What does Matthew 10:21 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 10:21 describes a dire prediction from Jesus about the severe persecution that his followers will face.

In this verse, familial betrayal is highlighted as a consequence of discipleship.

The mention of a brother betraying his sibling to death, a father his child, and children rebelling against their parents to the point of causing their deaths implies a breakdown of the most basic social structures and intimate relationships because of faith.

This verse illustrates not only the literal expectation of family members turning against each other but also the deeper meaning that allegiance to Jesus and the Kingdom of God may demand a higher loyalty than even to one's family.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a larger discourse found in Matthew 10 when Jesus is preparing his twelve disciples for their missionary work.

During the time of its writing, the early Christian community would have faced hostility and persecution, both from the Jewish authorities and the Roman Empire.

The historical context involves the expectation that Christians would prioritize their belief in Jesus over their Jewish background or Roman societal norms, which could result in severe familial and societal consequences.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is interpreted differently across Christian denominations.

One perspective sees this as a literal forecast of the tribulations Christians will face, emphasizing the cost of discipleship and the sacrifices required.

Another view considers it more metaphorically, suggesting that it illustrates the transformative and sometimes divisive nature of Christian commitment.

It may also be seen as a reflection of Jesus' teaching that one's spiritual family may supersede biological ties (Matthew 12:48-50).

Some theologians relate this to the concept of 'taking up the cross', an idiom for accepting suffering for the sake of faith.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Matthew 10:21 challenges individuals to weigh their values and commitments.

For believers, it may mean understanding that their faith could lead to difficult choices and the necessity of standing firm in convictions, even when faced with opposition from those closest to them.

It can also serve as a reminder to seek support within the community of faith when facing trials, reinforcing the idea that one's spiritual family can provide strength and solace in times of persecution.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:35-36: "For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

And a man's foes [shall be] they of his own household."

• Luke 12:53: "The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law."
• Luke 14:26: "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple."
• Matthew 12:48-50: "But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek of this text include:

• "deliver up" (παραδώσει, paradōsei): to hand over, betray.
• "death" (θάνατον, thanaton): a physical death or the cessation of life.
• "rise up against" (ἐπαναστήσονται, epanastēsontai): to stand up against, or to rebel.

The language used suggests active and deliberate actions of betrayal and rebellion, emphasizing the gravity of the conflicts described.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of familial betrayal is not unique to Christianity but is found in other ancient myths and religious interpretations. In Greek mythology, for example, tensions between family members are a common plot, such as in the story of Oedipus.

The Hebrew Bible also contains stories of familial strife, like that of Joseph and his brothers.

However, in the context of Matthew 10:21, the betrayal is connected explicitly to one's allegiance to Jesus and the nascent Christian movement.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understanding of psychology could interpret the pressures described in Matthew 10:21 as sources of severe stress and trauma.

The verse might be seen through the lens of psychological conflict, where individuals may experience cognitive dissonance between their religious beliefs and their loyalty to their family.

From a sociological perspective, the conflict could be considered indicative of the social disruption that often accompanies religious and ideological shifts.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentators have offered different insights into Matthew 10:21.

Albert Barnes emphasized the extremity of the persecutions to come, saying the verse signifies the depth of hatred that Christianity would engender.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges notes that this prophecy was fulfilled in the experience of the early Christians, particularly under the Jewish and Pagan persecutions.

John Calvin commented on the need for Christians to prepare themselves for the harshest of circumstances, including betrayal by one's own kin.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary states that in responding to such trials, the followers of Jesus must not faint, must not fear, and must endure to the end.