His Servants' Ministry

This chapter continues the movement we have seen in the Gospel of Matthew. The Lord Jesus, having given the standard, came down from the mountain, demonstrated His power in the twelve miracles which have been enumerated. Now He commissions the twelve apostles to go to the nation Israel and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom.
These apostles are to go, not as forerunners but as ‘after-runners’. Our Lord gave them power to perform miracles . . . this was their credential. Have you ever considered that John the Baptist never performed a miracle? He was not an apostle, he was a prophet. Note that their title is changed from disciple (learner) to apostle (delegate).
Be aware, for SO many cults choose this chapter for ‘their’ authority for some odd-ball ministry or conduct. My friend, instructions for the Christian are NOT found in this chapter. We must consider the instruction here in light of the circumstances and conditions under which they were given, and IF we do, we shall be able to interpret them correctly.
Jesus commissions the twelve apostles to go to the nation Israel and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom.

Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. (KJV)

And when he had called to him his twelve disciples . . . "twelve", this is the first time this number is stated, perhaps corresponding to the twelve tribes of Israel. The number twelve is also in Mat.14:20. All these twelve persons had been for some time called by the grace of God, and were already the disciples of Christ, and as such were more familiar and close to Him than other disciples. They had sat at His Feet, and received His words. They had heard His doctrines, and had seen His miracles, and had been trained by Him for public work . . . but as yet, they had not been called and sent forth to enter such service. Now they have been properly instructed, and the time for the conversion of a large number of souls (harvest) was nigh, He privately called them together; and gave them a commission to preach the Gospel, ordained them as ministers (preachers) of the Word, and installed them into the unique office of apostleship. The number "twelve" used often in the Bible: #1. the twelve spies that were sent by Moses into the land of Canaan (Deut.1:23), #2. the twelve wells of water the Israelites found in the wilderness (Ex.15:27); #3. the twelve oxen on which the molten sea stood in Solomon's temple (2 Chron.4:4); #4. to the twelve gates of the city (Eze.48:31-34; Rev.21:12-13); #5. the twelve patriarchs, and the tribes which sprung from them (Ex.24:4), just to name a few. The number ‘twelve’ is mentioned 189 times in the Bible.
He gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out . . . "over all devils" (Lk.9:1). It was common for the Jews to call a demon or devil "an unclean spirit", especially those that frequented or lived in cemeteries. There were many of these spirits, who, because of the great sinfulness of the Jews, the popularity of magic arts among them, and by divine permission, had at this time taken possession of people, giving Christ an opportunity of giving proof of His deity, of His being the Messiah, the Seed of the woman (Gen.3:15), that should bruise the serpent's head, by his ejecting them, and of confirming the mission of His disciples, and establishing the doctrine preached by them, by giving them power and authority over them, to also cast them out, and since various diseases often followed and attended such possessions; He also gave them power . . .
To heal all manner of sicknesses, and all manner of diseases . . . just as He Himself had done. This included all sorts of maladies happening to human bodies, both men and women; all infectious diseases, natural or preternatural, curable or incurable by human methods. So at the same time they were sent to preach the Gospel, for the cure of the souls of men, they were also empowered to heal the diseases of their bodies.

Matthew 10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; (KJV)

Now the names of the twelve apostles are these . . . the twelve apostles, only here and in Mark 3:13, in connection with the list of the apostles' names. It is much more common in Luke and Acts.
#1. Luke 6:13; 9:10; 11:49; 17:5; 22:14; 24:10
#2. Acts 1:2,26; 2:37,42,43; 4:33,35,36,37; 5:2,12,18,29,40; 6:6; 8:1,14,18; 9:27; 11:1; 15:2,4,6,22,23; 16:4 . . . a. the twelve, b. apostles
The apostle Paul had equal authority with the Twelve. Barnabas had lesser authority (Acts 14).
The lists of the Apostles are found in Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:13-16, and Acts 1:13; Acts ch.9. The names and order change slightly. However, they are always in three groups of four. Peter is always first and Judas Iscariot is always last. The groupings stay the same. The way they were grouped was possibly a rotating system whereby certain apostles could go home for short periods to check on their families.
The first, Simon, who is called Peter . . . his pure Hebrew name was Simeon, as he is called in Acts 15:14, but in the then Jerusalem dialect, and in Rabbinical language, this name is frequently read and pronounced "Simon", as here. This apostle is also called Peter, which signifies a stone, or rock, to distinguish him from Simon the Canaanite, and in allusion to the object of his faith, and the steadiness of it. He is said to be the "first" . . . not that he was the head of the rest of the apostles, or had any dominance and authority over them; but because he was first called, and was the first that was to open the door of faith to the Gentiles: but mainly he is said to be so for order's sake; because some one must be named first, and he as good as any.
And Andrew his brother . . . who was called at the same time with him, and therefore are put together.
James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother . . . these two were called next and together, and therefore are placed in this order. The former is so called, to distinguish him from another James, the son of Alphaeus, and John is the beloved disciple; these were surnamed "Boanerges", that is, "sons of thunder".

Matthew 10:3 Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; (KJV)

Philip and Bartholomew . . . Phillip is a Greek name, which his parents, although Jews, might take from the Greeks that dwelt among them (Jn.12:20-21). Many think that Bartholomew is the same as Nathanael (Jn.1:46).
Thomas, and Matthew the publican . . . the other writers put Matthew first, but since he is the writer of this Gospel, he puts Thomas first, which proves his modesty, and He also calls himself the "publican", which the others do not. I think he does this to magnify the grace of God in his occupation. The Jews speak "Matthew" as a disciple of Jesus. Thomas was sometimes called Didymus; the one was his Hebrew, the other his Greek name, and both signify a "twin", as it is very likely he was.
James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus . . .
the former of these is so called, to distinguish him from James, the son of Zebedee. Some say this is the James, who was the brother of our Lord (Gal.1:19) and is called "James the less" in (Mk.15:40).

Matthew 10:4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. (KJV)
Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot . . . this is the last two, for they are all mentioned by pairs, because they were sent forth "by two and two", as the Evangelist Mark says (Mk.6:7). The former of these is called Simon the Canaanite, to distinguish him from Simon Peter, not that he was a Canaanite, that is, an inhabitant of the land of Canaan, a man of Canaan, as a certain woman is called a woman of Canaan (Mat.15:22), for all the disciples of Christ were Jews. Under this groundless name of Zealots, innumerable murders and most horrible wickedness were committed, both before, and during the siege of Jerusalem, as Josephus relates. It seems that Simon was one of this sect before his conversion. Judas, the last of the twelve, is called Iscariot;, some think that he belonged to the tribe of Issachar, others say that he takes his name from the place he belonged to, and that he was called "a man of Kerioth".
Who also betrayed him . . . meaning Christ Jesus, not only for further distinction's sake, but to his great reproach. We learn from this, that in even the purest society on Earth there has been an impure person; so it cannot be expected it should be otherwise in the best of churches, in the present state of imperfection. A person may have the highest gifts and attainments, as Judas had, ministerial gifts, and power of performing miracles, and yet be an evil and vile person.

	Matthew 10:2-4	Mark 3:16-19	Luke 6:14-16	Acts 1:12-18
1st Group	Simon (Peter) Andrew (Peter's brother) James (son of Zebedee) John (James' brother)	Simon (Peter) James (son of Zebedee) John (James' brother) Andrew	Simon (Peter) Andrew (Peter's brother) James John	Peter John James Andrew
2nd Group	Philip Bartholomew Thomas Matthew (tax gatherer)	Philip Bartholomew Matthew Thomas	Philip Bartholomew Matthew Thomas	Philip Thomas Bartholomew Matthew
3rd Group	James (son of Alphaeus) Thaddaeus Simon (the Cananean) Judas (Iscariot)	James (son of Alphaeus) Thaddaeus Simon (the Cananean) Judas (Iscariot)	James (son of Alphaeus) Simon (the zealot) Judas (son of James) Judas (Iscariot)	James (son of Alphaeus) Simon (the zealot) Judas (son of James)

Matthew 10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: (KJV)

These twelve Jesus sent forth . . . NONE other but them, under the character of apostles. These had been chosen by Him, had been with Him a considerable time, to whom He had been gradually communicating spiritual knowledge; and by the benefit of private conference with Him, and the observation they had made upon His doctrine and conduct, were greatly qualified for public usefulness: wherefore He gives them a commission, furnishes them with power and authority; and sends them forth by pairs, that they might be assistance to one another, and bear a joint testimony to the Gospel they preached. But before he sent them forth from His Presence, He gave them some special directions where they should go, and to whom they should minister, and where not to.
And he commanded them . . . as their Lord and Master; He gave them strict orders, which He expected them to obey, and closely instructed them, as they must answer to Him again.
Saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles . . . meaning, not the customs' and manners of the Heathens, they were to avoid; but that they were not to steer their course, or take their journey towards them: they were not, as yet, to go among them, and preach the Gospel to them; the calling of the Gentiles was not clearly revealed and known, nor was the time of their calling come. It was the will of God, that the Gospel should be FIRST preached to the Jews, to remove all excuse from them, and that their stubbornness and perverseness in rejecting Jesus as the Messiah, might manifestly appear; and since Christ himself was the Minister of the circumcision, He would have His apostles, for the present, while He was on Earth, be agreeable to the character He bore, that there might be a complete harmony in their conduct.
And into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not . . . the word "any" is added, and rightly so; for, not just the city of Samaria, but the metropolis of that country, is meant, and every city of the Samaritans: not that it was strictly unlawful and criminal to go there; for He Himself went into one of their cities, and so did His apostles (Jn.4:4-5,8; Lk.9:52), and after His death preached the Gospel there; but He judged it not proper and expedient at this time, not before they preached to the Jews; for there was a very great hatred existing between the Jews and the Samaritans, insomuch that they did not even talk among themselves. The Samaritans, although they boasted they descended from Jacob, were a mixed-breed people, partly Jews, partly Gentiles. Although they had, and held the law, and five books of Moses, they corrupted them in many places, to serve their purpose, and their religion, above all their worshipping at Mount Gerizim (Jn.4:20), on which account they were looked upon by the Jews as apostates, idolaters, and even as Heathens.

Matthew 10:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. (KJV)

But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel . . . to whom He Himself was sent (Mat.15:24). "The house of Israel" means the whole Jewish nation; for although this phrase designs only the ten tribes; here it includes all the Jews then living in the land of Judea, among whom there were some of all the tribes. The “lost sheep" of this house, are meant either all the people of the Jews in general, who were wandering, and were lost in error and sin, or the elect of God among them, for whose sake especially the apostles were sent unto. These are called "sheep", because they were chosen by God, and given to Christ (Jn.10:27-29) to be redeemed, looked up, sought out, and saved by Him; and "lost" ones, not only because they were lost in Adam and by their own transgressions. Neither they themselves, nor any mere creature, could ever save them from eternal ruin and destruction; but also because they were made to go astray, and were lost through the negligence and errors of their pastors, the Scribes and Pharisees, reflecting upon the characters of the shepherds of Israel: and partly to magnify the grace of God, in having regard to such ruined and miserable sinners; and also to excite the compassion and diligence of the apostles, to preach the Gospel to them. False shepherds: (Isa.3:12; 9:16; 56:10-12; Jer.10:21; 22:22; 23:34; 50:6; Eze.34:2-3; 34:10; Zec.10:3; 11:5,15,17; Jn.10:1,5,12; Tit.1:11). BEWARE!!! These are still abundant within our society today!

Matthew 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (KJV)

And as ye go . . . through the cities of Judea, from one city to another, for these apostles were itinerant preachers, who were not to stay long in any one place, but to move around, that the Gospel might be spread throughout all the land, and the lost sheep in every corner could be sought out and found.
Preach, saying, the kingdom of heaven is at hand . . . this was the subject of their ministry, which they were to proclaim aloud in every place they went; and which is expressed in the same words with which John the Baptist, and Christ Himself (Mat.3:2; 4:17). This reveals the complete harmony and strict agreement between them all.

