Expect to be hated - Sauni e inosiaina

Scripture Focus: Mataio 10:5–23

He called to himself his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every sickness.
- Matthew 10:5–23 (WEB)

Study:

Jesus sends out his twelve disciples, equipping them with authority and instruction. He specifically instructs them where to go – to the lost sheep of the house of Israel – and what to do: preach the good news, heal the sick, cast out demons. However, he forewarns them of the opposition they will face. He prepares them for rejection, persecution, and even hatred. He explains that this opposition is, in a sense, a continuation of the treatment prophets received throughout history. He emphasizes that their allegiance is to God, not to those who might persecute them. The key message is not to fear those who can harm the body, but to fear God, who can destroy both body and soul. He assures them that God is aware of everything, even the fall of a sparrow, and that he will care for them. He concludes by emphasizing that acknowledging or denying Jesus will have lasting consequences.

Application:

As followers of Jesus today, we are likely to encounter opposition in various forms. This might range from subtle disapproval to outright persecution. Jesus doesn’t promise us a life free from hardship. In fact, we should *expect* to be misunderstood or even hated because of our beliefs. This passage reminds us that facing opposition is not a sign of failure, but often a sign that we are faithfully living out our calling. Our primary allegiance is to God, and we should not compromise our faith to avoid discomfort or disapproval. Like the disciples, we can trust that God sees our struggles and will sustain us.

Reflection Questions:

• What areas of your life might attract opposition because of your faith?
• How does understanding the historical context of persecution by prophets help you view potential opposition today?
• Are there any areas where you are compromising your faith to avoid discomfort or conflict?
• What does it mean to ‘fear God’ in the context of facing persecution?
• How can you practically trust God to care for you during times of difficulty?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, and for equipping us with the power of the Holy Spirit. Give us courage to live boldly for you, even in the face of opposition. Help us to trust in your loving care and to remember that our ultimate allegiance is to you. Strengthen our faith and grant us wisdom to navigate the challenges we face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: Matthew 10, disciples, opposition, persecution, faith, courage, trust, Jesus, Christianity, Bible study, Christian life, opposition to faith