The Gospel brings peace between God and those who believe. The Gospel also brings strife and conflict with those who do not believe. We see this in our passage today. Jesus speaks and they are divided on what He has said. One group says that He is mad, that He has a demon and is insane. The other side sees that Jesus is special. He has healed a man that was blind. How can an insane man or one possessed of a demon do that? Neither see the truth.
We should not be surprised when, in our day and in our ministry, the world reacts with strife and conflict toward us and our message. Sinful men still do not believe and do not want to have anything to do with the Gospel.
In some places this persecution is hard. It effects almost every area of life. For others it is just an inconvenience. However, let us make no mistake; it is there. We must not think of the Gospel ministry as having no cost. Living and standing for Jesus will cost you. It may cost you friends, family, opportunities, or even your life. But it is the most precious thing in the world. Pray for those who are persecuted! Pray that you will stand firm with Jesus if you find yourself persecuted for Him.
Consider: 1 Peter 3:14-22
