Matthew 10:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 10:6
6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Chapter Context
Matthew 10 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, prayer, creation. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 10:6
6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Analysis
Jesus restricts the mission: 'go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel' (εις οδον εθνων μη απελθητε και εις πολιν Σαμαριτων μη εισελθητε πορευεσθε δε μαλλον προς τα προβατα τα απολωλοτα οικου Ισραηλ). This temporary restriction (later reversed in 28:19) reflects salvation history's order: 'to the Jew first' (Romans 1:16). Israel received God's covenants, law, and promises; they get first opportunity to receive Messiah. 'Lost sheep of the house of Israel' evokes God's shepherd imagery (Ezekiel 34). Despite Israel's covenant privilege, they're lost and need the Shepherd. The restriction is strategic, not ethnic favoritism—Jesus must offer Himself to Israel before extending salvation to nations. Their rejection becomes grounds for Gentile inclusion (Romans 11).
Historical Context
Jewish-Samaritan hostility dated to the Assyrian conquest (722 BC) when foreigners intermarried with remaining Israelites, creating mixed-race Samaritans with syncretistic worship. Jews considered Samaritans heretics and half-breeds, avoiding contact. Gentiles were 'unclean' outsiders to God's covenant. Jesus' restriction to Israel reflects His primary mission: offering Himself as Jewish Messiah to covenant people. After resurrection, the Great Commission (28:19) sends disciples to all nations. Acts chronicles this expansion: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, ends of earth (Acts 1:8). Paul's missionary pattern likewise prioritized synagogues before turning to Gentiles.
Reflection
- Why did Jesus temporarily restrict the gospel to Israel before opening it to all nations?
- What does the phrase 'lost sheep of the house of Israel' reveal about Israel's spiritual condition?
- How does understanding salvation history's progression help us interpret Scripture's particularistic and universal themes?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 18:10, Psalms 119:176, Isaiah 53:6, Jeremiah 50:6, Ezekiel 34:6, 34:8