Matthew 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. (KJV)

Heal the sick . . . the Lord Jesus had given them power to do this, both to confirm their doctrine, and recommend them to men. Nothing could more clearly prove their mission to be divine, and their doctrine from Heaven, or be more acceptable to men, than to "heal" the "sick" ones, who were given up by physicians, and incurable by the methods of man. They could do this without the use of medicines, either by speaking a word, or by laying on of their hands, or by anointing with oil, and always joined with prayer.
Cleanse the lepers . . . of which there were many in Israel, who otherwise could not be rid of that disease and by the law were deprived of many privileges and advantages which others enjoyed.
Raise the dead . . . which had NEVER ever been done before the times of Christ, since the days of Elijah (1 Ki.17:20-23) and Elisha (2 Ki.4:34-35); and which must be admitted by all men to be more than human, and to require the arm of almighty power.
Cast out devils . . . Satan’s demons, who are the sworn enemies of mankind, and who had taken possession of the bodies, as well as souls of multitudes in the Jewish nation. All these things the apostles were empowered and ordered to do, without taking any thing of the people.
Freely ye have received, freely give . . . this refers to both the working of miracles and preaching of the Gospel. Since the twelve had these miraculous gifts freely imparted to them by Christ, they were NOT to make any charge whatsoever.
And in dispensing the Gospel, just as they had freely received the Gospel from His lips; so they would just as freely, as well as faithfully, make it known to others. This forbids amassing wealth and riches by it, or preaching for disgusting gain, or filthy lucre's sake (Tit.1:11). There is SO, SO much of this going on today!
http://www.worldlychaos.org/w_c_cults_rich_preachers.1.htm

Matthew 10:9 Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses. (KJV)

Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses . . . purses were girdles or sashes and were an indispensable part of the dress. A girdle was made hollow, and answered the purpose of a purse. It was convenient, easily carried and safe. More often than not, these apostolic preachers who went to the wilderness to seek the lost sheep, would be exposed to hunger and cold, and other inconveniences. They must therefore resign themselves to God, depending on His providence for the necessaries of life. If God had sent them, He certainly shall support them. Any anxiety or worry therefore, would be a double crime, as it indicates a bad opinion of the Master who has employed them. Every missionary therefore should master this subject. This prohibition of gold, silver and brass, was intended to prevent their taking money for their journey. Luke 22:35 And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. (KJV)
There are so many so-called faith healers today. But did you ever consider that these ‘healers’ will not ‘heal’ unless they are in a place where an offering can be taken. IF these healers were really and truly from God, don’t you think that they would go to the hospitals where healing is really needed? Do they do that? NO! Because they are fakes!

Matthew 10:10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. (KJV)

Nor scrip for your journey . . . this is supposedly a large leather bag, in which shepherds and travelers put their food, and other things, and carried with them, hanging it about their necks. The apostles were not to carry money nor any provisions for their journey. (Lk.9:3; Mk.6:8).
Neither two coats . . . nothing to hinder them.
Nor shoes . . . only sandals, of what sort these were, is not certain.
Nor yet with staves . . . not with more than one staff, which was sufficient to assist them, and lean upon in journeying: for, according to Mark, one was allowed. They might take a travelling staff, but not staves for defense, or to fight with (Mat.26:55). Now these things were forbidden, partly because they would be burdensome to them in travelling; and partly because they were not to be out any long time, but were quickly to return again; and mainly to teach them to live and depend upon divine providence of Almighty God.
For the workman is worthy of his meat . . . they were workmen, or laborers in His vineyard, and they, doing their duty right, were entitled to food and raiment, and all the necessaries of life. And although they were not to make gain of the Gospel, or preach it for filthy lucre's sake; they could expect comfort from the people to whom they ministered, to take care of their needs. And which was their duty to provide for them.

Matthew 10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. (KJV)

And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter . . . just as Christ had instructed them how they were to travel, so too He directs them where to go, and who to ask for, and to stay with, in the different towns and villages to which they should come; that as soon as they had entered any town or village, they should,
Inquire, who in it is worthy . . . of good character or of like faith, for they must be lodge only with proper and reputable people. Now, when such a worthy generous man was found, the apostles were to continue with him.
And there abide till ye go out . . . of that city or town, to another city or town, for to keep changing houses would bring upon them a poor character, as if they were difficult to be pleased, not content with the provision made for them.

Matthew 10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it. (KJV)

And when ye come into an house . . . the house of a welcoming man, when, upon inquiry, was found.
Salute it . . . meaning those who live there, especially the master of the family. Some versions add, saying, peace be to this house (Lk.10:5), meaning a very just, and proper way of saluting.

Matthew 10:13 And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. (KJV)

And if the house be worthy . . . if the ‘house’ appeared to be civil, courteous, friendly and hospitable, upon such a salutation, it was ready to receive and embrace them, and provide for them.
Let your peace come upon it . . . the logic is, the peace the apostles wished for, in their form of salutation, should come, and abide on the family. The salutation itself, or the things desired in it, should be granted, and the house be blessed for their sake, and as a reward of their generosity, and hospitality.
But if it be not worthy . . . does not prove to be what it was said to be, as they expected it to be generous and liberal; but, on the contrary, uncivil and rude, neglect their salutation, discover an unwillingness to receive them, and turn their backs upon them . . .
Let your peace return to you . . . the happiness wished for shall not come upon them, and the prayers and good wishes of the apostles shall be void, and of no effect, with respect to that household, but should be made good to themselves; and they should be directed to another house, where they should find persons more generous and free to have guests.

Matthew 10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. (KJV)

And whosoever shall not receive you . . . into their houses, and refuse to provide for them in a friendly manner . . .
Nor hear your words . . . belittle their salutations, make no account of, but despise their good wishes for their welfare; and also treat with contempt the doctrines of the Gospel preached by them; and would not attend their ministry, or if they did, give no credit to what they said, but deride and reject them.
When ye depart out of that house, or city . . . to another house, or to another city, being compelled to move, through their contemptuous rejection of them.
Shake off the dust of your feet . . . so it was for Paul and Barnabas at Antioch in Pisidia, when the Jews contradicted and blasphemed the Gospel preached by them, raised a persecution against them, and expelled them out of their coasts (Acts 13:51).

Matthew 10:15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. (KJV)

Verily, I say unto you . . . . any time that Jesus spoke these words, He was about to declare something very seriously or positively affirm something. He was about to say something of considerable importance, and required their attention.
It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha, inthe day of judgment, than for that city . . . the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrha are mentioned because as they were very notorious and abominable sinners. Their temporal punishment was well known, complete and awful, but their future damnation is here considerd. BUT . . . although their punishment was tremendous, and they also will suffer also "the vengeance of eternal fire" (Jude 1:7), their punishment will be milder, and more tolerable, than that of the inhabitants of any city, that rejects the Gospel of the grace of God . . . then and now! More tolerable: (Mat.11:22,24).

