Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. And when you go into a household, greet it. — Matthew 10:11-12.
Men, Jesus is still instructing the 12 before sending them out on what equates to a religious survey and a training mission in one. Jesus tells the 12 to seek out “worthy” households to stay with as they arrive at a new town. Jesus knew that there was a lot on the line. Misinformation spreads faster than truth, so Jesus wanted the 12 to stay with people who had honest reputation.
This time and place setting was known for hospitality, and it was common for indigenous townspeople to open their homes to travelers. The 12 would be dependent upon being welcomed.
Jesus goes further in v12 to tell the 12 to “greet” a household when they found a place “worthy”. In other words, Jesus is telling the 12 to be good guests. The 12 would also speak a blessing over the home as they entered.
We can almost imagine in our time a bed and breakfast type atmosphere where we paid for our accommodations with a presentation of the gospel. We like to think of ourselves as good followers of Christ. We like to think we’re doing well as Christians as we attend church, say grace over our meal, and pray occasionally.
Do we know Jesus well enough, or His gospel well enough to present a clear message worthy of a night’s rent? Have we ever challenged ourselves to the 12s entry level training mission?
Of course, today in America is far less hospitable. We are distrusting and protective of our homes and families. Have you ever cooperated in a Bible study among strangers? Have you ever cooperated in a local missions opportunity? Have you ever challenged yourself to present a gospel message even in part to a stranger? Would we make a good guest? Would a host wish they hadn’t opened the door, or accepted our name on a sign up sheet?
Move forward men, finding worthy opportunities to share the message of hope and redemption to some one. Be a good guest, presenting the message with humility. Serve well from within any opportunity the Lord offers and pronounce a blessing over that place.
Vance Durrance
