LAMBS AMONG WOLVES
Navigating Christian Discipleship in a Hostile World
Jesus’ words to his disciples, “I am sending you like lambs among wolves” (Lk 10:3), present a striking image that encapsulates the challenges faced by Christians in a world often hostile to the Gospel message. This metaphor, rich in symbolism, invites us to reflect on the nature of Christian discipleship and the spiritual realities we encounter in our faith journey.
In the natural world, lambs are vulnerable creatures, easily preyed upon by wolves. By using this analogy, Jesus prepares His followers for the difficulties they will face in spreading the Good News. The image of the wolf in Scripture often represents danger and evil. In Matthew 7:15, Jesus warns, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves.” This caution reminds us to be discerning in our spiritual lives, recognizing that not all who claim to speak for God truly do so.
The Apostle Paul, in his farewell speech to the Ephesian elders, echoes this warning: “I know that after my departure savage wolves will come among you, and they will not spare the flock” (Acts 20:29). Paul’s words highlight the ongoing spiritual battle that the Church faces, both from external threats and internal divisions.
However, Jesus does not leave His disciples defenseless. In Matthew’s Gospel, He provides guidance on how to navigate these challenges: “Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. But beware of people, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans” (Mt 10:16-18).
This passage reveals several important truths:
1. Divine Mission: The phrase “I am sending you” emphasizes that our mission comes from Christ Himself. We are not alone in our endeavors.
2. Wisdom and Innocence: Jesus calls us to be “shrewd as serpents and simple as doves,” balancing wisdom with purity of heart.
3. Expectation of Persecution: Christ prepares His followers for opposition, including legal and social challenges.
4. Witness Opportunity: Persecution becomes an opportunity to bear witness to Christ before authorities and unbelievers.
Jesus further assures His disciples of divine assistance: “When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Mt 10:19-20). This promise of the Holy Spirit’s guidance offers comfort and strength to believers facing adversity.
The Catholic Church’s teachings on martyrdom and persecution reflect this biblical perspective. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Martyrdom is the supreme witness given to the truth of the faith: it means bearing witness even unto death. The martyr bears witness to Christ who died and rose, to whom he is united by charity” (CCC 2473). This understanding elevates the concept of being “lambs among wolves” from mere victimhood to a profound testimony of faith.
REFLECTION
For Christians today, the message of being “lambs among wolves” carries several important implications:
1. Preparedness for Opposition: We must be ready to face misunderstanding and opposition as we live out our faith.
2. Strength in Christ: Our strength comes not from worldly power but from our connection to Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
3. Integrity and Innocence: We are called to maintain our integrity and innocence even in the face of hostility.
4. Witness through Suffering: Our sufferings and challenges can become powerful witnesses to the truth of the Gospel.
5. Wisdom and Simplicity: We should cultivate both wisdom and simplicity in our interactions with the world.
In conclusion, while the image of lambs among wolves may seem daunting, it is ultimately a call to trust in God’s providence and to remain faithful to our Christian vocation. Let us, therefore, go forth with courage, knowing that even in the midst of wolves, we are guided and protected by the Good Shepherd.