When we think of Jesus, we often associate Him with peace because He is called the “Prince of Peace” “For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NAS20). However, in Matthew 10:34, Jesus says something that may seem surprising: “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” This passage may appear contradictory to our understanding of Christ’s mission, but upon closer examination, we discover profound truths that challenge and inspire us.
Jesus Came to Bring Peace with God, Not Worldly Peace
The core of the gospel is reconciliation. Humanity’s relationship with God was broken due to sin, but Jesus came to restore that relationship. As Paul writes in Romans 5:1, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This is the ultimate peace—peace with our Creator.
However, this peace with God often leads to division in our earthly relationships. Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 10:34 that His coming would not bring harmony to everyone. The “sword” He speaks of is not a call to violence but a symbol of the division that faith in Him would create. Those who follow Christ are set apart, which can bring tension and conflict with those who do not share the same faith.
Jesus elaborates on this in Luke 12:51-53: “Do you think that I came to provide peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for from now on five members in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. “They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Even within families, faith in Christ can create division. As believers, we must recognize that this division is not a sign of failure but a natural consequence of following the truth.
The Cost of Discipleship: Confessing Jesus Before Others
In a world that often opposes the message of the gospel, openly confessing Jesus can be challenging. Yet, Jesus emphasizes the importance of declaring our allegiance to Him. In Luke 12:8, He says, “Now I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before people, the Son of Man will also confess him before the angels of God.”
Confessing Jesus is not just about words; it’s a lifestyle. When we live in a way that honors Him, we confess Him daily before others. This confession goes beyond lip service. As 1 John 4:15 says, “Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God remains in him, and he in God.” Our confession brings us into communion with God Himself.
Romans 10:9 further underscores this: “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Confession is both a personal commitment and a public declaration. It is acknowledging that Jesus is Lord, even when it brings division.
Embracing the Sword: Choosing Jesus Over the World
The division Jesus speaks of in Matthew 10 is ultimately a choice: Will we follow Him or the world? He tells us plainly that choosing Him may mean walking a path of difficulty and sacrifice. “The one who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me, and the one who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.” These words challenge us to place Christ above all else.
Following Jesus may come at a cost, but He promises that the rewards are far more significant. In Matthew 10:39, He says, “The one who has found his life will lose it, and the one who has lost his life on My account will find it.” True life and fulfillment come only through surrendering to Jesus, even if it means losing worldly comforts, relationships, or acceptance.
An Encouraging Call to Stand Firm
The message in Matthew 10:34-39 may seem harsh, but it is ultimately one of hope and encouragement. Jesus is preparing His followers for the challenges they will face while reminding them of the incredible life they will gain through Him. The division and conflict they may face are temporary costs compared to the eternal reward of being united with God.
During times of conflict or division, remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33: “These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
As followers of Christ, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when it leads to division. We confess Jesus with our words and our lives, knowing that in Him we have true peace, true life, and true hope. The “sword” that divides us from the world also unites us with the God of all creation, and that is a glorious truth worth embracing.
Let’s find encouragement today, knowing that our challenges for Christ are not in vain. Every trial strengthens our faith and brings us closer to Him, as we are chosen and set apart for His eternal kingdom (2 Corinthians 4:17, John 15:19). Though following Jesus may cause division, we have His peace, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), and His promise that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). In Christ, we are more than conquerors. Our hope and victory are secure (Romans 8:37).
“Following Christ may bring division, but it also brings peace and eternal victory.” Keith Charles
I have a better understanding now when Jesus said that He came not to bring peace but division, my childish mind for so long wondered why Christ Jesus would bring division into families if He is the Prince of Peace. After reading this, I now understand that not everyone will follow Christ Jesus thus creating ripples in family relationships, I see this happening around me now. Even with a cheat sheet on how to navigate this life( Holy Bible), we stumble, slip and fall. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. May God have mercy on us!
Hello Marilynne,
Your reflection beautifully captures the challenge and truth of following Christ. It’s humbling to recognize that even as the Prince of Peace, Jesus acknowledges that true peace requires commitment and sometimes comes with a cost. The “division” He speaks of is not a desire to disrupt relationships but a consequence of our difficult choices in our loyalty to Him.
Deciding to follow Him wholeheartedly can create tension with loved ones who see life differently. However, as you pointed out, the Word guides us, even when we stumble or feel uncertain. Your declaration, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” speaks volumes; it’s a powerful reminder of steadfast faith.
God’s mercy and grace cover us in this journey, and He honors our commitment. Thank you for sharing this insight; it resonates with many of us who face similar trials and seek God’s wisdom in navigating them. May His peace continue to strengthen you and your family.
Blessings,
Keith