What is the meaning of Matthew 10:28?

Matthew 10:28 is a verse that has sparked much reflection and discussion among Christians seeking to understand the depth of Jesus' teachings. The verse reads:

"And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (ESV)

This verse is situated within a broader discourse where Jesus is preparing His disciples for the mission of spreading the Gospel. He is giving them instructions, warnings, and encouragements as they go out into a world that may not always be receptive to their message. To fully understand the meaning of Matthew 10:28, it's essential to consider the context, the specific language used, and the theological implications of Jesus' words.

Contextual Analysis

In Matthew 10, Jesus is commissioning His twelve disciples to go out and preach the Kingdom of Heaven. He warns them of the persecution they will face and encourages them to be bold and fearless in their mission. The immediate context of verse 28 includes verses 26-31, where Jesus speaks about fear and the value of the disciples in God's eyes:

"So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:26-31, ESV)

The Nature of Fear

Jesus contrasts two types of fear in this passage. The first is the fear of human beings who have the power to harm or even kill the body. This type of fear is natural and instinctive, but Jesus urges His disciples to transcend it. The second type of fear is a reverential fear of God, who has ultimate authority over both the soul and the body. This fear is not about terror but about awe and respect for God's sovereign power and justice.

The Soul and the Body

In biblical anthropology, the "soul" (Greek: ψυχή, psychē) often refers to the life principle or the immaterial aspect of a person, while the "body" (Greek: σῶμα, sōma) refers to the physical aspect. Jesus is making a profound statement about the nature of human existence. While physical life is important, it is not the ultimate reality. The soul, which represents the eternal aspect of a person, holds greater significance. Therefore, the fear of losing one's physical life should not overshadow the reverence due to God, who has control over eternal destiny.

The Authority of God

The phrase "him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" refers to God's ultimate authority over eternal judgment. The term "hell" (Greek: γέεννα, Gehenna) is derived from the Valley of Hinnom, a place outside Jerusalem associated with idolatry and child sacrifice in the Old Testament (2 Kings 23:10, Jeremiah 7:31). By Jesus' time, it had become a symbol of final judgment and eternal separation from God. Jesus is emphasizing that God's authority extends beyond physical death to the eternal state of the soul.

Theological Implications

Several theological themes emerge from this verse:

1. The Sovereignty of God: God's authority is supreme, extending over both the physical and spiritual realms. This sovereignty calls for a reverential fear that acknowledges His ultimate power and justice.

2. The Eternal Perspective: Jesus encourages His disciples to adopt an eternal perspective, valuing the soul's destiny over temporary physical existence. This perspective aligns with Paul's teaching in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, where he contrasts the temporary nature of physical affliction with the eternal weight of glory.

3. The Assurance of God's Care: Despite the call to fear God, Jesus immediately reassures His disciples of their value to God. The analogy of sparrows and the numbering of hairs on their heads underscores God's intimate knowledge and care for each individual. This assurance mitigates the fear of human threats and reinforces trust in God's providential care.

Practical Application

For contemporary Christians, Matthew 10:28 offers several practical lessons:

• Courage in Witnessing: Just as the disciples were sent out to proclaim the Gospel, Christians today are called to share their faith. This mission often involves facing opposition, ridicule, or even persecution. Jesus' words encourage believers to remain steadfast and courageous, prioritizing faithfulness to God over fear of human disapproval.

• Reverence for God: The call to fear God is a call to live with a profound sense of His holiness and authority. This reverence shapes ethical behavior, worship, and daily decision-making, aligning one's life with God's will.

• Eternal Perspective: In a world preoccupied with material success and physical well-being, Jesus' teaching redirects focus to the eternal state of the soul. This perspective influences how Christians view suffering, loss, and the ultimate purpose of life.

• Trust in God's Care: The assurance of God's intimate knowledge and care provides comfort in times of uncertainty and fear. Believers can trust that God's sovereignty is coupled with His love and care for each individual.

Conclusion

Matthew 10:28 encapsulates a profound teaching from Jesus about fear, authority, and the eternal significance of the soul. By contrasting the fear of human threats with the reverential fear of God, Jesus calls His disciples to a higher perspective that values eternal destiny over temporary physical existence. This teaching remains relevant for Christians today, offering courage, reverence, an eternal perspective, and trust in God's providential care. In a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties, Jesus' words continue to inspire faithfulness and resilience in the mission of proclaiming the Gospel.