After the part of Matthew 10 I quoted two days ago, Jesus went on to tell his disciples that they would get in trouble for their witnessing – being arrested and flogged even. But He did not tell them to prepare ahead of time a winning speech for such authorities. In fact, in Matthew 10:19-20, He says,
But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Luke quotes Jesus saying the same thing in multiple verses:
When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.
Luke 12:11-12
But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.
Luke 21:14-15
Trust and flexibility both are critical to allowing God to speak through us, but having a solid foundation is still key. Jazz and other improvisational musicians follow this pattern too. They have the foundation of chord knowledge, instrument knowledge, and long practice. But when the time to perform comes, they can just let go, and play freely, interacting with their fellow musicians flexibly and creatively.
Jesus’ disciples had been building up their foundation throughout the years they spent with Jesus. Jesus knew His disciples would face some terrible persecution, but He didn’t want them to worry about it ahead of time. He wanted them to trust Him and be flexible enough to speak His words when led. We may not have the same physical persecution, but we can still trust God to guide us, if we are flexible enough to follow His lead.