Devotion and Division (John Kashorek)

Jesus went about healing the sick, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, and casting out demons.  One would expect everyone to be drawn together in peace and unity, but instead, He faces opposition and crucifixion. In Matthew 10, as Jesus endows the Apostles with authority to do the same wonderful “Good News” things and to proclaim that the “kingdom of heaven is at hand”, He warns them "... I have not come to bring peace, but a sword."  Matthew 10:34

     As we proclaim the Lordship of Christ with our words and embody Christ in our lives, there are some things we ought to realize.

1. The presentation of Christ will bring opposition and even hostility from the world.  Expect manifestations of spiritual warfare.  A “sword” means not only fighting and wars, but division between family and friends.

2. Genuinely following Christ entails a seriously radical measure of devotion.  Expect opposition and don’t let it discourage you.

3. Genuinely following Christ means facing some hard choices and difficulties.  Be ready to always choose Christ no matter what.

4. Genuinely following Christ means choosing Him over everything, including self.  Your “natural” self must die if you are to live by the Spirit.  

     Are you genuinely following Christ or is your allegiance somehow divided?