*Luke 12:49-59
Jesus announces a coming division caused by his message and urges seeking reconciliation with adversaries.
- Fire and Division:
- Jesus begins with a proclamation about bringing fire to the earth, signifying judgment and transformation.
- He expresses eagerness to fulfill His baptism of suffering, foreshadowing His upcoming crucifixion.
- He highlights that His coming will not bring immediate peace but division within families, as loyalties will be tested by one’s response to His teachings.
- The division will manifest even within close familial relationships, such as between parents and children.
- Understanding the Times:
- Jesus shifts focus to the crowd, challenging them to discern the signs of the times.
- He points out their ability to predict the weather by observing natural signs but criticizes them for failing to recognize the spiritual significance of His presence.
- Settle Disputes:
- Jesus encourages the people to judge for themselves what is right and to settle disputes before they escalate.
- He gives the example of a person on their way to court, advising to resolve matters quickly to avoid severe consequences.
- The emphasis is on being proactive in making peace and settling conflicts rather than letting them worsen.
12:49 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? 12:50 But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! 12:51 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: 12:52 For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
12:53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
12:54 And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.
12:55 And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.
12:56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? 12:57 Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? 12:58 When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.
12:59 I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.