The Commands of Christ - Matthew 10:24-31

"A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household! Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. "Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." -Matthew 10:24-31

What does this command require?

Do not fear men, speak the words Jesus tells them from the housetops, fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

What truths do we learn from these commands?

These last few commands have offered us some invaluable principles for ministry. Today, we learn that a disciple of Jesus need not fear men that persecute or seek to harm them. Jesus says, "If they called the master of the house Beelzebub (the devil) how much more will they call those of his household!" But we need not be afraid, even when men accuse us of working alongside the devil. Time will tell who is really of the devil. 

Jesus commands a boldness in proclaiming His words. He instructs us to speak in the light and to preach on the housetops. Jesus wants all to hear His message. Even if they just happen to hear it preached from the roof. Disciple, boldness in preaching is a matter of obedience to the Lord, not a matter of personality or experience. Our Master has commanded us to not be afraid and proclaim His words!

God puts a high value on His children. Look at the way that God cares for even the birds of the air. His children are of much more value than many sparrows. Our Father, who is in heaven caring for us will take care of us and protect us when we need it. We must be obedient no matter what the cost. Do not fear those around you. Fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell--be afraid of what could happen if you disobey.