Sentiyangla (Mth 2 Student)
Oriental Theological Seminary, Bade, Chümoukedima
When Truth Comes to the World it Brings Division….
(Oh, of course, division only happens because of injustice or hatred-never because of something as inconvenient as truth. I mean, who would’ve thought that people might get a little ruffled when faced with facts they don’t like? Surely, it’s the truth’s fault for being so divisive!)
Matthew 10:34-36
“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.”
In Matthew 10:34-36, Jesus is highlighting the divisive nature of His mission. While He is the Prince of Peace, His message and the call to follow Him can lead to conflict, even within families. His teachings challenge established beliefs and values, often creating opposition from those who do not accept His message. The “sword” symbolizes this division, not as a call to violence, but as a metaphor for the separation that may occur when individuals choose to follow Christ while others reject Him. The cost of discipleship is where loyalty to Jesus may even cause tensions in close relationships.
Choosing to follow Jesus means committing to live by His truth, which often challenges lies, injustice, and deeply held beliefs. Truth demands change, responsibility, and a disruption of the status quo, making both us and others uncomfortable. This commitment to truth can lead to division, not because truth is wrong, but because it forces us to confront realities we might rather ignore. The cost of discipleship often brings resistance and conflict, even within relationships and society.
But take heart! The cost of discipleship is great, but the reward is greater. Jesus Himself reassures us:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven…” (Matthew 5:10-12).
Yes, speaking the truth may lead to isolation, rejection, or even having fewer friends. But remember, you are never alone. Jesus walked this path before you, and He stands with you. The same truth that divides also redeems. It may cost you the approval of people, but it secures the favor of God.
So, stand firm. Speak truth boldly. Love fiercely. And trust that God’s truth will not return void. Because in the end, it is not the approval of the world that matters, but the affirmation of the One who called you by name.
