King James Version
What Does Matthew 10:13 Mean?
“And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.”
Context
11
And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.
12
And when ye come into an house, salute it.
13
And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.
14
And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
15
Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(13) **If the house be worthy.**—The doubt implied in the “if” seems at first somewhat inconsistent with the supposition that they only went into the house after having ascertained the worthiness of the occupant. It must be remembered, however, that the missionaries entered each city or village as strangers, and that in such a case even the most careful inquiry might not always be successful.
**Let your peace come upon it**—*i.e.,* the peace implied in the formula of salutation. The imperative is not so much a command addressed to them as the proclamation of an edict from the King in whose name they went. Their greeting was not to be a mere ceremonious form. It would be as a real prayer wherever the conditions of peace were fulfilled on the other side. At the worst, the prayer for peace would bring a blessing on him who prayed.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 10:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 10:13
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge