Matthew 10:16

KJV

¶ Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold {G2400}, I {G1473} send {G649} you {G5209} forth {G649} as {G5613} sheep {G4263} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of wolves {G3074}: be ye {G1096} therefore {G3767} wise {G5429} as {G5613} serpents {G3789}, and {G2532} harmless {G185} as {G5613} doves {G4058}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Pay attention! I am sending you out like sheep among wolves, so be as pru dent as snakes and as harmless as doves.

Berean Standard Bible

Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

American Standard Version

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 10:16 delivers a pivotal instruction from Jesus to His disciples, preparing them for the challenging realities of their missionary endeavor. It encapsulates a profound paradox: they are sent forth as vulnerable "sheep in the midst of wolves," yet they must embody a dual mandate—to be "wise as serpents" in their discernment and strategy, while simultaneously remaining "harmless as doves" in their character and conduct. This verse provides timeless guidance for navigating a hostile world with both shrewdness and spiritual integrity, ensuring the effectiveness and ethical purity of their divine mission.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Jesus' extensive commission and instruction to the twelve apostles before their initial missionary journey, detailed in [Matthew chapter 10](/matthew/10 "Matthew 10 - Instructions to the Twelve Apostles"). Following their empowerment to heal and cast out demons ([Matthew 10:1](/matthew/10-1 "Matthew 10:1 - Jesus Empowers the Twelve")), Jesus immediately shifts to a stark warning about the opposition they will face. The preceding verses outline their specific mission parameters, including what to preach and how to conduct themselves, while the subsequent verses ([Matthew 10:17-23](/matthew/10-17-23 "Matthew 10:17-23 - Warnings of Persecution")) elaborate on the nature of the persecution—from religious authorities, civil powers, and even family members. Matthew 10:16 thus serves as a critical bridge, providing the essential character qualities needed to endure the dangers Jesus predicts, balancing divine authority with practical wisdom and moral purity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The disciples were being sent into a Jewish society under Roman occupation, a complex environment marked by various religious factions (Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots) and a general expectation of a coming Messiah. Jesus' message of the Kingdom of Heaven, while initially appealing, would inevitably challenge established religious norms and political expectations, leading to conflict. The imagery of "sheep" and "wolves" would have resonated deeply in an agrarian society, immediately conveying vulnerability and predatory danger. "Serpents" were often associated with cunning and shrewdness (though also deceit, which Jesus' qualification "harmless as doves" counters), while "doves" symbolized purity, innocence, and gentleness, often used in sacrificial contexts. The disciples, as itinerant preachers, would rely on hospitality but also face rejection and hostility, making Jesus' counsel on shrewdness and blamelessness highly practical for their survival and the integrity of their message.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 10:16 contributes significantly to several key themes within the Gospel of Matthew and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the **vulnerability of God's messengers** in a fallen world, a theme echoed throughout the prophets and the New Testament, reminding believers that their mission is not without cost. It highlights the necessity of **divine wisdom and human prudence** in ministry, distinguishing between worldly cunning and Spirit-led discernment. Furthermore, the call to be "harmless as doves" emphasizes the **uncompromising purity and integrity** required of those who represent Christ, ensuring that the means never corrupt the message. This verse also foreshadows the **persecution of believers**, a recurring theme in Matthew, particularly in the Olivet Discourse ([Matthew 24:9-13](/matthew/24-9-13 "Matthew 24:9-13 - Persecution and Endurance")). Ultimately, it speaks to the **paradoxical nature of the Kingdom of God**, where strength is found in weakness and victory through suffering, as exemplified by Christ Himself ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **send (Greek, _apostéllō'_):** From G649, meaning "to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively." This emphasizes that the disciples' journey is not self-initiated but a divine commission. Jesus is the one who "sends them forth," signifying their role as authorized representatives, or "apostles," a term derived from this very root. Their mission is therefore divinely ordained and empowered, not a personal venture.
* **wise (Greek, _phrónimos'_):** From G5429, denoting "thoughtful, i.e. sagacious or discreet (implying a cautious character)." This is a practical, street-smart wisdom, distinct from theoretical knowledge (sophia). It refers to the ability to understand situations, anticipate dangers, and make prudent decisions that serve the mission effectively without compromising principles. It's about practical discernment in navigating complex and potentially hostile environments.
* **harmless (Greek, _akéraios'_):** From G185, literally meaning "unmixed" or "unadulterated," and figuratively "innocent." This word conveys purity, sincerity, and freedom from malice, guile, or any corrupting influence. It calls for an integrity of character that ensures the disciples' motives are pure, their actions blameless, and their witness untainted by vindictiveness or deceit, even when facing severe provocation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves:"** This opening clause immediately establishes the stark reality of the disciples' mission. "Behold" (G2400, _idoú_) draws urgent attention to the impending situation. Jesus, with divine authority ("I send you forth"), commissions them into a world characterized by extreme vulnerability ("as sheep") in the face of aggressive, destructive opposition ("in the midst of wolves"). This metaphor vividly portrays the defenselessness of the disciples against the predatory nature of those who would oppose their message and persecute them. It acknowledges the inherent danger and hostile environment they are entering, setting the stage for the necessary qualities that follow.
* **"be ye therefore wise as serpents,"** Following the warning, Jesus provides the first essential quality. The conjunction "therefore" (G3767, _oûn_) logically connects the instruction to the preceding reality of danger. To be "wise as serpents" (G5429, _phrónimos_ as G3789, _óphis_) does not imply cunning or deceit, but rather a keen, practical shrewdness, discernment, and prudence. It calls for strategic thinking, an awareness of danger, and the ability to navigate complex situations without being naive or unnecessarily exposing oneself or the message to harm. This wisdom is for the purpose of effective mission, not personal gain or manipulation.
* **"and harmless as doves."** This final clause introduces the crucial counterbalance to serpentine wisdom. To be "harmless as doves" (G185, _akéraios_ as G4058, _peristerá_) means to be innocent, pure, guileless, and free from malice or vengefulness. This quality ensures that the disciples' strategic wisdom is always exercised within the bounds of moral integrity and Christ-like character. It emphasizes a gentle, non-retaliatory spirit, maintaining purity of motive and conduct even when facing hostility, thereby preserving the moral authority and spiritual authenticity of their witness.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 10:16 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Simile**, employing vivid animal imagery to convey profound spiritual truths. The disciples are likened to "sheep," symbolizing their vulnerability and defenselessness, while their opponents are "wolves," representing predatory aggression and destructive intent. This immediately establishes the perilous nature of their mission. Jesus then uses **Simile** to prescribe the necessary qualities: "wise as serpents" and "harmless as doves." The serpent, despite its negative biblical connotations elsewhere (e.g., [Genesis 3:1](/genesis/3-1 "Genesis 3:1 - The Serpent's Deception")), here symbolizes practical shrewdness and discernment, not malice. The dove, a symbol of purity, innocence, and peace (e.g., [Matthew 3:16](/matthew/3-16 "Matthew 3:16 - The Spirit Descends as a Dove")), represents the moral integrity and gentle spirit required. The verse masterfully employs **Juxtaposition** and **Paradox** by placing these seemingly contrasting qualities—shrewdness and innocence—side-by-side. This creates a tension that highlights the unique, balanced character required of Christ's followers: not cunning without ethics, nor innocence without discernment, but a synthesis of both for effective and righteous witness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian discipleship, revealing that faithfulness in mission requires both astute discernment and unwavering moral purity. It underscores the reality that God's people are often sent into environments hostile to divine truth, necessitating a strategic approach that is nevertheless grounded in Christ-like character. The tension between "wise as serpents" and "harmless as doves" reflects a core theological principle: the Kingdom of God advances not through worldly power or manipulation, but through the Spirit-empowered witness of those who embody both truth and grace. It is a call to engage the world intelligently without adopting its corrupt methods, maintaining a blameless testimony even in the face of opposition.

