Matthew 10:9-10
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Jesus’ command to take no gold, silver, or copper wasn't just about avoiding wealth, but about embracing a radical dependence on God's provision. The "belts" they wore were literally designed with pockets, so Jesus was telling them not to even fill those personal, hidden pouches with money.
Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus is sending out his disciples on their first mission trip, instructing them to rely entirely on God's provision. He tells them not to bring any money, extra clothing, or even a walking stick, emphasizing that they must trust that people will support them as they share the good news. This sets the stage for Jesus to explain that the laborers are worthy of their hire and that their message, if rejected, will have serious consequences.
Imagine setting out on a critical mission with absolutely nothing. Jesus' command here isn't about poverty, but about absolute trust.
When Jesus sent out the twelve, he gave them radical instructions: "Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts." This wasn't a suggestion; it was a directive. The disciples weren't to gather any money, not even the smallest copper coins, for their journey. This meant they couldn't prepare by stocking up on provisions or money. It forced them to rely entirely on God's provision and the hospitality of those they would minister to. This detachment from material security was essential for their mission. It underscored that their power and effectiveness came not from human resources, but from divine enablement. It was a powerful lesson in learning to depend fully on God's providence, demonstrating that obedience to His call transcends worldly preparations.
The seemingly simple instruction about not carrying money holds a fascinating cultural detail that reveals Jesus' practical wisdom.
The word translated "purses" here (ζώνας - zonas) literally refers to a 'girdle' or 'belt.' In the ancient world, especially in the East, a common practice was to have a hollow fold or pocket within one's belt where money and other small valuables could be securely kept. So, Jesus wasn't just saying 'don't put money in your purse'; he was saying 'don't even have money tucked into your everyday belt.' This detail emphasizes the completeness of the command. They were to travel with no readily accessible money on their person. This physical disarmament from financial resources was a tangible representation of their spiritual dependence. It was a constant, visible reminder that their mission was not about earning or managing finances, but about proclaiming God's kingdom and trusting Him to meet every need through the people He had prepared.
Ask a follow-up
Was Jesus' command to go without money a rule for all time, or something specific to this mission?
It's crucial to understand that this specific instruction was for a unique, temporary commission. Jesus sent the disciples out with very specific limitations for that particular journey. They were to go to the lost sheep of Israel, proclaiming that the kingdom of heaven was near. This was a short-term mission, intended to demonstrate God's power and provision in a very direct way, to prepare hearts for Jesus' own ministry. Later, when the context changed (e.g., after the resurrection, or for Paul's extensive missionary journeys), Jesus himself indicated a different approach. He even said, "Now, the one who has a purse must take it, and likewise a bag; and the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one" (Luke 22:36). This shows that the principle isn't absolute poverty, but obedience to Christ's specific instructions for specific missions. The core principle that remains is radical trust in God's provision, even if the practical application of carrying provisions or money changes based on the mission's context.
Understand the original words
ergates · Greek Noun
Refers to the one who works, particularly in the context of ministry or service for the kingdom. It implies that those dedicated to the work of the gospel are worthy of support.
Jesus' instructions here were for a specific, immediate mission, emphasizing complete reliance on God's provision through those who would receive the disciples and their message. This wasn't a permanent rule for all future ministry, but a powerful lesson in faith for a unique assignment.
c. AD 27-30— this verse
Jesus Begins Public Ministry
Jesus of Nazareth starts his public teaching and healing ministry throughout Galilee and surrounding regions.
c. AD 27-30
First Apostolic Mission
Jesus commissions the twelve apostles for their first mission to preach the kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons.
c. AD 30
Jesus' Crucifixion
Jesus is crucified in Jerusalem, marking the culmination of his earthly ministry.
c. AD 30 - AD 60s
Early Church Growth and Spread
Following Jesus' ascension, the apostles and early believers spread the gospel throughout Judea, Samaria, and beyond, facing persecution but experiencing significant growth.
Jesus asks the disciples if they lacked anything when He sent them out without money or a bag, highlighting God's provision and strengthening their faith for future hardships.
1 Kings 17:9-16This passage shows God providing miraculously for Elijah through a widow during a famine, illustrating the principle of trusting God's provision when sent on His mission.
Philippians 4:11-13Paul speaks of learning contentment in all circumstances, whether having much or little, echoing the self-sufficiency and trust in God's power that Jesus intended His disciples to develop.
1 Corinthians 9:7-14Paul argues that those who proclaim the gospel should live from the gospel, showing that while God's messengers are worthy of support, the emphasis remains on His provision and the importance of the message itself.
barnesMatthew 10:9: "Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,"
See also Mark 6:8-11 , and Luke 9:3-5 . In both these places the substance of this account is given, though not so particularly as in Matthew. The general subject is the instructions given to the apostles. Matthew 10:9 Provide neither gold nor silver, nor brass - This prohibition of gold, silver, and brass is designed to prevent their providing money for their journey. Pieces of money of "small value" were made of brass…
bensonMatthew 10:9: "Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,"
Matthew 10:9-10 . Provide neither gold — As if he said, Though I forbid you to take money for the miraculous cures which you shall perform, I do not mean that you should beforehand lay up money for your support during your journey. You are not even to provide the clothes and shoes which you may have occasion for before you return; because you shall be supplied with whatever you need by those to whom you preach the gospe…
Jesus’ command to take no gold, silver, or copper wasn't just about avoiding wealth, but about embracing a radical dependence on God's provision. The "belts" they wore were literally designed with pockets, so Jesus was telling them not to even fill those personal, hidden pouches with money.
Jesus is sending out his disciples on their first mission trip, instructing them to rely entirely on God's provision. He tells them not to bring any money, extra clothing, or even a walking stick, emphasizing that they must trust that people will support them as they share the good news. This sets the stage for Jesus to explain that the laborers are worthy of their hire and that their message, if rejected, will have serious consequences.
Jesus is sending out his disciples on their first mission trip, instructing them to rely entirely on God's provision. He tells them not to bring any money, extra clothing, or even a walking stick, emphasizing that they must trust that people will support them as they share the good news. This sets the stage for Jesus to explain that the laborers are worthy of their hire and that their message, if rejected, will have serious consequences.
"Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food." — Jesus’ command to take no gold, silver, or copper wasn't just about avoiding wealth, but about embracing a radical dependence on God's provision. The "belts" they wore were literally designed with po…
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Last reviewed October 2026
