Jesus Sided with Love, Not Division Michael Edwards
And knowing their thoughts Jesus said to them, "Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and any city or house divided against itself will not stand." Matt 12:25 NAS
When Jesus walked in this world, the Jewish nation was oppressed, occupied, ruled, and taxed by the Romans. It was a time of great division where the Jews harbored anger and bitterness towards their enemy. There was also a huge division between the Jews and Gentiles, filled with hostility and hatred.
Did Jesus overthrow the Romans, side with the Jews, and set them free as they hoped? No. Did He side with the Jews over the Gentiles? No. You see, Jesus did not come to take sides with our fallen agendas.
Today, there is great division. Politics has lit an even greater fire, and now for some, the virus is starting to be a breeding ground for the enemy's goal of further division.
What does Jesus tell us to do?
"But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28 NAS
Jesus always sided with love, the sole thing that fulfills every law of God (Rom 13:8-10). Out of love, Jesus lived and died for everyone in this world that God so loves (John 3:16). His entire mission in God's spiritual battle was one of love, even for those who considered themselves His enemies. Likewise, Jesus calls us to keep our eyes on Him and the big picture in this temporal world, walking in faith and His peace, as His ambassadors, always siding with His love. (1 Cor 13)
So, during this time, we may need to ask ourselves. Are we unwittingly helping the enemy by overly focusing on the latest news report or social media post that brings fear, worry, confusion, unrest, and doubt to our lives? Is that focus leading to anger, bitterness, and division with others?
Or, are we loving and forgiving our enemies like Jesus, witnessing to the jail guards like Paul and trusting all things to the Father, as we help, encourage, and point people to Jesus?
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