It is drastic to stop preaching at a particular place. Yet it turns out that there does come a time when you stop preaching at the same place and go somewhere else. This is a far-reaching decision. Here we can learn what to pay attention to when we think we need to conclude the missionary work somewhere. In Jesus’ time this is what preceded such action:
Christ prepared Israel extensively and intensively for the coming of the great Redeemer.
Subsequently Christ made himself well known as the Redeemer in Israel.
Opposition to the gospel grew.
Now Christ committed himself once more to rescue his people.
He sent his disciples out with the message of the coming kingdom, but in a special way. They let it be known that this message had the greatest urgency. The disciples went to many towns and villages, but in these places they had to choose carefully at which house they want to stay. In fact, the other houses were already lost. They were allowed to bless a welcoming house with the Messiah’s greeting of peace. If then, unfortunately, it turned out that this greeting was not received in faith and thanksgiving after all, Christ let go of this house too and the peace returned to him. As an overt sign that Christ also considered this house a lost cause, or if it was the only house in that place that still seemed worthy of the gospel, the disciples had to shake off the dust of that house or place. This demonstrative gesture was the final appeal. If that did not bring about repentance or conversion, God’s scorching judgment would erupt there in God’s time, even worse than when he had judged Sodom and Gomorrah!
Preaching seeks to save but can also bring horrifying judgment if people do not respond with faith and repentance.
11 And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart.