Matthew 10:11

KJV

And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} into {G1519} whatsoever {G302}{G3739} city {G4172} or {G2228} town {G2968} ye shall enter {G1525}, enquire {G1833} who {G5101} in {G1722} it {G846} is {G2076} worthy {G514}; and there {G2546} abide {G3306} till {G302}{G2193} ye go thence {G1831}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"When you come to a town or village, look for someone trustworthy and stay with him until you leave.

Berean Standard Bible

Whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy there and stay at his house until you move on.

American Standard Version

And into whatsoever city or village ye shall enter, search out who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go forth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 10:11 provides Jesus' practical instructions to His twelve disciples as He commissions them for their first missionary journey. This verse guides their conduct regarding lodging, directing them to seek out a "worthy" household in each city or town they enter and to remain there consistently until they depart. This instruction emphasizes discernment in choosing hosts, promotes stability in their ministry, and underscores their reliance on divine provision and the hospitality of receptive individuals.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader discourse of [Matthew chapter 10](/matthew/10 "Matthew 10 - Jesus Commissions the Twelve Disciples"), where Jesus gives comprehensive instructions to His twelve apostles before sending them out. Beginning with their authority to heal and cast out demons ([Matthew 10:1](/matthew/10-1 "Matthew 10:1 - Authority Given to the Twelve")), Jesus details their mission, their message of the Kingdom of Heaven ([Matthew 10:7](/matthew/10-7 "Matthew 10:7 - Proclaiming the Kingdom")), and practical guidelines for their conduct. The immediate preceding verses ([Matthew 10:9-10](/matthew/10-9-10 "Matthew 10:9-10 - Instructions on Provisions")) instruct them not to take money, bags, or extra clothing, thereby highlighting their dependence on God's provision and the hospitality of others. Verse 11 logically follows, specifying how they are to secure that provision through discerning worthy hosts, ensuring their basic needs are met without becoming a burden or distraction to their core mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Israel, hospitality was a deeply ingrained cultural value, especially for travelers and religious teachers. There were no inns or hotels as we know them today, and travelers relied heavily on the generosity of private homes. Offering hospitality was considered a religious duty and a mark of honor. However, this also meant that hosts could be discerning about whom they welcomed, and guests were expected to be respectful and not exploit generosity. Jesus' instruction to "enquire who in it is worthy" was a practical measure to ensure the disciples found genuinely hospitable homes that were also receptive to their message, rather than imposing themselves on unwilling hosts. Staying in one place ("abide till ye go thence") would also prevent the appearance of being fickle, opportunistic, or seeking better accommodations, which could undermine their credibility in a culture that valued stability and integrity.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 10:11 contributes significantly to several key themes in Jesus' ministry and the broader book of Matthew. First, it underscores the theme of **Divine Provision and Dependence**, teaching the disciples to rely on God's care rather than their own resources, a principle echoed in Jesus' teaching on worry in [Matthew 6:25-34](/matthew/6-25-34 "Matthew 6:25-34 - Do Not Worry"). Second, it highlights **Discernment in Ministry**, instructing the disciples to wisely identify receptive hearts and homes, thereby optimizing their time and effort for those open to the Gospel. This aligns with the broader call to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" found in [Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Matthew 10:16 - Be Wise as Serpents"). Third, the command to "abide" in one place emphasizes **Integrity and Stability in Witness**, ensuring that the disciples' conduct reflected the trustworthiness and sincerity of their message, avoiding any appearance of self-interest or exploitation. This practical guidance ensures the effective and credible proclamation of the Kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **enter (Greek, _eisérchomai'_):** This word (G1525) signifies to "come in" or "go in," literally or figuratively. In this context, it refers to the physical act of arriving and gaining access to a city or town. It implies the beginning of their engagement with a new community, setting the stage for their mission.
* **worthy (Greek, _áxios'_):** This term (G514) denotes someone who is "deserving," "fitting," or "suitable." It carries the connotation of being of equal weight or value. Here, it refers not to financial status or social standing, but primarily to moral and spiritual receptiveness—individuals or households who are open to the message of the Kingdom, who possess integrity, and who are genuinely hospitable to God's messengers. It implies a spiritual alignment with the mission.
* **abide (Greek, _ménō'_):** This verb (G3306) means "to stay," "remain," "continue," or "dwell." The instruction to "abide" emphasizes stability and consistency. It prevents the disciples from moving from house to house in search of better accommodations or greater comfort, which could undermine their credibility and create a perception of greed or instability. It fosters deeper relationship with their hosts and demonstrates commitment to the place.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter,"**: This initial clause sets the geographical scope and the starting point of the disciples' mission. It indicates that their instructions apply universally to every urban or semi-urban area they visit, underscoring the comprehensive nature of their evangelistic outreach. The emphasis is on the moment of arrival and initial engagement with a new community.
* **"enquire who in it is worthy;"**: This is a crucial directive for discernment. The disciples are not to randomly seek lodging but to actively "enquire" (G1833, _exetázō_, meaning to "test thoroughly by questions" or "ascertain") for individuals or households characterized by "worthiness." As discussed in the key word analysis, this "worthiness" refers to moral character, receptivity to the Gospel message, and a genuine spirit of hospitality. This instruction ensures that the disciples' time and resources are invested wisely in receptive environments, avoiding unnecessary conflict or wasted effort.
* **"and there abide till ye go thence."**: This final clause provides the duration and stability of their stay. Once a worthy household is identified, the disciples are commanded to "abide" (G3306, _ménō_, to "stay" or "remain") in that one place. This prevents them from "house-hopping," which could be perceived as seeking better accommodations, exploiting hospitality, or lacking commitment. By staying in one home, they foster trust, demonstrate integrity, and avoid placing an undue burden on multiple households. This stability also allows them to focus on their mission rather than constantly seeking new lodging, ensuring their departure is solely due to the completion of their work in that location.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Matthew 10:11 is **Instruction** or **Didacticism**, as Jesus provides direct, practical commands to His disciples. This verse, like much of the discourse in [Matthew 10](/matthew/10 "Matthew 10 - Instructions for Disciples"), functions as a manual for missionary conduct. There is also an element of **Pragmatism**, as the instructions are highly practical and strategic for effective ministry in the cultural context of the time. The implied **Contrast** between "worthy" and "unworthy" hosts highlights the need for spiritual discernment, a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 10:11 is deeply rooted in the theological principle of God's provision for His servants and the reciprocal responsibility of His people to support those who minister. Jesus' instruction for the disciples to rely on the hospitality of "worthy" individuals underscores a profound trust in the Father's care, while simultaneously establishing a pattern for the church's support of its evangelists and teachers. This mutual dependence fosters community and ensures the spread of the Gospel through both proclamation and practical support. It also highlights the importance of discerning genuine spiritual receptivity, ensuring that the precious message of the Kingdom is shared with those whose hearts are open to receive it, rather than being cast indiscriminately.

