Definition: I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly powerful verse from Luke 12:49. It’s a really thought-provoking passage about faith, purpose, and the potential for God’s work to explode. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying that God has a plan for the world – a grand, significant work. And He's incredibly confident that this work will explode or become powerfully active. He believes His coming (and God's coming) will cause a massive, transformative change. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I am come to send fire on the earth…” – This is metaphorical. “Fire” represents a powerful, transformative event. It suggests something significant and dramatic is about to happen. “…and what will I, if it be already kindled?” - Now, this is where it gets interesting. “Kindled” means started . So, Jesus isn't saying He is coming to start the work. He’s saying God is already starting the work. The question is: "If God has already started this work, what will He do with it?" So, essentially, the verse suggests: Jesus believes that God's purpose – His plan for the world – is already underway and will become incredibly powerful and impactful. He’s anticipating a significant shift in events due to His arrival. The Significance & Interpretation: This passage has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. Here are some common understandings: God's Sovereignty: It emphasizes God's absolute control and plan for the world, rather than us having complete freedom. The Power of Scripture: Some see it as a reminder that God’s word – the Bible – is already working to shape events and change lives. It’s a call to be diligent in reading and understanding scripture. A Call to Faith & Action: It’s a powerful encouragement to trust in God's plan, even when we don't fully understand it. It urges us to be active participants in God’s work. In short, Luke 12:49 is a profound statement about the potential for God's purpose to explode into action. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore a specific aspect of its meaning (like its historical context)?