Be the Blessing Dr. Stephen Streett Matthew 9:35-10:16a | June 14, 2026
The heart of today’s Scripture passage: Seeing people the way Jesus sees them and responding with both compassion and courage. 1. The Compassion of Christ (Matthew 9:35–38) Compassion here is not pity it’s a deep, gut-level response. 2. The Call to Mission (Matthew 10:1–8) The Mission Strategy: • Proclaim: “The Kingdom of heaven has come near.” • Demonstrate: Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. • Depend: “Freely you have received; freely give.” This is not just about words; it’s about a Kingdom that is seen, heard, and felt. 3. The Cost of Mission (Matthew 10:9–16a) Jesus is honest: • Don’t take extra money or supplies — depend on God’s provision. • Some will welcome you; others will reject you. • Be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Why this combination? • Innocence keeps our motives pure and our witness credible. • Shrewdness keeps us wise in a world that can be hostile to the gospel. Jesus is preparing His disciples for a mission that is both urgent and costly. 4. Living This Out Today This passage challenges us in three ways: 1. See with compassion. 2. Pray with intention. 3. Go with courage.