Scripture - Luke 11:17 But He knowing their thoughts, said to them; "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and a house divided against a house falls..."
Observations - Jesus was speaking to the multitudes in this scripture, some of which were questioning his authority to cast out demons. They began reasoning in their hearts and saying that he is casting them out by the devil. Jesus responds to them by explaining that the devil can't cast out the devil. It would divide his kingdom and that kingdom divided can't stand. The same for a house, a house divided against itself can't stand. The division weakens the foundation and causes a collapse of the structure. Jesus states that for God to be glorified, He must be using the authority of Heaven against the enemy. One army against another, heaven against hell. No division in the kingdom will be prosperous.
Application - I think that this scripture is so profound and many of us look right past it. In order for authority and power to be proclaimed and to truly build the house of God, we must have unity. Once we are divided in any way: thought, vision, plan, purpose, direction, philosophy of ministry, etc the kingdom is weakened. The house can't stand. The decision to become part of a house under the direction of a pastor is an extremely important one. Once made you must align with that vision for the house to succeed. If you are divided or not aligned, while well-meaning, you could jeopardize the house and cause desolation. Too many are trying to do their own thing, following their own leading, when truly submitting to the vision and purpose of the house is the call of God.
Prayer - Father, help us align to your vision and the vision of your house. God we need to work together to fulfill your call in our lives. Help us to work one with another in unison and in unity.
