Luke 12:49-53

Luke 12:49-53

1. We learn how thoroughly the heart of Christ was set on finishing the work which He came into the world to do.
2. We learn how useless it is to expect universal peace and harmony from the preaching of the Gospel.

"There is in Him an infinite willingness to receive, pardon, justify, and deliver the souls of men from hell. Let us strive to realize that willingness, and learn to believe it without doubting, and repose on it without fear. It is a certain fact, if men would only believe it, that Christ is far more willing to save us than we are to be saved."

"So long as some men and women will not repent and believe, and some will, there must needs be division. To be surprised at it is the height of folly. The very existence of division is one proof of Christ's foresight, and of the truth of Christianity."

Questions:

1. Do we believe that Christ has an infinite willingness to receive, pardon, justify, and deliver our souls from hell? In our minds eye, do we believe He desires to save us and bring us to Himself?

2. Both unity and truth are important to God, but the important thing is that unity is based on truth. What has been your experience with seeking peace at the expense of truth? Have you ever had to depart from family or friends because of truth?

3. The gospel divides those who believe from those who do not. Does this teaching rub any of us the wrong way? If so, why? How does this truth challenge or encourage you?