Why This Division?

Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.

Matthew 12:25 (NIV)

After 12 years of marriage, the Fleurantin couple, both Christians, divorced following a misunderstanding between the spouses. It was only after six months that they realized the problem was not at all what they thought. They met with their pastor to discuss their disagreement and clarify matters. According to the husband's explanation, during the last five years of their marriage, their home had become a battleground where each wanted to be right and silence the other. They were divided long before their divorce.

Although in this verse, Jesus is directly addressing the Pharisees who, seeking a way to destroy Him, rejected the work of the Holy Spirit by which He had just cast out a demon, it cannot be said that its context does not apply generally to any existing relationship, whether within an organization, a family, or even the Church. The phrase "divided against oneself" directly refers to the lack of harmony, respect, communication, and love that exists in every relationship.

As Christians, we must take this warning very seriously. It's not just demons against demons, as Jesus implies; he also mentioned the division of a city and a family to demonstrate the importance of unity in every institution. Whether in your relationships with fellow believers, your family, or your colleagues, it is important to ensure that you are at peace with everyone and with yourself to avoid divisions. This is what Jesus teaches all who follow him.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.