King James Version
Matthew 10:16 in the King James Version says “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. harml...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. harmless: or, simple”
Matthew 10:16 · KJV
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.
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.
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. harmless: or, simple
But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;
And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“forth”
G649set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively
“sheep”
G4263something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e., (specially), a sheep (literally or figuratively)
“be ye”
G1096to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
“wise”
G5429thoughtful, i.e., sagacious or discreet (implying a cautious character; while g4680 denotes practical skill or acumen; and g4908 indicates rather inte
“serpents”
G3789a snake, figuratively, (as a type of sly cunning) an artful malicious person, especially satan
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
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.
Matthew 10:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Matthew 10:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge