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NASB | Luke 12:51 "Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Luke 12:51 "Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division [between believers and unbelievers]; [Matt 10:34-36] |
Bible Question:
You are absolutely right about how the gospel brings us peace with God, Michael. My question had to with how human beings relate to each other. Romans 12:18 is talking about us living in peace with all MEN. The passages in 1 Peter address how we are to behave toward other people. So it is not just peace with God that is being addressed in the New Testament. Again, I am not looking for a quick answer to my question, because I think it requires more than just a couple of sentences to explore the nuances of it. Basically, the seeming paradox is this: since the gospel brings division, its proclamation naturally prevents peace. We are told to live at peace with all men as far as it depends on us, but we see both from divine command and apostolic example of evangelism creating division. How do we reconcile these two? I have my ideas, but I want to hear from the forum as well! --Joe! |
Bible Answer: It apparently was never Jesus' intention to maliciously antagonize anyone, nor should it be our intent. Rom. 12:18 says, " If it is possible..." suggesting that is is possible and that it is also difficult at times. " as much as depends on you..." do all that is in your power not to create needless divison. For "these six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination,... he that stirs discord among the brethern. " Pr. 6:16-19 " live peaceably with all men." The responsibility is ours the great example is God and His Son Jesus. Eph. 4:32, " And be kind one to another,tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven us." I Peter 2: 21-24, " because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example...who when he suffered, threatened not..." Ours is not to antagonize but it is to evangelize. We share Christ in love in a loving compassionate manner hopefully because " the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts..." Rom 5:5 and because " the love of Christ constrains or compells us." II Cor 5:14 To put it in everyday terms we share the Gospel in love, loveingly because of our love for God and our fellow man and let the chips fall where they may. To those who do not believe it is foolishness and devisive and down right angering but to those who are being saved it is the power of God. Now , Joe, can we hear your thoughts?? Thanks. |