* [Luke 10:3](/luke/10-3 "Luke 10:3 - Lambs among wolves")
* [Philippians 2:15](/philippians/2-15 "Philippians 2:15 - Blameless and Pure")
* [Romans 16:19](/romans/16-19 "Romans 16:19 - Wise concerning good, simple concerning evil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 10:16 remains profoundly relevant for believers in every age, serving as a timeless guide for navigating the complexities of Christian life and witness in a world often resistant to the Gospel. We are still "sheep in the midst of wolves," called to proclaim truth in diverse and sometimes hostile cultural landscapes, from public discourse to social media, and even within our personal relationships. This verse challenges us to cultivate a spiritual intelligence that discerns the times, understands the opposition, and strategizes effectively for the advancement of God's Kingdom. This "serpentine wisdom" is not about being deceptive or manipulative, but about being discerning, prudent, and strategic in our communication and actions. Simultaneously, we are called to maintain an unblemished character, a "dovelike" purity that ensures our methods are as holy as our message. This means avoiding malice, retaliation, or any form of compromise that would undermine our integrity or the credibility of the Gospel. The balance is crucial: boldness without recklessness, discernment without cynicism, and purity without naivety. It empowers us to be effective agents of Christ's love and truth, even when facing significant pressure or opposition, by reflecting His character in both our shrewdness and our blamelessness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do you experience being "sheep in the midst of wolves" in your current environment or ministry?**
* **How can you cultivate "serpentine wisdom" (prudence, discernment, strategic thinking) without compromising your Christian ethics or resorting to manipulation?**
* **What does it practically mean to be "harmless as doves" in your daily interactions, especially when faced with criticism or opposition?**
* **Where do you find the balance between speaking truth boldly and exercising caution or gentleness, as instructed by this verse?**

