Matthew Chapter 10

Matthew 10 — “Sent with the Authority of the King”

Matthew 8 and 9 revealed the power of Christ.
Matthew 10 now reveals the mission of Christ.

The Kingdom is not meant to remain with Jesus alone.
It is entrusted to His apostles.

This chapter teaches a central truth:

Grace that is received must be given.

1. The Twelve Are Named

“He called to him his twelve disciples…” (Matt 10:1)

Christ does not send crowds.

He sends men.

Names matter.

The Kingdom is built through persons.

St Augustine writes:

“God does not govern the Church through abstractions but through men whom He has chosen.”
(Sermons)

The Twelve represent the new Israel.

Just as twelve tribes formed the old covenant,
twelve apostles form the new.

2. Authority Is Given

“He gave them authority over unclean spirits…” (v. 1)

The apostles do not act on their own power.

They are sent.

This is the foundation of apostolic ministry.

The Church is not self-appointed.

3. Sent First to Israel

“Go nowhere among the Gentiles…” (v. 5)

God is faithful to His promises.

Israel is first.

But not last.

The Gospel moves outward from covenant to world.

4. Poverty of the Apostles

“Take no gold…” (v. 9)

The messenger must trust the message.

Dependence on God proves faith.

The Kingdom is carried by trust.

5. Worthy Houses

“Let your peace come upon it…” (v. 13)

The apostles bring peace.

The Kingdom enters homes through hospitality.

6. Persecution Foretold

“They will deliver you up…” (v. 17)

The Gospel provokes resistance.

Truth confronts darkness.

The Church must not be surprised by suffering.

7. The Spirit Will Speak

“It is not you who speak…” (v. 20)

The apostles are not abandoned.

God Himself speaks through them.

This is divine mission.

8. Division for the Sake of Christ

“I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.” (v. 34)

Not violence — but division.

Christ divides truth from falsehood.

Allegiance to Him is ultimate.

9. The Cost of Discipleship

“Whoever does not take his cross…” (v. 38)

The Cross is not accidental.

It is the path of the Kingdom.

10. Reward for Faithfulness

“Whoever receives you receives me…” (v. 40)

Christ identifies with His messengers.

To receive the apostle is to receive Christ.

Theological Summary

ThemeMeaning
ApostlesNew Israel
AuthorityDivine mission
PovertyTrust
PersecutionFaith tested
CrossTrue discipleship
RewardGod’s justice

Christ in Matthew 10

Christ sends His own mission through His Church.

He continues to act through those He calls.

Spiritual Application

  • Receive the Gospel.
  • Carry the Cross.
  • Trust God.
  • Live the mission.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ,
You who sent Your apostles into the world,
send us with their faith and courage.
Give us trust in Your providence,
strength in persecution,
and joy in obedience,
that we may bring Your Kingdom
to every place we go.
Amen.