Matthew 10:27
What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.
Matthew 10:27 (KJV)
Context
Jesus speaks these words while commissioning His twelve disciples for their mission to proclaim the gospel to the people of Israel. He has been warning them of coming opposition and persecution, and in this verse He commands them to speak openly what He has taught them privately. The immediate context includes His assurance not to fear those who can kill the body (Matthew 10:28), so this command is a call to boldness in the face of danger.
Meaning
The “darkness” and “in the ear” refer to the private teaching Jesus gave His disciples. What they received in secret, they were to declare publicly. “Speak in light” means sharing the truth openly and without fear, while “preach upon the housetops” uses the flat roofs of ancient Israelite homes, which served as platforms for public announcements, to picture proclamation that all could hear. The disciples were recipients of divine revelation, and they were to be faithful stewards of that revelation, not hiding it. This is not a general command to broadcast every private word, but a specific duty to make known the teachings Jesus entrusted to them.
Biblical connections
The confidence for this proclamation comes from the authority of Christ’s commission, not from human ability. Failing to proclaim what has been revealed would be disobedience to His explicit command.
Application
As believers, we should first prioritise listening to and receiving God’s Word in our own lives, seeking His guidance and instruction. Then we should not keep what we learn about God’s truth to ourselves but share it openly and boldly with others. We should not be afraid of potential opposition or rejection, but trust in God’s power and provision as we fulfil our mission to spread the gospel. The message of Christ is precious and powerful, deserving of public declaration.
Overall: Matthew 10:27 calls us to be courageous and passionate in sharing the teachings of Jesus, ensuring that His message of salvation reaches far and wide.
