Explain the assurance that Jesus gives to His disciples (Matthew 10:19-20). Explain how that assurance applies to believers today.
In Matthew 10:19-20, Jesus provides assurance to His disciples as He prepares them to go out and preach the Gospel. Let's break down the passage and then discuss how this assurance applies to believers today.
In verse 19, Jesus says, "But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say." This statement addresses the disciples' worries and anxieties about potential persecution and how they should respond when faced with opposition.
The assurance here lies in Jesus' promise that the Holy Spirit will guide and provide the disciples with the words to speak when they are faced with difficult situations or opposition. In verse 20, Jesus further explains, "For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."
This assurance that Jesus gives to His disciples is applicable to believers today in several ways:
1. The Holy Spirit's Guidance: Just as the disciples received the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment, believers today also have the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit provides guidance, wisdom, and helps believers communicate effectively when faced with challenges or opposition.
2. Trusting in God's Provision: Jesus encourages His disciples not to worry about what to say or how to say it because God will provide in those moments. This assurance encourages believers today to trust in God's provision and rely on Him for wisdom, strength, and the right words to speak when dealing with difficult situations.
3. Overcoming Fear and Anxiety: Jesus' assurance reminds believers that they don't need to be overwhelmed by fear or anxiety in challenging circumstances. Instead, they can find peace and confidence knowing that the Holy Spirit will empower them and help them overcome any obstacles they may face.
4. Sharing the Gospel Boldly: Just as Jesus sent His disciples out to proclaim the Gospel, believers today are also called to share their faith. The assurance provided by Jesus encourages believers to boldly proclaim the message of salvation, trusting that the Holy Spirit will enable them to effectively communicate the truth of the Gospel.
In conclusion, the assurance that Jesus gives to His disciples in Matthew 10:19-20 is still applicable to believers today. We can find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit guides us, provides us with the right words, overcomes our fears, and empowers us to share the Gospel boldly. By trusting in God's provision and relying on the Holy Spirit, believers can confidently face any challenges they encounter in their journey of faith.