* [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality")
* [Luke 10:7](/luke/10-7 "Luke 10:7 - The Laborer is Worthy of His Wages")
* [Philippians 1:9-10](/philippians/1-9-10 "Philippians 1:9-10 - Prayer for Discernment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 10:11 offers timeless principles for believers engaged in any form of ministry or even daily life. It challenges us to cultivate both spiritual discernment and integrity in our interactions. When we seek to share the Gospel or offer service, we are called to be wise in identifying those who are genuinely receptive and open to the message, rather than expending all our energy on resistant hearts. This doesn't mean abandoning anyone, but strategically prioritizing our efforts where the Spirit is already at work. Furthermore, the command to "abide" reminds us of the importance of stability, commitment, and avoiding any appearance of self-interest or opportunism. Our conduct should always reflect the integrity of Christ, building trust and credibility with those we seek to reach. For those who are "worthy," this verse also serves as a call to hospitality, reminding us of the privilege and responsibility of supporting God's messengers and participating in His work through practical means.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate greater spiritual discernment in identifying receptive hearts and environments for sharing the Gospel?**
* **In what areas of my life or ministry might I be tempted to "house-hop" or seek more comfortable circumstances, and how can I practice greater stability and integrity?**
* **How does my willingness to offer hospitality or practical support to God's workers reflect my participation in His mission?**
* **What does "worthiness" look like in a modern context, both for those who receive the message and those who proclaim it?**

