Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 10:8

"Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons: freely ye received, freely give." — Matthew 10:8 (ASV)

The content of the disciples’ message was much like that in 3:2; 4:17. “Repent” is not mentioned but is presupposed. The long-awaited kingdom was now “near” , attested by miracles directed at demonism and at diseases.

Jesus expected the Twelve to be supported by those to whom they were to minister (cf. vv.9–13; 1 Corinthians 9:14), but they needed to understand that what they had received—the good news of the kingdom, Jesus’ authority, and this commission—they had received “freely.” Therefore it would be mercenary to charge others. The danger of profiteering is still among us (Micah 3:11; 2 Corinthians 2:17; 1 Peter 5:2).