Faith Divisions
Conversion to Christ can bring a serious divergence of interest and put a strain on the solidarity of the household, but it ultimately leads to true family ties in the community of regenerated souls.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Church is a divine family, and the loyalties to Christ can create divisions even among earthly families. He points out that while the presence of Christ can bring peace, it often leads to opposition from blood relatives, highlighting that true family ties are found within the community of believers. Tozer acknowledges the joy of being raised in a Christian home, where conversion strengthens family bonds, but he also notes that more frequently, a true Christian presence can create tension and divergence within the household.
Text
It should always be kept in mind that the Church is a divine family and that its loyalties sometimes cut sharply across the ties that bind earthly families together.
The cross is a sword and often separates friends and divides households. The idea that Christ always brings peace and patches up differences is found nowhere in His own teachings. Quite the contrary is true. For a man to cast in his lot with Christ often means that he will be opposed by his blood relatives and will find his true family ties only in the community of regenerated souls.
Surely it is a most desirable thing to be reared in a Christian home. When a young man or woman is thus happily situated, conversion to Christ brings no rift to the family circle but rather seals and cements the earthly ties. We see sometimes whole families from the aged grandparents to the youngest child all joyously serving the Lord, and hardly anything under the sun could be more delightful. But it is not often so. More often the presence of a true Christian in the home, if it does not actually divide, does at least bring a serious divergence of interest and puts a real strain upon the solidarity of the household.
Sermon Outline
- The Church as a Divine Family
- Christ's Teachings on Division
- The True Family Ties
- Found in the community of regenerated souls
- Conversion to Christ can bring strain on household
Key Quotes
“For a man to cast in his lot with Christ often means that he will be opposed by his blood relatives and will find his true family ties only in the community of regenerated souls.” — A.W. Tozer
“The cross is a sword and often separates friends and divides households.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Be prepared for potential opposition from family members when you choose to follow Christ.
- Your true family ties are not with your earthly relatives, but with the community of regenerated souls who share your faith.
- Conversion to Christ can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience.