Scripture Prompt
Snakes, Doves, Sheep, Oh My!
Jesus describes his followers’ standing in the world
I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. (Matthew 10:16, NIV)
Jesus identifies two classes of animals here: animals of prey and prey. Just thinking about this natural circle of life is scary, isn’t it?
The first part of this verse describes Jesus’ followers as sheep. Sheep are harmless and meek animals, and their innate character makes them completely defenseless. Wolves are fierce predators who will hurt sheep in a blink of an eye; sheep are dinner!
Jesus is giving a “real talk” — you are sheep and out there you will find it fierce and cruel. He delivers an essential warning — don’t be naïve or you will be devoured by the enemy.
His advice, in light of this worldly evil, is to do two things:
a) Be as shrewd as snakes
b) Be as innocent as doves.
Why did Jesus offer such contradictory advice?
Shrewd as snakes
Snakes are carnivores. As predators, they have great eyesight. They hide and blend in when it’s necessary to escape trouble of their own. Jesus’…
