I have been contemplating the dichotomy that exists between Western Christianity's comfortable lifestyle and the teachings of Jesus. And questioning what would happen if we put our faith in Jesus; in more than just the area of personal salvation. Do we put faith in him for our security, our love, our daily bread? Should we? Are we hindering the work of the Kingdom of God because we put faith in Jesus for so little. Or is it crazy to suggest that many of us could live a life like John the Baptist? I don't offer an answer in one way or the other, just opening up thought for contemplation through a survey of Jesus' words.Driving back from Kansas this past weekend I had it in my mind that I would title this blog series "The Christology of Jesus," but after googling that term I see that one of my former New Testament professors at Asbury Theological Seminary has already coined that term! What luck. So here we go with Jesus, Straight from the Hip - Part II. Today we continue with Luke chapter six. More tough teaching ahead:
"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic." Luke 6:27-29 (emphasis mine)
Wow, we better stop there. As mentioned previously, these teachings are the type that can turn the world upside down. I can tell from my own personal experience and watching three little boys, it is not in our nature to turn a cheek when struck by another person. It violates our sense of justice! Doesn't God like justice? I guess he does say that "justice is mine." My "Expositor's Bible Commentary" has these words in comment to this passage: "Note..that Jesus is not advocating the suspension of normal civil judicial procedures........The teaching of this passage as a whole relates not so much to passivity in the face of evil as to concern for another person." This commentary certainly helps that teaching become more easy to hear, but there seems to be more in the commentary than what is in the text. I don't know. It is important to note in the context of this passage that Jesus does not put this reaction to his grace as necessary for inheriting eternal life, but as part of a reward of the Kingdom, "Then your reward will be great, and you will be the sons of the Most High." This type of life style for the believer will attain the greatest reward, which is "being" a son of God, a co-heir with Christ in his kingdom.
Loving the unlovable, blessing those who curse you and having no fear of evil. Jesus, you need to empower us by your Spirit, because the natural man can't do it alone. Come Lord Jesus, come.
