What is the meaning of Luke 10:8? If you enter a town “If you enter a town …” (Luke 10:8) • Jesus had just sent the seventy-two “two by two … into every town and place He Himself was about to go” (Luke 10:1). The command assumes active obedience; His messengers are on the move, intentionally stepping into new communities. • This movement mirrors earlier instructions to the Twelve: “Take nothing for the journey” (Luke 9:3) and “Whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy” (Matthew 10:11). The Lord expects His servants to trust His provision rather than their own resources. • Entering a town signals the beginning of gospel opportunity. Jesus’ strategy was to prepare hearts before His own arrival, just as John prepared the way (Luke 3:4–6). • The application is straightforward: be willing to go where He sends, whether the place is familiar or foreign. Acts 16:9–10 shows Paul responding immediately to a Macedonian call; the missionary impulse remains the same. and they welcome you “… and they welcome you …” (Luke 10:8) • Reception is the first indicator of spiritual openness. Earlier, Jesus said, “If a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on it” (Luke 10:6). A welcoming home or town often precedes a welcoming heart. • Hospitality was a test of sincerity. When Lydia “urged us, saying, ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house,’” the apostles recognized genuine faith (Acts 16:15). • Christ instructs His messengers to stay put when welcomed (Luke 10:7); hopping from house to house in search of better accommodations would undermine the gospel’s integrity. Compare 3 John 5–8, where workers “for the sake of the Name” depend on believers’ hospitality. • Not every place will be welcoming; for the towns that aren’t, Jesus prescribes shaking off the dust (Luke 10:10–11; cf. Acts 13:50–51). The contrast highlights the grace shown to those who do receive. eat whatever is set before you “… eat whatever is set before you.” (Luke 10:8) • Contentment: God’s servants are to accept His provision without grumbling (Philippians 4:11–12). Even simple fare is evidence of His care. • Fellowship: Sharing a meal knits hearts together. Revelation 3:20 pictures Jesus dining with those who open the door; table fellowship remains a potent sign of acceptance. • Freedom: The command anticipates potential dietary scruples. Later, Peter is told, “What God has made clean, you must not call common” (Acts 10:15), and Paul writes, “If an unbeliever invites you … eat whatever is set before you” (1 Corinthians 10:27). • Focus: By removing food worries, Jesus keeps the mission central—preaching the kingdom (Luke 10:9). Secondary issues must not derail the primary task. summary Luke 10:8 teaches Christ’s messengers to go where He sends, discern genuine welcome, and receive God’s provision with gratitude. Obedient entry, faithful acceptance of hospitality, and thankful participation at the table free workers to concentrate on proclaiming the gospel. |
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