Gospel in Art: Acquire no gold or silver or copper

Modern Rome: Picture Gallery with Views of Rome, by Giovanni Paolo Pannini, Painted in 1757, Oil on canvas © Metropolitan Museum, New York

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 10 July 2025
Matthew 10:7-15

At that time: Jesus instructed his Apostles: 'Proclaim as you go, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand." Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. 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 labourer deserves his food. And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart.

'As you enter the house, greet it. And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. Truly, I say to you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.'

Reflection on the painting

Today's Gospel continues from yesterday's reading, as Jesus gives His first disciples practical instructions for their mission. The point he makes is this: do not be burdened by possessions. Yes, it is good to enjoy material things within measure, but we must not allow them to define us. A large library does not necessarily make one wise; an extensive art collection does not prove one's artistic sensibility; a vast array of devotional objects does not guarantee deep faith. These are outward signs, mere possessions, that's all they are. In the eyes of God, it is the disposition of our heart, not the contents of our home, that reveals who we truly are.

Our painting by Giovanni Paolo Pannini offers a vivid example of this principle. Painted for the Duc de Choiseul in 1757 to commemorate his time in Rome as French ambassador to the Vatican, the work displays an extraordinary collection of worldly treasures. Pannini, having trained as a stage designer in Bologna, fills the canvas with theatrical flair: sculptures by Michelangelo and Bernini, detailed paintings of Roman landmarks, grand architectural vistas all surrounding the Duke, seated proudly amidst this abundance. This is a typical interior of what an art dealer's gallery at the time would have looked like: a vast display or artworks, ready to be bought by collectors who were visiting Rome. If you follow this link (and select the second illustration), you will actually find a breakdown of what each of the artworks depict in our painting.

The scene dazzles the eye, but also invites reflection. Is the Duke really defined by what he buys or what he possesses? As we gaze upon this opulent art dealer's gallery, Jesus' teaching echoes clearly: possessions may decorate our lives, but they must not govern them. The mission of the Gospel calls us to travel light-in body and in spirit-so that we may remain free to serve, to love, and to witness. Whether in a grand palace or a humble room, what matters is not what surrounds us, but what dwells within us!

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-10-7-15-2025/(with audio)