Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Matthew 10:34-37.
This is one of those jarring passages in the Bible. From the overall message and activity of Jesus’ ministry, we know that he came to save the whole world. He loves everybody and wants every person to follow him. But he also demands that all who follow him are to live by the teaching and example that he set. They are to believe in him and live his way.
Not everyone chooses to do that. And he knew that. So he knew that in asking people to make a choice between his way and the way of this world, people would be divided. People (even religious leaders) would be willing to kill him and his followers because they so rejected what he had to offer and somehow believed that what he was teaching and doing was bad for people. Sometimes that dividedness would happen even within families. Just as God had stated in the first of the Ten Commandments, following Jesus had to be a top priority in one’s life, even over family.
I don’t believe Jesus wanted to divide families and friends. He just knew that is what would happen when he gave people the choice of whether to follow him or not. That choice is still offered today to anyone and everyone. And that priority is still demanded.
Personal Worship Option:
Choose to follow Jesus today by joining us in worship, either at 9:30 or 11:15. The ideal choice is to join us in person, but if circumstances prevent that, join in online as we continue to “follow Jesus to Jerusalem.”
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