[Jesus warned the apostles when he sent them out:] “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.”
Key Thought
After introducing us to the reality that not everyone will accept the Good News message of the Kingdom, Jesus now prepares us for how difficult that rejection will be. There will be some who have a benign attitude that ignores the message. But others will have a malignant and vengeful attitude toward the Good News and those who share it. How vicious? Jesus’ followers will be like sheep hunted by a den of wolves (Matthew 10:16). In such circumstances, two qualities are not only essential; they are commanded. First, Jesus’ followers are to be bright, insightful, strategic, smart, clever, and wise. In other words, we won’t stupidly muddle through when opposed. We do not want to bring unnecessary shame or hardship on ourselves, the cause of Christ, or Jesus’ people. Second, even if we are hounded, criticized, and despised, let’s make sure we are a people of character, peace, and purity. Clearly the apostle Peter got the message, because a reading of 1 Peter teaches us how to practically live out what Jesus teaches here: purity and prudence in a hostile world in which we live as witnesses to Jesus Christ and his Kingdom.
Today’s Prayer
Give me wisdom, please dear God, to face those who despise your name, your cause, your message, and your people. Help me not to become hateful toward them like those who hate me and your cause. Instead, create in me a pure and loving heart that I might know and live your ways in witness to those who do not know you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
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