PODCAST
Receiving God’s Messengers
April 8th, 2016
Matthew 10:1-16
Jesus often went to places where a host offered hospitality. Simon and Andrew (Mark 1:29) and Mary and Martha (John 12:1—2) welcomed Jesus into their homes. These were Jesus’ friends. But sometimes Jesus accepted invitations from unlikely hosts. Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, welcomed Jesus into his home (Luke 19:1—9). So did Simon the Leper when Jesus was in Bethany (Mark 14:3).
Jesus sent His disciples to announce that the kingdom of heaven had come near. Jesus commissioned them to invite persons to enter the kingdom. In doing so, the disciples were to depend on the hospitality offered them and not force themselves on anyone who refused their words of peace. The first step in receiving the gospel for those just hearing the good news was to act hospitable toward the messengers.
Like the first disciples, we have heard and believed that Jesus is the Christ. We are authorized by the King of Kings and empowered by the Holy Spirit, so we announce the good news to any who will listen and invite them to enter the kingdom.
Author: Keith Schwanz
