_CRITICAL NOTES_ Matthew 10:1. CALLED.—We must distinguish three calls, the first to be disciples; the second to serve as Evangelists; and now the third to the Apostolic office. This call to the Apostolate, however, was only preliminary, and limited by the present circumstances and position of the c... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Matthew 10:17. SYNAGOGUES.—The ecclesiastical and civil elements were so thoroughly inter-blended among the Jews, that “in every synagogue,” says Lightfoot, “there was a civil triumvirate,” or judicatory of three. These magistrates sat in judgment on all cases that required to be t... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Matthew 10:25. BEELZEBUB.—In the original, _Beelzebul_, which is probably the true reading in all the places of the New Testament where this name occurs. Two principal explanations have been given of the word as thus written: 1. According to the Hebrew of the Old Testament, the si... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Matthew 10:38. TAKETH NOT HIS CROSS.—By the Roman custom criminals were compelled to bear the cross to the place of execution. The Galilæans would know too well what was meant by “taking the cross.” Many hundreds had paid that forfeiture for rebellion that had not prospered, under... [ Continue Reading ]