Directions to the apostles. (16–42)Verses 1–4
The word “apostle” signifies messenger; they were Christ's messengers, sent forth to proclaim
his kingdom. Christ gave them power to heal all manner of sickness. In the grace of the gospel
there is a slave for every sore, a remedy for every malady. There is no spiritual disease, but there
is power in Christ for the cure of it. There names are recorded, and it is their honour; yet they had
more reason to rejoice that their names were written in heaven, while the high and mighty names
of the great ones of the earth are buried in the dust.
Verses 5–15
The Gentiles must not have the gospel brought them, till the Jews have refused it. This restraint
on the apostles was only in their first mission. Wherever they went they must proclaim, The kingdom
of heaven is at hand. They preached, to establish the faith; the kingdom, to animate the hope; of
heaven, to inspire the love of heavenly things, and the contempt of earthly; which is at hand, that
men may prepare for it without delay. Christ gave power to work miracles for the confirming of
their doctrine. This is not necessary now that the kingdom of God is come. It showed that the intent
of the doctrine they preached, was to heal sick souls, and to raise those that were dead in sin. In
proclaiming the gospel of free grace for the healing and saving of men's souls, we must above all
avoid the appearance of the spirit of an hireling. They are directed what to do in strange towns and
cities. The servant of Christ is the ambassador of peace to whatever place he is sent. His message
is even to the vilest sinners, yet it behoves him to find out the best persons in every place. It becomes
us to pray heartily for all, and to conduct ourselves courteously to all. They are directed how to act
as to those that refused them. The whole counsel of God must be declared, and those who will not
attend to the gracious message, must be shown that their state is dangerous. This should be seriously
laid to heart by all that hear the gospel, lest their privileges only serve to increase their condemnation.
Verses 16–42
Our Lord warned his disciples to prepare for persecution. They were to avoid all things which
gave advantage to their enemies, all meddling with worldly or political concerns, all appearance
of evil or selfishness, and all underhand measures. Christ foretold troubles, not only that the troubles
might not be a surprise, but that they might confirm their faith. He tells them what they should
suffer, and from whom. Thus Christ has dealt fairly and faithfully with us, in telling us the worst
we can meet with in his service; and he would have us deal so with ourselves, in sitting down and
counting the cost. Persecutors are worse than beasts, in that they prey upon those of their own kind.
The strongest bonds of love and duty, have often been broken through from enmity against Christ.
Sufferings from friends and relations are very grievous; nothing cuts more. It appears plainly, that
all who will live godly in Christ Jesus must suffer persecution; and we must expect to enter into
the kingdom of God through many tribulations. With these predictions of trouble, are counsels and
comforts for a time of trial. The disciples of Christ are hated and persecuted as serpents, and their
ruin is sought, and they need the serpent's wisdom. Be ye harmless as doves. Not only, do nobody