Matthew 10:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Do you perceive the significance of the ministry? Consider the honor bestowed upon the apostles. They are not instructed to communicate trivial matters as Moses and the prophets of old did; rather, they are tasked with proclaiming new and remarkable truths. While those former messengers spoke of earthly realities and material possessions, these apostles declare the message of the kingdom of heaven and all its splendors. Their distinction from the prophets extends beyond this; it lies also in their willingness to obey. Unlike their predecessors who often evaded directives, the apostles embrace their commissions wholeheartedly, confronting dangers, warfare, and grievous trials with a spirit of complete submission as heralds of the kingdom.

The joy of paradise is within reach; it resides in you, if you wish to embrace it. You can attain it through faith and obedience to the commandments. The kingdom of heaven is positively described in the third chapter, making it essential to understand it and select from it what appears most fitting.

Beloved brothers and sisters, should the Gospel choose silence, the very world would roar in response. Its desolation serves as a testament to its reality. Reduced to ruins by immense turmoil, it has forfeited its splendor, as if to direct our attention to a greater kingdom that lies ahead. Even those who cherish it find it increasingly bitter. The remnants of its former glory testify that it is not worthy of our affection. Just as a trembling structure poses a risk to its residents, compelling them to escape, those who cling to its facade should hasten to depart as it collapses. Therefore, when the world is in decay and we find ourselves attached to it, we invite destruction upon ourselves rather than linger in its presence.

When the Lord sent forth His holy apostles to proclaim the message, He instructed them to announce that ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand,’ indicating that the kingdom has arrived—inviting all to enter. What are we to proclaim? We must cry out to all: ‘Children of the Kingdom, do not abandon the Kingdom for bondage and servitude—yet many are doing just that. Some are ensnared by a false sense of liberty: ‘We reject,’ they declare, ‘the shackles of faith and the oppression of authority, even divine authority; we shall take control of our own destinies.’ Indeed, they have done so, constructing fables that are more naïve than the myths of the Greeks, which they exalt.

AS YOU GO, PROCLAIM THAT THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS NEAR. St. Chrysostom observes the significance of this mission, highlighting the exalted role of the Apostles. Unlike the earlier prophets, who spoke of temporal matters, the Apostles are entrusted with proclaiming remarkable and heavenly truths. While the prophets focused on earthly possessions, the Apostles declare the reality of the kingdom of heaven. Their distinction from the prophets lies not only in their message but also in their unwavering obedience. Unlike their predecessors, who often resisted directives, the Apostles embraced their calling with complete submission, even in the face of peril, conflict, and severe tribulations. Have you heard of imprisonments, death sentences, and persecution from fellow believers, as well as widespread animosity? All these trials, He declared, they were soon to encounter.

More than a year had passed since Jesus emerged from His retreat in Nazareth to proclaim a new message. Throughout this period, while preaching in Judea and Galilee, He undoubtedly communicated everything necessary for salvation to His listeners. He revealed His all-knowing nature, limitless power, and divine awareness to the people. He demonstrated to His adversaries that He understood their thoughts; He performed miracles solely by His own authority, without seeking assistance from God, accomplishing acts that only God can achieve; ultimately, He publicly declared Himself the Son of God, equal to the Father (John 5:18).

Prior to their departure, the Savior provided guidelines regarding their behavior and mission during this evangelistic journey. They were instructed to focus solely on the lost sheep of the house of Israel, refraining from reaching out to the Samaritans and Gentiles. Their message was to emphasize the imminent arrival of the kingdom of heaven, bolstered by miracles and acts of kindness. They were to carry nothing with them—no bag for provisions, no money in their belts, no extra clothing, no travel shoes beyond the customary ones made of palm bark, and even no staff unless they already possessed one.

Go and proclaim, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand; heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons.’ In doing so, he humbled their pride and cautioned them against greed, instructing them: ‘You do not give anything of your own to those who welcome you; these gifts were not given to you as a reward for your work; they are my grace—therefore share them freely, for no price can be deemed worthy of such gifts.’