Let's address these seemingly contradictory verses by looking at them in their proper context and with the help of other scriptures.
Firstly, Jesus said, Believe in me and you will be saved—and your house, in Acts 16:31. This verse is often interpreted to mean that belief in Jesus leads to salvation for the individual and their family. However, this does not guarantee that every family member will be saved, but rather that salvation is available to them through faith in Jesus Christ. The key is each person's individual belief and acceptance of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. As it is written in John 3:16, For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Regarding the tribulation and family members delivering each other to death, as mentioned in Matthew 24:10, And then many will stumble, and will deliver up one another, and will hate one another, and in Mark 13:12, But the brother will deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child. And the children will rise up against the parents, and will cause them to be put to death., these verses refer to a time of great trial and persecution. During such times, even family members may turn against each other due to fear, unbelief, or allegiance to the antichrist. This does not negate the promise of salvation for those who believe, but rather highlights the intense pressure and persecution that will occur during the tribulation.
When Jesus said, A man's enemies will be those of his own household, in Matthew 10:36, He was emphasizing the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus may cause division, even within families, as some may reject the message. Similarly, in Matthew 10:37, He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me isn't worthy of me, Jesus is calling us to prioritize our relationship with Him above all else. This does not mean we should abandon our families, but rather that our love and devotion to Jesus should be paramount.
The verse, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand, in Matthew 12:25, underscores the importance of unity and the danger of division. This applies to families, churches, and nations. While division may occur due to belief in Jesus, we should strive for unity in the faith and avoid unnecessary divisions.
In summary, these verses are not contradictory but rather highlight different aspects of faith, salvation, and the cost of discipleship. Belief in Jesus leads to salvation for the individual and makes it available to their family. However, tribulation and persecution may cause even family members to turn against each other. Following Jesus may result in division, but we should prioritize our relationship with Him and strive for unity in the faith.
Let us pray for clarity and understanding:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, seeking Your wisdom and understanding. Help us to grasp the truths in Your Word and to apply them to our lives. Strengthen our faith and resolve to follow Jesus, even in the face of persecution or division. We pray for our families, that each member may come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Guide us as we strive for unity in the faith and prioritize our relationship with You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.