Jesus’ positively pure-hearted way of relating to women was outright scandalous by comparison to their men-first-and-foremost culture. In his interaction with the woman at the well he broke all the rules regarding religious, ethnic, and worst of all, gender biases. An argument could be made that it was to her that he first clearly disclosed …
How to Fight Like Jesus
“Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they answered. “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify him!” (Matthew 27:21-22) Barabbas was in prison for murder and insurrection. His name means “Son of the Father.” Sound …
Your Eye for Mine
People treat their enemies in one of three ways: demonically, legalistically, or christianly. Returning evil for good is demonic. Giving back good for good and evil for evil (eye for an eye) is legalistic. Many Christians practice this second way without giving it a second thought. Someone puts out your eye and you put out …
“Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.”
Christians of good conscience have always lent their hand to those in the most need. You’re more likely to find hospitals and orphanages named after saints (St. Luke’s, St. Jude’s) than ones after even the most famous atheists or agnostics. Can you imagine a Christopher Hitchens Hospital or Bertrand Russell Home for Children? Every week …
Continue reading "“Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.”"
Blessed are the MEEK for they shall inherit the earth
The meek bridle their lust for power and live to serve others. “The ‘politics’ of the Kingdom,” says Scott Bessenecker, “has more to do with meekness, submission and dying to self than it does with exercising authority to increase my share in this life (emphasis mine).”[i] Some outside observers evaluate Jesus’ words about being good …
Continue reading "Blessed are the MEEK for they shall inherit the earth"
barney wiget 