Commentary on Matthew 10:6

Matthew 10:6 states, "But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." This verse is part of Christ's instructions to His disciples as He sends them out for ministry. The understanding of this message is crucial for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars as it encapsulates key themes of mission, ethnicity, and the nature of God's covenant people. Below is a combined commentary derived from notable public domain sources.

1. Contextual Setting

In this chapter, Jesus commissions His twelve disciples for a mission that is primarily directed at the Israelites. This context is essential for a proper interpretation of the verse in question.

• Matthew Henry: Henry notes that Jesus focused His initial efforts on Israel, indicating God's covenant relationship with His chosen people. The phrase "lost sheep" reflects their spiritual condition.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that Jesus' ministry was primarily to the Jews first, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke highlights the term "lost sheep," interpreting it as an acknowledgment of the wandering state of the Jewish people who had strayed from the fold of God's commands.

2. Theological Significance

The call to go to the "lost sheep" presents profound theological implications regarding salvation, grace, and God's desire for redemption.

• Grace for the Lost: The emphasis on the lost sheep underscores God's grace towards those who are spiritually lost. Henry articulates the merciful nature of God, who seeks to restore His wayward people.
• Covenantal Love: Barnes sheds light on the theological concept of God's steadfast love for Israel, suggesting that love is both the reason for the call and the mission's aim — to draw them back to Himself.
• Inclusivity of Gospel: Clarke's commentary brings forth the anticipation of inclusion, suggesting that while the initial instruction focuses on Israel, it lays the groundwork for later outreach to the Gentiles.

3. Application for Ministry

Understanding this verse aids in shaping a relevant missional approach.

• Focus on the Marginalized: Disciples' attention to the "lost sheep" can inspire modern ministry to target those who are spiritually or socially marginalized in contemporary society.
• Understanding Spiritual Needs: Pastors and missionaries should consider the distinct spiritual needs of the communities they serve. Like Jesus, they are called to recognize those who have gone astray from faith.
• Boldness in Calling: This directive from Jesus equips ministers with confidence that their task—shepherding people back to God—is grounded in the authority of their calling.

4. The Broader Commission

While Matthew 10:6 directs attention to the Israelites, it is essential to consider it in relation to the Great Commission.

• Transitioning Missions: As Christ’s ministry continues, the focus gradually extends beyond Israel, a theme noted by Henry. This can encourage contemporary theologians to discuss the inclusivity of the Gospel.
• Divine Sovereignty: Barnes points out that this focus was also a reflection of God’s sovereign plan, reminding ministers of the importance of aligning their strategies with divine intentions.
• Faithfulness in Ministry: Clarke asserts that Christ's commission reflects a structured approach to outreach, advocating that a faithful ministry must honor the progressive revelation and divine mission.

5. Conclusion

Matthew 10:6 opens a door to profound insights about God’s heart for His people, the structure of divine mission, and the calling of believers today. Pastors and theologians can find in this verse a call to address both the individual and collective needs of people while adhering to the sacred trust of their mission.

The reflections from these commentators urge us to consider our own "lost sheep"—those within and outside our communities—and challenge us to faithfully proclaim the message of hope and restoration found in Christ.