Matthew 10
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)
Here in chapter 10 after empowering His twelve disciples and sending them out, to preach to their own brethren, Jesus warns them of the persecutions to come. They would be scourged in their synagogues; brought before governors and kings; they would be hated, persecuted and eventually put to death for His sake but fear not He says, “them which kill the body.”
Them which kill the body - That is, people, who have no power to injure the soul, the immortal part. The body is a small matter in comparison with the soul. Temporal death is a slight thing compared with eternal death. Jesus therefore directs them, not to be alarmed at the prospect of temporal death, but to fear God, who can destroy both soul and body forever.
The Truth
"I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” (Luke 12:4-5)