What the Twelve Must Expect (Matthew 10:16-23)

Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. (KJV)

Behold, I send you forth, as sheep among wolves . . . this, and the following verses, largely respect the troubles, afflictions, persecutions and sufferings that would befall the apostles after the death and resurrection of Christ; when their commission would not end but become larger. Christ gives a faithful account before hand, that they might be better prepared and not be surprised when the troubles came upon them. He compares the apostles to "sheep", because they were meek and humble in their spirits, harmless and inoffensive; they were weak and unable to protect themselves, and were sent out by Him unarmed and defenseless. Their oppressors and persecutors are compared to "wolves" because they were fierce and furious, voracious and ravenous, cruel and hurtful, as these creatures are, especially to sheep. So Christ gives them this good advice . . .
Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves . . . wise and harmless (Rom. 16:19; Eph.5:15; Phil.2:15). The serpent is a very sharp sighted, cunning creature, and uses many different arts and trick for its own preservation. They should be careful to give no chance of offence, or irritate and provoke them, and to avoid all snares and traps that are laid for them . . . and, at the same time, maintain the innocence and harmlessness of the dove, being free from all wicked cunning and craftiness, without resentment, malice and wrath; not considering and seeking revenge, but meek and humble in their manner, leading gentle and mild lives, and proceeding in the course of their calling, even though they are wide open to many insults, and much oppression.

Matthew 10:17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; (KJV)

But beware of men . . . evil men who were as bad as wolves, not merely wicked men in common, the men of the world, and enemies of the Gospel; but largely those of authority, ecclesiastical and civil governors of the people, the Scribes, Pharisees, elders, and chief priests, and other rulers. The advice to the apostles is, to be careful how they came into their company, for they would look for all opportunities and chances against them, and use their power and interest to hurt them.
For they will deliver you up to the councils . . . to the Sanhedrim, of which there were three different kinds: the greater, which consisted of seventy one persons, and was only held in Jerusalem; the lesser one, which was made up of twenty three members, and was kept in every place where there were an hundred and twenty Israelites; and the third, where there was not that number, and was a bench of three judges only.
And they will scourge you in their synagogues . . . where the bench of three judges kept their court; under whose knowledge were economic judgments, related to thefts, damages, and restitutions, ravishing, enticing of virgins and defamation. These had power, in certain cases, to condemn to the scourge, but not to death (Acts 22:19; 2 Cor.11:24).

Matthew 10:18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. (KJV)

And ye shall be brought before governors . . . meaning Roman governors, as was Paul before Gallio, Felix and Festas, for judgments relating to life and death were to be taken away from the Jews, and were taken away from the Jewish Sanhedrim.
And kings for my sake . . . such as Herod, Agrippa, Nero, Domitian, and others, before whom some of the apostles were brought; not as thieves, or murderers, or traitors, and seditious persons, or for having done any wrong or injury to any man's person or property; but solely for the sake of Christ, for the profession of their faith in Him, and for preaching His Gospel. They had no reason to be ashamed, nor were they!
For a testimony against them, and the Gentiles . . . meaning to render testimony, both to Jews and Gentiles, of the Truth and power of the Gospel of Christ. Bearing a testimony to the Truths of the Gospel, would be either to the conviction and conversion of many Gentiles, as well as Jews; or would be a testimony which would stand against them another day, both against the Jews, who charged, and accused them, and brought them before the Heathen kings and governors, to punish them with death, and against the Gentile magistrates, and others, who should join with them in rejecting the Gospel, and putting them to death for preaching it.

Matthew 10:19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. (KJV)

But when they deliver you up . . . the apostles hearing that they should be delivered up to councils, and brought before governors and kings, might have some concern how they should behave, and what they would be able to say to justify themselves and the Truth before such persons with power, for they were not used to speaking with men in such high positions. They all were illiterate men, with no public schooling; most of them poor fishermen; and might fear on these accounts, that the Gospel would suffer for want of able persons to defend it before the great ones of the Earth. But, in order to remove these their fears and objections, and to strengthen and comfort their minds, our Lord speaks comforting words to them.
Take no thought how, or what ye shall speak . . . these twelve were not like professional orators. They would not have to take special pains and search their thoughts to prepare an elaborate speech. For these twelve would not lack for words, because they would have the exact arguments put into their mouths, and be given the proper language to express them. A grand blessing!
For it shall be given you in the same hour, what ye shall speak . . . immediate assistance would be given to them either by His Father, or Himself . . . in the form of His Spirit. The Holy Spirit would suggest unto them, at the right time, the most proper words to be said, and help them to deliver those words the proper manner, and these would be the most convincing arguments. This was greatly demonstrated and proven in Peter and John, two poor fishermen, when before the council (Acts 4:18-19), and also Stephen (Acts 7).

Matthew 10:20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. (KJV)

For it is not ye that speak . . . both the things they spoke, and the very words they spoke, were not of themselves, but were suggested by the Holy Spirit. He not only prepared their hearts so they could speak the words. The Holy Spirit was the competent and resourceful cause, they were only instruments.
But the Spirit of your father, which speaketh in you . . . what they would say was not to be dictated by their own natural understanding, nor by an angel, but by the Holy Spirit . . . here called the "Spirit of" their "Father" because He proceeds from Him, and is of the same nature as Him. This was tremendous assistance promised to them.
Holy Spirit, Called Spirit Of Truth: (Jn.14:17; 15:26; 16:13; 1 Jn.2:27; 4:6; 5:6).
Holy Spirit, Called Jn.14:16,26; 15:26; 16:7-8; Acts 1:4; 9:31)
Holy Spirit, Called The Spirit of Christ: (Rom.8:9; Phil.1:19; 1 Pet.1:11).
Holy Spirit, Called The Spirit of the living God. (2 Cor.3:3).
Holy Spirit, Called The Eternal Spirit: (Heb.9:14).
Holy Spirit, Called The Spirit of God: (1 Jn.4:2).

