Definition: And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous verse from the New Testament – Mark 3:24 – in plain language. It’s a really powerful and important message about order and stability. Here’s what it means, broken down into simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that disorder and chaos can't last forever. It suggests that if something is split apart or broken, it will eventually fall apart too. Think of it like a puzzle – if you remove one piece, the whole picture gets messed up. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “And if a kingdom be divided against itself…” This refers to a group of people, nations, or even something that's organized and structured (like a government or organization) – a “kingdom.” It’s talking about something that is struggling with its own internal problems. “…that kingdom cannot stand.” This means that if those parts of the kingdom are constantly fighting amongst themselves, arguing, or causing problems, the whole kingdom will eventually fail. It can't continue to function smoothly. What does this mean practically? It’s a warning against: Conflict and Violence: The verse suggests that disagreements and battles within groups or systems must be resolved. If they aren’t handled peacefully, they will cause problems. Lack of Order: It implies a need for structure, rules, and cooperation to prevent chaos. Unstable Systems: It’s about recognizing when something isn't working properly and taking steps to fix it. The Bigger Picture – A Promise It’s important to note that this verse doesn’t mean everything will always be chaotic. It also speaks of a future time when the world will be restored to its original, perfect order. This is often interpreted as a promise of a time of peace and justice after the suffering of Christ's death and resurrection. In short: The verse warns that division and conflict are dangerous and can lead to collapse. It’s about striving for harmony and stability – both in our own lives and in the world around us. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss its significance in a specific context (like the early church)? Give you some interpretations of what it means today?