Jesus is Essential
Luke 12:49–53: “I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished! Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
To be Jesus’ disciple might mean being misunderstood even by one’s own family. Ultimately His ministry would bring not peace … but division because some would accept what He was saying and others would reject it. His ministry would be like a fire which devours. Jesus longed for the purpose of His ministry to be accomplished. His life and death would be the basis for His judging Israel.
That judgment, like fire, would purify the nation. The baptism He spoke of no doubt referred to His death which He said would be completed. Jesus’ mission actually did result in the kind of family divisions of which He spoke here. Families have been divided and loyalties broken. However, to be a disciple one must be willing to undergo such problems. 1
Walking with Jesus
Are you willing to settle for peace at any cost? Even if it means compromising your spiritual beliefs? Even if it means standing alone on biblical issues?
But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” Mark 10:38
If you want to follow Jesus, expect division from the best of friends and family.
Praying
Lord, teach me not to seek the approval of others, but to be devoted to You alone.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