Matthew 10:21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. (KJV)

And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death . . . Christ Jesus has fortified the minds of His apostles by the preceding promises of divine influence and assistance. Any time that the Lord chooses a person for a particular task, you can rest assured that He shall equip that person to do the chore. This does not say that brother shall put brother to death; but that he shall deliver him up to death; that is, deliver him up to those who would put him to death. This was done by giving testimony, and being an informer.
And the father the child, and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death . . . the Coming of Christ into the world divided mankind. It did NOT bring unity. When one person in a family accepts Christ and another family member does not, there is a division. I can verify this! 1 Cor.1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV) . . . Luke 12:51-53 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: 52 For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. 53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. (KJV) . . . If there were there no evidence that this had been done, it could hardly be credible. The ties which bind brothers and sisters, and parents and children together are very strong, and it is hard to believe that division of feelings on religious subjects would make them forget they are relatives. Yet history assures us that this has been done. Since it is so, how awful it must be with the evil that is in the human heart against religion! This dreadful opposition to God and His Gospel, has induced, or can induce people to turn against the most tender relationships, and deliver the best of friends to torture and death. To add to the horrors of this, those who were put to death in past persecution were tormented in the most awful ways that human minds could come up with. They were crucified; thrown into boiling oil; burnt at the stake; roasted slowly over coals; forced to drink melted lead; torn in pieces by beasts of prey; covered with pitch and burned to give light in the gardens of Nero.
As dreadful as this prediction was, it was fulfilled; and incredible as it seems, parents and children, and husbands and wives, were wicked enough to deliver up each other to these cruel modes of death because unbelief of the Gospel. Such is the utter opposition of the heart of man to the Gospel of Jesus Christ! That hostility will overcome the strong ties of natural affection, and will be satisfied with nothing else than to show its power. BEWARE!!! There can be NO slight opposition to the Gospel of God. Any opposition is too much opposition! This shows the sad corruption of human nature, its enmity to the Gospel of Christ, and the confirmed malice and hatred of Satan against Christ and His interest. http://www.ccel.org/f/foxe/martyrs/home.html

Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. (KJV)

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake . . . this is for the most part directed to the apostles themselves, for this was to be the lot of the apostles, that they would not only be ill treated by others, but their close friends and relatives love would be turned to hatred to them. They would be the butt of the malice and wrath of most men, or of the biggest part of the Jews, and all wicked men who refused to believe and rejected the Messiah. This hatred they would be exposed to, would not be on account of any ill will to their persons; or because of any evil or immorality committed by them; but entirely for the Name of Christ, in whom they believed, by whom they were called, of which they made a profession, and zealously preached His Gospel.
But he that endureth to the end, shall be saved . . . I think this refers to the fact that the Lord will be able to keep His own for the three-year period of His ministry. And too, Mat.24:13 likewise means that the Lord will be able to keep His own during the Great Tribulation period. I also think this refers to us in today’s world. He that hangs in there and bears all the sufferings that come our way because of the Gospel of Christ, and does not shrink away and apostatize, and will give crucial evidence of attachment to Christ, shall enter into Heaven (Rev.3:21-22). We must stand fast in our faith, hold fast the profession of it, follow Jesus on that narrow path, and hold out to the end . . . if we do, we shall be eternally saved.

Matthew 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. (KJV)

But when they persecute you in this city . . . Jesus is still speaking to the apostles. They now knew that they would be persecuted. When they were persecuted in one city for preaching the Gospel, go to another.
Flee ye into another . . . not as much for their own safety, although this was permitted, but for the further spreading of the Gospel. They were not to take methods to avoid persecution, or to make an escape from it, but to persevere under it. They were not to be discouraged, and quit because of persecution in one place, but to persist in the preaching of the Gospel, by carrying it to other cities.
For verily I say unto you . . . listen to me, He says.
Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel . . . finished their tour through the cities, preaching of the Gospel in them.
Till the son of man be come . . . I think this could mean until He is manifested before the nation. It seems that our Lord covered the whole nation of Israel. There was a real division in the nation concerning Him. When He asked His disciples, "...Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?" (Mat.16:13), they gave Him several answers. Everybody seems to have had their own opinion about Him. But, what about today? He is still the most controversial Person who has ever been in the world. But friend, He is the Judge before Whom you shall one day stand. BEWARE!!!

The Lord Jesus gives His apostles men general instructions. My friend, these are great values which you and I can apply to our lives, although this was spoken to the twelve apostles.

Matthew 10:24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. (KJV)

The disciple is not above his master . . . the apostles (and us) are far inferior to Him; in knowledge, in reputation and character. We can NEVER expect (or want) the same honor and respect shown to them (or us), as to his Master. And too, they (and us) must not think it any hardship if he is mistreated in the same way as was Jesus. Our Lord wants to fortify the minds of His apostles against all the reproach and persecution they would come up against in the world, just as the treatment He Himself met with. Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (KJV) . . . We must expect the same treatment which our Lord Jesus received. A TRUE Christian must always remember that we are representing the Lord Jesus Christ, and He must always come first. If we do not put Him first, we will have trouble . . . trouble with Him!
Nor the servant above his Lord . . . the Jews have a saying: "no servant is worthier than his master"; and it is just common sense that Christ might make use of such common, well known expressions, so that He might be the more easily be understood.

Matthew 10:25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? (KJV)

It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master . . . (Lk.6:40; Jn3:16; 15:20). A disciple should think himself very well off, be entirely satisfied, but be abundantly thankful, if he meets with no worse treatment than his Maste. And if he has the same honour done him, as his Master, this is more than could be expected by us. And if he has the same ill usage with his Master, he need not wonder about it, but should comfort himself with this consideration, that it is no other, nor worse than his Master had before him: and the same is equally true in the other case,
And the servant as his Lord . . . these expressions were proverbs or common sayings among the Jews, which our Lord chose to make use of, and adapt to his present purpose. "It is enough for the servant, that he be as his master", is a saying often to be met with in their writings which our Lord applies, and reasons upon, in the following manner . . .
If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of the household? . . . they have called Jesus, their Master and Teacher, Beelzebub, the prince of the devils (Mat.12:24; Lk.11:15; Jn.8:48), and it must be expected that they will call ALL of the family of God by the same names. Beelzebub, or Beelzebul, was a god of the Eckronites (2 Ki.1:2). The name also meant, among the Jews, the god of filth, and was considered as the lowest and most offensive of all the idol gods. Hence the name was given to the leader, or prince, of all the devils (Lk.11:15; Mk.3:22). The Jews, by giving the name to Christ, poured out upon Him the greatest possible abuse and contempt. If Christians are ever called by such vile names, even devils, they should not be disturbed at it; since their precious Lord and Master was called the prince of devils.

