New Testament
Matthew 10:19
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But when they arrest you, don't worry about what to say or how to say it. In that moment, the right words will be given to you.
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But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.
What Matthew 10:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the challenges they will face when spreading His message. He assures them that if they are arrested or put on trial for their faith, they should not be anxious about what to say. Instead, they can trust that the Holy Spirit will provide them with the right words at the right moment. This promise emphasizes the importance of relying on God in difficult situations. It encourages believers to have faith that they will be supported and guided when they need it most. The verse highlights the idea that God is present in our struggles and will equip us to handle challenges, especially when it comes to sharing our faith. This assurance can bring comfort and confidence to those who may fear persecution or rejection for their beliefs.
How to apply Matthew 10:19 to your life
When facing difficult situations, especially regarding our faith, we should remember this promise. Instead of worrying about our responses, we can pray for guidance and trust that God will provide the right words and wisdom when we need them most. This encourages us to speak boldly about our beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Sending Out the Twelve (Matthew 10:1–42)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Matthew 10:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 10:19 mean for Christians today?
Matthew 10:19 reassures Christians that in times of trial or persecution, they need not fear what to say. This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom. For modern believers, it serves as a reminder to trust in God's presence and support during difficult conversations about faith, encouraging them to speak boldly without anxiety.
How can I apply Matthew 10:19 in my life?
To apply Matthew 10:19, focus on building a strong relationship with God through prayer and scripture study. When faced with challenging situations, especially regarding your faith, remember to pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance. Trust that the right words will come to you when needed, allowing you to speak confidently and authentically about your beliefs.
Why should I not worry about what to say in difficult situations?
Not worrying about what to say, as advised in Matthew 10:19, encourages believers to have faith in God's provision. It highlights that in moments of stress or uncertainty, God will equip you with the right words through the Holy Spirit. This perspective helps reduce anxiety and fosters a sense of peace, allowing you to focus on your message rather than your fears.
How does Matthew 10:19 relate to facing persecution?
Matthew 10:19 directly addresses the fear of persecution by assuring believers that they will not be left alone in their struggles. It emphasizes that during times of trial, such as being arrested for faith, God will provide the right words to speak. This promise encourages Christians to remain steadfast and courageous, knowing that they have divine support in the face of adversity.
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