Luke 10:10 Commentary

In the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 10, verse 10 focuses on the instruction Jesus gives concerning the reception of His messengers. This verse states:

"But into whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say,"

Contextual Background

This verse appears within the larger narrative of Jesus sending out the seventy-two disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God. Understanding the context in which Jesus uttered these words is crucial for deepening our interpretation.

Matthew Henry's Insights

Matthew Henry draws attention to the broader admonition of Jesus sending His disciples with the message of peace and the urgency of their mission. He emphasizes:

• The seriousness of rejection: Henry notes that rejecting the message of the kingdom is equivalent to rejecting God Himself, indicating profound spiritual ramifications.
• Response to rejection: He highlights that Jesus instructs them to declare their responsibility and shake off the dust, symbolizing a severance from that place's judgment.

Albert Barnes's Commentary

Albert Barnes elaborates on the social and cultural dynamics of ancient cities in this context:

• Cultural implications: He remarks that cities had a communal sense of identity, and rejection by a city indicated a corporate stance against the Gospel.
• Symbolic actions: The act of shaking off the dust was a common gesture that communicated disassociation, indicating that the apostles were to consider those who reject the Gospel as outside the community of faith.

Adam Clarke's Exposition

Adam Clarke adds depth by considering the pastoral implications of such rejection:

• Pastoral resilience: Clarke stresses the need for ministers and messengers of the Gospel to remain undeterred in the face of rejection, maintaining a posture of hope and determination.
• The proclamation of judgment: He interprets Jesus' directive to make a declaration against the city as an essential aspect of heralding the impending consequences of their choices.

Theological Implications

The rejection of the message carries profound theological implications. It raises questions about divine sovereignty and human responsibility. The ongoing mission of the church reflects this tension:

• Divine authority: The act of sending the disciples reflects God's initiative in spreading the gospel, yet the response of the individuals highlights human free will.
• Judgment and grace: The possibility of rejecting the message serves as both a warning and an invitation to grace, as Jesus sought the hearts of the people, even in their stubbornness.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, this verse compels us to reflect on our own engagement with the world:

• Embracing rejection: Understanding that rejection is part of the mission can alleviate pressure on those sharing the Gospel. It can foster a spirit of perseverance.
• Judicial declaration: There is a serious nature attached to the ministry, where we are called not only to share love but also to speak truthfully about the consequences of rejecting God's message.
• Focus on the mission: The urgency of our mission should be at the forefront, encouraging a proactive approach to share the message of Jesus.

Conclusion

Luke 10:10 serves as a poignant reminder of the dynamics of evangelism and the stark reality of rejection that accompany it. Through the insights of esteemed commentators like Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, we gain a rich understanding of Jesus’ directive and its implications for believers. In our efforts to fulfill the Great Commission, may we be emboldened by this text, prepared for both acceptance and rejection, ever faithful to the message of Christ.