A paradox. The Prince of Peace comes to bring strife and bloodshed, fire and sword, into the world, because only through war can lasting peace be attained. Some, however, understand by fire, the fire of Christian love.

What will I, etc.] i.e. 'how much I wish that it were already kindled!' (Theophylact). Other translations: 'What more have I to desire, if it be already kindled? '(Plummer).' What do I desire? Would that it were already kindled!' (Origen).

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