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Luke 12:49
Verse
Context
Not Peace but Division
48But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded.49I have come to ignite a fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!50But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished!
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am come to send fire - See this subject largely explained on Mat 10:34 (note), etc. From the connection in which these words stand, both in this place and in Matthew, it appears as if our Lord intended by the word fire, not only the consuming influence of the Roman sword, but also the influence of his own Spirit in the destruction of sin. In both these senses this fire was already kindled: as yet, however, it appeared but as a spark, but was soon to break out into an all-consuming flame.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
to send--cast. fire--"the higher spiritual element of life which Jesus came to introduce into this earth (compare Mat 3:11), with reference to its mighty effects in quickening all that is akin to it and destroying all that is opposed. To cause this element of life to take up its abode on earth, and wholly to pervade human hearts with its warmth, was the lofty destiny of the Redeemer" [OLSHAUSEN: so CALVIN, STIER, ALFORD, &c.]. what will I, &c.--an obscure expression, uttered under deep and half-smothered emotion. In its general import all are agreed; but the nearest to the precise meaning seems to be, "And what should I have to desire if it were once already kindled?" [BENGEL and BLOOMFIELD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I have a baptism to be baptized with,.... Not water baptism, for he had been baptized with that already; nor the baptism of the Spirit, which he had also received without measure; though the Ethiopic version reads it actively, "with which I shall baptize", referring doubtless to that; but the baptism of his sufferings is meant, which are compared to a baptism, because of the largeness and abundance of them; he was as it were immersed, or plunged into them; and which almost all interpreters observe on the text, and by which they confess the true import and primary signification of the word used; as in baptism, performed by immersion, the person is plunged into water, is covered with it, and continues awhile under it, and then is raised out of it, and which being once done, is done no more; so the sufferings of Christ were so many and large, that he was as it were covered with them, and he continued under them for a time, and under the power of death and the grave, when being raised from thence, he dies no more, death hath no more dominion over him. This baptism he "had", there was a necessity of his being baptized with it, on his Father's account; it was his will, his decree, and the command he enjoined him as Mediator; it was the portion he allotted him, and the cup he gave unto him: and on his own part, he obliged himself unto it, in the counsel and covenant of peace; for this purpose he came into this world, and had substituted himself in the room and stead of his people; and it was necessary on their part, for their sins could not be atoned for without sufferings, nor without the sufferings of Christ; moreover, the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament concerning them, made them necessary: and how am I straitened until it be accomplished: these words express both the trouble and distress Christ was in, at the apprehension of his sufferings as man; which were like to the distress of persons, closely besieged by an enemy; or rather of a woman, whose time of travail draws nigh, when she dreads it, and yet longs to have it over: and likewise they signify, his restless desire to have them accomplished; not that he desired that Judas should betray him, or the Jews crucify him, as these were sins of theirs; nor merely his sufferings as such; but that thereby the justice of God might be satisfied, the law might be fulfilled, and the salvation of his people be obtained: and this eager desire of his, he had shown in various instances, and did show afterwards; as in his ready compliance with his Father's proposal in eternity; in his frequent appearances in human form before his incarnation; in sending one message after another, to give notice of his coming; in his willingness to be about his Father's business, as soon as possible; in rebuking Peter, when he would have dissuaded him from all thoughts of suffering: in going to Jerusalem on his own accord, in order to suffer there; in his earnest wish to eat the last passover with his disciples; in the joy that possessed him, when Judas was gone out, in order to betray him; in stopping in the midst of his sermon, lest he should overrun, or outslip the time of meeting him in the garden, Joh 14:30 in his going thither, and willingly surrendering himself up into the hands of his enemies; and in cheerfully laying down his life: all which arose from the entire love he had for the persons he died for; and because it was his Father's will, and his glory was concerned herein, and his own glory also was advanced thereby; moreover, his death was the life of others, and the work required haste.
