New Testament
Matthew 10:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When they persecute you in one city, escape to the next. I tell you the truth: you won't finish going through all the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
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But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
What Matthew 10:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus instructs His followers on how to respond to persecution. He advises them to flee to another city if they face hostility in one place. This reflects the urgency and seriousness of their mission. Jesus emphasizes that they will not finish their journey through all the cities of Israel before He returns, indicating the imminent nature of His coming. This statement serves as a reminder of the transient nature of their work and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. The mention of the 'Son of Man' coming highlights the hope and expectation of His return, which should motivate the disciples to continue their mission despite difficulties. The verse encourages believers to be wise and strategic in their ministry, understanding that not every place will be receptive to their message.
How to apply Matthew 10:23 to your life
When facing challenges or rejection in our lives, we can learn from this verse to seek new opportunities rather than becoming discouraged. It encourages us to be adaptable and persistent in our efforts to share our faith, knowing that our work is part of a larger purpose.
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 10:23
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Key themes
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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 10:23 mean?
Matthew 10:23 means that Jesus is advising His followers to flee to another city if they face persecution. This reflects the urgency of their mission and the need to continue spreading their message despite challenges.
What is the significance of the 'Son of Man' in Matthew 10:23?
The 'Son of Man' in Matthew 10:23 refers to Jesus Himself, indicating His future return. This highlights the importance of the disciples' mission and the expectation of His coming.
How should we respond to rejection according to Matthew 10:23?
According to Matthew 10:23, we should respond to rejection by seeking new opportunities rather than becoming discouraged. It encourages adaptability and persistence in sharing our faith.
What themes are present in Matthew 10:23?
Themes in Matthew 10:23 include persecution, the urgency of the mission, the hope of Christ's return, and the importance of strategic ministry in the face of challenges.
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