Matthew 10:12 - As you enter into the household, greet it.

Generated Verse: Matthew 10:12

What does "Matthew 10:12" mean?


The verse "As you enter into the household, greet it" (Matthew 10:12) is part of Jesus' instructions to his twelve disciples as he sends them out to preach the gospel. Let's break down what it means:

"As you enter into the household...": This refers to the physical act of entering someone's home. In that time and culture, hospitality was incredibly important. People often relied on the kindness of strangers for food and shelter.

"...greet it.": The Greek word for "greet" is often translated as "salute" or "wish peace." This wasn't just a simple "hello." It was a formal greeting expressing a blessing of peace and well-being upon the household. In Jewish culture, the typical greeting would have been "Shalom," meaning peace.

Therefore, the verse means when the disciples entered a home, they should offer a blessing of peace and goodwill to the people living there.

Deeper Significance and Context:

Symbol of Blessing: The greeting was more than just a polite formality. It was a way of bestowing a blessing of peace upon the household. It acknowledged their inherent worth and dignity.
Testing the Household's Receptivity: The greeting served as a test of the household's openness to the disciples' message. If the greeting was welcomed, it indicated that the people were receptive. Verse 13 continues "If the household is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you." If the greeting was rejected, it signaled that the people were not open to receiving the gospel.
Establishing a Relationship: Offering a greeting of peace was a way to initiate a relationship based on trust and goodwill. It opened the door for further conversation and sharing of the gospel.
Authenticity: The disciples' words of peace were meant to be authentic. Their intentions were to genuinely bless the home and its inhabitants.

In summary, Matthew 10:12 instructs the disciples to offer a blessing of peace and goodwill to the households they enter, signifying their purpose, testing the receptivity of the people, and establishing a relationship based on trust.

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