11-27-07 Matthew 10:16

Matthew 10:16 (NAS)

Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; therefore be shrewd as serpents, and innocent as doves.

Matthew 10:16 (Philips)
Here am I sending you our like sheep with wolves all round you; so be as wise as serpents and harmless as doves.

Matthew 10:16 (NLT)
Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Be as wary as snakes and harmless as doves.

You have been called. You have been anointed. You have been appointed. Jesus has chosen you to go into all the world and to preach the gospel. He has set you apart as a minister in His service.

You have undergone intense preparation and now you are fit for what Jehovah is calling you to do. He has equipped you and provided all that you need, whether you stand before the great or the common man.

Now the Lord has sent you out as a gentle sheep in the midst of wolves. However, you need not fear these cruel, greedy, rapacious, and destructive ones. Although it looks as if you have no defense, the Lord has given you His very own authority.

However,Yeshua asks one thing of you as you go out. He wants you to act wisely and prudently. He has given you the intelligence that you need to make quick decisions, for He has placed in the center of your heart and mind the perception and correct judgment to carry out His will. Be as cunning as that ancient serpent the devil, but do not let his evil nature mix with yours. Keep yourself free from guile and maintain your innocence. Remain pure and harmless as a dove.