Connect Matthew 10:40 with John 13:20 regarding receiving Christ's messengers. Scripture Focus Matthew 10:40: “He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me.” John 13:20: “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever receives the one I send receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives the One who sent Me.” One Message, Two Moments • Matthew 10: the Twelve are being sent out on their first mission. • John 13: Jesus is minutes from the cross, commissioning the same men for a lifelong task. • Different settings, identical words—underscoring an unchanging principle. The Chain of Representation 1. The Father sent the Son (John 3:17). 2. The Son sends His messengers (John 20:21). 3. Receiving the messenger = receiving the Son; receiving the Son = receiving the Father. 4. Rejecting the messenger = rejecting the Son and the Father (Luke 10:16). Why Receiving Matters • Validates Christ’s authority in the world. • Opens the door for saving truth (Romans 10:14–15). • Establishes partnership in the gospel (Philippians 1:5). • Brings promised reward (Matthew 10:41-42). Practical Ways to Receive Christ’s Messengers Today • Welcome their teaching with an open Bible (Acts 17:11). • Provide hospitality, encouragement, and material support (3 John 5-8; Galatians 6:6). • Defend them against slander and false accusation (2 Timothy 4:16-17). • Pray fervently for their boldness and protection (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Imitate their faith where it reflects Christ (Hebrews 13:7). Marks of a True Messenger • Fidelity to the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). • Christ-centered doctrine and lifestyle (1 Corinthians 2:2; Titus 2:7-8). • Evident fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). • Willingness to suffer for the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:7-11). • Accountability to the church and Scripture (1 Timothy 3:1-7). Blessings Promised to the Receiver • Fellowship with the triune God (1 John 1:3). • Participation in the messenger’s eternal reward (Philippians 4:17). • A share in advancing the kingdom on earth (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). • Fresh encounters with Christ’s presence (Matthew 18:20). Related Scriptures Luke 9:48; Mark 9:37; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Isaiah 52:7; 2 John 9-11. Walking It Out Honor the ones Christ has sent; in doing so you honor Christ Himself and the Father who lovingly planned our redemption. |
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