Matthew 10:14 - Whoever doesn’t receive you, nor hear your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet.

Generated Verse: Matthew 10:14

What does "Matthew 10:14" mean?


Matthew 10:14 instructs Jesus' disciples on how to respond when their message is rejected. Let's break down the verse:

"Whoever doesn't receive you, nor hear your words..." This refers to people who refuse to welcome the disciples or listen to their teachings about the Kingdom of Heaven. It's about active rejection, not just indifference.

"...as you go out of that house or that city..." This clarifies that the instruction applies after the disciples have attempted to share their message in a particular location. They've made an effort, but their message has been refused.

"...shake the dust off your feet." This is a symbolic act with multiple layers of meaning:

Separation: Shaking the dust off signifies a complete separation from that place and its people. The disciples are declaring that they are no longer responsible for the consequences of the inhabitants' rejection.
Judgment: It's a symbolic warning, implying that those who reject the message are rejecting God and will face judgment. The dust itself becomes a testimony against them.
Purity: It ensures that the disciples don't carry the negativity or spiritual contamination of that place with them. They cleanse themselves and move on with their mission.

In essence, the verse means:

If people reject your message, don't waste your time trying to force it on them. Leave that place and symbolically separate yourselves from it, making it clear that they are responsible for their own rejection of God's message. Move on to a more receptive audience.

Important Considerations:

Context is Key: This instruction is part of Jesus' charge to his disciples as he sends them out on a specific mission. It's not necessarily a universal rule for all interactions.
Love and Compassion: While the act is symbolic of judgment, it doesn't excuse the disciples from showing love and compassion to others. It's about wisely using their time and energy to reach those who are open to hearing the message.
Humility: It's important to remember that rejection is not necessarily a reflection on the disciples themselves. It's possible that the people were simply not ready to hear the message.

The verse provides practical guidance for missionaries and those who share their faith. It emphasizes the importance of focusing efforts on those who are receptive, while acknowledging that rejection is a part of the process.