I read you all the time and always like everything you write but for me this was the most significant and important thing I have read from you. It strikes the exact necessary balance that is needed and as a church historian whose specialty is Empire I can tell you that you have hit it exactly on the head. A living faith lives in the interstices in a world dominated by power without trying to own that power since Christ said his kingdom wasn't of this world, yet we must be where the people God has called us to minister to are. Not to Lord it over them, not to ignore them, not to turn Christianity into a gnostic religion which has no embodied reality and yet not to buy into the agendas of this world. As you said it, it requires a constant spiritual reflection, but also a willingness to speak and live the truth. As I have said elsewhere, in the original Greek the word polis from which we get politics meant "the people's business." This means that Jesus was concerned about the people's business as we should be. But that concern cannot be and should not be partisan or set on having power over others. The politics of Jesus is the politics of servanthood and of revealing his love and life to a world that needs to see him in our words and our deeds.
Thank you. I grew up in a liberal progressive church and have been baffled how other Christians focus so much on afterlife, following authority , and power. So different than what has been the focus in the churches I’ve been a part of, where our mission has been to help folks here on earth have a better life rather then “counting the number of saved souls”. We certainly have not got it always correct but believe more in a God of Grace than in a God of judgement.
I keep reading that we're not supposed to shoehorn Jesus into a particular political party, but I always thought his values still fit pretty well with more progressive parties like Democrat and socialist.
I've been reading your Substack since last July and your writing is just getting better and better. I echo the words of DrJWinston above in describing this post: significant and important. Your voice is much needed and very appreciated.
I struggle to grant John Dominique Crossan any valid points. I see him as being more interested in ripping the Bible apart than anything else. But, I know your heart Beau and I understand where you are coming from and I can agree with that.
I've always been a history buff. For most of my adult life I've seen Christ's life within the political situation of 1st century Palestine. In addition, my understanding of Christianity is that, besides faith that Christ's resurrection is atonement for our sins, the most important teachings are the two greatest commandments.
It takes a lot of courage for Christians in political life to stand up for these principles. It also takes courage for a minister or priest to stand up to his congregation who want an apolitical Jesus.
I read you all the time and always like everything you write but for me this was the most significant and important thing I have read from you. It strikes the exact necessary balance that is needed and as a church historian whose specialty is Empire I can tell you that you have hit it exactly on the head. A living faith lives in the interstices in a world dominated by power without trying to own that power since Christ said his kingdom wasn't of this world, yet we must be where the people God has called us to minister to are. Not to Lord it over them, not to ignore them, not to turn Christianity into a gnostic religion which has no embodied reality and yet not to buy into the agendas of this world. As you said it, it requires a constant spiritual reflection, but also a willingness to speak and live the truth. As I have said elsewhere, in the original Greek the word polis from which we get politics meant "the people's business." This means that Jesus was concerned about the people's business as we should be. But that concern cannot be and should not be partisan or set on having power over others. The politics of Jesus is the politics of servanthood and of revealing his love and life to a world that needs to see him in our words and our deeds.
This means so much to me. Truly. Thanks for reading and for your encouraging words and insights. Blessings to you. 🫶
Thank you. I grew up in a liberal progressive church and have been baffled how other Christians focus so much on afterlife, following authority , and power. So different than what has been the focus in the churches I’ve been a part of, where our mission has been to help folks here on earth have a better life rather then “counting the number of saved souls”. We certainly have not got it always correct but believe more in a God of Grace than in a God of judgement.
You’re welcome! Thanks so much for reading
I keep reading that we're not supposed to shoehorn Jesus into a particular political party, but I always thought his values still fit pretty well with more progressive parties like Democrat and socialist.
If our faith doesn’t intersect with every area of our lives what is the point? For me it is the core for everything! Thank you for this piece!
Thank you for helping me feel like I am less crazy to think this way! I appreciate the work you are doing!
Aww. It’s my pleasure, Ellyn. Thanks for reading. 🫶
I've been reading your Substack since last July and your writing is just getting better and better. I echo the words of DrJWinston above in describing this post: significant and important. Your voice is much needed and very appreciated.
I really appreciate the encouragement, Barb! Grateful for your support. 😊
I struggle to grant John Dominique Crossan any valid points. I see him as being more interested in ripping the Bible apart than anything else. But, I know your heart Beau and I understand where you are coming from and I can agree with that.
That’s fair. I appreciate your honesty as well the kind words! Grateful for you Joshua.
I've always been a history buff. For most of my adult life I've seen Christ's life within the political situation of 1st century Palestine. In addition, my understanding of Christianity is that, besides faith that Christ's resurrection is atonement for our sins, the most important teachings are the two greatest commandments.
It takes a lot of courage for Christians in political life to stand up for these principles. It also takes courage for a minister or priest to stand up to his congregation who want an apolitical Jesus.
I'm glad to read at least one who does so.
I apprentice the encouragement! Truly!
So very well said. Thank you.
You’re welcome! Thanks for reading!
Spot on!!
Thank you! 😊