Matthew 10:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 10:28
28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Chapter Context
Matthew 10 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, worship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 10:28
28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Analysis
Jesus reorders fears: 'And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell' (Greek: φοβεῖσθε δὲ μᾶλλον τὸν δυνάμενον καὶ ψυχὴν καὶ σῶμα ἀπολέσαι ἐν γεέννῃ, 'fear rather the one able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna'). The command distinguishes temporal versus eternal threats. Humans can only kill the body (σῶμα) - temporal harm. God can destroy both soul (ψυχή) and body in hell (γέεννα, Gehenna) - eternal judgment. This isn't fear as terror but reverent awe that prioritizes eternal over temporal consequences. Right fear of God eliminates paralyzing fear of humans.
Historical Context
Disciples faced persecution from religious authorities (Acts 4:1-3, 5:17-18) and civil powers (Acts 12:1-3). Jesus prepares them for martyrdom by establishing proper fear hierarchy. 'Gehenna' referred to Valley of Hinnom outside Jerusalem where refuse burned, symbolizing final judgment. Jewish martyrdom theology (2 Maccabees 7) emphasized faithfulness despite bodily death, trusting resurrection. Early Christian martyrs embodied this teaching, fearing God more than execution. The promise addressed real threats, not hypothetical persecution.
Reflection
- How does proper fear of God eliminate unhealthy fear of human threats?
- What is the relationship between reverent awe of God and confidence in His protection?
- What temporal fears need reordering in light of eternal realities?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 25:46, Psalms 119:120, Ecclesiastes 5:7, Isaiah 51:12, 66:2, Jeremiah 5:22