Subject:
Date: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 15:38:57 +1000
To: webmaster@jesus-is-lord.com

When Luther appeared before the German Princes to defend his teaching in
1521 he quoted the words of Jesus found in Matthew 10:34. "Ihr sollt nicht
wähnen, daß ich kommen sei, Frieden zu senden auf Erden. Ich bin nicht
kommen, Frieden zu senden, sondern das Schwert." The words of Jesus quoted
by Luther, "I come not to bring peace but a sword" have proven to be true
every time there is a conflict over truth. From the beginning the gospel has
been the cause of tumult and strife.  Luther declared: "This is the
character, this is the destiny of the Word of God."  Christians are often
required to deal with contentions matters, not out of personal choice, but
because the defense of truth requires it. If something stands between Christ
and the people it must be removed however much plain speaking is required.