Luke 12:49
Not Peace but Division
48But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded.49I have come to ignite a fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!50But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Resurrection Realm
By David Wilkerson6.1K1:27:36RepentanceMAL 3:1MAT 6:33LUK 12:49In this sermon, the speaker expresses his disillusionment with organized religion, citing examples of extravagant spending and begging for money. He then shifts his focus to the concept of the resurrection realm, emphasizing that those who enter this realm must go through refining fires. He references the book of Malachi and the story of Lazarus in the Gospel of John to support his points. The speaker also shares a personal story about his wife's struggle with alcoholism and how God showed him the importance of loving and being tender towards others.
Audio Sermon: Are We Willing to Drink His Cup?
By Leonard Ravenhill3.5K1:11:53LUK 12:49This sermon emphasizes the call to drink the cup of suffering and baptism of fire as Jesus did, highlighting the need for obedience, sacrifice, and a deep relationship with God. It challenges believers to embrace the cost of discipleship, to seek the baptism of the Holy Spirit with fire, and to prioritize spiritual fervor over mere religious rituals. The speaker urges for a revival marked by genuine devotion, prayer, and a willingness to endure hardships for the sake of the Gospel.
The Cup and the Fire - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.2K49:06Christian LifeLUK 12:49LUK 12:511CO 3:102CO 2:14HEB 12:261PE 1:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the testing of the Israelites' hearts during the 40 days and nights that Moses was on Mount Sinai. The Israelites failed this test when they engaged in idolatry and worshiped a golden calf. The speaker then transitions to the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus speaks about bringing division rather than peace on earth. The speaker explains that the coming of the Holy Spirit, symbolized by fire, brings judgment and tests the motives and intentions of people's hearts. This judgment extends to human relationships, as the fiery sword discerns the true nature of individuals.
Choose Fire
By G.W. North6031:25:02Holy Spirit1CH 29:232CH 1:1MAT 3:11LUK 12:49ACT 2:3HEB 12:29In this sermon, the preacher continues the theme of fire from the previous night. He emphasizes that Jesus Christ came to send fire, which represents holiness in every aspect of our lives. The preacher refers to the book of Zechariah, where it is stated that the purpose of the fire is to bring holiness to all areas of our lives. Moving on to the second book of Chronicles, the preacher focuses on Solomon, who became king and was greatly blessed by God. The sermon highlights the importance of seeking God's presence and allowing Him to magnify us in our lives.
Time for War
By Glenn Meldrum4291:02:32Spiritual WarfarePSA 144:1MAT 6:33LUK 12:491PE 1:13In this sermon, the preacher begins by quoting Psalm 144:1-5, where David praises God as his rock, fortress, and deliverer. The preacher then reflects on the reality of war and the changing nature of life, drawing from his brother's experience in boot camp. He emphasizes the importance of unity and dependence on others, rather than individualism. The preacher suggests that just as physical battles take place in the world, there is also a spiritual war happening within us.
Possess Your Possessions
By G.W. North2021:19:57PossessionsDEU 12:1MAT 6:33LUK 12:49HEB 3:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Joshua, specifically chapter 11. He emphasizes the importance of having the mind and compassion of Christ, as well as the power to meet needs. The speaker shares his personal testimony of how God worked in his heart and led him to possess the gifts and blessings that God has for each believer. He highlights the need for deliverance and holiness of life in order to truly possess one's possessions. The sermon also mentions the significance of fire as a symbol of God's power and presence.
Four Trumpet Judgments (Rev. 8:7-13)
By Mike Bickle171:07:01JudgmentPrayer MandateEXO 9:23JOL 2:30LUK 12:49ACT 2:19REV 8:7Mike Bickle discusses the Four Trumpet Judgments from Revelation 8:7-13, emphasizing their role as divine warnings rather than mere punishments. He explains that these judgments, which include devastating impacts on the earth's resources, are meant to awaken the nations and slow the progression of wickedness. Bickle highlights the importance of the church's prayer mandate in releasing these judgments, as they are tied to the end-time prayer movement. He encourages believers to understand these events as part of God's plan and to prepare for their potential involvement in the future. The sermon serves as a call to recognize the urgency of prayer and the significance of the book of Revelation as a prayer manual for the church.
How the Christian Life Begins in Us
By St. Theophan the Recluse1MAT 7:21MRK 9:49LUK 12:49ROM 6:4ROM 9:6ROM 12:111CO 9:242CO 5:15PHP 3:131TH 5:19St. Theofan the Recluse preaches about the importance of recognizing the beginning of the Christian life and the zeal required to live in communion with God. He emphasizes that true Christian life is marked by active zeal, self-sacrifice, and a hatred of sin. The sermon delves into the significance of Baptism as the initiation of a new life in Christ, highlighting the transformation and rebirth it brings to individuals. St. Theofan also discusses the role of parents and sponsors in nurturing the grace-given life in children through Christian upbringing, emphasizing the influence of faith, piety, and the Church's sacraments in shaping a child's spiritual journey.
I Came to Kindle a Fire on the Earth (Repair the Altar, and God Will Answer by fire.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel1Spiritual RenewalThe Fire of God1KI 18:241KI 18:30MAT 5:14LUK 12:49Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of repairing our spiritual altars to invite God's fire into our lives, as Jesus came to kindle a fire on the earth. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their purpose and the choices they make, warning against the distractions of the world that lead to spiritual blindness. Waldvogel calls for a genuine hunger for God, urging believers to seek a transformative relationship with Him that ignites their faith. He highlights the importance of recognizing who our true God is and the need for repentance and desire to experience His presence. Ultimately, he encourages the faithful to let the fire of Christ burn brightly in their hearts and homes.
On Prayer, Homily 3
By St. Theophan the Recluse1MAT 26:41LUK 12:491CO 3:16EPH 6:18COL 3:3COL 4:21TH 5:171PE 5:8St. Theophan the Recluse delves into the three levels of prayer: prayer which is read, mental prayer through contemplation of God, and unceasing turning of the mind and heart to God. He emphasizes the importance of constant prayer, quoting various Bible verses that urge believers to pray without ceasing, be vigilant, patient, and bold in prayer. St. Theophan explains that true prayer is a state of the spirit, akin to our breathing and heartbeat, and encourages believers to aspire towards a burning spirit through diligent prayer work.
Coping With the Press 0f Time
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 25:6MRK 1:14MRK 13:32LUK 12:49JHN 9:4Richard E. Bieber preaches about the importance of being prepared for the return of the bridegroom, emphasizing the need to bring the glory of God into our daily lives in our interactions with others, handling of finances, and management of time. He highlights the temptations that come with the pressure of time, such as slothfulness, anxiety, vain ambition, and triviality, and how Jesus navigated time with holy peace and purpose. Bieber urges believers to enter the realm of sanctified time through prayer, watchfulness, and labor, ensuring that their lamps are filled with oil to partake in the marriage feast.
Hurricane Jesus, Part 2
By David Servant0MAL 3:6LUK 12:49LUK 13:34ACT 5:1ROM 8:222CO 5:18David Servant addresses objections to the idea that natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina are manifestations of God's wrath, emphasizing the continuity of God's character and judgment throughout the Old and New Testaments. He refutes misconceptions about God's wrath post-Jesus' death, highlighting examples of God's judgment in the New Testament and the book of Revelation. Servant also challenges the notion that God's mercy nullifies His wrath, pointing out the importance of repentance for reconciliation with God and the impending judgment described in Scripture.
