To send fire; in the same sense in which he came to send a sword. Matthew 10:34. Fire and sword are emblems of contention, distress, and ruin: not that this was the object of Christ's coming, or the tendency and proper effect of his gospel, but it would be the effect of the opposition which wicked men would make to it.

What will I, if it be already kindled? did he regret the publication of the gospel, or would he desist from it on account of the contention it would occasion? No; he desired its publication, and that, as soon as practicable, it might be universal. Opposition to the best things often produces the greatest mischiefs. But no good thing, rightly done, is to be charged with any of the evils which opposition to it occasions.

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Old Testament