John Calvin Commentary Matthew 10:40

"He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me." — Matthew 10:40 (ASV)

He who receiveth you, receiveth me. A considerable portion of the world may be opposed to the disciples of Christ, and the confession of their faith may draw upon them universal hatred. Yet here is another consolation tending to encourage a great number of people to treat them with kindness. Whatever is done to them, Christ does not hesitate to consider as done to Himself. This shows how dearly He loves them, when He credits to Himself the acts of kindness they have received.

He is not speaking here about receiving the doctrine, but about receiving the men. The latter meaning, I admit, arises from the former, but we must pay attention to Christ's purpose.

Realizing that this was exceptionally suited to support their weakness, He intended to assure them that if anyone were to receive them in a friendly manner and perform acts of kindness for them, He would be as highly pleased as if that kindness had been shown to His own person; and not only so, but that in such a sacrifice God the Father would smell a sweet savor, (Genesis 8:21).