28 shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves meaning Full Guide
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Shrewd as a Serpent, Innocent as a Dove [1]
All women absorb messages during their lifetimes, and these messages have a profound influence on a woman’s voice. Women—especially women of faith—receive numerous messages about how they are supposed to behave and these messages influence a woman’s voice.
As women of faith, we should treasure the pursuit of these qualities in our character.. On the contrary, as women, how many times have we been given these messages:
BE SHREWD! Do place as much value on developing these characteristics as we do on being innocent, kind and patient?. Think about the definition of the word “shrewd.” It means to show sharp powers of judgment, to be astute, sharp-witted, intelligent, clever, canny, sagacious, perceptive and savvy.Being shrewd is a great quality to have.
What does it mean to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16)? [2]
In sending out the Twelve, Jesus said to them, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16, KJV). The NIV says, “shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Just before He tells them to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves, He warns them that they were being sent out “like sheep among wolves.”. The world, then as now, was hostile to believers—not incidentally hostile, but purposefully hostile
In such an environment, the question becomes: “How can we advance the kingdom of God effectively without becoming predatory ourselves?” Jesus taught His followers that, to be Christlike in a godless world, they must combine the wisdom of the serpent with the harmlessness of the dove.. In using these similes, Jesus invokes the common proverbial view of serpents and doves
Wise as Serpents and Innocent as Doves [3]
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When Jesus commands His disciples to go to the people of Israel announcing that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 10:7), He gives them a warning and some advice: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matt
“Behold” translates the Greek idou, which means “to call attention to” or “to point out something important.” To announce that the kingdom of heaven was at hand meant to the people of Israel that God’s judgment was coming, that those who do not repent will be doomed. Jesus wanted His disciples to know that the kingdom message would stir up opposition
Wise as Serpents and Harmless as Doves [4]
The one mark that Christ said would distinguish His followers is the love they have for each other. Sadly, many have gone astray from that definition of the church
When ever Christians stray from the truth – which is Jesus Himself – they find themselves in error or false teachings. As the Body of Christ or the Church, we must stop hurting each other and we need to learn to love each other as Christ has loved us
It is important to know that Christ is building His Church – no one else has that responsibility. We may be a part of the building process, but we are certainly not building the church.
What Does it Mean to Be ‘Wise as Serpents and Innocent as Doves’? [5]
Two animals could hardly be more opposite: the predatory serpent, a symbol for Satan; and the gentle dove, representing the Holy Spirit. And yet, Christ adjures his disciples to be like both of them
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves,” Christ announced to his disciples. The disciples were going into a world of predatory unbelievers; people who did not know the gospel, who saw the 12 as vulnerable prey, and who were happy to take advantage of their weakness.
This weakness was a manifestation of great faith and submission to the Lord.. The disciples decreased so that others could recognize Christ as their Messiah and teacher
Matthew 10:16 meaning [6]
Jesus gives two powerful metaphors to help His disciples understand their mission. The parallel gospel account of this teaching is found in Luke 10:3.
He wants them to know the risks and how to best manage them. He says Behold to draw their attention to what He is about to tell them
Jesus is sending His disciples into the midst of danger. Sheep were common symbols for innocence and helplessness
What Does it Mean to Be ‘Wise as Serpents and Innocent as Doves’? [7]
Two animals could hardly be more opposite: the predatory serpent, a symbol for Satan; and the gentle dove, representing the Holy Spirit. And yet, Christ adjures his disciples to be like both of them
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves,” Christ announced to his disciples. The disciples were going into a world of predatory unbelievers; people who did not know the gospel, who saw the 12 as vulnerable prey, and who were happy to take advantage of their weakness.
