Shrewd & innocent

And Jesus said to the 12 disciples: "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16

Jesus told us to be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves.. Not that we should be as cunning or evil as snakes but simply it means that we should be quick-minded, discerning & intelligent, yet maintaining the pureness and holiness of doves. Wah amazing..

I used to think that Christians should be very nice, peace-loving and defensive people. But Jesus has indeed commanded us to be shrewd and smart yet innocent and pure in this broken-down & wicked society. We need to be sharp & discerning when dealing with people!