Matthew 10:12

Commentary on Matthew 10:12 (KJV)

Matthew 10:12 is a concise but significant instruction given by Jesus to His twelve disciples as He sends them out on their first missionary journey. It emphasizes the posture and approach they are to take when entering homes, reflecting both cultural custom and spiritual principle.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' detailed instructions to the apostles, found in Matthew 10:5-15. He commissions them to preach the kingdom of heaven, heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and cast out devils. Amidst these powerful directives, Jesus provides very practical guidance on their conduct, including what to take (or not take) with them, how to approach people, and how to respond to rejection. The command to "salute" a house is therefore not a mere formality, but a foundational step in their outreach, setting the tone for their mission.

Key Themes

• The Offering of Peace: The primary theme here is the bringing of peace. To "salute" in this context goes beyond a simple greeting; it is an act of bestowing blessing and goodwill. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the holistic well-being, prosperity, and spiritual harmony often encapsulated by the Hebrew term shalom. The disciples were to be harbingers of this divine peace.
• Hospitality and Receptivity: The greeting was also a prelude to seeking hospitality, a crucial aspect of travel and ministry in ancient times. The response to their greeting would indicate the receptivity of the household, which was vital for the disciples' ability to stay and minister. Jesus elaborates on this in the very next verse, Matthew 10:13, explaining that if the house is worthy, their peace will rest upon it; otherwise, it will return to them.
• Divine Authority and Representation: The disciples are not just ordinary travelers; they are representatives of Jesus, carrying His message and authority. Their greeting, therefore, carries spiritual weight. The peace they offer is not their own, but a divine peace flowing through them.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "salute" is ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai), which means to greet, welcome, or embrace. While it can be a general term for greeting, in this specific context, especially when paired with the concept of peace resting upon a house, it strongly implies a traditional blessing of peace, akin to saying "Peace be unto this house." This was a common and significant form of greeting in the ancient Near East, signifying goodwill and the invocation of divine favor.

Practical Application

Matthew 10:12 offers timeless principles for believers today:

• Be Messengers of Peace: As followers of Christ, we are called to be people who bring peace and blessing into every environment we enter. Our interactions should reflect the peace that Christ gives, which is distinct from the world's peace.
• Approach Others with Goodwill: Whether in evangelism, daily interactions, or entering new communities, our initial approach should always be one of goodwill, seeking the well-being of others and demonstrating genuine care.
• The Importance of Posture: This verse reminds us that our spiritual posture and initial demeanor can significantly impact how our message is received. A spirit of humility, respect, and blessing opens doors for the gospel.
• Discerning Receptivity: While we offer peace to all, we also learn to discern where that peace is welcomed and where it is rejected, guiding our continued efforts and focus, as Jesus further instructs in this chapter.