THE DIVIDE

In the late 1980s, the concept of 'kumbaya' began to represent naive idealism, a touchy-feely, hand-holding spirit of a rosy-eyed unity. It presupposed that God wants us to live in peace and harmony ... a 'let's all just get along' theology.  

But Scripture tells us that a decision to follow Christ brings 'division'. And now that we are living in the 'end times', it is obvious that the gulf is widening ...

I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled. But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished. Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. From now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three.  Luke 12:49-52 

The 'baptism' of which Christ spoke was to take place on the cross. Our Savior's crucifixion would not only separate a believing thief on one side from an unbelieving thief on the other ... but ultimately establish a line that divides all of mankind into two groups. 

The 'fire' represents God's judgment and 'I wish it were already kindled' expresses Jesus' desire that His fast-approaching passion and death were over. In His atonement for man's sin, He would once and for all separate the 'just' from the 'unjust' ... 'believers' from 'unbelievers'.

Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. Matthew 10:34

Christ split the world, cleaved it asunder ... turned one person vehemently against another. He is the Divider of families, friends, and co-workers. It hurts to be ridiculed or rejected by those close to you, but Jesus said it would happen.

When we walk with the Lord, we are out of step with the world.

I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. John 17:14-15

The Word of God disproves the liberal theory that Jesus came to unite all humanity into a single 'universal brotherhood of man'. He instead forever separates His followers from those who deny Him ... 'sheep from goats', 'wheat from tares'.