20151022 MOVING ON

MOVING ON

Matthew 10:23 When you are persecuted in one town, flee to the next. I tell you the truth, the Son of Man will return before you have reached all the towns of Israel.

Jesus gives permission to move on in the case of persecution. There is no need to make yourself a martyr just because you can. If persecution arises and you have the ability to move on, then do so. This is true even in conversations where people become combative in their speech. If you have graciously shared the truth and just as graciously listened to them then move on. Don’t aggravate someone just because you can.

Regarding His statement about returning before they had reached all the towns of Israel:

1.  There is no need to stay where you are not wanted. There are many towns to preach in and time is short. You cannot argue anyone into salvation. The Holy Spirit has to draw them or they will not come to Christ. Keep moving on until you find someone who desires to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

2.  A reference primarily, no doubt, to the Lord coming into his kingdom. Matthew 16:28 And I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom.". He was thus to come in the life time of some of the apostles. He did thus come in the establishment of his kingdom in power on the day of Pentecost. He also came in judgment on the Jews at the destruction of Jerusalem. This event ended Jewish persecution. There is also the final coming to judge the world, but the meaning here does not include that. –People’s New Testament

Father in heaven, this seems to fall back to being wise as serpents. We need to know when it’s time to move on. Grant us that wisdom. In Jesus Name, AMEN!!!