Matthew 10:10

Matthew 10:10 is part of Jesus’ specific instructions to His twelve disciples as He commissions them for their first missionary journey to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 10:6). This verse emphasizes a radical dependence on divine provision and the hospitality of those they would serve.

Context

In Matthew 10:5-15, Jesus provides detailed guidance for His disciples' immediate mission. He sends them out with authority to heal, cast out demons, and preach that "the kingdom of heaven is at hand." The command to travel without extra provisions was highly counter-cultural. Typically, a traveler would carry a 'scrip' (a small bag for provisions), a change of clothes, extra shoes, and a staff for protection and support. By forbidding these, Jesus was teaching them profound lessons about trust, urgency, and the nature of their mission.

Key Themes

• Radical Dependence on God: The primary message is one of absolute reliance on God for every need. By going without typical provisions, the disciples were forced to trust that God would provide through the hospitality of others. This also served as a test of faith and a demonstration of God's faithfulness.
• Singleness of Purpose and Urgency: Traveling lightly meant no distractions or delays from material concerns. The mission was urgent, focused on proclaiming the Kingdom, and required immediate attention. It encouraged them to be fully engaged in their spiritual task without being encumbered by worldly possessions.
• The Worth of the Laborer: The latter part of the verse, "for the workman is worthy of his meat," establishes a foundational principle for ministerial support. It signifies that those who dedicate themselves to God's work, preaching the Gospel and serving others, deserve to be sustained by those they serve. This principle is reiterated by Jesus in Luke 10:7 and later expounded by Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:14 and 1 Timothy 5:18.

Linguistic Insights

• Scrip: The Greek word is pēra (πήρα), referring to a leather bag or wallet used by travelers or shepherds to carry food. Jesus’ instruction here was to not even carry the most basic food provisions.
• Meat: In King James Version English, "meat" (from Old English mete) broadly refers to food or sustenance in general, not exclusively animal flesh. Thus, "worthy of his meat" means worthy of his sustenance or livelihood.
• Staves: The Greek word is rhabdos (ῥάβδος), meaning a rod or staff. While a staff was a common item for travel (for support or defense), Jesus' instruction here emphasizes absolute dependence and avoiding even the appearance of self-reliance.

Practical Application

While Christians today are not commanded to literally abandon all possessions when going out to share the Gospel, the underlying principles of Matthew 10:10 remain highly relevant:

• Trust in God's Provision: Believers are called to trust God for their needs, understanding that He is faithful to provide when we prioritize His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
• Simplicity and Focus: We are encouraged to live with a detachment from excessive material possessions, allowing us to be more focused on our spiritual mission and less encumbered by worldly cares.
• Support for Ministry: This verse provides a biblical basis for the financial and practical support of those who dedicate their lives to full-time ministry. It reminds believers of their responsibility to sustain those who labor in teaching and preaching the Word.
• Urgency of the Gospel: The command for swift travel highlights the urgency of sharing the good news of the Kingdom. We should not allow material concerns or excessive preparation to delay our obedience to Christ's call.