Book of Matthew - Chapter 10 - Verse 16

The verse 'Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.' encourages believers to be cautious and strategic in their interactions with the world. Just as sheep are vulnerable creatures in the midst of predators, Christians are called to navigate a world that may not always be receptive to their message. The metaphor of being as wise as serpents emphasizes the importance of being discerning and shrewd in dealing with others, while the instruction to be harmless as doves highlights the need for gentleness and purity of heart. By combining these qualities, believers can effectively engage with those who may oppose them without compromising their values or integrity. This verse serves as a reminder that Christians must approach challenges with both wisdom and compassion, embodying the teachings of Christ in all interactions.

In this verse, Jesus is giving instructions to his disciples as he sends them out to spread his message. The phrase "I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves" highlights the vulnerability and potential dangers the disciples will face as they carry out their mission. The metaphor of sheep among wolves suggests that they will encounter hostility and persecution. However, Jesus also provides them with guidance on how to navigate these challenges. He advises them to be "wise as serpents, and harmless as doves." This juxtaposition of wisdom and innocence emphasizes the need for the disciples to be shrewd and discerning in their interactions with others, while also maintaining their purity and integrity. The use of the serpent and the dove as symbols reflects the complexity of the disciples' task - to navigate a hostile world with both wisdom and grace. This verse serves as a reminder to believers that they must be both cautious and compassionate as they engage with the world around them.