A reading from the gospel according to Saint Matthew 10:17-22
Jesus said to his disciples:
17 “Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues,
18 and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans.
19 When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say.
20 For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
21 Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death.
22 You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”
Reflection: Matthew 10:17-22
Many people do not want to hear the Good News. It is because most people want the status quo. They desire change in their family, in their society, and even in the world but they refuse to change themselves. It is easier and maybe enjoyable for them to live in their sinful ways. That is why, when you try to tell them to repent, they become resentful and even violent. They start to hate you for telling them the truth about themselves.
And so Jesus warned His apostles who did not receive much education and who were not train for public speaking. He warned them of the hardship, hatred and persecutions that they will encounter as they go out to perform their mandate of preaching the gospel.
Even in our ordinary life, witnessing or speaking the truth is dangerous. Jesus Himself experienced crucifixion and death for doing so. The same is true with the martyrs who died for their faith. It would be wrong to think that preaching the message of salvation in our time is easy.
Yet we do not cower in fear. Jesus gave us the assurance that those who will endure to the very end will receive just compensation. No need to worry about what to say because the Holy Spirit will provide us with the words and sentences to convey the message. All we need is simplicity, shrewdness and courage to do our mission.
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Unlike politicians who overly promise a lot of good things to would-be followers and supporters, Jesus tells us the truth about discipleship. It is not easy because there will be trials and temptations. Yet, He also assures us of our reward that is far more worthy than silver and gold and that is the salvation of our souls.
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Watch out your behavior. You may think you are a sheep but your words and actions are in fact those of a wolf. You might be one of the persecutors of the messengers of Christ! How many times have you discouraged a priest, a pastor or even a would-be disciple of Jesus because of your constant complaining? It can also happen that by gossiping or criticizing too much, you have become a scourge to them. Let us instead keep praying for them and give them our utmost support.
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Jesus speaks candidly to His disciples about the challenges they will face as they proclaim the Gospel. He warns them of persecution, betrayal, and trials, but His message is not one of despair. Instead, it is a call to unwavering faith, courage, and reliance on God’s Spirit. These words resonate deeply with us today as we navigate a world often marked by opposition, uncertainty, and fear.
A Reality of Opposition
Jesus begins by forewarning His disciples: “Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues” (Matthew 10:17). He does not sugarcoat the realities of discipleship. Following Christ comes with challenges, and those who live boldly for Him may encounter resistance, whether through social exclusion, criticism, or outright persecution.
In our lives, this opposition might manifest in different ways—being misunderstood for living out our faith, facing rejection for standing up for truth, or enduring ridicule for choosing righteousness over compromise. Yet, Jesus’ words remind us that such struggles are not signs of failure but evidence of our commitment to Him.
A Call to Endurance
Jesus continues, “You will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22). Endurance is not passive resignation but active faithfulness in the face of trials. It is the courage to keep trusting God, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.
This call to endurance is both sobering and inspiring. It challenges us to remain steadfast, knowing that our perseverance is not in vain. Our faithfulness points others to Christ and brings glory to God.
Empowered by the Spirit
One of the most reassuring parts of this passage is Jesus’ promise: “When they deliver you over, do not be anxious about how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matthew 10:19-20).
This promise reminds us that we are never alone in our trials. The Holy Spirit empowers us, giving us the wisdom, strength, and words we need in every moment of difficulty. Our confidence does not rest in our abilities but in God’s presence and power working through us.
Hope Beyond the Struggle
While this passage acknowledges the hardships of following Christ, it also points to a greater hope. The temporary challenges of this life pale in comparison to the eternal joy awaiting those who endure. Our trials become opportunities to demonstrate our faith and draw closer to God.
Living With Bold Faith
This passage calls us to live boldly and faithfully for Christ, even in the face of adversity. It challenges us to trust in the Spirit’s guidance, endure with courage, and keep our eyes fixed on the eternal prize.
As we face challenges in our journey of faith, let us remember that Jesus has walked this path before us. He promises to be with us every step of the way, equipping us with His Spirit and sustaining us with His grace. Let us stand firm, knowing that our perseverance glorifies God and leads to eternal life.