Matthew 10:26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. (KJV)

Fear them not, therefore . . . be not afraid of men, nor of their abuse, criticism and insults, for our Lord states it would do them no more hurt, than they did Him.
For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed, and hid, that shall not be known . . . evil men may hide their malice and wickedness for a while, but before long it will all be revealed to their great shame and reproach. The innocence of the followers of Christ may, for some time, be out of sight, and they may be considered as the worst of men; but in time things will turn around and they shall appear in quite another light . . . just as was the Gospel preached and professed by them. Like today, the TRUE Gospel of Christ it is little known, lies hidden, and is covered with disgrace by the devil and his children; but my friend, in the Lord's own good time its light shall break forth, and its power will be made known and made ever so clear to the hearts of men.

Matthew 10:27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. (KJV)

What I tell you in darkness . . . Jesus proceeds to encourage His apostles to be open, clear and faithful with the Gospel, not fearing the faces, frowns and fallacies of evil men. I think our Lord means that what was hid and covered (the Gospel) should not stay that way, but should be revealed and made known, and they were the persons who were to do it. What He had told them "in darkness" . . . meaning the private instructions which He had given them while with Him, they were now to proclaim publicly, on the house top, not in a dark and obscure manner. Although Jesus spoke in parables to others, He made known the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven to the twelve.
That speak ye in light . . . openly and publicly in the synagogues and temple, in the high places of the city, streets, or fields . . . wherever there is a gathering of people. They were to hide and conceal nothing, but speak out clearly, distinctly and fully.
And what ye hear in the ear . . . or what is whispered to them by Jesus (spoken privately), as their Master. Our Lord very justly takes upon Himself the character of a doctor, master and dictator, and solemnly charges His disciples, clearly, loudly and faithfully to declare what He told to them.
That preach ye upon the housetops . . . the roofs of their houses were flat, upon which they could stand or walk; and battlements (walls) were made about them to prevent their falling off, according to the law in (Deut.22:8). It was here many religious events took place: here Peter went up to pray (Acts 10:9), and here persons sometimes sat and read. It was there that David saw Bathsheba taking a bath (2 Sam.11:2)

Matthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. (KJV)

And fear not them which kill the body . . . this is bloody persecutors, who were not content to revile, scourge and imprison, but to put the faithful ministers of Christ to death, in the most cruel and torturing manner. Jesus told them even these were not to be feared and dreaded by them, and not to allow these to discourage and divert them from performing their important work (Lk.12:4). His apostles were to hang in there, in spite of all opposers; who, when they have vented all their malice and vengeance, can only take away a poor, frail, mortal life.
But are not able to kill the soul . . . the soul of mankind is immortal, and CANNOT be touched by the sword, fire or any instruments of violence. Only Almighty God has control of the soul.
But rather fear him, which is able to destroy both body and soul in hell . . . the fear of men who would kill them, as previously predicted, was designed to prevent the apostles from the mission on which they were about to be sent. Here Jesus tells them that IF they yield to this fear, He reminds them that they must, as the alternative, encounter "Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." The apostles (and us) must consider of going . . . even though there might be great persecution, the danger of refusing to go, or of turning back, is much greater. These had a choice of evils, the most cruel persecution is to be patiently endured . . . rather than to neglect their (and our) duty to God.
Destroy . . . there are those that say the word destroy in this place, as proof that the soul can be annihilated. But my dear friend, there is absolutely NO place, any where in the Bible, that tell us a person can be annihilated (extinguished, obliterated, exterminated). The soul of mankind is immortal, meaning it shall live forever! To destroy, is NOT to annihilate, but to bring to ruin; and the soul and body are brought to ruin when they are cast into Hell.
In Hell . . . since the body and soul both are to be destroyed in Hell. Hell lies beyond the final judgment, FAR beyond! Immortality; endless life of the righteous: (Job 19:26; Ps.49:15; Ecc.3:21; Mat.22:32; Mk.12:25,27; Lk.16:22; 20:36; Jn.6:50: 8:51; 11:26; Rom.2:7; 1 Cor.15:53; 2 Cor.5:1; Phil.3:21; 1 Thes.4:14,17; 1 Tim.6:16; 2 Tim.1:10; Rev.6:9; 22:5).
Immortality; of the wicked, Banashed from God: (Ps.11:6; Isa.66:24; Mat.7:23; 13:50; 22:13; 25:46). Their fate: (Mk.9:46; Lk.16:23,28; Rev.9:5; 14:11; 16:10; 18:10; 20:10).

Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. (KJV)

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? . . . a farthing, with the Jews, was a very small coin, perhaps like our penny, meaning worth very little. In Luke 12:6-7, five sparrows were sold for two farthings, which makes them even cheaper. This shows they were of little account.
And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father . . . the tender protection that God extends to those who endure. If a tiny sparrow does not fall without your Father knowing it, why should you, who are of much more value than many sparrows, be afraid to serve God rather than man?

But the very hairs of your head are all numbered . . . and if Almighty God knows the number of all the hairs of your head, don’t you think He loves you! His special providence is found in the most tiny manifestations, and a blessed assurance that even if we fall by the hand of man, God is with us in the fall! My friend, this makes it a blessing instead of a calamity. The perfect knowledge God has, and the wonderful care He takes of us, and of all His creatures, especially His dear children and faithful ministers, that not even one sparrow, not a single hair of a man's head falls to the ground without the knowledge, and will of God!

Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. (KJV)

Fear ye not therefore . . . do NOT be afraid of men, do NOT distrust the providence of Almighty God . . . for if that reaches to the least of His creatures, little sparrows, and to that which is of the least account with men, the single hair of a man's head . . . it is common sense that the Lord regards the lives of men more important.
Ye are of more value than many sparrows . . . there is no comparison between the whole species of sparrows and the life of one single man, and much less between them and the apostles of the Lamb. Any man is more valuable, as a man, than many sparrows, and much more a Christian man, but still more an apostle. If God takes care of sparrows and is concerned for their lives, how much more will He take care of His faithful ministers!

Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. (KJV)

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men . . . confession of Christ is absolutely necessary for every believer in Christ. It is not enough just to believe in Him with the heart, we must confess Him with our mouth. Confessing Him really lies in ascribing their whole salvation to Him, giving Him the glory of it, and declaring their faith in Him to others. We must tell what He has done for our us, we must subject ourselves to His ordinances, in other words, we must trust and obey. A confession of Christ is to speak openly and boldly of the Gospel, to acknowledge, and declare, that Christ Jesus is truly God, the eternal Son of God, the only Mediator between God and men, the Saviour and Redeemer of lost sinners; through whose Blood alone is the forgiveness of sins (1 Pet.1:18-19). Telling people about Jesus does not belong only to pastors. It is the duty of ALL born again believers. 1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (KJV)
Him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven . . . Jesus has a perfect knowledge of the apostles, and has an affectionate love to them. He will openly own and acknowledge them as His ministers, and speak approval and praise of their works and labors. They performed their work through the gifts, grace and strength, which He has communicated to them. He will introduce them into His Father's Presence, and recommend them to Him, to be honored, blessed and glorified by Him. So it is with us today! Unless we confess Jesus, willingly and shamelessly, He will not confess us before His Father in Heaven. Matthew 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV)

Matthew 10:33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. (KJV)

But whosoever shall deny me before men . . . to deny that they were apostles of Christ, and that Christ was their Lord and Master would be a very heinous crime. And my dear friend, this includes people in today’s world. BEWARE!!! Do NOT deny Jesus! This verse warns us to willingly confess Him and NEVER deny Him. But, beware, do not cast your pearls before swine (Mat.7:6). BEWARE!!! There are times in certain circles, when we do NOT honor Him as we should, and there are times that we misuse His Holy Name.
Him will I also deny before my Father which is heaven . . . what a clear warning! He will deny them to be disciples, or that they belong to Him; He will deny that He ever knew them (Mat.7:23), He will declare in the Presence of his Father, His disapproval of them, His indignation against them, His condemnation of them, that they are workers of iniquity. He will do more than that, He shall banish them from His Presence, and send them into everlasting burnings (Isa.33:14). We must be careful! IF anyone denies Jesus in any way, He shall deny that person before God His Father. BEWARE!!! How can a person deny Jesus? #1. To deny His deity, that He is God. #2. That He is the only Way to Heaven. #3. That He was a Man, born of a virgin, denying His incarnation. #4. That He died on the cross and 3 days later, He was resurrected. #5. To profess to be a Christian, but deny Christ by the way they live. #6. To deny the Bible is God’s Holy Word. #7. To deny His imminent Return. #8. To deny He shall one day be Judge of all who have ever lived. #9. To deny the fact that there is a Hell, where the majority of people shall go. #10. To deny Jesus is to reject the Holy Spirit as a source of inspiration to lead them into Truth. #11. To deny Jesus is to reject His teachings and turning to cults. #12. To deny Jesus is to refuse to tell others about Him, for He tells us: “Go ye therefore.” This is just to give you an idea of how many ways a person can deny Jesus.

Matthew 10:34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. (KJV)

Think not ye that I am come to send peace on earth . . . this is a verse that a peace lover has difficulty. But, until ALL unrighteousness is put down and suppressed, the Person of Jesus will cause trouble because the hostility of Satan will bring about battles in this world. Christ did NOT come to bring peace at His First Coming. Sin still exists and God says that there will be no peace for the wicked (Isa.48:22; 57:21). The Jews had thought there would be great outward peace and prosperity in the days of the Messiah.
I came, not to send peace, but a sword . . . the "sword" here may mean the Gospel, which divides and separates the people of Christ and their principles and practices, from those of the world, and from and one member of a family from another. 1 Cor. 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV)

Matthew 10:35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. (KJV)

For I am come to set a man at variance against . . . if a father believes in Christ, embraces His Gospel, and submits to His leadership, he is contradicted, opposed and persecuted by his own family.
And the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law . . . in reality, families have been divided by the preaching of the Gospel, and family members have been separated. The Gospel brings unity to believers, and that very unity makes a division with the unsaved world.

Matthew 10:36 And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. (KJV)

And a man's foes shall be they of his own household . . . this is possibly the strongest pressure. When Jesus advises His apostles about counting the cost of commitment to Him, He mentions family members. Luke 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. (KJV) . . . As a rule, no one can motivate you like a deeply loved mate or family member. Christ has dealt fairly and faithfully with His apostles, in telling them (and us) the worst we can meet by serving Him. They and we, must count the cost. Persecutors are worse than beasts, because they prey upon those of their own kind. The strongest bonds of love and duty, has often been broken through from enmity against Christ. Sufferings from friends and relations are very grievous; cutting to the bone. It seems clear that all who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution in some form. “Hate not his father” . . . hate here means to love less. We cannot love anyone more than Jesus.

Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (KJV)

He that loveth father or mother more than me . . . God is LOVE! Jesus is God! Jesus is absolutely NOT teaching the apostles (and us) to lessen the proper affection of children to their parents; or to take away the respect and regard we have for them. The intent of this Passage is to show, that since Christ is infinitely above all creatures, He is to be loved more than the nearest and dearest relations, friends or spouse. Anyone therefore, that prefers father and mother over and above Christ, breaks the commands of Christ (Mat.22:37), rejects His Gospel, and either denies Him, or does not confess Him,.
Is not worthy of me . . . Jesus was speaking to the apostles, BUT it applies to us today as well . . . any such person who loves someone more than Jesus, should NOT name the Name of Christ, or be called by His Name (CHRISTian), and should NOT be considered one of His disciples. They are not fit for the Kingdom of Heaven, but deserve to be rejected by Him, and banished for ever from His Presence. On the other hand, anyone who puts Jesus first and foremost in their heart and life, is worthy of Christ, and His grace, His righteousness, His Presence, His Kingdom and His glory. The same goes for the following . . .
And he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me . . . anyone who delights in their child, more than Jesus, drops the profession of Christ (Christian), renounces His Gospel, and neglects His commands. They are NOT worthy to bear the Name of Christ, NOT worthy to be accounted as one of His (Jn.1:12-13; 10:28-30; 1 Jn.3:10). Is not worthy of me . . . meaning not fit to be considered as a follower of Him and is NOT a Christian. (Lk.14:26). The meaning of this is quite clear. Christ must be loved supremely, or He is not loved at all. He will NOT submit to second place in our life. If we are not willing to give up all earthly possessions, and forsake all earthly friends and family; and if we do not obey Him rather than all others, we really do not love Him and have no true affection to Him. He will not use us unless we love Him and are really devoted to Him.

