Shrewd & Innocent

. . . those who would do good have need to pray for wisdom, good sense, and a sound mind. Our Lord tells His disciples to be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves [Matt. 10:16]. He tells those who, when they are persecuted in one place, may lawfully flee to the next.

There are few of our Lord’s instructions which it is so difficult to use rightly as this. There is a line marked out for us between two extremes, but one that it requires great judgment to define. To avoid persecution by holding our tongues and keeping our religion entirely to ourselves is one extreme. We are not to err in that direction. To court persecution and thrust our religion upon everyone we meet without regard to place, time, or circumstances is another extreme. In this direction also we are warned not to err any more than in the other. Truly we may say, Who is adequate for these things? We have need to cry to the only wise God for wisdom.

The extreme into which most men are liable to fall in the present day is that of silence, cowardice, and letting others alone. Our so-called prudence is apt to degenerate into a compromising line of conduct or downright unfaithfulness. We are only too ready to suppose that it is of no use trying to speak of Christ to people. We excuse ourselves from efforts to benefit their souls by saying it would be indiscreet, or inexpedient, or would give needless offense, or would even do positive harm. Let us all watch and be on our guard against this spirit. Laziness and the devil are often the true explanations of it. To give way to it is pleasant to flesh and blood, no doubt, and saves us much trouble. But those who give way to it often throw away great opportunities of usefulness.

On the other hand, it is impossible to deny that there is such a thing as a righteous and holy zeal which is not in accordance with knowledge. It is quite possible to create much needless offense, commit great blunders, and stir up much opposition which might have been avoided by a little prudence, wise management, and exercise of judgment. Let us all take heed that we are not guilty in this respect. We may be sure there is such a thing as Christian wisdom, which is quite distinct from jesuitical deception or carnal policy. This wisdom let us seek. Our Lord Jesus does not require us to throw aside our common sense when we undertake to work for Him. There will be offense enough connected with our religion, do what we will; but let us not increase it without cause. Let us strive to be careful how [we] walk, not as unwise men but as wise (Ephesians 5:15).

It is to be feared that believers in the Lord Jesus do not sufficiently pray for the spirit of knowledge, judgment, and a sound mind. They are apt to fancy that if they have grace, they have all they need. They forget that a gracious heart should pray that it may be full of wisdom as well as of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3). Let us all remember this: great grace and common sense are perhaps one of the rarest combinations. That they may go together, the life of David and the ministry of the apostle Paul are striking proofs. In this, however, as in every other respect, our Lord Jesus Christ Himself is our most perfect example. None were ever so faithful as He. But none were ever so truly wise either. Let us make Him our pattern and walk in His steps.

—J.C. Ryle, 'Expository Thoughts on Matthew'