Read Luke 12:49-53
Where Did This Division Come From?
Jesus said that he came “to bring fire on earth.” This fire would be his truth that would cause both conviction and division amongst families. The fire of Truth represents the presence of God that will either bring salvation that causes a transformation of newness in one’s life. Or it will bring judgment against those who reject this message of Truth. Some will receive Christ message and some will not resulting in families being divided against one another.
Jesus declares that before any of this can happen, he must first undergo a “baptism” which causes him great distress. It’s not a baptism immersed in water, but a baptism he will endure of suffering at the cross for the forgiveness of sins. This is what will cause the division amongst family members that Jesus speaks of. It will be a message of contention between family members but also a message of contention between you and those at school, or work, or in your neighborhood, etc.
How do you combat such division, especially amongst your loved ones?
1. You don’t compromise your faith.
2. You live out your faith in love to those who oppose you. You don’t judge people to Jesus, you love them to Jesus.
3. You pray for those who oppose and even pray for opportunities to demonstrate God’s truth to them.
4. Make it a habit of reading God’s word, His Truth, because sometimes you will have a healthy debate with others about God’s truth. But I suggest not engaging in arguments especially if a person is drunk or they resort to name calling or become belligerent. It’s best to walk away and let your silence be a tool that God uses to convict the heart of the aggressor.
Think of the two men on the cross next to Jesus. Both mocked and rebuked Jesus. Eventually, one of the men believed in who Jesus was. Why? I believe it was because Jesus didn’t engage in the dialogue of anger and name calling but lovingly looked at the man with eyes of love and compassion. I feel God used Jesus’s silence, and his eyes of love and compassion to convict the heart of the man resulting in the criminal wanting a relationship with Jesus. That’s the ultimate goal, to see your loved ones come to know Jesus.
