Matthew 10:16

16 "Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Matthew 10:16 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 10:16

Behold, I send you forth, as sheep among wolves
This, and the following verses, chiefly respect the troubles, afflictions, persecutions, and sufferings which should befall the apostles after the death and resurrection of Christ; when their commission was enlarged, and they afresh sent out by Christ to preach his Gospel; of which he gives a faithful account before hand, that they might be prepared for them, and not be surprised when they came upon them. He compares them to "sheep", because they were meek and humble in their spirits, harmless, and inoffensive, in their lives and conversations; were weak, and unable to protect themselves, and were sent out by him unarmed and defenceless; and their oppressors and persecutors to "wolves", because fierce and furious, voracious and ravenous, cruel and hurtful, as these creatures are, especially to sheep; wherefore Christ gives them this wholesome advice,

be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
Much such an expression as this God is represented as saying of Israel F1:

``Says R. Judah, in the name of R. Simon, the holy blessed God said, concerning Israel, with me they are (Mynwyk) (Mymymt) , "harmless as doves"; but among the nations of the world, they are (Myvxnk Mymwre) , "subtle as serpents".''
The serpent is a very sharp sighted, cunning creature, and uses various arts and stratagems for its own preservation, and especially of its head; and is so far to be imitated by the followers of Christ, as to make use of all proper methods to preserve themselves from the insults and rage of men, and not expose themselves to unnecessary dangers: and, as much as in them lies, they should be careful to give no just occasion of offence, or irritate, and provoke them to use them ill, and to avoid all snares and traps that are laid for them; and, at the same time, maintain the innocence and harmlessness of the dove, being free from all wicked cunning and craftiness, without rancour, malice, and wrath; not meditating and seeking revenge, but meek and humble in their deportment, leading inoffensive lives, and proceeding in the course of their calling, though liable to many insults, and much oppression.


FOOTNOTES:

F1 Shirhashirim Rabba, c. 2. 14. fol. 12. 1.

Matthew 10:16 In-Context

14 Whoever doesn't receive you, nor hear your words, as you go forth out of that house or that city, shake off the dust from your feet.
15 Most assuredly I tell you, It will be more tolerable for the land of Sedom and `Amorah in the day of judgment than for that city.
16 "Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to councils, and in their synagogues they will scourge you.
18 Yes, and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the Goyim.
The Hebrew Names Version is in the public domain.