### FAQ

**Does "wise as serpents" imply that Christians should be cunning or deceitful?**

Answer: No, the instruction to be "wise as serpents" (G5429, _phrónimos_) does not imply cunning or deceit. In this context, "wisdom" refers to practical shrewdness, discernment, and prudence. It means being astute, strategic, and perceptive about the dangers and challenges of the world, much like a serpent is perceived to be cautious and aware of its surroundings. Jesus is calling His followers to be intelligent and discerning in their approach to ministry and evangelism, understanding the nature of opposition and knowing how to navigate difficult situations without compromising their mission or their integrity. It's about being "street-smart" for the Kingdom of God, not manipulative. This is balanced by the command to be "harmless as doves," which explicitly rules out any form of malice or guile.

**How can one be "harmless" in a dangerous world without being naive or vulnerable to exploitation?**

Answer: Being "harmless as doves" (G185, _akéraios_) means possessing purity, innocence, and freedom from malice, not naivety or foolishness. It's a call to moral and spiritual integrity, ensuring that one's actions and motives are blameless, even when facing hostility. The key is the **balance** with "wise as serpents." The wisdom component provides the discernment and strategy needed to avoid unnecessary danger or exploitation, while the harmlessness component ensures that one's methods remain Christ-like and ethically pure. For instance, a Christian might wisely discern when to speak and when to remain silent, or how to protect themselves legally, yet still refuse to retaliate with malice or deception. This dual mandate allows believers to be both shrewd in their understanding of the world's dangers and pure in their response, as seen in passages like [Romans 16:19](/romans/16-19 "Romans 16:19 - Wise concerning good and simple concerning evil"), which exhorts believers to be "wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 10:16 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person of Jesus Christ Himself. He is the quintessential "sheep in the midst of wolves," willingly entering a world hostile to God, ultimately offering Himself as the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Yet, He also perfectly demonstrated "serpentine wisdom" in His earthly ministry. Jesus consistently exhibited profound discernment, knowing when to speak and when to be silent ([Matthew 26:63](/matthew/26-63 "Matthew 26:63 - Jesus' Silence Before the High Priest")), how to evade His enemies when His hour had not yet come ([John 8:59](/john/8-59 "John 8:59 - Jesus Escapes")), and how to answer His accusers with unassailable truth that exposed their motives ([Matthew 22:15-22](/matthew/22-15-22 "Matthew 22:15-22 - Paying Taxes to Caesar")). Simultaneously, He was supremely "harmless as a dove," utterly pure, without malice, and never retaliating against His persecutors ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Harmlessness")). Even when He could have called legions of angels ([Matthew 26:53](/matthew/26-53 "Matthew 26:53 - Jesus' Power and Restraint")), He submitted to the Father's will, demonstrating perfect innocence and non-retaliation. Thus, Christ is the model for His disciples: the vulnerable Lamb who is also supremely wise and perfectly pure, enabling His followers to live out this paradoxical mandate through the power of His Spirit, reflecting His character in their mission.

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 10:3

Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

Philippians 2:15

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

1 Corinthians 14:20

Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.

Colossians 4:5

¶ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

Ephesians 5:15

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

Ephesians 5:17

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

Luke 21:15

For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.