“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.” – Matthew 10:34
Jesus, the master teacher, again anticipates a misunderstanding. “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth.” It would be entirely natural for those who believe in Jesus to think that was why He came.
God had promised a day when Messiah would come, a child would be born, a son would be given. The government would be on His shoulders, and His name would be “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Is. 9:6).
When Jesus was born, angels said, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace” (Lk. 2:14). So, it would be natural for believers then and now to think that the coming of Jesus should mean peace on earth. But Jesus says, “Don’t expect that. Do not think that I have come to bring peace.”
We need to hear these words of Jesus. Two thousand years have passed since He was born, years filled with wars and violence. When we sing Christmas carols and hear the angels’ song about peace on earth, we might reasonably think, These are nice sentiments, but they are a long way from the world in which we live today.
If Jesus came to bring peace, the last two thousand years have been a spectacular failure. But Jesus is clear: “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth.” If you thought that the birth of Jesus would lead to a world of peace, that would be a misunderstanding.
If you are honest, have you found yourself feeling disappointed that Jesus has not brought peace to the world?
Do You Need Hope This Easter Season?
Watch the powerful story of the thief on the cross today
The thief’s story of salvation is one that begins, literally, on the brink of hell. The pain this man had experienced throughout his life fueled his hate for God, so much so that he detested the man hanging there on the cross beside him. But then, for the first time, he began to fear God.
If you’ve found yourself in a similar place, there is hope. Hope because heaven is real, hope because we have a Savior, and hope because all you have to do is accept Jesus’ invitation.
Join Pastor Colin In-Person!
Do you want to understand the Bible story? 📖
Pastor Colin Smith’s upcoming event FLY THROUGH THE BIBLE, is a high-altitude exploration of the entire Bible story. This brief introduction to the Bible will help you grasp who God is, who you are, who Jesus is, and what He offers to you!
Coming to 4 cities this fall:
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Twin Cities, Minnesota
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Will you join us?
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