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Bible Studies/Luke 14:26?
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Question
Hello,
I have a quick question concerning the verse, Luke 14:26, where Jesus says "If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple."
I am a bit confused as to the meaning of what Jesus is saying here. Does He mean that we MUST hate our family etc. to follow Him or does it mean that we must be willing to lay down all that He lists in that verse to truly follow him? Does Jesus mean that He is to come first before all of those things or does it mean that all those who follow Him really must turn on and hate their earthly families and lives?
I know this question may sound a bit silly, but it it keeps rolling around in my head. Could you please give your opinion on this verse?
Thanks,
Tressa
Hi Tressa
Thank you for your question - one, I would assure you, that has troubled many people!
There is, however, no cause for concern. The Jewish culture is very fond of hyperbole (obvious exaggeration for effect). So Jesus was <b>NOT<b> saying that we should literally hate our families if we are to follow Him. Indeed, if we think about it a little more we would realise that, for many of us, this would involve hating fellow-believers to whom we happen to be related!
All that he is saying is that our love for Him, and our desire to follow Him, must be so strong that it makes our love for our family members <b>seem<b> like hatred <b>by comparison<b>. Of course, if a choice has to be made - as, for example, is the case for many Muslims who are converted, and are disowned by their families - then He must come first! Luke 9:62 may be seen as a relevant Scripture in that sort of situation.
Jesus was actually very clear about our duty to our loved ones. For example, in Mark 7:11 He points out to some Pharisees that by using a tradition that allowed them to dedicate something to God, in order to avoid helping their parents, they were really breaking the Mosaic Law, and the commandment to "Honour your father and your mother" (Ex.20:12)
I do hope that this will have set your mind at rest, and that you will continue to love your family, while still following the Lord. However, if you wish to ask a supplementary question, please do not hesitate to do so.
Blessings, and shalom,
C.Brian Ross (Rev)
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks for the very warm response! That actually really cleared it up for me! We do loose the all important cultural context in the translation, so it really hopes when someone points out such! Again, thanks! :) | ||
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Rev C.Brian Ross
Expertise
I am happy to offer answers to anyone with a question that refers to the Christian Faith in its widest possible sense. I believe that the Bible is the living Word of God, and seek to base all of my life on its teaching. I also have some knowledge of some of the cults, and of Islam and Judaism. Of course, my answers are just one man's thoughts, and I would always advise a questioner to check with others, and with the Word of God.
Experience
Served as a full-time parish minister in Scotland for about six years, and then spent the last thirty as a teacher (now 'retired') of Religious Education in Secondary Comprehensive schools (ages 11-17) while continuing my own preaching and teaching ministry. I also believe that learning is a life-time process, and have recently completed a Master's degree in Divinity.
Organizations
Former Presenter on Revival FM - a local Christian, community radio station, broadcasting in west central Scotland, and online at revival.fm Involved with a number of organisations that support Christians who are currently suffering persecution in some 70 countries around the world. I am currently a Chaplain with Strathclyde Police Force, deployed within 'Q' and 'N' Divisions, and also responsible for the Force Training and Recruitment Centre.
Publications
Various articles in Christian magazines. I also have two blogsites - www.crazyrev.blogspot.com and (with audio messages) www.revcbross.blogspot.com I am currently writing my first book - a lay person's guide to some of the great words of the Christian Faith.
Education/Credentials
Diploma of The Bible Training Institute, Glasgow;
Licentiate in Theology of the University of Glasgow;
Associateship of The Philosophical Society of England;
Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) in History from The Open University;
Post-grad Certificate of Education - Religious Education and History;
Post-grad Certificate in Learning and Teaching;
Post-grad Diploma in Management and Learning in Education;
Master of Science Degree from the University of Strathclyde;
Master of Divinity Degree (with Distinction) from Trinity College and Seminary (accredited by the University of Liverpool)
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