How does Matthew 10:3 connect with Jesus' teachings on humility and service? The Unexpected Roster in Matthew 10:3 • “Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus.” (Matthew 10:3) • A simple roll call—yet every name is a window into Jesus’ heart for humility and service. • The verse sits inside Jesus’ commissioning of the Twelve (Matthew 10:1-15), where He sends them out to serve rather than be served. Humility Highlighted in Their Backgrounds • Matthew is explicitly called “the tax collector.” – Tax collectors were despised collaborators with Rome. Naming his past keeps Matthew’s unworthiness in view, spotlighting grace (Luke 18:9-14). • Thomas is remembered for doubts (John 20:24-29). Jesus invites honest questions, not status. • James son of Alphaeus and Thaddaeus are virtually unknown elsewhere—proof that greatness in the kingdom isn’t tied to fame (Matthew 20:26-28). • Different temperaments, failures, and social standings sit side by side, echoing Jesus’ teaching that “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled” (Luke 14:11). Service Illustrated by Their Mission • Immediately after listing the Twelve, Jesus instructs them to heal, cleanse, and proclaim (Matthew 10:7-8). • No mention of personal honor, only tasks that benefit others: – “Heal the sick…raise the dead…freely you have received, freely give.” (v. 8) • The disciples learn that ministry authority flows from humble dependence on Christ, not personal merit. Jesus’ Teachings Echoed in Their Lives • Mark 10:42-45 – Jesus contrasts worldly power with kingdom service: “Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant…For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • John 13:14-15 – He washes their feet, then commands, “You also should wash one another’s feet.” The foot-washer list in Matthew 10:3 shows who first received that lesson. • Philippians 2:5-8 – Paul later points to Christ’s humility; these named men had witnessed it firsthand and modeled it in missionary work (Acts 1-15). Takeaways for Our Walk Today • God delights to use ordinary, even disreputable, people when they submit to Him. • Remembering our past (like “Matthew the tax collector”) keeps pride in check and gratitude fresh. • True authority in the kingdom is displayed through self-giving service, not titles or recognition. • Diversity among believers is intentional; unity comes as we all bow to the same Master. |
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