Matthew 10:21

Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rise against their parents and have them put to death.

Study Bible

Brother will betray brother to death
This phrase highlights the intense familial betrayal that will occur as a result of allegiance to Christ. The Greek word for "brother" (ἀδελφός, adelphos) signifies not only a biological sibling but also a close relationship, emphasizing the deep personal nature of this betrayal. Historically, this reflects the early Christian experience where following Jesus often led to division within families, as some members accepted the faith while others rejected it. This division is a fulfillment of Jesus' earlier teachings that His message would bring not peace, but a sword (Matthew 10:34). The use of "betray" (παραδώσει, paradosei) is significant, as it is the same term used for Judas' betrayal of Jesus, indicating a grave and deliberate act of handing over to authorities, often leading to death. This reflects the severe persecution faced by early Christians, where familial bonds were severed due to faith.

a father his child
The mention of a father betraying his child underscores the depth of division that allegiance to Christ can cause. In the ancient world, the family unit was the cornerstone of society, and the father was the head of the household, responsible for the protection and provision of his family. The Greek word for "father" (πατήρ, patēr) carries with it the connotation of authority and care, making the act of betrayal even more shocking. This phrase illustrates the radical nature of the Gospel, which can disrupt even the most fundamental social structures. It serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of discipleship and the potential for conflict when the values of the Kingdom of God clash with worldly values.

children will rise against parents
Here, the phrase "children will rise against parents" indicates a reversal of the expected order of respect and obedience within the family. The Greek verb "rise against" (ἐπαναστήσονται, epanastēsontai) suggests rebellion or insurrection, highlighting the active and aggressive nature of this conflict. In the context of first-century Jewish culture, honoring one's parents was a fundamental commandment, deeply ingrained in societal norms. This prediction of children turning against their parents would have been particularly scandalous and unsettling to Jesus' audience. It underscores the transformative and sometimes divisive power of the Gospel, which can lead individuals to prioritize their commitment to Christ over traditional family loyalties.

and have them put to death
The phrase "and have them put to death" reveals the extreme consequences of this familial betrayal. The Greek term used here (θανατώσουσιν, thanatōsousin) is a future active indicative verb, indicating a deliberate and future action of causing death. This reflects the real and present danger faced by early Christians, who were often persecuted to the point of martyrdom. Historically, this persecution was not only from external authorities but could also originate from within one's own household, as family members sought to preserve their social standing or adhere to traditional religious practices. This stark reality serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of following Christ and the ultimate sacrifice that may be required of His disciples. It calls believers to a deep and unwavering commitment to their faith, even in the face of life-threatening opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this prophecy, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the persecution they will face as they spread the Gospel.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching, representing all future followers of Christ who will face persecution.

3. Family Members
The individuals mentioned in the prophecy, highlighting the deep personal betrayal that can occur even within families.

4. Persecution
The event or series of events that Jesus is forewarning, where believers will face opposition, even from their own families.

5. The Early Church
The broader context in which these prophecies began to be fulfilled, as early Christians often faced persecution from their own communities and families.

Teaching Points

Expect Persecution
As followers of Christ, we should not be surprised by opposition, even from those closest to us. Jesus prepared His disciples for this reality.

Faithfulness in Trials
Despite the pain of betrayal, believers are called to remain faithful to Christ, trusting in His ultimate justice and reward.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus may require difficult sacrifices, including strained or broken family relationships.

Love and Forgiveness
Even when faced with betrayal, Christians are called to respond with love and forgiveness, following Jesus' example.

Hope in Christ
Our hope is not in earthly relationships but in our eternal relationship with Christ, who promises to be with us through every trial.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the potential for familial betrayal impact your view of discipleship and following Christ?

2. In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually and emotionally for potential persecution or opposition from those closest to you?

3. How do the additional scriptures related to Matthew 10:21 deepen your understanding of the challenges faced by early Christians and those today?

4. What practical steps can you take to maintain love and forgiveness towards family members who may oppose your faith?

5. How can the hope and promises of Christ sustain you through trials and betrayals, and how can you share this hope with others facing similar challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Micah 7:6
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of familial betrayal, similar to Jesus' words, indicating that such division is a sign of the times.

Matthew 24:9-10
Jesus again warns of persecution and betrayal, emphasizing the trials His followers will endure.

John 15:18-21
Jesus explains that the world will hate His followers because it first hated Him, providing context for the persecution described in Matthew 10:21.

2 Timothy 3:1-5
Paul describes the difficult times in the last days, including familial betrayal, echoing Jesus' warnings.

Luke 12:51-53
Jesus speaks of bringing division, not peace, further illustrating the potential for conflict even within families due to allegiance to Him.