Jesus is sending out the disciples to proclaim the kingdom of heaven is near to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. They couldn’t take anything with them and were to be totally dependent upon God to provide for them through the kindness of others. As they are leaving Jesus gives them this warning, how they would suffer. As we read the book of Acts we know that is exactly what happened. We know they were arrested, beaten and in the end killed for their faith. He also told them not to worry about what they said when brought before magistrates and kings. He told them in those moments “it isn’t you speaking but the Spirit of your Father is speaking through you”.
How then are we to interact with the world that has entirely different set of values? How do we not compromise the gospel and still engage the world around us? How do we remain sheep among the wolves? Prayer—devote yourselves to prayer, as if your very life depended upon it. Be alert to the needs of those around you and act—be thankful. Act wisely towards those who are outside the faith, don’t waste your time, but live with a sense of urgency knowing the time is short. Be gracious towards everyone, be wise when speaking to others. Especially on social media where you have an audience watching and not responding. Know how to explain and defend your faith—be able to answer people when they ask about the hope that is in you.
We live among wolves and we have to be wise to that reality. Because there is more at stake than some political agenda—like the eternal destiny of those we love. We need to live dependent upon God, praying for those around us and those in ministry. We need to live thankfully and graciously. We need to be innocent as doves and as wise as serpents.
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