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Matthew 10:6 (BSB)
Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.
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“Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.” — Matthew 10:6
Imagine a group of people who feel lost and forgotten, like sheep without a shepherd. This moment is all about focus and purpose. Jesus is telling his followers to zero in on those who are struggling the most, specifically the people of Israel who feel abandoned. It’s a call to action that’s powerful: seek out those who need help the most, those who are feeling lost and are searching for guidance. It highlights empathy and the importance of reaching out to those who might feel overlooked. You're being invited to be a part of something bigger, to offer hope and direction to those who desperately need it.
The book of Matthew was written by a guy named Matthew, who was one of Jesus’ closest followers and also a tax collector before he became a disciple. His unique perspective is that he was all about showing how Jesus fulfilled the promises made to the Jewish people. By including this specific detail about reaching out to the lost sheep of Israel, Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ mission to bring hope and healing to those who felt neglected. He knew firsthand the importance of being seen and valued, which makes his words even more compelling.
This was happening in first-century Israel, a time when the Jewish people were under Roman rule and many felt oppressed and marginalized. There was a strong longing for hope and rescue, and many felt disconnected from their faith and community. Understanding this context helps you see why Jesus focuses on the lost sheep—these were people who were desperate for a savior, and his words were a lifeline that offered them a chance to reconnect with their roots and find purpose once again.
This verse matters because it shows the heart of the message: that everyone deserves care and attention, especially those who feel lost or overlooked. In your own life, think about those who might feel alone or in need of support. This verse encourages you to seek them out and offer a helping hand. It’s a reminder that you have the power to make a difference in someone’s life, just by being present and showing you care. It’s a call to action that resonates today—every time you reach out to someone who feels neglected, you're living out this verse.
This week, take a moment to think about someone in your life who might be feeling lost or lonely. Maybe it's a friend, a family member, or even someone at school or work who seems a bit down. Reach out to them! Send a text, invite them for coffee, or just have a chat. Show them that they are seen and valued. By being intentional about connecting with someone who needs it, you’re embodying the spirit of this verse and making a real impact in their life.
In this chapter, Jesus is preparing his disciples for a mission. He’s sending them out to spread a message of hope and healing, and here he’s giving them specific instructions about who to focus on. Before this moment, he has been teaching them about the kingdom and showing them how to care for others. After this verse, they’ll encounter various challenges and experiences that will test their ability to connect with people. This verse is pivotal because it directs their efforts and sets the tone for their mission. It establishes the importance of prioritizing those who are struggling, making it a key turning point in their journey.
Who in your life feels like they might be lost or struggling, and what’s one way you could reach out to them this week?
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