Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him.  Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”

Luke 2: 33-35

As I read through this passage in Luke, I was reminded once again, that while Jesus brings peace to the hearts that are turned toward Him, there is also conflict.

Certainly, there were those who opposed Jesus in the first century and were determined to see Him crucified, but there are many today who are divided on the topic of Jesus.

Jesus recognized the controversy prophesied by Simeon –

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household.”

Matthew 10:34

Jesus is the Prince of Peace, but for those who are opposed to God, Jesus brings a sword. Through the Holy Spirit, the “deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.” Sometimes that sword separates families as some follow Christ while others reject Him just as Jesus said. Sometimes it is the cost of discipleship for the believer.