The Testing of the Fire
By T. Austin-Sparks0JudgmentThe Work of the Holy SpiritLUK 12:49T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound implications of Jesus' statement about casting fire upon the earth, emphasizing that this fire symbolizes judgment and division, particularly in human relationships and Christian work. He highlights that the Holy Spirit's presence brings about a necessary discrimination between light and darkness, revealing the true motives of the heart and the quality of one's work for Christ. Sparks warns that not all sincere efforts in ministry will endure the testing fire, as only those led by the Holy Spirit will stand the test of time. He encourages believers to be sensitive to the divisions created by the Spirit, which reflect a deeper spiritual reality. Ultimately, the sermon calls for unity in the Spirit, emphasizing that true Christian life is marked by a singular focus on being governed by the Holy Spirit.
Holy Disruption
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 5:9MAT 10:34LUK 12:49JHN 14:12JHN 14:15JHN 14:21Richard E. Bieber preaches on the transformative power of the Day of Pentecost, where a small group of believers became an Army of Light, drawing thousands into God's kingdom. This motley crew, empowered by the Holy Spirit, boldly manifested God's kingdom, setting hearts on fire and impacting cities without big money or names. The disruption caused by the Spirit's visitation turned passive individuals into active soldiers in the war between darkness and light, challenging believers to yield to God's disruptive work in their lives.
Rescue the Perishing
By Glenn Meldrum0ISA 53:5AMO 6:6MAT 3:2MAT 28:19LUK 12:49LUK 19:102CO 5:20EPH 5:1PHP 3:10Glenn Meldrum preaches about the driving passion of Fanny Crosby, a blind hymn writer, to win the lost to Christ, emphasizing the urgency to rescue the perishing and care for the dying. The sermon delves into the heart of God as seen through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, highlighting His mission to seek and save the lost. It challenges Christians to embody the compassion of Christ, become modern-day John the Baptists, and cry out in the wilderness to warn the ungodly and call them to repentance. The sermon stresses the need for revival and reformation in the church, urging leaders to set the example by leading with a passion for the lost.
Is Magnetic, Attractive
By Seth Rees0EXO 3:2JER 20:9LUK 12:49ACT 2:3HEB 12:29Seth Rees addresses the challenge faced by Protestantism in reaching the masses, highlighting the futile attempts to attract people through money, eloquent ministers, new church buildings, and various worldly tactics. He emphasizes the need for a spiritual awakening where ministers humble themselves, rely on the Holy Spirit, and allow God's fire to ignite their hearts and churches, drawing people in without the need for sensationalism or human strategies.
Knowing the Time
By Richard E. Bieber0ECC 3:1MAT 16:21MAT 17:1LUK 12:49LUK 19:41JHN 9:1JHN 12:20JHN 15:20ROM 13:11Richard E. Bieber preaches on the importance of understanding God's timing in our lives, using examples from Jesus' life to illustrate different seasons and purposes under heaven. He emphasizes the need for believers to be aware of the present time, to discern God's calling for them, and to align themselves with God's kingdom agenda. Bieber warns against impatience, vanity ambitions, and missing divine visitations due to distractions or sleepiness. He urges believers to wake up, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and be prepared for the signs of the times, including increased confusion, people seeking God, the blind searching for answers, and the likelihood of persecution.
On Fire for Jesus
By Joe Brice0MAT 10:34LUK 12:49ACT 2:1ROM 12:111CO 2:4GAL 5:22PHP 1:82TI 1:6REV 2:1Joe Brice preaches about the importance of enthusiasm and passion in religion, contrasting the reserved nature often associated with piety to the fiery devotion seen in New Testament Christianity. He emphasizes how the early Christians, filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, were transformed into bold and zealous followers of Christ, willing to be seen as fools for the sake of the Gospel. Brice highlights the necessity of being ablaze with the love of Jesus, as it is this fervor that drives true discipleship and the mission of the Church. He challenges believers to move from formalism to fervor, from duty to devotion, and from cold obedience to passionate righteousness, echoing the apostolic zeal that was disciplined and used for the purpose of love in the world.
