Behold, Beware, Bear Witness...

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. (Matthew 10:16-18 ESV) As Jesus sent out the Twelve, He gave them clear instructions what they were being given authority to do. He then outlined a simple, straightforward outline of what would happen. They had to go into this thing with eyes wide open: they were going to be watched. Some would be ready to pounce on their every word and action, criticizing, even persecuting them, while others would be watching to see if their words and actions matched. They also had to realize that it was more than verbal criticism they would face; there was real physical punishment and even legal action. This was no adventure for wimps; it involved exciting risk. But all this would lead to something great: the opportunity to bear witness for Christ before people of influence, to do something that would impact the world. Whom does God want us to bear witness to today? Are we willing to take the risks? Do we realize we are being watched? May He make a difference through us.