NOTES for Mat 10:16-23

The words that the disciples are sent out as sheep among wolves may recall the popular worldly principle, "When you live with wolves, howl like a wolf." But no, we have not been given a commandment to turn into wolves. And yet how can we avoid becoming wolves without also becoming eaten?

Like much of what the Lord has revealed to us, these words of Christ are paradoxical. But behind this paradox stands a reality confirmed by the experience of spiritual life: if we want to rely on human strength alone and intend to become equal to the wolves, we risk rejecting the help of the Heavenly Father. This may give us some temporary advantages, but degradation will inevitably follow. And conversely, what people are used to considering a manifestation of weakness may turn out to be not only a manifestation, but also a source of strength.

Christ warns of the inevitability of persecution, and it will come not only from obvious enemies; many of the dearest and closest will also become enemies. In such circumstances it is hard to preserve love for one's neighbor, but this is precisely what the Lord wants from us, calling us not to become like the persecutors. All the more so because in a number of cases love for neighbors and love for enemies mean love for the same people...

Among the things Christ promised, especially astonishing is the promise that the Spirit of the Father will speak in us in difficult moments. Meanwhile, many Christians who have gone through trials confirm the truth of these words. And this is practical confirmation of the truth of the Gospel.