The Spirit of Fire
By Samuel Chadwick0LEV 9:24NUM 3:4MAT 3:11LUK 12:49ACT 1:8ACT 2:3ROM 12:111CO 3:13HEB 12:29JUD 1:23Samuel Chadwick preaches about the significance of fire as a symbol of God's presence and approval, emphasizing the importance of true worship and devotion. He warns against offering 'strange fire' in place of God's fire, which leads to spiritual death and the secularization of the sanctuary. Chadwick highlights the necessity of the Holy Ghost fire in the Church, describing it as the ultimate gift of God that brings moral and spiritual passion, transforming believers into burning and shining lights for Christ. He stresses that true religion is characterized by fervent devotion, righteousness, and a consuming desire to save the lost, and that the Church's power lies in being clothed with the zeal of the Holy Ghost.
The Positive Nature of the Holy Spirit
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Holy SpiritPositive LivingLUK 12:49T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the positive nature of the Holy Spirit, illustrating how the Spirit transforms neutral or negative situations into positive action, akin to fire that ignites and propels forward. He explains that the Holy Spirit is not only the answer to the waiting period after Christ's resurrection but also the driving force behind the Christian walk, urging believers to walk in the Spirit rather than consorting with the flesh or the devil. Sparks highlights that true fellowship and service in the Christian life are rooted in the positive engagement of the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers to witness and maintain unity within the body of Christ. He calls for a recognition of the Spirit's active role in overcoming negativity and encourages believers to embrace the Spirit's positive energy through the Cross.
The Fire of God
By Richard E. Bieber0EXO 3:1MAL 3:2LUK 12:49ACT 2:1REV 8:5Richard E. Bieber preaches on the powerful story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal, highlighting the contrast between human influence and divine intervention. He emphasizes the importance of seeking the fire of God in our lives and assemblies, distinguishing between man-made efforts and the genuine work of God. Through various Bible verses, he explores how the fire of God speaks, refines, empowers, and ultimately brings history to a close, urging believers to embrace the baptism of fire for a transformative and impactful life.
Letter 83
By James Bourne0PSA 51:17ISA 66:2LUK 12:49ROM 8:172CO 12:9GAL 6:14PHP 2:7JAS 4:101PE 5:6James Bourne, in a letter to Mr. M., encourages him to discern between the dead professing church and the true church of God, emphasizing the necessity of feeling the inefficiency of worldly pleasures and the desire for spiritual truth. Bourne reminds Mr. M. that judgment often precedes mercy, and there is a process of breaking down before building up in the Christian journey. He urges Mr. M. not to be discouraged by a lack of immediate peace or assurance of salvation, but to focus on humility, contrition, and trembling at God's word. Bourne highlights the importance of enduring hardships, preferring God's honor over personal reputation, and the gradual work of grace in a believer's heart.
The Forty Days
By T. Austin-Sparks0ResurrectionEmpowerment of the ChurchLUK 12:49T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the forty days following Christ's resurrection, highlighting that this period was crucial for establishing the foundation of Christianity. He explains that during these days, Jesus appeared to His disciples, providing many proofs of His resurrection, which were essential for their faith and the future of the Church. Sparks draws parallels between the forty days and other significant 'forties' in the Bible, illustrating that this time was one of testing, release, and integration for the scattered disciples. He asserts that the resurrection not only liberated Christ but also released His followers from their limitations, enabling them to become empowered witnesses. Ultimately, these forty days were pivotal in transforming the disciples from a state of fear and division into a unified and bold community ready to spread the Gospel.
