Matthew Henry Commentary Matthew 10:5-15

"These twelve Jesus sent forth, and charged them, saying, Go not into [any] way of the Gentiles, and enter not into any city of the Samaritans: but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons: freely ye received, freely give. Get you no gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses; no wallet for [your] journey, neither two coats, nor shoes, nor staff: for the laborer is worthy of his food. And into whatsoever city or village ye shall enter, search out who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go forth. And as ye enter into the house, salute it. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, as ye go forth out of that house or that city, shake off the dust of your feet. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city." — Matthew 10:5-15 (ASV)

The gospel was not to be brought to the Gentiles until the Jews had refused it. This restraint on the apostles applied only to their first mission. Wherever they went, they were to proclaim, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. They preached to establish faith; they proclaimed the kingdom to animate hope; and they spoke of heaven to inspire a love for heavenly things and contempt for earthly things. The announcement that this kingdom is at hand was intended so that men would prepare for it without delay.

Christ gave them power to work miracles to confirm their doctrine. This is not necessary now that the kingdom of God has come. It showed that the intent of the doctrine they preached was to heal sick souls and to raise those who 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 a hireling.

They were directed what to do in unfamiliar towns and cities. The servant of Christ is the ambassador of peace to whatever place he is sent. His message is for even the vilest sinners, yet it is fitting for him to find out the worthy persons in every place. It is fitting for us to pray sincerely for all and to conduct ourselves courteously toward all.

They were also directed how to act toward those who 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 warning should be seriously taken to heart by all who hear the gospel, lest their privileges only serve to increase their condemnation.