Matthew 10:5

These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

Matthew 10:5 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the larger passage known as the “Mission Discourse” or “The Commissioning of the Twelve.” Jesus sends out His twelve disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God and perform miracles. In Matthew 10:5, He gives specific instructions about where they should not go: not into the way of the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) and not into any city of the Samaritans.

The Greek verb translated “sent forth” is ἀπέστειλεν (apesteilen), from which “apostle” derives, and “commanded” is παραγγείλας (parangeilas), indicating a formal charge. This shows that Jesus’ words carry authority and purpose.

Meaning

During Jesus’ earthly ministry, His primary focus was on the house of Israel (the Jews). His mission was to fulfill the prophecies and bring salvation to the Jewish people first. Thus, Jesus instructs His disciples to concentrate on reaching out to their fellow Jews rather than to the Gentiles or Samaritans. The immediate context in Matthew 10:6 directs them to go instead to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” showing that this mission was specifically for Israel.

The restriction is temporary and specific to this mission; it is not a permanent prohibition against ministering to Gentiles or Samaritans. The directive may also reflect the strained relationship between Jews and Samaritans at that time, rooted in historical and religious differences. Jesus’ intention might have been to emphasize the primary focus on the Jewish people and avoid unnecessary conflicts during this early stage of His ministry.

Biblical connections

This instruction reflects a progressive revelation in Jesus’ ministry. Initially, His message was primarily directed towards the Jews. However, after His resurrection, Jesus would commission His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, including the Gentiles, as stated in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). In Acts 1:8, He tells them they will be witnesses in Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Thus, this verse demonstrates the progressive unfolding of God’s redemptive plan: first to Israel, then to the world.

Application

This verse underscores the importance of obedience to Christ’s specific instructions, even when they seem restrictive. It highlights the principle that God’s timing and order matter in ministry. Just as the disciples were called to focus on a particular mission at a particular time, believers today are called to follow God’s leading in their own contexts, trusting that His plans unfold in His perfect timing.

Reflection

The temporary restriction on reaching out to Gentiles and Samaritans does not diminish the ultimate purpose of Jesus’ mission: to bring salvation to all people. The Gospel message would later extend beyond the borders of Israel, embracing people from every nation and ethnicity. This verse captures a specific moment in Jesus’ ministry when He sends out His disciples with instructions to prioritize reaching out to their fellow Jews, reflecting the progressive nature of His mission, which would eventually extend to all people.