Recently, while preparing for an upcoming backpacking trip, I embarked on a hike that led me into deep contemplation. As an individual diagnosed with ADHD, walking or running has always served as a valuable method for sermon writing or for clearing my mind during challenging days. On this particular occasion, my thoughts were drawn to topics I have recently discussed in class over the past eight weeks, specifically the concepts of nationalism and Christianity. My reflections were guided by three significant scripture verses: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10), Galatians 3:28, and Psalm 82:3.
I am concerned about the future of our faith. We are being deceived by wolves in sheep's clothing and several generations of parents and systems not showing up and being the role models people need has created the vacuum for radicalization. The religion of Jesus calls us to be better. In this post, I will explore these scripture verses and the "Socialist Gospel".
The Beatitudes challenge us to walk a path that prioritizes mercy, justice, and humility, qualities that directly oppose the self-serving ideologies often tied to nationalistic fervor. In our pursuit of living out these teachings, we are called to break down barriers that separate us, both within the church and the broader community. This is not merely an individualistic journey of faith but a collective call to cultivate a society rooted in the service of others, embodying the vision of a kingdom where the meek inherit the earth and peacemakers are honored as children of God. Such a gospel demands engagement, compassion, and a willingness to oppose systems that perpetuate inequality and exclusion, fostering a faith that unites rather than divides.
For Wesley, he understood that we need to come to terms with our own spiritual poverty as a first step toward receiving the blessings of the kingdom of heaven, highlighting the transformative power of humility and dependence on God. In this sermon by Jesus, Jesus calls his followers and us to engage and embrace attitudes and conditions that the world often scorns (poverty of spirit, mourning, meekness) but which, in God's economy, lead to profound blessedness and happiness.
The Bible contains numerous stories of individuals who faced significant hardships and, through divine grace and providence, overcame their obstacles. It repeatedly demonstrates how barriers can be broken down. In particular, Jesus serves as a key figure in these narratives, ultimately sacrificing his life due to the controversies he stirred.
Paul the greatest persecutor who becomes Christianity's biggest advocate, and he promotes a posture in Galatians 3:28 that demonstrates the openness of the Gospel. Galatians 3:28 ("There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.") can be seen a foundational verse for John Wesley as well.
In this verse we learn that there is spiritual equality in Christ. All individuals regardless of ethnic, social, or gender status are on equal footing before God in terms of their salvation and their standing as "sons of God" through faith in Christ. There are "no exceptions, no inequalities" in their access to God's grace and privileges. Furthermore, this verse reinforces the core Wesleyan doctrine of justification by faith, emphasizing that salvation is not earned by lineage, social status, or works, but freely given through Christ.
Inclusiveness is not a "liberal" notion, it is a core value of Christ's teachings and at the heart of the religion of Jesus.
While observing an Egyptian beating a man for an unknown reason, Moses intervened and killed the Egyptian, subsequently burying the body in the sand according to Exodus 2:11-13. This event is not an endorsement of violence, but it highlights the level of commitment required in defending the poor and innocent. The Hebrew people, including Jesus, endured millennia of oppression, violence, and depravity. Psalm 82:3 provides a divine mandate for justice, which John Wesley interpreted as a clear and imperative instruction from God to those in authority. Wesley believed that rulers and magistrates are divinely appointed to "defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed." We are called by scripture and divine instruction to empathize with those in need.
There is a lot of division right now. Back when I was a young man, we wore these bracelets that said WWJD? What would Jesus Do? Jesus' worldview was one where he promoted love, compassion and justice. If we are not doing the same, then we are missing the mark. The religion of Jesus was one of cross bearers, not cross builders.