Lord’s Library editors offer a Matthew 10:16 meaning with commentary and supporting Scriptures for your edification.
Matthew 10:16 states, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” In this verse, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their mission to spread the Gospel. The image of “sheep in the midst of wolves” underscores the vulnerability of believers in a world that is often hostile to the truth of the Gospel. Sheep are defenseless creatures, reliant on their shepherd, symbolizing the disciples’ dependence on Christ for protection and guidance (John 10:11-14).
The instruction to be “wise as serpents” reflects the need for discernment and prudence in navigating the dangers of the world. The serpent, though often associated with deception (Genesis 3:1), here represents carefulness and awareness. Jesus is not calling His disciples to be deceitful, but to be astute and perceptive in their dealings, understanding the schemes of those who oppose the Gospel (Ephesians 6:11).
“Harmless as doves” highlights the Christian’s call to remain innocent and pure, avoiding any form of retaliation or harm. Doves symbolize peace and purity throughout Scripture, such as during the baptism of Jesus when the Holy Spirit descended “like a dove” (Matthew 3:16). The combination of wisdom and innocence reflects the balance Jesus desires His followers to maintain: shrewdness without compromising integrity and peacefulness without naivety.
This balance is further emphasized in passages like Romans 12:18, where Paul exhorts, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Believers are called to be both wise in protecting themselves and others, while also trusting in God to defend them from danger. The wisdom and harmlessness instructed by Jesus allow Christians to stand firm in their faith, acting with righteousness even when surrounded by opposition (1 Peter 3:16).
In essence, Matthew 10:16 encapsulates the approach believers must take in a fallen world: relying on divine wisdom to navigate the dangers of persecution while maintaining a Christ-like demeanor of peace and purity.
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