This weakness was a manifestation of great faith and submission to the Lord.. The disciples decreased so that others could recognize Christ as their Messiah and teacher
Wise as Serpents and Innocent as Doves [8]
Request your free, three-month trial to Tabletalk magazine. You’ll receive the print issue monthly and gain immediate digital access to decades of archives
When Jesus commands His disciples to go to the people of Israel announcing that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 10:7), He gives them a warning and some advice: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matt
“Behold” translates the Greek idou, which means “to call attention to” or “to point out something important.” To announce that the kingdom of heaven was at hand meant to the people of Israel that God’s judgment was coming, that those who do not repent will be doomed. Jesus wanted His disciples to know that the kingdom message would stir up opposition
What does it mean to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matt. 10:16)? [9]
What does it mean to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matt. Often when He makes statements like this, the first thing to do is not to work out from serpents and doves, but rather to think of them in terms of Jesus
Luke says in Luke 2:52 that from His early days, because of His reflection on Scripture, Jesus grew in wisdom. I sometimes say, especially for those of us who don’t have a lot of wisdom, that the Bible has a book that gives you wisdom before you’ve had time to get it; namely, the book of Proverbs
At the same time, we see what Jesus says about Himself: “Come to Me you who labor and are heavy laden, for I am meek and gentle in spirit.” That explains what it means for us to have dove-like gentleness.. We could say, “Let’s think about serpents and let’s think about doves,” but the simplest way to understand what Jesus is saying is to look at how He illustrated and exhibited the qualities of wisdom and gentleness.
What the Bible says about Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves [10]
This section begins with disfellowshipping because it is a biblical means of dealing with brethren who are trying to deceive others. We often speak of disfellowshipping those who cause division
Those who are disfellowshipped, who are causing divisions and offenses, are doing things contrary to true doctrine. This is part of the effort, the diligence, that it takes to keep from being deceived ourselves
Now, if we should meet them on the street, a polite, social “hello” would be fine. But we should avoid getting into a conversation, argument, or discussion about doctrine
Wise as Serpents and Harmless as Doves [11]
The one mark that Christ said would distinguish His followers is the love they have for each other. Sadly, many have gone astray from that definition of the church
When ever Christians stray from the truth – which is Jesus Himself – they find themselves in error or false teachings. As the Body of Christ or the Church, we must stop hurting each other and we need to learn to love each other as Christ has loved us
It is important to know that Christ is building His Church – no one else has that responsibility. We may be a part of the building process, but we are certainly not building the church.
What does Matthew 10:16 mean? [12]
What does Matthew 10:16 mean?Jesus is sending His twelve hand-picked disciples out to be apostles; this word literally means “sent ones.” They have a specific mission: proclaim the coming of the kingdom of heaven from town to town in the region of Galilee (Matthew 10:5–8).. Here, Jesus begins to describe a longer-term mission
What Christ refers to here will mostly happen after His death, resurrection, and return to heaven. During the Last Supper, Jesus will provide similar warnings and encouragements (John 15:18–20; 16:1–4).
Elsewhere, Jesus spoke of Himself as the “Good Shepherd” who would die to protect His flock (John 10:11), specifically from attacking wolves (John 10:12–14). The radical difference between believers in Christ and the rest of the world is captured in the symbolism of being sheep “sent” into the midst of wolves
Matthew 10:16 meaning [13]
Jesus gives two powerful metaphors to help His disciples understand their mission. The parallel gospel account of this teaching is found in Luke 10:3.
He wants them to know the risks and how to best manage them. He says Behold to draw their attention to what He is about to tell them
Jesus is sending His disciples into the midst of danger. Sheep were common symbols for innocence and helplessness
What does “therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” mean? [14]
Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. What does “be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” mean?
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What does “be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” mean?. We will be helped in understanding these points by unpacking them one by one.
