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Matthew 10:40 (BSB)
He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me.” — Matthew 10:40
Imagine you’re at a gathering, and someone welcomes you with open arms. In this moment, it’s not just about being accepted; it’s about connection and belonging. When Jesus says that receiving someone is like receiving Him, He’s emphasizing that when you embrace others, you’re also embracing Him and the one who sent Him. It’s a powerful reminder that our actions toward others reflect our relationship with God. You’re not just making a gesture; you’re participating in something much bigger, inviting love and understanding into the world.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus’ close friends and followers. Matthew was a tax collector, which made him an outsider to many, but he experienced firsthand the radical acceptance Jesus offered. He included this verse because he understood how deeply personal and transformative acceptance can be. Matthew wanted to share the heart of Jesus’ message—that welcoming others is not just about hospitality; it’s about recognizing the divine in each person we meet.
When Matthew wrote this, the world was buzzing with tension. The Jewish people were under Roman rule, and there were significant social and religious divides. Jesus was introducing a radical message of love and acceptance in a time when many felt marginalized. This setting is crucial because it highlights the importance of welcoming one another during difficult times. It’s like a beacon of hope, reminding people that embracing one another can bridge divides and create community amidst turmoil.
This verse matters today because it challenges you to think about how you treat others. When you show kindness, you’re not just being nice; you’re reflecting something much deeper. It’s a call to action in your everyday life. Your interactions can have profound impacts. Whether you’re welcoming a friend, a stranger, or even someone who might disagree with you, you’re creating an opportunity to share love and acceptance, which can transform both your life and theirs. It’s about making every interaction count!
This week, take a moment to greet someone you might normally overlook—a neighbor, a coworker, or even a cashier. Make it genuine. Ask how they are and really listen. You could also reach out to someone you know is feeling isolated or alone. Invite them for coffee or a chat. Remember, every time you make an effort to connect, you’re not just being friendly; you’re living out the message of acceptance that Jesus embodies.
In this chapter, Jesus is sending His followers out on a mission. He’s preparing them for what lies ahead, sharing the importance of their message and the challenges they’ll face. Just before this verse, He talks about how some people will accept them, while others will reject them. This specific verse serves as a powerful conclusion to His instructions. It underscores the significance of their role; it’s not just about their message but how people’s responses to them are tied to their relationship with God. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the stage for everything they’re about to encounter.
How can your actions toward others reflect your understanding of your relationship with God?
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