Matthew 10:9 - Don’t take any gold, silver, or brass in your money belts.

Generated Verse: Matthew 10:9

What does "Matthew 10:9" mean?


Matthew 10:9, "Don’t take any gold, silver, or brass in your money belts," is part of Jesus' instructions to his twelve apostles as he sends them out on their first missionary journey. To understand the meaning, we need to consider the context and purpose of these instructions.

Here's a breakdown of what the verse likely means:

The Literal Meaning: Jesus is telling his apostles not to carry any precious metals in their money belts (a common way to carry money in that time). This refers to coins made of gold, silver, or brass (bronze).
Purpose and Context: The verse is part of a larger set of instructions designed to emphasize:

Dependence on God: Jesus wants his apostles to rely entirely on God's provision. By not carrying money, they are forced to trust that God will supply their needs through the generosity of those who receive their message.
Simplicity and Humility: Carrying wealth could create a barrier between the apostles and the people they are trying to reach. It could make them appear self-sufficient or motivated by gain. Leaving the money behind emphasizes the apostles' humble service.
Focus on the Message: By not worrying about their own financial needs, the apostles can fully concentrate on preaching the gospel and healing the sick. Distractions are minimized.
Urgency of the Mission: Packing light allows for faster and more efficient travel. There's a sense of urgency in spreading the message.
Broader Implications:

Temporary Instruction: Most scholars believe these instructions were specific to this initial missionary journey and were not meant to be a permanent prohibition against ever carrying money or possessions. After Jesus' resurrection, in Luke 22:35-36, He appears to amend these instructions.
Principle of Trust: The deeper principle, however, remains relevant: Christians are called to trust God and to avoid being overly attached to material possessions, especially when it comes to serving Him.
Symbolic Interpretation: Some interpret the verse symbolically, suggesting that gold, silver, and brass represent worldly values, distractions, or dependencies that can hinder spiritual growth and service.

In summary, Matthew 10:9 is a command for the apostles to travel light, trust in God's provision, and focus on their mission without being distracted by material concerns. While not a universal command for all Christians in all circumstances, it embodies a key principle of trust and detachment from material wealth in the service of God.