Luke 12:49–59

Be Still: Father help me as I read your Word. By your Spirit, I want to become more like Jesus today. Amen.

Read: Luke 12:49–59

You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time (v56)

Encounter: Through much of chapter 12, Luke has been presenting Jesus’ warnings to the nation of Israel about the impending crisis - particularly that the Son of God himself would be put to death on a cross. This is the 'baptism' Jesus must undergo, that he refers to in verse 50. As we have already seen in this chapter, Jesus’ tone is deeply grave. Yes, he’s the Prince of Peace, but Jesus is saying, inevitably he will bring about division; households will be divided against each other because of him. 

I was speaking with someone in our church recently who told me that because of their religious background, exploring a relationship with Jesus could mean the end of all their family ties. If they became a Christian, they would be cut off from family. Wow! this requires an un-divided heart, captured and captivated by Jesus. 

Our passage concludes with a warning for each passing generation: that we must read the signs of our own times and as a Church learn how to use our prophetic voice in every sphere of influence. And what’s our message, even if it might cause division? ‘Turn to Jesus.'

Apply: This passage makes me stop and wonder if I’ve sanitised the Gospel? Am I too comfortable? Do I need to be woken up? Let's pray for those who are divided against their families because of faith in Jesus. Pray for the persecuted Church around the world. Pray today for the wisdom to read the signs of the times and the courage to declare the message of the kingdom of heaven - that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 

Devote: Lord I want my heart to be un-divided in my daily relationship with you.