Thank you for the interpretative question on Matthew 10:32–33, “Is Matthew 10:32-33 proof of both the validity of the Holy Trinity but also of Christ’s wrath?”
As one reads the broader context and focus on the cited verses, this passage may support the plurality of the Godhead and about future persecution.
Here are some thoughts for one’s consideration on the reason why the broader passage may support the Godhead and persecution for faith in Jesus Christ.
A. The passage cites two persons in the passage.
The broader context and content cites two persons: the Father and Jesus. The text says this, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven” (NIV).
The others is referring to other people who hears of one’s confession or denial about knowing Jesus on earth. The pronoun, others, is plural.
B. The passage does not cite the person of the Holy Spirit.
There is the absence of the word, Spirit or Holy Spirit in the passage. However, there is an earlier reference to the Spirit in verse 19–20. The text says this, “19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (NIV).
Thus one can make an inferred reference to three persons: the Father, the Spirit, and me (Jesus). One can infer that the Spirit is not an impersonal force, but a being who is able to speak through the disciples. Thus the Spirit has the ability to guide their thoughts and words. It will not be the disciples words but it will be the Spirit’s words. Thus the Spirit is able to empower and work upon or in the disciples. It is noteworthy that Jesus does not say that the Father is speaking through the disciples, but the Spirit of your Father.
C. The passage does not state the wrath of Christ, but rather persecution by religious, civil, or family members due to one’s belief in Christ.
The text says this, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
21 “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 22 You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 23 When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. Truly I tell you, you will not finish going through the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes (NIV).
Jesus is already foretelling that their faith in him and those who believe the disciple’s message will be persecuted. The message of Christ will divide families and friends for there will be those who staunchly oppose Jesus and those who firmly believe in him as the Messiah.
There will be a future day in the Battle of Armageddon whereby Jesus Christ will return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords to bring judgment upon the earth in deliverance of his people.
SUMMARY: Matthew 10 may contribute to the doctrine of the Godhead, but by itself it doesn’t prove the Godhead.
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