“If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” Mark 3:24-25 ESV
Reflection: why is the Lord so adamant about unity within a “house”?
You have probably noticed the relentless focus on the differences in the political parties. The politicians themselves, and closely supported by the media, tend to whip people into a frenzy. Whatever they can do to point out the negative, even the appalling aspects of the opposition, they will use whatever tool they can. Depending on who people listen to or what news outlets they follow, they will end up thinking that the opposition, the “other side” is the enemy. Identity politics. But sadly, this method is deployed not just related to politics. It is in so many aspects of society, and even in most countries, like employer versus employees (or labor), black versus white, rich versus poor, etc. When you start noticing it, you see this everywhere, even into families and marriages. So what is the result of all these polar opposite positions?
In our focus verses today, we read the words of Jesus, “If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” Mark 3:24-25 ESV. Now, He was in the midst of driving evil out of the communities He visited, casting out unclean spirits, teaching them truth and to follow God. This was a huge deviation from their state religion at the time, as the religious leaders had evolved it into something that God never intended. So when Jesus came, He had to reset everything to its intended purpose. This is why the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5-7 is filled with resets, “You have heard…But I say”.
Jesus explained extensively the need for forgiveness, for reconciliation, for unity. For kindness, meekness, humility and compassion. To help the weak and the poor. To give, to go the extra mile, and so on. This sermon in a way is Jesus describing how we can fulfill the Law; not by being religious, but to learn about what pleases God. It is not a set of rules, but a roadmap for life. Jesus said about His speech, ““Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”” Matthew 7:24-27 ESV
We have to be clear, and understand very well, that ANY effort to divide us, even in politics, is the work of our enemy. It is evil at its core. Because the enemy wants us divided. He is a liar and a thief, as Jesus said “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 ESV. It is of course unavoidable to disagree on topics, how best to manage government, what a fair wage is, how to raise kids, or even whether to buy a new car. But in all cases, we need to be the bridge builders, as followers of Jesus, forgiving, and where possible, reconcile to bring unity. Now, it takes both sides of a disagreement for reconciliation and to achieve unity. Forgiveness is given by each side independently, but reconciliation must be done by both sides together.
Paul wrote, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:14-21 ESV
