“Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.” Luke 12:51 ESVESV
Reflection: why are Jesus’ words so divisive?
Warning: the following can appear to be a political opinion, but is only meant as an illustration.
In a recent speech, the new US vice president JD Vance gave a talk at the Munich security conference on the importance of upholding free speech. Paraphrasing, that free speech was under attack, and is the cornerstone of a free and open society, of democracy itself. The attendees were mostly European leaders, long time close allies of the United States. But the words of the vice president was not received well, and have caused scathing criticism and rebuke of the words. Questioning even the strength of the alliance between the countries. But, was there truth in what JD Vance was saying?
Unfortunately, yes.
In some European countries, citizens are arrested for so-called “hate speech”. Basically speaking against the rulers and those in government. We saw the same behavior during the pandemic, across the world, and many died as a result. And if we take a brief look through history, we see the danger of this. Now, I mentioned upfront that this was not meant to be political, because the lesson here is beyond politics. Why were the political leaders so offended by JD Vance words?
Because they were true.
And this is exactly what Jesus was dealing with as he started his ministry. The religious ruling class were offended by his words, because they were true. To tell someone that what they are doing is wrong, pretty much always causes a negative reaction. Because it is in our nature, our flesh, to do what we want. Not necessarily what we should. And when someone else points that out, our defenses come up. Even attack the messenger. Because it is humbling to admit we are wrong even if we know it, even more difficult to change course. But,
that is the definition of repentance.
The gift of truth. The words of Jesus have this effect on us, and are “the sword of the Spirit”, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” Hebrews 4:12-13 ESV. His words
can feel very “offensive”, because they strike us to the core.
Many Christians, including many churches and pastors, are afraid of speaking the truth, in order to not offend anyone. To not cause division. Try to avoid the “sensitive” truths. But that is not biblical, and is directly counter to what Jesus says here. He came to give us the truth, which will cause division with the world. To wake us up from our worldly stupor, so that we can repent of our ways, change course, have peace and follow Him to life.
Let’s not be afraid of receiving and giving the gift of truth, even if it sometimes causes division.