But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;

MATTHEW 10:17KJV
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Matthew 10:17 (KJV)

What does Matthew 10:17 mean?

Matthew 10:17 warns Jesus’ followers to be cautious around people, because some will hand them over to local councils and have them beaten in synagogues. The verse prepares the disciples for opposition and mistreatment as they carry out their mission.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to His twelve disciples as He sends them out to spread His message. He tells them plainly that not everyone will welcome them; some will actively oppose them, even using religious and legal authorities to punish them. The mention of councils and synagogues points to official Jewish community settings where such punishments could happen.

The Greek behind Matthew 10:17

  • The word for "beware" is προσέχετε (prosechete), which means to pay close attention or be on guard. Jesus is not just telling the disciples to be generally careful, but to be alert and watchful for real dangers from people.
  • The term "deliver you up" is παραδώσουσιν (paradōsousin), often used for being handed over to authorities. This word carries a sense of betrayal or being given up to those who mean harm, not just a neutral transfer.
  • "Councils" is συνέδρια (synedria), referring to local Jewish governing bodies, not just any group. This shows the opposition could come from respected community leaders, not just random individuals.
  • "Scourge" is μαστιγώσουσιν (mastigōsousin), meaning to whip or flog. This was a severe physical punishment, highlighting the seriousness of the threat.

Why Matthew 10:17 matters

  • Matthew 10:17 clarifies that following Jesus could bring real, even painful, consequences from both religious and community leaders, not just from outsiders or strangers.
  • The verse emphasizes that opposition might come from within familiar religious settings, not only from outside enemies, which would have been a sobering warning for the disciples.
  • This warning sets the tone for the rest of Jesus’ instructions in Matthew 10, helping readers understand the risks and seriousness of the mission He is giving to His followers.