Purpose: Sent to Divide

Purpose: Sent to Divide

Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division.
– Luke 12:51

This is one of the less talked about missions of Jesus Christ, and it would have been the subject of much dispute if the Bible had not credited the above statement to Him. But Jesus was indeed quoted to have said it; and, while explaining further, He affirmed: “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.” (Luke 12:52-53). That means, indeed, Jesus also came to divide or cause division.

His coming meant that many would subscribe to Him, and many would pitch their tent against Him as well. There is no sitting on the fence where Jesus is concerned; you are either for Him or against Him. Now if those in the first and second categories were members of the same household, that means there would be ideological differences among them. And, depending on the way they handle it, the differences could remain only a difference or could degenerate into a big rift that would tear them apart.

What this also means is that a relationship with Jesus would supersede filial or fraternal bond if the practices of the relatives concerned are not in concert with His tenets (Matthew 10:37). Perhaps, that was why Jesus Himself declared that only those ‘who hear the word of God and do it’ are His family members (Luke 8:20-21).

The Person and the gospel of Jesus Christ have been sources of contention as far as the time He was around. And the fact that certain individuals have this calling is an indication that the contention and the divisions emanating therefrom may never end until the end of time. Notable among the persons who exhibited this divisive calling was Apostle Paul. His messages were always received with the same fervor with which he delivered them leaving his audience either fired up with enthusiasm or boiling with rage after his address. Interestingly, his epistles still achieve the same effects today.

If perhaps, this describes you; and your messages or utterances are always sparking up so much tension, the best thing you can do for yourself is to ensure at all times that your messages, utterances or actions are Christ-based or purpose driven. That would make the sentiment you provoke and whatever spillover that may cause in consequence worth it.

You will succeed in Jesus’ Name!