Mutual Confession of Jesus Christ and His Disciples
S. Martin. Matthew 10:32 Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. I. THIS CONFESSION OF CHRIST BY MEN. 1. Before we can speak openly of Christ according to His true character, we must know and appreciate Him. Knowledge is ability to confess; appreciation is disposition to confess; both are power. 2. This confession is variously made. (1) In season it is a verbal acknowledgment of Christ; (2) By the observance of His ordinances; (3) By the reception of His disciples and servants, especially of such as most represent Him; (4) By the worship of His holy name; (5) By the endurance of shame and persecution for His sake; (6) By living to Him and living for Him. II. THE CONFESSION OF MEN BY JESUS CHRIST. 1. It is connected here with the confessing of Christ by men. 2. It is both present and future. 3. It is full and complete. Lessons: secret discipleship can never fulfil our duties, or exhaust our obligations. (S. Martin.) Parallel Verses KJV: Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. WEB: Everyone therefore who confesses me before men, him I will also confess before my Father who is in heaven.