter of that persecution, with Nigeria and Kenya among the most violent countries. (Read the latest stories of the global persecuted church at tbponline.org/persecuted-church).
Jesus understood His message would be controversial and divisive. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:23 that the gospel is a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks.
The gospel divides families and friends, but there is a blessing promised to those who will carry the message and declare their faith in Christ.
To those who think Jesus is just a good teacher or a role model, Jesus declares, “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”
Are you a fully-devoted follower of Jesus? Are you willing to stand up for Christ regardless of the cost?
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Don Fugate
Senior pastor of Foxworthy Baptist Church in San Jose, California
