The answer is: Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel

Matthew 10 vs 6

In Matthew 10:6, Jesus’s instruction to “go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” is intriguing. It signifies his initial mission focus - a targeted outreach to the Jewish people. This reflects Jesus’s roots and his role as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy. The phrase "lost sheep" implies a deep compassion for those who were seen as wandering or in spiritual need, echoing in imagery from earlier scripture, particularly Psalm 23, where God is portrayed as the ultimate Shepherd.

Fun tidbit: The expression “lost sheep” reverberates through the Hebrew Scriptures, highlighting how often God's people were led astray or needed guidance. For instance, the prophets often called Israel back to faithfulness. This gives texture to Jesus's mission; he wasn’t here to abandon his heritage but to rekindle a fiery connection with his fellow Israelites.

Interestingly, this initial directive sets the stage for what unfolds later. After resurrecting, Jesus expands the call to all nations in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Isn’t it fascinating that what began as a focused mission blossomed into a global call?

This progression underscores the idea that while a very particular moment defined early Jewish communities, the essence of that message has universality. The loving intention behind that primary call resonates today, inviting all people to seek connection and understanding, just like those “lost sheep.” It's a reminder that we can extend our compassion beyond borders and belief systems, championing inclusivity in the spirit of those teachings.