### FAQ

**What does "worthy" mean in the context of Matthew 10:11?**

Answer: In Matthew 10:11, "worthy" (Greek: _áxios_) does not primarily refer to a person's financial status, social standing, or moral perfection in an absolute sense. Instead, it signifies someone who is "deserving," "fitting," or "suitable" in terms of their receptiveness to the message of the Kingdom of God and their willingness to offer genuine hospitality to its messengers. It implies a spiritual openness, a character that aligns with the values of the Kingdom, and a readiness to welcome those sent by Jesus. The disciples were to seek out individuals or households who would not only provide lodging but also welcome the Gospel with an open heart, thus becoming partners in the mission. This ensures that the disciples' time and resources are invested wisely where there is a fertile ground for the message to take root.

**Why did Jesus instruct His disciples to stay in one house rather than moving from house to house?**

Answer: Jesus' instruction to "abide till ye go thence" in Matthew 10:11 served several crucial purposes. Firstly, it promoted **stability and focus** for the disciples, allowing them to concentrate on their mission of proclaiming the Kingdom rather than constantly seeking new accommodations. Secondly, it fostered **integrity and credibility**. Moving from house to house could create the impression that the disciples were opportunists, seeking better food or lodging, or exploiting the generosity of their hosts. By remaining in one place, they demonstrated contentment, trustworthiness, and a genuine commitment to the household and community they were serving. This also prevented them from becoming a burden on multiple families. Thirdly, it encouraged **deeper relationships** with their hosts, allowing for more sustained teaching and mutual trust, which was vital for the early spread of the Gospel. This principle is echoed in [Luke 10:7](/luke/10-7 "Luke 10:7 - The Laborer is Worthy of His Hire"), which explicitly states, "Go not from house to house."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 10:11, while a practical instruction for the disciples, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ Himself and the mission He inaugurated. Jesus, the ultimate "worthy" one, perfectly embodied dependence on the Father, relying entirely on divine provision throughout His earthly ministry. He was the one sent from God, and His own life demonstrated the principles He taught: He had "nowhere to lay His head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")), yet He was always provided for. The disciples' mission, empowered by Jesus, was a continuation of His own work—proclaiming the Kingdom and demonstrating its power. The "worthy" households they sought were those prepared by the Father to receive His Son's message, foreshadowing the universal call to all who would believe in the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). The stability and integrity demanded of the disciples reflect the unwavering truth and steadfastness of Christ's character and His Gospel. Ultimately, the Church, as the body of Christ, continues this mission, guided by the Holy Spirit ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper")), to seek out those whom God has prepared to receive His Son, inviting them into the ultimate "abiding" in Christ Himself ([John 15:4](/john/15-4 "John 15:4 - Abide in Me")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 10:7

And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

Luke 10:8

And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:

Job 31:32

The stranger did not lodge in the street: [but] I opened my doors to the traveller.

Judges 19:16

¶ And, behold, there came an old man from his work out of the field at even, which [was] also of mount Ephraim; and he sojourned in Gibeah: but the men of the place [were] Benjamites.

Judges 19:21

So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.

1 Kings 17:9

Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which [belongeth] to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.

1 Kings 17:24

And the woman said to Elijah, Now by this I know that thou [art] a man of God, [and] that the word of the LORD in thy mouth [is] truth.