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NASB | Matthew 10:5 ¶ These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them: "Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 10:5 ¶ Jesus sent out these twelve, instructing them: "Do not go among the Gentiles, and do not go into a city of the Samaritans; |
Bible Question:
I have been taught in the past that not all scripture is to be interpreted as for us today. Matthew 10:5-15 is one of those passages that is not supposed to be for us today, however v.16 is often applied to us as we go about our daily lives. The reasoning given for not applying this literally to us today is that Jesus was speaking directly to the people there with Him, v.5 and not in general. My question is why then is Matthew 28:18-20 applied literally to us today as the great commission. Jesus was only speaking to those there with Him v. 18 "And Jesus came and spoke to them..." and not generally. I am told that the phrase in v. 20 "And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." makes this passage applicable to us today, but the word "age" could mean their age and not ours. Does anyone have any input on this? later...wdc |
Bible Answer: I think that this is our first interaction, Mr. Chumley! My opinion on the matter is that the Bible must be read with common sense. Obviously, Jesus was not speaking to all individuals in Matthew 10, but rather he was giving specific instructions to the Twelve. However, the instructions were recorded in the Bible for the purpose of us reading them and learning from them. Verse 16 is an example of something he said to the diciples directly, but also could be considered a general truth for us as well. In other words, it is good advice for all followers of Christ, not only the ones to whom He was directly speaking at the time. We know that God does not forbid us from interacting with the Gentiles. Why? Because God has regenerated me and millions of other Gentiles throughout history, because so much of the New Testament (Acts, Romans, Galatians) makes it clear that the gospel is for Jews and Gentiles, and because verse 18 in this very chapter alludes to the fact that their persecution will be a testimony to the Gentiles as well. Therefore, discerning general truths from Scripture rather than applying specific situational instructions to our lives, and letting Scripture interpret Scripture are both excellent tools in wise interpretation and application of the word of God. --Joe! |