Three Fires
By R.A. Torrey0Judgment and SalvationBaptism Of The Holy SpiritISA 6:5MAL 3:1MAT 3:11LUK 12:49ACT 2:31CO 3:132TH 1:7HEB 12:29JAS 1:71PE 1:7R.A. Torrey's sermon 'Three Fires' emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, as illustrated by the phrase 'He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.' He explains three types of fire: the baptism with fire that reveals and purifies, the fire of judgment that tests our works, and the fire of eternal doom for those who reject God. Torrey shares personal experiences and biblical examples to illustrate how the baptism with fire can ignite passion, energy, and clarity in believers' lives. He urges the congregation to seek this baptism to become effective witnesses for Christ and to avoid the consequences of judgment and eternal separation from God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am come to send fire - See this subject largely explained on Mat 10:34 (note), etc. From the connection in which these words stand, both in this place and in Matthew, it appears as if our Lord intended by the word fire, not only the consuming influence of the Roman sword, but also the influence of his own Spirit in the destruction of sin. In both these senses this fire was already kindled: as yet, however, it appeared but as a spark, but was soon to break out into an all-consuming flame.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
to send--cast. fire--"the higher spiritual element of life which Jesus came to introduce into this earth (compare Mat 3:11), with reference to its mighty effects in quickening all that is akin to it and destroying all that is opposed. To cause this element of life to take up its abode on earth, and wholly to pervade human hearts with its warmth, was the lofty destiny of the Redeemer" [OLSHAUSEN: so CALVIN, STIER, ALFORD, &c.]. what will I, &c.--an obscure expression, uttered under deep and half-smothered emotion. In its general import all are agreed; but the nearest to the precise meaning seems to be, "And what should I have to desire if it were once already kindled?" [BENGEL and BLOOMFIELD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I have a baptism to be baptized with,.... Not water baptism, for he had been baptized with that already; nor the baptism of the Spirit, which he had also received without measure; though the Ethiopic version reads it actively, "with which I shall baptize", referring doubtless to that; but the baptism of his sufferings is meant, which are compared to a baptism, because of the largeness and abundance of them; he was as it were immersed, or plunged into them; and which almost all interpreters observe on the text, and by which they confess the true import and primary signification of the word used; as in baptism, performed by immersion, the person is plunged into water, is covered with it, and continues awhile under it, and then is raised out of it, and which being once done, is done no more; so the sufferings of Christ were so many and large, that he was as it were covered with them, and he continued under them for a time, and under the power of death and the grave, when being raised from thence, he dies no more, death hath no more dominion over him. This baptism he "had", there was a necessity of his being baptized with it, on his Father's account; it was his will, his decree, and the command he enjoined him as Mediator; it was the portion he allotted him, and the cup he gave unto him: and on his own part, he obliged himself unto it, in the counsel and covenant of peace; for this purpose he came into this world, and had substituted himself in the room and stead of his people; and it was necessary on their part, for their sins could not be atoned for without sufferings, nor without the sufferings of Christ; moreover, the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament concerning them, made them necessary: and how am I straitened until it be accomplished: these words express both the trouble and distress Christ was in, at the apprehension of his sufferings as man; which were like to the distress of persons, closely besieged by an enemy; or rather of a woman, whose time of travail draws nigh, when she dreads it, and yet longs to have it over: and likewise they signify, his restless desire to have them accomplished; not that he desired that Judas should betray him, or the Jews crucify him, as these were sins of theirs; nor merely his sufferings as such; but that thereby the justice of God might be satisfied, the law might be fulfilled, and the salvation of his people be obtained: and this eager desire of his, he had shown in various instances, and did show afterwards; as in his ready compliance with his Father's proposal in eternity; in his frequent appearances in human form before his incarnation; in sending one message after another, to give notice of his coming; in his willingness to be about his Father's business, as soon as possible; in rebuking Peter, when he would have dissuaded him from all thoughts of suffering: in going to Jerusalem on his own accord, in order to suffer there; in his earnest wish to eat the last passover with his disciples; in the joy that possessed him, when Judas was gone out, in order to betray him; in stopping in the midst of his sermon, lest he should overrun, or outslip the time of meeting him in the garden, Joh 14:30 in his going thither, and willingly surrendering himself up into the hands of his enemies; and in cheerfully laying down his life: all which arose from the entire love he had for the persons he died for; and because it was his Father's will, and his glory was concerned herein, and his own glory also was advanced thereby; moreover, his death was the life of others, and the work required haste.