14th Week in Ord. Time, Friday – 09th July 2021 — Gospel: Mt 10,16-23
Opposing Institutions
Jesus counsels the twelve concerning their behaviour in the face of persecution. He cautions them against the attack that will come from the organized religion (10,17), government (10,18) and even the family (10,21). Religion has always persecuted the true believers and this opposition has been spread out worldwide. Even the apostle Paul persecuted the church before his conversion. The government also will have a share in this program of persecution. The prophetic Scriptures teach that, in the last days, government and religion will work together to control the world. Revelation 13 describes a time during the tribulation period when a world ruler (the Antichrist) will force the world to worship him and his image. He will control the world religion, economics, and government. He will use all three to persecute those who stand true to Christ. Also there will be a decay of family love and loyalty. Lack of natural affection is one of the marks of the end times (2 Tim 3,1-3). Jesus quoted Micah 7,6 to prove this point (Mt 10,21). The three institutions that God established in this world are the home, human government, and the church. In the last days, all three of these institutions will oppose the truth of the gospel instead of promoting it.
