Beware of them : A urgent call to become alert

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Matthew 10:17-22*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 6:4-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 30*

*Beware of them : A urgent call to become alert*

*1) “Beware of them” – Matthew 10:17*

This verse is part of Jesus' instructions to His disciples as He sends them out to proclaim the Kingdom of God. 

It serves as a warning about opposition they will face, particularly from religious and political authorities. 

*2) The Reality of Persecution*

Jesus warns that His followers will face hostility, especially from those in positions of power. 

The phrase *hand you over* suggests legal persecution, a reality that the early Church experienced 

This reminds us that being faithful to Christ often invites resistance.

*3) Persecution from Religious Authorities*

Jesus specifically mentions being flogged *in their synagogues,* indicating that opposition will come even from within religious communities. 

This was true for the apostles, who faced hostility from Jewish leaders who saw the Gospel as a threat to their authority

This warns us that not all religious institutions or leaders align with God’s will.

*4) The Call to Spiritual Vigilance*

The phrase *Beware of them* does not mean to fear, but to be spiritually alert. 

Jesus calls His followers to be *wise as serpents and innocent as doves* (Matthew 10:16), meaning they must be discerning and prudent without compromising their integrity. 

This applies today in dealing with opposition wisely while maintaining Christlike character.

*5) God’s Sovereignty in Persecution*

Though Jesus warns of suffering, He also assures His disciples that God will guide them. 

In Matthew 10:19-20, Jesus says, *When they deliver you up, do not be anxious how you are to speak... for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.*

This shows that God’s presence and wisdom will sustain believers in difficult times.

*6) The Inevitable Conflict Between the Gospel and the World*

Jesus’ warning is not just for the apostles but for all believers. 

The world resists the message of Christ because it challenges sin, pride, and self-sufficiency. 

John 15:18 echoes this: *If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.* 

The Church must be prepared for opposition but remain steadfast in its mission.

*7) The Spiritual Enemies*

One needs to be beware of the Spiritual enemies, which destroy our life and purpose of our life 

Beware of pride 

Beware of jealousy

Beware of anger 

Beware of revenge

Beware of selfishness

Beware of greed 

Beware of addictions 

Beware of worldly pleasures 

Beware of laziness 

One needs to be aware of these enemies  

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*