Monday (July 14): I have not come to bring peace, but a sword #Gospel: Matthew 10:34 - 11:1 #Meditation: Why does Jesus describe his mission and the coming of Gods kingdom in terms of conflict, division, and war? Jesus told his disciples that he did not come to bring peace, but a sword (Matthew 10:34). The sword which Jesus speaks of here is not a physical weapon that cuts people down, but a spiritual weapon that cuts through the inner core of our being to expose the corruption of sinful thoughts and intentions as well as the lies and deception of Satan and his kingdom of darkness. Sword of the Spirit Scripture speaks of Gods word as a sharp two-edged sword that pierces to the divison of soul and spirit... discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12, Revelations 19:15). Scripture also describes Gods word as the sword of the Spirit which has power to destroy every spiritual stronghold that keep people in bondage to sin, deception, and Satan (Ephesians 6:17). Jesus came to rescue us and bring us freedom to live as citizens of Gods kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Spiritual warefare Jesus mission was an act of war against the spiritual forces who oppose the kingdom of God and his rule over the earth and the heavens. That is why Jesus identified Satan as the ruler of this world whom he will cast out (John 12:31). The battle Jesus had in mind was not an earthly conflict between individuals and nations, but a spiritual warfare between the forces of Satan and the armies of heaven. Jesus came to wage war against the spiritual powers of this present world that turn the minds and hearts of people away from God and his kingdom of peace and truth. Kingdom of light versus kingdom of darkness The Scriptures make clear that there are ultimately only two kingdoms or powers that stand in opposition to one another - Gods kingdom of light and Satans kingdom of darkness. John the Apostle contrasts these two opossing kingdoms in the starkest of terms: We know that we are of God, and the whole world is in the power of the evil one (1 John 5:19). The Scriptures describe the world as that society of people who are opposed to God and his kingdom of righteousness, truth, and goodness. Jesus came to overthrow Satans power and to set us free from everything that would hold us back from knowing, loving, and serving God who has loved each one of us with boundless mercy, compassion, and goodness. God must take first place Jesus told his disciples that if they followed him it would be costly because they must put Gods kingdom first and obey his word. Whenever a great call is given it inevitably causes division between those who accept or reject it. When Jesus remarked that division would cut very close to home his listeners likely recalled the prophecy of Micah: a mans enemies are the men of his own household (Micah 7:6). The love of God compels us to choose who will be first in our lives. To place any relationship or any other thing above God is a form of idolatry. Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost. A true disciple loves God above all else and is willing to forsake all for Jesus Christ. Jesus insists that his disciples give him the loyalty which is only due to God, a loyalty which is higher than spouse or kin. It is possible that family and friends can become our enemies, if the thought of them keeps us from doing what we know God wants us to do. The just reward True love for God compels us to express charity towards our neighbor who is created in the image and likeness of God. Jesus declared that any kindness shown and any help given to the people of Christ will not lose its reward. Jesus never refused to give to anyone in need who asked for his help. As his disciples we are called to be kind and generous as he is. Jesus sets before his disciples the one goal in life that is worth any sacrifice and that goal is the will of God which leads to everlasting life, peace, and joy with God. Does the love of Jesus Christ compel you to put God first in all you do (2 Corinthians 5:14)? Lord, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has conceived the things you have prepared for those who love you. Set us ablaze with the fire of the Holy Spirit, that we may love you in and above all things and so receive the rewards you have promised us through Christ our Lord. (from A Christians Prayer Book)
Posted on: Mon, 14 Jul 2014 04:47:20 +0000