How should we respond if peace is not received, according to Luke 10:6? Setting the Scene - Jesus has just commissioned seventy-two disciples, sending them out in pairs ahead of Him (Luke 10:1). - Their mission: proclaim the nearness of God’s kingdom, heal the sick, and extend a blessing of peace to each household they enter (Luke 10:5). Jesus’ Instruction in Luke 10:6 “Whatever house you enter, begin by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’ If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you.” (Luke 10:5-6) What Happens When Peace Is Not Received - The blessing is not wasted; it “returns to you.” - You lose nothing—your inner peace, authority, and fellowship with Christ remain intact. - You are released from striving or arguing; you can move on without resentment. Practical Response Checklist - Offer peace first—always start with blessing, not judgment. - Discern receptivity; if the household is unreceptive, do not force the issue. - Withdraw peacefully: • Maintain a calm, prayerful spirit. • Leave the results with God. • Keep ministering elsewhere; the mission continues (Luke 10:7, 10-11). Further Biblical Insight - Shaking dust off the feet when rejected underscores the same principle of peaceful withdrawal (Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11). - “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) - “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing.” (2 Timothy 2:24) Living This Out Today - Speak peace into conversations, workplaces, and homes. - If met with hostility or indifference, step back without bitterness—your blessing is preserved. - Trust God to open receptive hearts elsewhere; He honors faithful obedience more than visible results. |
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