Page "But to bring a sword" Paragraph 24

The perceived contradiction comes from a misunderstanding of the word " peace " as used in the New Testament.

If the word " peace " is to be defined as an absence of conflict, the second clause of this sentence is contradictory to the first.

Jesus would not need to encourage his audience to resist fear and trouble if he would be leaving them with a lack of conflict.

Clearly Jesus is promising his followers a peace in the presence of conflict, to carry them through the coming trials.