As we continue reading through Luke, today we find ourselves learning of Jesus what disciples of Christ can expect. What is the true cost of believing really? Division with loved ones, division in our families, division in the world. Yes, the true cost of discipleship is division, belief vs. unbelief, light vs. darkness, good vs. evil. You see, “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” [Ephesians 6.12].

And as this battle rages, we battle for the souls of our loved ones who perhaps, until saved, think we are crazy, fanatical, narrow minded, judgmental or many other things. They do not understand. They are still lost and under the influence of the ruler of this world. Jesus knew this. Jesus warned us in these verses to expect division, not peace. Yet, we are also encouraged because while, we may not have peace with unbelievers, even those of our own household, we will have peace in our hearts, “The peace that passes all understanding and guards are hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” [Philippians 4.6]. Amen and Amen!

[Luke 12.49-53]

49 “I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! 51 Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. 52 For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Why does Jesus say he came to cast a fire on the earth?

+ What baptism is Jesus awaiting?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ Who in my life have I been battling forgetting it is really a spiritual battle?

+ How does knowing the battle is truly spiritual change my perspective, if at all?

+ Who is the Lord calling be to stand in the gap for through prayer today?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ What sins may I need to confess after reading todays scriptures?

+ Who can I love like Jesus loved today?