Matthew 10:38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. (KJV)

And he that taketh not his cross . . . when persons were condemned to be crucified, part of the sentence was that they carry the cross on which they were to die, to the place of execution. Accordingly Christ carried His cross, until He fainted from fatigue and exhaustion (Mat.27:31-32). The cross was an instrument of death. To carry it was burdensome and disgraceful, and was an addition to the punishment. So, to carry the cross is a symbolic expression, meaning that we must endure whatever is burdensome, trying or disgraceful, in following Christ. It means to do our duty, let the world think or speak as they may. This every follower of Jesus is required to do.
And followeth after me . . . the apostles (and us) were/are to be led by His example, to preach or profess the Gospel, to submit to the ordinances of it, and cheerfully and willingly suffer for the sake of it. If anyone is not willing to do this, but avoids it, complies with his friends, conforms to the world, and turns his back on Christ; to these He may well say . . .
Is not worthy of me . . . these are not fit to be counted as His disciples and followers.

Matthew 10:39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. (KJV)

He that findeth his life shall lose it . . . Jesus contrasts the life which we have here in the flesh with the gift of eternal life which comes only through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is possible that when a person comes to Christ, he/she may be put to death because of his/her faith. This is not true in the United States yet, but it is true in other parts of the world even today. Anyone who loses his physical life for Christ shall find eternal life which takes him into the Presence of Christ. 2 Cor. 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. (KJV) . . . Anyone that is anxious to save his temporal life, or his comfort and security here, shall lose eternal life . . . . meaning they will not make it to Heaven.
And he that loseth his life for my sake, shall find it . . .but, anyone that is willing to risk, or lose, his comfort and life here, for Jesus’ sake, shall find life everlasting. On resurrection day, there shall be a great advantage. They shall live with Christ in body and soul in the utmost happiness, for all eternity in Heaven (Mat.16:25).

Matthew 10:40 He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. (KJV)

He that receiveth you, receiveth me . . . this is said to comfort the apostles, in case they would assume from the account of all the sorrows, afflictions and persecutions they were to meet with, that there would be no one that would receive them and the message of the Gospel. Jesus tells them that there would be some that would embrace the Gospel preached by them, and receive them kindly into their houses, and entertain them in a very hospitable manner. But the ones who would “receive” them would be “few” according to the “many” who would NOT receive them (Mat.7:13-14). The Lord Jesus wants to encourage the apostles, who would risk their all by so doing. He wants them to know, that anyone receiving His apostles, would be interpreted by Him, as a receiving of Himself. What you do to others, you do to Jesus: (Acts 9:4-5; 22:7-8; 26:14-15; Mat.25:40-46).
And he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me . . . this verse is for those who say that Jesus is not God! If you receive Jesus, you also receive God, His Father. Jesus IS God!!! Read the following: (Mat.18:5; 25:40,45; Lk.9:48; 10:16; Jn.5:23; 12:44-49; 13:20-21). http://www.godcannotlie.org/is_jesus_god.htm

Matthew 10:41 He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. (KJV)

He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet . . . "a prophet" here is meant, not one that foretells things to come, but a preacher of the Gospel; because prophesying sometimes means preaching. In today’s times we no longer have prophets. John the Baptist was the last Old Testament prophet. Today’s prophets minister of the Word of God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To "receive" Him, means not only to embrace His doctrine, but to hold and embrace Him close to your heart in a kind and loving manner. Because Jesus is a Prophet, the apostles themselves were prophets, bringing the Word of God to mankind.
Shall receive a prophet's reward . . . I really think there is a reward which God has selected, prepared and promised, to them who receive His prophets, meaning not only pastors, but all God’s children, for Jesus has told us to “Go ye therefore” (Mat.28:19). What the prophets themselves shall receive, even the reward of the inheritance, the kingdom prepared from the foundation of the world, a reward of grace, and not of debt; since both, in their own way, obey the Lord Jesus.
And he that receiveth a righteous man, in the name of a righteous man . . . he that is kind and tender to all, whether he is a minister of the Gospel or not, who reveals the grace of God upon his soul, and is justified by the righteousness of Christ (Rom.5:1), and has the “hope” of eternal life (Tit.1:2) because of it, simply because he has righteousness of Christ imputed to him (Rom.4:16-25).
He shall receive a righteous man's reward . . . what reward does the righteous man receive? A “mansion” (Jn.14:2), that is “reserved” for us in Heaven (1 Pet.1:4-5). The same reward of grace the righteous man himself shall have, namely, eternal life, as God's gift, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Matthew 10:42 And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. (KJV)

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little one. . . these little ones, clearly mean His apostles. Called little ones, to indicate their desire of wealth, status, and whatever the world calls great. They were little in the estimation of the world, and in their own estimation. They were learners, not yet teachers; and they made no pretense to attract the admiration of mankind. So different from today’s greedy pastors. http://www.worldlychaos.org/w_c_cults_rich_preachers.1.htm
A cup of cold water only . . . used to express the least favor or benefit. Few would refuse a cup of cold water to any one, who was thirsty and tired, BUT few would give it to such a one because he was a Christian, preaching the Gospel of the Lord Jesus . . . BUT . . . in giving it to a man because he was a Christian, he would be showing love to the Saviour Himself, while the other way he would give it from simple sympathy or kindness, with no regard for the Christian, the Christian's Master, or His cause.
In the name of a disciple . . . or because that person is a disciple of Christ.
Verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward . . . it will be detected one day by Christ, who takes what is done to the least of His brethren, as done to Himself. What you do to others, you do to Jesus: (Acts 9:4-5; 22:7-8; 26:14-15; Mat.25:40-46).

In John chapter 15, the Lord Jesus clarifies this section when He says that the world hated Him and is going to hate those who belong to Him. We should not to be any more popular with the world than Christ Jesus is popular. The measure of our loyalty and faithfulness to Him is given in the prophet's reward and the righteous man's reward. If you defend the Lord Jesus as a prophet, you will receive a prophet's reward. If you receive Him as only a righteous man, you will receive a righteous man's reward. But if you acknowledge Him as Lord and Saviour, you will receive a full reward. Our Lord makes it very clear that rewards are given on the basis of faithfulness.
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (KJV) . . . IF a person is truly saved, they are saved for ever! http://www.hisservants.org/once_saved,_always_saved_h_s.htm