Understanding the Prodigal Father and Discipleship: Matthew 10:36 and Luke 14:26

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches, "A man's enemies will be members of his own household" (Matthew 10:36). This statement is often misunderstood. To truly grasp the meaning behind this profound lesson, we need to look at the gospel of Luke, which provides a clearer explanation. In Luke 14:26, Jesus says, "If any man come to me and hate not his father and mother and wife and children and brethren and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

What Does Jesus Mean by 'Hate'?

The term 'hate' can be misleading in this context. To understand Jesus correctly, we need to peel away the surface meaning and delve into the emotional and relational aspects of the word. In dictionaries, 'hate' is defined as 'to be unwilling to be or do something.' This definition helps us see that the essence of 'hate' in this passage has to do with loyalty and allegiance.

The dictionary definition of 'enemy' is 'a person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.' This is a key concept to grasp, as it relates directly to the teaching about family members becoming enemies. When Jesus talks about hating family members, he is speaking about loving Him more than everything else, including family, and not being willing to be opposed to Him or act hostilely towards Him.

The Dynamics of Family and Faith

Consider the concept of a father who has worked hard to provide for his children. He has saved every penny, disregarding his own personal comforts to ensure the family's future. The father's children might see success in the world as a way to honor and provide for their father, while also providing for their own futures. This scenario presents a stark contrast to the message of Jesus, who calls His followers to look towards God for their salvation and guidance, rather than worldly success.

According to the Bible, God says, 'Look unto me and be ye saved all the ends of the earth: For I am God there is none else' (Isaiah 45:22). This means that those who place their trust in God's plan will find true life and security, rather than the fleeting success and recognition of this world. A father who actively resists this message is seen as opposing God and refusing to follow His will.

Following Jesus Christ: A New Identity

When someone follows Jesus, their allegiance shifts from family and worldly ambitions to a relationship with God. Jesus teaches in John 10:27–28, 'My sheep hear my voice and I know them, and they follow me. And I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.' This means that those who follow Jesus are not plucked out of His protective hand due to His strength.

For those who follow Jesus, the definition of 'hate' changes. Love for Jesus supersedes love for family members and worldly success. This is because placed loyalty to Jesus is more important. Family members may find this new allegiance as opposition or hostility, making them appear like enemies in the eyes of their loved ones.

This is Discipleship

The term 'disciple' simply means 'follower.' Therefore, those who follow Jesus are 'disciples.' If they are willing to love Jesus over everyone else, including their families, they become His disciples. This act often leads to conflict within family units because it signifies a change in loyalty and allegiance.

Thus, the text from Matthew 10:36 and Luke 14:26 emphasizes the importance of putting Jesus above all else, even at the cost of family relations. It teaches that true discipleship requires a radical shift in identity and loyalty, potentially creating tension in familial relationships.