Matthew Chapter 10: Shrewd as Snakes and Innocent as Doves [15]
On today’s Bible Answer Man broadcast (08/04/21), Hank picks back up in his series on the Gospel of Matthew in chapter 10, verse 16. Here Jesus instructs His disciples to “be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16 NIV)
They are either shrewd as snakes, or they are as innocent as doves. Here, however, Jesus tells his disciples to be both
Jesus goes on to warn His disciples, “Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues.” “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, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matthew 10:17, 19-20)
Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves [16]
The bible cautions us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. The sense of it is to say that we are to make ourselves street wise
It is sad to say that this experience destroys our willingness to open up to people. The Pharisees and the Herodians are out to get Jesus
They want Jesus to take His guard down so that they can stab him in the neck metaphorically speaking. They begin with, “Teacher, we know you are a truthful man and that you teach the way of God.” Please…, heard that one before! We might say they are buttering Him up and not doing a very good job of it
Wise as Serpents, Innocent as Doves — Center for Action and Contemplation [17]
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” –Matthew 10:16. Gomes (1942–2011) considers the type of seasoned innocence to which Jesus calls his disciples:
Innocence without experience eventually becomes a state of pure illusion, and experience without vision deteriorates into cynical despair. When Jesus speaks of the wisdom of the serpent he is not giving us an invitation to cynicism; he wants us, like the serpent, always to know what is going on
We are meant to be aware, heads up, eyes open, mind on full throttle, not easily fooled or seduced by the blandishments of this life. To be innocent as a dove is an exercise neither in naïveté nor in deception
Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16) – EndoftheMatter.com [18]
What does Jesus mean when He commanded His disciples to “be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” in Matthew 10:16? Over time I have heard many misuses of these passages, especially by applying them to your business life and various other situations. To truly understand Jesus’s meaning, we must always begin with the context.
These persecutions would come from the Jewish population, the higher Roman courts, and the Gentiles. They will be hated because of the gospel and even bring divisions within families, but they are encouraged not to be anxious but to flee when they can and continue this work wherever they go
An important point to note is that the disciples are the sheep. They are NOT serpents or doves, but they are sheep who are to be “as wise as serpents” and “innocent as doves”
Sheep, Wolves, Snakes, and Doves [19]
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”. When Jesus sends us to bear witness to him in the world, he does not send us out as dominant and strong, but as weak and seemingly defenseless in ourselves
The text goes on to say that the “wolves” will deliver the “sheep” to courts, and flog them, and drag them before governors, and have parents and children put to death, and hate them, and persecute them from town to town, and malign them, and kill them (Matthew 10:17-31). So it is clear that when Jesus says he is sending us as sheep in the midst of wolves, he means that we will be treated the way wolves treat sheep.
Be like snakes, not sheep, when it comes to being smart. I take that to mean that snakes are quick to get out of the way
Shrewd As Serpents, Innocent As Doves [20]
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16, NASB). This verse speaks clearly to our Lord’s intentions for His people in this world
He is well aware of the manner in which He does so and the reality of the world He sends them into. Christians are sheep in a world of wolves; the world views us with pity and often ridicules us for being easy prey
Because we are in the position of ambassadors for God, Christ tells us the attitude and character that we are to have: shrewd and innocent.. Being shrewd and innocent are not actions we take–they are who we are to become.
Be wise as snakes, innocent as doves [21]
Jesus says we need to be gentle but smart when sharing the gospel.. Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves
Often, just prior to engaging in the mission, I have tried my best to inspire the team for the task ahead. I’ve used different strategies for these motivational speeches:
– I have spoken about our small part in the Great Commission. – I have put eternity in the minds of my teams so that they would be focused on the mission.
What Do You Mean: Wise and Harmless? [22]
With a UCG.org account you will be able to save items to read and study later!. When you think about high-risk jobs, what comes to mind? How about bull riders, stuntmen, race car drivers, test pilots and soldiers? Do you think of preachers or evangelists as being exposed to high risks? Jesus did
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves” (Matthew 10:16, first part). You’re going to be like sheep running through a wolf pack” (The Message)
This is good advice for each of us as we go through our daily lives: “Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (last part of verse 16).. How are serpents wise and how are doves harmless? Let’s examine some key word meanings and the most common traits of these two creatures to answer these questions.
What Does It Mean To Be Wise As Serpents And Innocent As Doves? [23]
What does it mean to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves? Consider the Biblical narrative.. The serpent tempted Eve by asking “Did God really say?” Cain murdered Abel because God had accepted his sacrifice
Joseph was sold by his own brothers into slavery in Egypt, then thrown in prison on false charges of rape. Jealous King Saul sought David’s life when he started to view him as a threat
Haman plotted to destroy all the Jews in Persia because Mordecai would not bow and pay homage to him.. The Bible is filled with stories of plots, schemes, deceptions, and self-promotion
Be Wise as a Serpent [24]
Over the years in our ministry, I have discovered timing to be extremely important. I have certainly found it to be true that we need to act when favor is obviously on our side
Knowing exactly which opportunities to take — and which ones to let pass us by — has been one of my personal challenges in the former Soviet Union. One day I was seeking the Lord about several opportunities that were presenting themselves
*[If you started reading this from your email, begin reading here.]. But immediately Matthew 10:16 came to my mind: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” In this verse, Jesus commanded His disciples — as He is commanding us today: “be as wise as serpents.”
