New Testament

Luke 12:51

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus challenges the common belief that His mission was solely to bring peace.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

Do you think I came to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you — I came to bring division.

KJVKing James Version

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

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus challenges the common belief that His mission was solely to bring peace. Instead, He emphasizes that His arrival will lead to division among people. This division arises because His teachings and claims about His identity will create conflict, even among families and friends. Jesus is highlighting that following Him may require difficult choices and sacrifices, as not everyone will accept His message. The division He speaks of is not a desire for conflict but a recognition that truth can often lead to disagreement. His call to discipleship may separate those who choose to follow Him from those who do not, illustrating the profound impact of His message on personal relationships and societal norms.

Key themes

Related topics

conflict, discipleship, truth

How to apply Luke 12:51 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our commitment to Christ. Following Him may lead to difficult conversations and choices, especially with those close to us. We should be prepared to stand firm in our faith, understanding that true peace comes from aligning with God's truth, even when it causes division.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 12:51 mean?

Luke 12:51 means that Jesus did not come to bring peace in the sense of avoiding conflict. Instead, His teachings will create division among people, even within families, as some will accept His message while others will reject it.

What is the meaning of division in Luke 12:51?

The division mentioned in Luke 12:51 refers to the conflicts and disagreements that arise when people respond differently to Jesus' message. It highlights that following Christ may lead to difficult choices and separations in relationships.

How can I apply Luke 12:51 in my life?

You can apply Luke 12:51 by being prepared for the challenges that may come from following Christ. It encourages you to stand firm in your faith, even if it leads to difficult conversations or choices with those close to you.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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