In our daily meditations over the next month, we will explore the topic of the Second Coming of Christ. Jesus spoke extensively about the events leading up to His glorious return. One of the things He mentioned was that there would be a division within families and a fire that would occur:
49"I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! 51Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law" (Luke 12:49-53).
This writer believes that the division referenced in the Scripture passage above foretells a time when families will be split over their differences in politics or their responses to the latest health crisis. Alternatively, it may signify discord within the family regarding beliefs about the Second Coming of Christ or even the identity of the true Messiah. In another passage, the Book of Revelation describes a time when division will arise when many accept the Mark of the Beast. Some will align with the world's rulership under the Antichrist, while others will stand in resistance (Revelation 13:16-17).
Regarding Jesus bringing fire on the earth (v. 49), some interpret that Christ is referring to the Holy Spirit, who appeared on the Day of Pentecost as tongues of fire resting on the heads of believers (Acts 2:3). However, I don't believe that is the most plausible interpretation. This writer suggests that our Lord Jesus longs for the time when fire and judgment on the evil of this world will be concluded, paving the way for righteousness and justice to prevail.
Many people perceive Jesus as meek, mild, loving, kind, and compassionate to all, believing He would not hurt a fly. However, Scripture also states that “our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). When thinking of Jesus, many first envision His birth in a stable or, perhaps, His death on the cross for the sins of the world. Many struggle to reconcile the image of the Lord Jesus using a whip, overturning tables, and displaying anger towards corruption and injustice. The concept of an angry Savior does not resonate with many minds.
The time is drawing near when the Lord will come for His people and, simultaneously, bring the fire of His judgment and justice to Earth. Peter the Apostle writes about this time when he speaks of what will happen on the Day of the Lord:
The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up (2 Peter 3:10 KJV; emphasis added).
The Lord Jesus longs for His bride; therefore, He desires that the fire be kindled soon. Wrongdoings will be set right. God will no longer tolerate sin and injustice. The vindication that many have longed for will finally arrive.
"And I will bring the third part through the fire, Refine them as silver is refined, And test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, And I will answer them; I will say, 'They are My people,' And they will say, 'The LORD is my God'" (Zechariah 13:9).
Finally, we will be home with the Lord. “Those who look to Him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed” (Psalm 34:5). I long for that day, and I hope you do too. Keith Thomas.
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