Mark 13:12
Religion is divisive. It is statements like this that cause many to say that religion is evil and should be outlawed. But, so many other things are divisive. Politics, for example is divisive. Can we eliminate this problem? Well, if we were to eliminate the human race, then yes, the problem would cease to exist. We are by our very nature political, and religious. Though we may pretend to be neither, we are both by default. Even the so-called irreligious have adopted a religion. It is just part of being human.
Thus, even though Christians believe and practice the truth, because it controls our religion, and our politics for that matter, it is going to cause conflict with others. We don’t have to be conflict lovers. We don’t need to seek it out and enjoy it as some do. But it is a reality that is not going away. When you believe something to be certain, somebody’s going to disagree with you.
Jesus is here highlighting the fact that this division will not stop at familial relationships. The Jews were very close in their family life. And this is a good thing. But, Christians, though lovers of family, find their Christian brothers and sisters closer to them than they do their family. Now, there is an important point to make here. Christians a should not be the instigators of this division. Cults encourage severing ties with ‘unbelieving’ family members. That is not the Christian way. If your family will be civil to you in spite of your beliefs, don’t dare scare them away!
Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us a book like the Bible. It is intensely practical, and I like that! You are wise and good to us. Thank you for your graciousness as we deal with others. We want to win them to you, for you are worthy. You love us so much, and we want to share your love with our families and friends. I praise you for your provision in putting these blessed people in our lives. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise you, Amen.