Many objective observers note that this nation is presently extremely polarized relative to political ideologies. But does the division have a deeper meaning? There are those who believe that political ideology should be kept separate from religion while others believe that the Bible can help explain contemporary political issues.
And then there are those who believe that Jesus would be the answer to all division and would bring peace to the whole world when He was born.
“For unto us a Child is born…Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever…” Isaiah 9:6-7
The wording ‘from that time forward’ reveals that peace would follow judgment and will be fulfilled when Christ returns to earth and begins His rule during the millennial kingdom. But the purpose of His birth and mission during His initial advent was substantially different.
“I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished! Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division.” Luke 12:49-51
Inasmuch as history is presently between Christ’s first advent and His return, the earth should expect division which is proactively initiated and given by Christ Himself. He speaks of His impending sacrificial death to redeem mankind which must first take place before He can bring peace on the earth. He wishes that the time of His return to judge the earth was already here.
The division He speaks of is the division between those who accept His deity and gift of redemption versus those who choose to go it on their own. According to the Bible any other divisions among men are totally subsidiary to the ultimate division.
There are, however, correlations between differing political ideologies and the ultimate division among men. There are many who believe that political factions should be willing to compromise in order to solve national problems. Even some ‘church’ spokesmen believe there should be unity among factions. Such tactics are not scripturally based and compromise is not a scriptural principle.
God’s standard of justice and righteousness are absolute and not subject to compromise. The common and popular premise that ‘we should all get along’ for the good of the nation is perhaps well intended but not backed by Scripture.
Christians are admonished to take a stand for Biblical principles and not waiver. Jesus also taught that taking a stand would cause division and hatred.
“And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake…” Matthew 10:22a
“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.” Matthew 24:9
Jesus also gave a warning to those who would cave and deny Him.
“…But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father…” Matthew 10-32
Just as there are those who will not compromise Christ’s teachings there are those who adamantly take a stand against Biblical teachings. Consider the impasse presently between the administration and the House of Representatives. The issues appear to be irreconcilable. The issues can be clearly identified as to whether they are scripturally based or not.
Therefore, division is present and should be recognized as well as expected. It is a sign of the times.
“Then He also said to the multitudes, whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is. And when you see the south wind blow, you say, ‘There will be hot weather’; and there is. Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?” Luke 12:54-56
Thus there will be those who miss the ‘big picture’ and focus on remedying political division while others will smile and say to themselves, ‘God’s plan is right on schedule’.