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. The… [25]
This, and the following verses, chiefly respect the troubles, afflictions, persecutions, and sufferings which should befall the apostles after the death and resurrection of Christ; when their commission was enlarged, and they afresh sent out by Christ to preach his Gospel; of which he gives a faithful account before hand, that they might be prepared for them, and not be surprised when they came upon them. He compares them to “sheep”, because they were meek and humble in their spirits, harmless, and inoffensive, in their lives and conversations; were weak, and unable to protect themselves, and were sent out by him unarmed and defenceless; and their oppressors and persecutors to “wolves”, because fierce and furious, voracious and ravenous, cruel and hurtful, as these creatures are, especially to sheep; wherefore Christ gives them this wholesome advice,
Much such an expression as this God is represented as saying of Israel F1:. Simon, the holy blessed God said, concerning Israel, with me they are (Mynwyk) (Mymymt) , “harmless as doves”; but among the nations of the world, they are (Myvxnk Mymwre) , “subtle as serpents”.”The serpent is a very sharp sighted, cunning creature, and uses various arts and stratagems for its own preservation, and especially of its head; and is so far to be imitated by the followers of Christ, as to make use of all proper methods to preserve themselves from the insults and rage of men, and not expose themselves to unnecessary dangers: and, as much as in them lies, they should be careful to give no just occasion of offence, or irritate, and provoke them to use them ill, and to avoid all snares and traps that are laid for them; and, at the same time, maintain the innocence and harmlessness of the dove, being free from all wicked cunning and craftiness, without rancour, malice, and wrath; not meditating and seeking revenge, but meek and humble in their deportment, leading inoffensive lives, and proceeding in the course of their calling, though liable to many insults, and much oppression.
Sheep, Wolves, Serpents, and Doves [26]
As Yeshua gave His disciples directives for their mission of spreading the gospel message to the Jewish towns and villages of the Galilee, He warned His disciples that not everyone would receive their message. They should expect some rejection, and when it happened, they should leave that home or village, shaking the dust from their feet as they left.
Matthew 10:16 begins with the exclamation, “Behold!” signifying a break with the earlier instructions.. Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves
The Master compared the disciples to “sheep among wolves.” The simile also appears in rabbinic literature where the midrash compares Israel to a lone sheep surrounded by seventy wolves, i.e., the seventy gentile nations:. How great is the sheep that stands among seventy wolves! How great is the shepherd who rescues and guards it, and who thwarts them from harming it
As wise as serpents, as innocent as doves – Written for our instruction [27]
Christians should expect that serving Jesus in this world will mean people will be unhappy with us. When giving them instructions about their mission to the world, he said:
All of this animal imagery gets across some critical information about living as a disciple of Jesus in a world opposed to God.. The disciples are described as sheep in the midst of wolves
They have no armour or claws, no poison or sharp teeth. If they are not protected, you would expect the wolves to win
Matthew 10:16 Meaning of Sheep among Wolves [28]
Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”. Jesus has empowered his disciples and has given specific instructions to them
But they must take care because he was sending them out into the world ruled by satan. If they were going to thrive, then they must become a certain type of person, a type of person who is like Christ himself, innocent, and shrewd.
But lest they think loving their enemies meant something that it did not, they were to be shrewd, or wise. They were to understand, like the Master, that humans are flawed and not to be trusted (Jn 2:24) until they have proven trustworthy.
Sources
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- https://www.gotquestions.org/wise-serpents-harmless-doves.html
- https://tabletalkmagazine.com/article/2022/10/wise-as-serpents-and-innocent-as-doves/#:~:text=When%20Jesus%20commands%20His%20disciples,10%3A16).
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