This text is the transition from the narrative of chapters 8-9 and Jesus’ instructions to his disciples about his mission and theirs. Matthew wants us to see three things here: everywhere Jesus goes he’s face to face with a world where sin and Satan are ravaging God’s good creation. second, that people like you and me, made in God’s image are in the middle of it all, suffering the consequences of our own sin and the terrible effects of sin in the world, and third, that God has not left us on our own, separated from him in our sin and struggles in life, but has sent Jesus into the world to redeem us, give us life, bring us into his kingdom and under his gracious rule. Now Jesus turns to his disciples and tells them, “It is not time for you to join my mission.”
Scripture: Matt. 9:35-10:4; 4:23; Ezk. 34:4-6, 11-16, Ps. 23, Is. 53; John 14:12
