Jesus continues to tell his apostles about the persecution they will endure as they work for him; this began in [Matthew 10:16](./16.md).

## Do not think  ##

"Do not suppose" or "You must not think"

## a sword  ##

This metaphor can stand for 1) violent death (see "cross" in [Matthew 10:37](./37.md)) or 2) strife that causes division. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## set  ##

"turn" or "divide" or "separate"

## a man against his father  ##

"a son against his father"

## A man's enemies ##

"A person's enemies" or "A person's worst enemies"

## those of his own household  ##

"members of his own family"