And if anyone will not welcome you or heed your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.
Christ threatens terrible judgment against those who despise the gospel to steel His disciples against the world's ingratitude, so they will not stumble when their doctrine is rejected. The gospel is an inestimable treasure and the scepter of His kingdom; to refuse it is open contempt of God Himself. A teacher of heavenly doctrine must burn with such ardent zeal for it that he is agonized when it meets with scorn.
AI summary
The apostles must not go to the Gentiles or Samaritans because Christ Himself had not revealed Himself to them. The Jews must have first offer of salvation; if they refuse it, Christ hides Himself from that place. This restraint was only for their first mission; afterwards all nations were to receive the gospel.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 10:5-15
To reject the gospel and those who preach it brings everlasting damnation far worse than Sodom's judgment. There are degrees in sin, and rejecting the gospel after hearing it is a graver sin than sinning in ignorance; therefore the torment of such rejecters will be greater than that of the heathen who never had the light.
AI summary