Matthew 10:40

He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.

Matthew 10:40 (KJV)

Context

In Matthew 10, Jesus commissions His twelve disciples and sends them out to proclaim the kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons. He has just warned them of coming persecution and hardship. Verse 40 comes as a word of encouragement: some people will welcome them and their message. The verse establishes a chain of reception that links the believer to God.

Meaning

The verse begins, “He that receiveth you receiveth me.” The Greek verb translated “receive” (dechomai) means to welcome or accept. Jesus tells His disciples that when someone receives them, it is as if that person receives Jesus Himself. This principle highlights the close connection between Jesus and His followers. By receiving His disciples, people are also receiving Jesus and the message He brings.

The verse continues, “and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.” Jesus is the perfect representation of the Father. When someone receives Jesus, they are also receiving God the Father who sent Him. The Father and the Son are inseparable, and a relationship with one necessitates a relationship with the other. This reveals a deeper spiritual truth: by receiving Jesus, people receive the Father’s love, grace, and salvation.

Biblical connections

This teaching is not limited to the original twelve disciples. The parallel in Mark 9:37 shows that receiving a child in Christ’s name is equated with receiving Christ and the One who sent Him. The principle extends to all who are sent in Christ’s name. The following verses in Matthew 10:41-42 indicate that such reception is not without reward, showing the seriousness of how Christ’s messengers are treated.

Application

This verse teaches us about the importance of receiving and welcoming those whom God sends as messengers or representatives. It encourages us to treat Christ’s disciples, followers, and servants with hospitality, respect, and kindness. By doing so, we show our openness to Jesus and our willingness to accept the message of the Gospel.

• Extending the Principle: While the immediate context of Matthew 10:40 relates to the disciples’ mission, we can also apply this principle to our interactions with other believers. When we receive and accept fellow Christians, we are receiving Christ Himself. Additionally, when we welcome Christ into our lives, we are also welcoming the Father who sent Him.

• Final Thoughts: Matthew 10:40 highlights the interconnectedness of relationships within the Christian faith. By receiving Jesus and His messengers, we receive God the Father. It challenges us to extend hospitality and acceptance to those who proclaim the Gospel, recognising that in doing so, we are receiving Christ Himself.

Remember to study the Bible in its entirety, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit and considering the broader context of each verse to gain a comprehensive understanding.