In the context of the words of Jesus, it’s essential to understand the deeper meaning behind His statements. When Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword” (Matthew 10:34), He was speaking metaphorically about the inevitable consequences of choosing to follow Him. The “sword” symbolizes the division and conflict that can arise between those who choose to follow Jesus and those who reject His teachings. This division can occur even within families, as Jesus further explains in the verses that follow (Matthew 10:35-36).

The essence of God’s character is love, as stated in 1 John 4:8: “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” God’s love for humanity was demonstrated through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which offers salvation and reconciliation with God to all who believe. The message of Jesus brings peace to the hearts of individuals who accept Him, as Paul writes in Romans 5:1, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

However, the peace Jesus brings is often at odds with the values of the world. Following Jesus might lead to conflict, misunderstanding, and persecution because His teachings challenge worldly norms and priorities. Jesus’s words about bringing a sword highlight the cost of discipleship and the commitment required to follow Him, emphasizing that peace with God may sometimes mean conflict with the world.

Understanding God’s love involves recognizing His desire for all people to know Him and experience the peace that comes from a relationship with Him. God’s love is not contradicted by the challenges faced in following Jesus but is made manifest in the strength, hope, and reconciliation He provides in the midst of those challenges.