12.06.2021

What does Jesus mean by saying He came with a sword?

Bible passages: 
Matthew 10:34-36, Matthew 26:62-65, Acts 7:51-59, John 3:19-21, John 15:18-31, John 14:27, Genesis 37-50.

Discussion:
Ephesians 6:17 described the sword as the …. sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Jesus talks in parable and He used  something familiar to us to give a better understanding of the message. Sword is a weapon that is mostly used in war. Which means there is a fight between light and darkness.
Matthew 26:62-65 shows how the High Priest detest what he heard when Jesus said He is the son of God. That was seen as blasphemy. Likewise in Acts 7: 51-59 Stephen was stoned to death due to allegation of blasphemy.
At that time, Jesus was seen as a rebel that teach people against God. Therefore, it is almost impossible to accept Jesus Christ because many of the disciples were killed and persecuted. They were also punished for running against the norm of the established doctrine - Judaism.
The bottom line is people are against the gospel of Jesus Christ because it is the gospel of Truth that reveals and condemn sin.
Jesus used parable to tell His disciples that you’re light that shines, your family member or friends that are in darkness will be against you. This might bring rift or jealousy within family unit.
Whatever persecution that Christians is going through or might go through Jesus promised to give peace 
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Praise God