Matthew 10:35

“For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.”

Certainly! Here’s a Bible study on Verse: “For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.” (Matthew 10:35, KJV)

Context:Matthew 10 is a chapter in the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus gives instructions to His disciples before sending them out to proclaim the kingdom of God. In this particular verse, Jesus is explaining the potential consequences and challenges that may arise as a result of following Him.

Key Points:

• Following Jesus may cause division:Jesus begins by saying that He has come to bring division and not peace. This statement might seem contradictory since Jesus is often referred to as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). However, the division He speaks of is a result of the response people have to Him. Choosing to follow Jesus can lead to conflicts within families and relationships because of differing beliefs and values.
• Prioritizing God above all else:Jesus emphasizes the importance of choosing God’s kingdom and His teachings over familial ties. The relationships mentioned in the verse are significant and close, symbolizing the deep loyalty and love within families. However, Jesus states that the commitment to Him should take precedence even over these cherished relationships. This does not imply disregarding or neglecting family responsibilities but rather placing God above all else.
• The cost of discipleship:Jesus is preparing His disciples for the challenges they will face as His followers. He wants them to understand that the decision to follow Him may require sacrifices and can potentially strain relationships with family members who do not share their faith. This verse highlights the cost of discipleship and the willingness to bear it.
• The transforming power of the Gospel:Jesus’ statement does not imply that He desires division for its own sake. Rather, it reflects the transformative nature of the Gospel. When individuals encounter Jesus and accept Him as their Lord and Savior, it can lead to a radical shift in their worldview and priorities. This transformation may bring about conflicts, as not everyone will respond positively to the message of Christ.

• Persevering in faith:Despite the potential challenges and divisions, Jesus encourages His followers to remain steadfast in their faith. He continues to provide guidance and support to His disciples throughout the chapter, assuring them of God’s presence and protection.

Application:

• Prioritize your commitment to God:Jesus’ words remind us to place our allegiance to God above any other relationships or loyalties. While we are called to honour and love our families, our ultimate devotion should be to God.
• Count the cost of discipleship:Following Jesus may involve sacrifice and facing opposition. It’s essential to consider the potential challenges that may arise when deciding to follow Christ. However, the reward of a relationship with Him and eternal life far surpasses any earthly struggles.
• Love and pray for your family:While conflicts may arise due to differing beliefs, it is crucial to maintain a loving and prayerful attitude towards family members who do not share your faith. Through your actions and attitudes, you can be a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
• Seek support and community:As you face challenges and divisions, seek support and fellowship within the body of Christ. Connecting with other believers can provide encouragement, guidance, and a sense of belonging as you navigate the complexities of following Jesus.

Remember, Matthew 10:35 is just one verse within a broader passage. It is essential to read the entire chapter and consider the surrounding context to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus’ teachings and instructions to His disciples.