Commentary on Luke 10:3

Verse: "Go your way; behold, I send you as lambs among wolves."

Overview

This verse is an exhortation from Jesus to His disciples as He sends them out to preach the Gospel. It encapsulates the dual nature of their mission—both the vulnerability they will face and the divine commission they have received. The imagery of “lambs among wolves” emphasizes the potential for danger but also illustrates the purity and innocence that should characterize their approach.

Contextual Background

The sending out of the seventy-two disciples occurs after a significant period of Jesus' ministry. It reflects the expansion of His mission beyond the immediate circle of the twelve apostles. The disciples are to go into towns and places where Jesus Himself intends to go, underscoring the urgency and importance of their task.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry highlights the following points in his commentary on Luke 10:3:

• Commission and Instructions: Henry elucidates that the disciples are sent with a clear directive. They are to focus on their mission with commitment and clarity, emphasizing their role as ambassadors of Christ.
• Vulnerability: He points out that being likened to “lambs” indicates their vulnerability and innocence. This analogy serves as a reminder of the dangers they will encounter from the world, symbolized by “wolves.”
• Faith in God's Protection: Henry encourages a trust in God’s providence, suggesting that while they may face hostility, they are to depend on God’s power and provision to sustain them through their mission.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes offers a detailed reflection on the implications of being sent as “lambs among wolves.” His commentary includes:

• Symbolism of Lambs and Wolves: Barnes explains that lambs represent the meekness and humility expected of the disciples, whereas wolves symbolize those who oppose the Gospel. This contrast sets the stage for understanding the nature of spiritual warfare.
• Preparation for Danger: He discusses the necessity for the disciples to be aware of the potential hostility they would face. Despite the threat, they are to maintain their composure and focus on the mission without succumbing to fear.
• Encouragement in the Mission: Barnes emphasizes that the mission of preaching the Gospel is inherently risky but divinely sanctioned, which provides the disciples with confidence and courage. They are to take heart as they engage with those who may reject their message.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke’s commentary brings additional depth to the understanding of this verse:

• Divine Commission: Clarke indicates that Jesus is not merely sending them without support; rather, He is empowering them for the work ahead. The disciples are part of a larger plan that God has orchestrated, reinforcing their purpose and mission.
• Response to Rejection: He addresses the inevitable rejection the disciples will face, suggesting that their approach should remain steadfast and grounded in faith, regardless of the response they receive from the world.
• Call to Rejoice: Clarke encourages recognition of the joy inherent in serving God, urging the disciples to remain joyful despite the trials, for they are participating in something greater than themselves.

Theological Implications

This verse poses several theological implications for the church today:

• Mission and Vulnerability: It serves as a reminder that the church’s mission is not without challenges. Christians are called to engage the world with courage, even when facing opposition.
• Character of Believers: The metaphor of ‘lambs’ accentuates the need for believers to adopt a posture of humility and gentleness in their outreach, mirroring Christ’s own approach to ministry.

Practical Applications

From Luke 10:3, pastors, students, and theologians can draw several practical applications:

• Preparation for Mission: Prepare congregations for the realities of ministry, focusing on equipping them to deal with hostility and opposition while maintaining a Christ-like character.
• Encouragement in Discipleship: Encourage believers not to lose heart in the face of challenges. Reinforce the message that while they may encounter ‘wolves’, they are supported by the ‘Lamb of God’.

Conclusion

Luke 10:3 is a powerful verse that encapsulates the essence of the Christian mission amid adversity. By understanding the context, insights from renowned commentators, and applying theological principles, leaders and scholars can better equip themselves and their congregations for service in a challenging world. The call to go forth as ‘lambs among wolves’ serves as both a warning and an encouragement, reminding us of the high stakes of our calling in Christ.