Episodes
Thursday Feb 27, 2020
"Be Shrewd (Wise) and Innocent (Prudent)" (Billy Russell, 1/26/20)
Thursday Feb 27, 2020
Thursday Feb 27, 2020
Handling 2020 Surprises
“Be Shrewd (Wise) and Innocent (Prudent)”
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as
shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” (-Jesus, Mt.10:16, NIV)
We can handle the surprises the new year brings when we: love no matter, trust Jesus like a child, and practice being shrewd and innocent on mission.
Love, faith, and wisdom can carry us through whatever 2020 may bring!
Jesus sends out His disciples (Mt.10:16a)-
Don’t miss Jesus’ important declarative: “I am sending you out...”
The 12 were sent to declare the Kingdom come to fellow Israelites.
Later, Jesus commissioned them/us to the nations (Mt.28:19).
Jesus uses a simile for the disciples: “like sheep among wolves.”
It reflects risk/danger in the mission.
Opportunity for testimony and persecution (Keener).
It reflects the Good Shepherd’s relationship w/ his sheep (disciples).
Jesus commands a strategic ministry approach (Mt.10:16b)-
“Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Jesus offers a proverb to picture this guarded approach (Card).
What does Jesus mean: “shrewd as snakes” and “innocent as doves”?
Shrewd = be wise; understand the moment and not unnecessarily
provoke it (Keener); no foolishness/stupidity. Be sensible.
Innocent = pure/unmixed intentions; prudent; integrity (Blomberg).
Not deceitful nor gullible. Gentleness/simplicity of spirit.
How do we see Jesus using this ministry skill? Jesus is shrewd with...
*The rich young ruler (Mt.19:21).
*The religious leaders (Mt.21:23-27).
*The disciple Judas, the betrayer (Mt.26:50).
*The Roman governor, Pilate (Mt.27:14).
How can we best be shrewd and innocent to handle 2020 surprises?
Be alert and aware of your surroundings and situation (Ex. 1).
Wisely guard your responses (verbal/non-verbal cues).
Say little or nothing, and no more (Prov.17:28; Eph.4:29).
It is better to practice situational wisdom than bravado (Acts 4).
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