Matthew 10:14

Arabic GOV (الكتاب المقدس العهد الجديد، النسخة الارثوذكسية القدس)

وَإنْ لَمْ يَقْبَلُوكُمْ وَلَمْ يَسْتَمِعُوا إِلَى كَلامكُم فَاخْرُجُوا مِنْ ذَلِكَ البَيْتِ أَوْ مِنْ تِلْكَ المَدينَةِ وَانْفُضُوا غُبَارَ أَرْجُلِكُم.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that if people don't welcome or listen to you when you share your message, then leave and shake the dust off your feet as a sign of leaving them behind. Jesus is speaking, giving instructions to his disciples about how to react in situations where they are not welcomed.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're sharing your favorite toy with friends, but some don't want it or listen to you. Then you move on and pretend those friends didn’t matter by shaking the dust off your shoes, like leaving them behind as if they never existed.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this verse in his Gospel around 80-90 AD. It was directed at Jesus' disciples who were being sent out to spread His message. The action of shaking the dust off one's feet was a symbolic gesture indicating rejection and leaving behind those who did not accept their message, rooted in cultural practices of that time.

Living It Out Today

Imagine you're trying to convince your neighbor about recycling, but they are uninterested and dismissive. After your attempt fails, you leave with the understanding that continuing would be futile, much like shaking off dust from your shoes symbolizes moving on without lingering.

Topics

• rejection
• missionary work
• symbolism
• message sharing
• discipleship
• faithfulness

Related Verses

• Acts 13:51
• Luke 9:5
• Mark 6:11
• Amos 7:4-7
• Matthew 23:38

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of shaking dust off one's feet?

Shaking dust off one’s feet symbolizes leaving behind those who do not accept your message, showing that you move on without them.

Who are 'you' in this verse?

'You' refers to Jesus’ disciples whom He sent out to spread His teachings and heal people.

Is shaking dust off feet a literal action?

While it was a physical gesture, its main purpose was symbolic—signaling rejection of those who did not accept the message.

How does this relate to modern missionary work?

Missionaries today might use this principle when their efforts are met with persistent rejection, understanding that it's sometimes necessary to move on and focus elsewhere.