What does Matthew 10:13 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 10:13 is part of the instructions Jesus gave to his twelve disciples when he sent them out on a missionary journey.

This particular verse addresses the reception the disciples might expect when they enter a house.

Jesus instructs them to assess the worthiness of the household.

If the household is found to be worthy, a disposition that would be indicated by their openness to the disciples' message and hospitality, then the disciples should allow their peace to rest upon it.

This "peace" can be interpreted as a blessing or the presence of God that the disciples could impart.

However, if the household is not receptive or worthy, then the disciples are to retract their peace, symbolizing the withdrawal of God's blessing and presence.

The phrase "let your peace return to you" indicates that the peace the disciples offer is not lost but reserved for those who are receptive.

Historical Context

Matthew 10:13 occurs within the broader context of Jesus' ministry in Galilee. At this time, the cultural environment was primarily Jewish, with strong traditions of hospitality.

It was customary to receive guests with a gesture of peace, which could involve a greeting or blessing.

Jesus' mission instructions reflect these social norms but infuse them with a deeper spiritual significance.

The disciples would be traveling without provisions, relying on the hospitality of those they encountered, which was a common practice for religious teachers at the time.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse touches on several concepts.

First, it suggests the idea of conditional peace and blessing, where the worthiness of a person or household determines the reception of God's blessing.

This aligns with the wider biblical theme that God's grace calls for human response and receptivity.

Secondly, the message of peace being offered and potentially withdrawn may be seen in light of the concept of divine judgment.

Some scholars suggest that the household's rejection of the disciples, and thereby the message of Jesus, could lead to consequences, which in this case, is the retraction of peace.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, the principles derived from Matthew 10:13 can influence how individuals extend kindness or spiritual engagement with others.

For example, in sharing religious beliefs or engaging in spiritual conversations, believers might discern the openness of the individuals they are interacting with and focus their efforts where they find receptivity.

Additionally, the concept of evaluating the 'worthiness' can also be used as an encouragement for self-reflection on how individuals receive others and what their own response is to the messages of peace or truth presented to them.

Cross-References

• Luke 10:5-6, "And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house."
• Matthew 10:14, "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet."
• Acts 13:51, "But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key terms in this verse are:

• "worthy" (Greek: "axios"): This implies a sense of weight or merit, denoting someone deserving or suitable.
• "peace" (Greek: "eirene"): Often used in Hebrew contexts as a translation of "shalom," meaning welfare or prosperity, but in deeper terms, wholeness or completeness, often associated with the presence of God.
• "let... return" (Greek: "epistrepheto"): This verb suggests a turning back or reversing of direction, emphasizing the active withdrawal of the offered peace if the house is not worthy.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, extending a greeting or blessing upon entering a house was a widespread custom, whether in Greco-Roman practices or within Jewish tradition.

Other religious systems also place significant emphasis on the peaceful reception of guests.

For example, ancient Middle Eastern hospitality customs would often involve a blessing upon guests.

In Hindu traditions, there is a saying "Atithi Devo Bhava," which means "the guest is god," emphasizing the host's duty to treat visitors with the utmost respect and care.

Scientific Perspectives

While there are no direct scientific perspectives on this verse, the concept of peace having a positive impact on individuals or a household can be examined from the perspective of psychology.

Studies on human interaction and wellbeing suggest that positive social interactions and a peaceful environment can significantly contribute to physical and mental health.

Thus, the peace that the disciples are instructed to impart can be seen not only as a spiritual blessing but also as contributing to the overall well-being of the household.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators offer different interpretations of Matthew 10:13.

Some view it as illustrating the principle of reciprocity in divine blessings, as well as the idea that those who reject the Gospel essentially judge themselves unworthy of the blessings that accompany it.

Others focus on the practical strategy Jesus provided for the use of time and resources by his disciples, encouraging them not to waste effort where it would not be productive.

Still, other commentaries may analyze the socio-religious implications of the verse, seeing it as a way of Jesus establishing a new community bound by the reception of his message and the breaking of existing social boundaries.