New Testament
Matthew 10:36
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A person's enemies will be those of their own household.
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And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.
What Matthew 10:36 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus highlights a painful reality: sometimes, the closest relationships can become sources of conflict and opposition. When someone chooses to follow Christ, it may lead to disagreements or even hostility from family members who do not share the same faith. This can be particularly challenging, as we often expect support and love from our families. Jesus is preparing His followers for the possibility that their commitment to Him might create rifts in their personal lives. The message serves as a reminder that loyalty to God may sometimes come at a cost, even among those we love the most. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing faith over familial ties when necessary, as true discipleship may require difficult choices. Ultimately, this verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even when faced with opposition from those closest to them.
How to apply Matthew 10:36 to your life
When faced with opposition from family due to your faith, remember that Jesus understands your struggle. Stay committed to your beliefs while also showing love and respect to your family. Seek support from your faith community to help navigate these challenges.
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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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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 10:36 mean?
Matthew 10:36 means that sometimes, following Jesus can lead to conflict with family members. It highlights that those closest to us may not always support our faith, and this can create difficult situations.
What is the meaning of 'enemies will be those of their own household' in Matthew 10:36?
The phrase 'enemies will be those of their own household' indicates that family members can become adversaries when one's beliefs differ. This reflects the reality that faith can cause divisions even among loved ones.
How can I apply Matthew 10:36 in my life?
To apply Matthew 10:36, remain committed to your faith even if it causes tension with family. It's important to balance your beliefs with love and respect for your family while seeking support from your faith community.
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