Prudence of Serpent and Wisdom of Dove
E. Calamy. Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the middle of wolves: be you therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. I. WHAT OUR LORD RECOMMENDS to our thoughts, esteem, and practice. Wisdom is a solid knowledge of things spiritual, especially such as relate to practice. Harmlessness or innocence intimates purity, and meekness, mildness, and wrathlessness. II. THE WAY OUR LORD TAKES TO INSINUATE HIS ADVICE. 1. The standard that is fixed, or the creatures of whom we are to learn the things recommended. 2. The conformity that is required to that standard. III. THE CONNECTION FIXED BETWEEN THE TWO THINGS RECOMMENDED. 1. There is no real inconsistency between them. 2. They mutually help each other to appear with greater lustre. (E. Calamy.) Parallel Verses KJV: Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. WEB: "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.