Matthew 10:5- “These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: ‘Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus begins His instructions to the twelve apostles before sending them out on their first mission. He specifically directs them not to go to the Gentiles or Samaritans but to focus instead on the “lost sheep of Israel” (as mentioned in the next verse). This initial restriction was not a rejection of the Gentiles or Samaritans but a strategic starting point for their mission. Jesus’ ministry began with the Jewish people, fulfilling God’s promises to Israel and laying the foundation for the gospel to later reach all nations.
Historical Context
At the time, the Jewish people were awaiting the Messiah, and Jesus’ ministry was rooted in fulfilling the promises made to Abraham, Moses, and David. The Samaritans were a group of people who had intermarried with non-Jews and adopted some foreign religious practices, leading to tension and hostility between them and the Jews. Gentiles, or non-Jews, were largely viewed as outsiders to God’s covenant with Israel. Jesus’ focus on Israel first reflected the divine order of salvation history: the gospel would begin with the Jews and then expand to the Gentiles (Romans 1:16).
Theological Implications
This verse underscores God’s faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. It highlights that salvation history unfolds in stages, beginning with Israel as the chosen people through whom the Messiah would come. Jesus’ instructions to avoid Gentiles and Samaritans at this point were not permanent but part of the larger mission that would eventually include all nations (Matthew 28:19). It also reminds believers that God’s plans are intentional and unfold according to His timing.
Literary Analysis
This verse marks a transition from naming the apostles to detailing their mission. The phrase “Jesus sent out” emphasizes action and purpose, showing that the apostles were not merely followers but active participants in Jesus’ ministry. The mention of Gentiles and Samaritans creates a contrast that sets the stage for the inclusive nature of the gospel that would come later. The instructions are specific and strategic, showing Jesus’ deliberate approach to ministry.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 15:24: Jesus states that He was sent to the “lost sheep of Israel,” reinforcing the focus of His earthly ministry.
- Romans 1:16: Paul explains that the gospel is “first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”
- Acts 1:8: Jesus tells His disciples they will be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth, expanding the mission to include all people.
- Genesis 12:3: God promises Abraham that all nations will be blessed through his offspring, pointing to the eventual inclusion of Gentiles.
- John 4:4-42: Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman foreshadows the gospel reaching the Samaritans.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern Christians, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s plans often unfold in steps and that His timing is perfect. It also encourages believers to focus on their immediate mission field—those closest to them who need to hear about Jesus—before looking outward. This passage shows that ministry often starts small and grows outward as God leads.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His faithfulness to Israel. By focusing on the Jewish people first, Jesus honors the promises God made to their ancestors. At the same time, God’s love extends beyond Israel, as His ultimate plan includes all people. This verse reflects the intentional and compassionate way God works to bring salvation to the world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus, as the Messiah, fulfills God’s promises to Israel while also paving the way for the gospel to reach all nations. His instructions in this verse show His obedience to the Father’s plan and His focus on the mission at hand. Later, after His resurrection, Jesus commissions His disciples to take the gospel to everyone (Matthew 28:19-20), revealing His role as the Savior of the whole world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus instructed His apostles to focus on the Jewish people first?
- How does this verse challenge you to prioritize sharing the gospel with those closest to you?
- What does this passage teach about God’s faithfulness to His promises?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust God’s timing and plan for your life?
- How can you balance a focus on your immediate mission field with the broader call to share the gospel with all people?