"Be Shrewd (Wise) and Innocent (Prudent)" (Billy Russell, 1/26/20)

                                       Handling 2020 Surprises

                          “Be Shrewd (Wise) and Innocent (Prudent)”

                                                

         “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as   

     shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” (-Jesus, Mt.10:16, NIV)

 

We can handle the surprises the new year brings when we: love no matter, trust Jesus like a child, and practice being shrewd and innocent on mission.

Love, faith, and wisdom can carry us through whatever 2020 may bring!

 

Jesus sends out His disciples (Mt.10:16a)-

     Don’t miss Jesus’ important declarative: “I am sending you out...”

          The 12 were sent to declare the Kingdom come to fellow Israelites.

          Later, Jesus commissioned them/us to the nations (Mt.28:19).

     Jesus uses a simile for the disciples: “like sheep among wolves.”

          It reflects risk/danger in the mission.

          Opportunity for testimony and persecution (Keener).

          It reflects the Good Shepherd’s relationship w/ his sheep (disciples).

 

Jesus commands a strategic ministry approach (Mt.10:16b)-

    “Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

     Jesus offers a proverb to picture this guarded approach (Card).

     What does Jesus mean: “shrewd as snakes” and “innocent as doves”?

            Shrewd = be wise; understand the moment and not unnecessarily

                            provoke it (Keener); no foolishness/stupidity. Be sensible.

             Innocent = pure/unmixed intentions; prudent; integrity (Blomberg).

                               Not deceitful nor gullible. Gentleness/simplicity of spirit.

How do we see Jesus using this ministry skill? Jesus is shrewd with...

          *The rich young ruler (Mt.19:21).

          *The religious leaders (Mt.21:23-27).

          *The disciple Judas, the betrayer (Mt.26:50).

          *The Roman governor, Pilate (Mt.27:14).

 

How can we best be shrewd and innocent to handle 2020 surprises?

     Be alert and aware of your surroundings and situation (Ex. 1).

     Wisely guard your responses (verbal/non-verbal cues).

     Say little or nothing, and no more (Prov.17:28; Eph.4:29).

     It is better to practice situational wisdom than bravado (Acts 4).