The Cost of Discipleship

🕊️ "Not Peace, But a Sword" – The Cost of Discipleship

Text: Matthew 10:34–36

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword...”

1. Introduction: The Surprising Statement of Jesus

  • We often associate Jesus with peace (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:14).

  • Yet here He says, “I did not come to bring peace.”

  • What does this mean? Is Jesus contradicting Himself?

2. Peace With God, Not Always With Man

  • Romans 5:1 — Jesus brings peace with God through salvation.

  • But this peace with God often leads to conflict with the world (John 15:18–20).

  • When we follow Jesus, we no longer follow the world — this causes tension.

3. The Sword of Division (Not Violence)

  • The “sword” is symbolic — it divides.

  • Hebrews 4:12 — The Word of God is like a sword that cuts the heart.

  • Jesus’ truth separates light from darkness, loyalty from compromise.

4. Family Conflict is Real (vv. 35–36)

  • Jesus quotes Micah 7:6 — prophecy of division within families.

  • Following Jesus may cost us family approval, relationships, or acceptance.

  • This is real in many cultures where Christ is rejected — persecution often starts at home.

5. Allegiance to Christ Comes First (vv. 37–39)

“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me...”

  • Our love for Jesus must be greater than even family love.

  • True discipleship means taking up our cross and following Him.

  • No compromise — even if it causes pain or rejection.

6. Encouragement for the Faithful

  • Jesus sees your sacrifice. (Mark 10:29–30 — hundredfold reward)

  • He experienced rejection from His own family (John 7:5; Mark 3:21).

  • He is with you in the conflict, and your reward is eternal.

Conclusion:

Jesus didn't come to bring shallow, worldly peace.
He came to bring truth, eternal peace, and a kingdom that cannot be shaken.
That truth will sometimes divide, but it will always lead to life.

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