Division

Today’s topic may seem unusual but it is one still related to Jesus. Many people in today’s society do not realize that Jesus came to bring division, not unity. If you have never stopped to think about this you too may have missed this separation that occurs when we follow Jesus. You may wonder, “so when does this ‘division’ occur?” Let us explore the Word of God to find the answer.

If we go to the Book of Acts in chapter 6 we will read the servants of the Lord prayed in order to select the men who would take care of the Greek widows. There was a time in the first century when these ladies were not taken care of since their husbands passed away. In order to solve this social problem, the 12 disciples of Jesus decided to pray and select through the Holy Spirit 7 men who were filled with the Spirit to take on this job of serving tables to these women. 

And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Acts 6:1 KJV

Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Acts 6:2 KJV

Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. Acts 6:3 KJV

One of these particular men who was selected was known as Stephen. 

And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. Acts 6:8 KJV

Stephen flowed in the power of God and did many great things for the Kingdom of heaven. A few scriptures down we find out Stephen was stoned to death. He was full of the Lord’s wisdom and did many miracles among the people. This was one of the first divisions we see and Stephen was filled with the Spirit. 

Why is it when a person is filled with the Holy Spirit persecution begins? The Bible clearly shows us when a person is endowed with the Spirit of God, the One we also know as the Spirit of Truth, persecution is the next phase. If you notice this also occurred with the Lord Jesus Himself. We do not read of any persecutions before the Holy Spirit came down upon Him. After He began preaching in His home town they wanted to throw Him over the hill. 

* The Presence of the Lord *

I remember a time when I was practicing the presence of God while working. It was a glorious time of illumination, revelation and enjoying His lovely presence. It was beautiful, intimate fellowship with the Lord Himself. It was even tangible to the people that came to sit with me. The ones who were believers would comment they felt peace and anything the Lord revealed to me made them grateful and comment, “this was a divine appointment.” There was peace and some experienced freedom from spiritual bondage. In all the goodness there was also those who did not receive truth. It made them want to “throw me from the hill”, as well. The devil will want you to commit murder. If Jesus has His way, you will repent and be grateful.

Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up and saw the Son of man standing on God’s right hand. Not too long ago as I was driving to work enjoying His presence I looked up to the sky and saw the clouds arranged in a beautiful way with lovely colors just before I turned at the traffic light. When I looked again to admire the view the sky did not look the same. It was a moment of beauty the Lord had given me and I am grateful to have seen His love message to me. We have a wonderful Savior and if you are willing to indulge in His presence you too can experience wisdom and many beautiful blessings He has for you.

* Not Peace, But Division *

Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34 KJV

Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: Luke 12:51 KJV

Jesus states He did not come to send peace. He will provide an inner peace for the believer but anyone who does not receive His peace will want to devour and destroy. We know the devil comes to steal, kill and destroy. When you face such things for doing well, remember who the enemy is! 

The religious leaders of Jesus’ time brought a sword. These were supposed to be “men of God”. If you find yourself experiencing the same religious spirit in this day and age remember it is the same evil spirit at work. Lift up your head and know that your name is written in heaven.  Hallelujah!

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 KJ 

Many people think there is supposed to be peace and no problems when you walk with Jesus. On the contrary, following Jesus brings division. Even in one household there can be division between family members, 3 against 2. Grace and peace are multiplied to us in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Our inner peace grows while all the things around you may be going crazy and seem out of control. He said we would have peace but not as the world gives it to you. We have peace because we know where our final destination is and Who we will be with. 

* Peace in the Holy Spirit *

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Romans 14:17 KJV

We should rejoice in righteousness and experience peace in the Holy Spirit. One day the Prince of Peace will arrive and we will have the peace we wished for so long. No wars, no fights or disagreements but peace, joy and fellowship with our brothers and sisters because the enemy of our souls will be eliminated. Glory to God! Amen!