Sunday 29 June 2014

Background

This short collection of teaching forms part of the 'MissionarySermon' of Jesus (Matthew 9:35 - 11:1). Having spoken of theneed for workers to bring in the harvest of souls for God, Jesus isgiving some tips to the twelve Apostles before sending them out onmission.

It's not so much a pep talk as a warning that they shouldn'thold out for universal popularity. They're going to find thingstough - they'll face harassment and hatred so bad that they'llthink that everyone is against them. Things might be so bad thatthey'll be really pleased if someone only gives them a cup of water(verse 47)!

Yet that cup of water will represent far more than a drink. Itwill represent a welcome. Yes - some people will actually welcomethem, and the message they bring. And Jesus tells them both he andGod share in that being welcomed - so he praises those who welcomehis disciples.

The first sermon in Matthew's Gospel, the Sermon on the Mount(Matthew 5:1 - 7:29) can be seen to be acollection of teaching proclaiming the reign of God. This secondsermon is the first step in setting up the Church, and equippingthe disciples of Jesus to be courageous in telling the good news ofthat reign. God is with the disciples and will strengthen them bygiving them the right words to say to people. But it's no use Godwanting to bring in a reign of love if nobody ever hears about it…

To Ponder

• Many Christians are afraid to talk about their faith in casethey are ridiculed. What difference does it make if they rememberthat God is with them? And what about you?

• Often Christians think that they have much to give to those whodo not know Christ. In what ways can they receive from these peopleas well as give to them? Again, and what about you?

• Being a minister or leader in a church is not an easy task. Ifyou belong to a church, what practical support do you give to theleaders in your church to help them in their ministry?