Jesus came to divide us?

[whatevergirl]

I read the reflection, and it basically means that Jesus came to abolish the peace…meaning the peace of the ‘status quo.’ (or complacency to follow the world’s empty promises and desires, and just follow the crowd) So, I think I understand this passage, although I admit, it always takes me aback when reading it again.

What do you think this passage means?

Gospel
Lk 12:49-53

***Jesus said to his disciples:
“I have come to set the earth on fire,
and how I wish it were already blazing!
There is a baptism with which I must be baptized,
and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!
Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth?
No, I tell you, but rather division.
From now on a household of five will be divided,
three against two and two against three;
a father will be divided against his son
and a son against his father,
a mother against her daughter
and a daughter against her mother,
a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” ***

 

[ryanoneil]

Here is a 15 minute audio sermon on Luke 12:49

wordonfire.org/fullnews/345.shtml

I think you’ll enjoy it.

Ryan

 

[awalt]

The fire is a symbol of judgment, and the breakup of families is the separation of those that fulfill the will of God and those that don’t. It can also be interpreted as those that follow the redemptive suffering of Christ on the cross will endure many hardships, including ridicule and rejection of loved ones who do not choose to follow also.

 

[mapleoak]

What do you think this passage means?

Gospel
Lk 12:49-53

Jesus said to his disciples:
“I have come to set the earth on fire,
and how I wish it were already blazing!
There is a baptism with which I must be baptized,
and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!
Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth?
No, I tell you, but rather division.
From now on a household of five will be divided,
three against two and two against three;
a father will be divided against his son
***and a son against his father, ***
a mother against her daughter
and a daughter against her mother,
a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law
***and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” ***

One example of division in this context is that of a member of a family or some other societal unit embracing the faith to the disapproval of the abstaining members. The converting member will be subject to ridicule or persecution and carry the cross of bearing this sacrifice which is at odds with the world.