I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?
Ver. 49. To send fire on the earth] That is, that persecution that is evangelii genius, guardian of the gospel, as Calvin wrote to the French king, and dogs at the heels the preaching of the truth.
And what will I if it be already kindled?] As if he should say, Let it kindle as soon as it will, I am contented; I know much good will come of it.