At the end of this collection of sayings of Jesus about the mission of the Christian apostolate, Matthew puts a whole series of daunting challenges. Luke gives almost all the same sayings, but scattered in different contexts. The last saying is only in Mark as well. Believing as we do that the composition of the gospel is inspired, even to the selection and ordering of the sayings of Jesus, we can see this group of sayings as a series of challenges not to take up Christianity without serious forethought.

There is no such thing as non-apostolic Christianity, but by becoming Christians we take on a share in Christ’s own task of spreading the Good News. The challenge is great but the reward is certain. First comes a trio of sayings to show the absolute priority of Christ’s claims, over the closest family ties, over life and finally over possession of one’s own self. Then comes a quartet of promises of rewards to those who welcome Christ’s messengers. The envoy is placed equal with the principal: Christ’s messenger is as Christ, Christ as his Father. Then in detail the reward for welcome of a prophet, of any upright person, and finally of the Christian in need.

What is the closest tie you have on earth? Can Jesus be more important than that?