Many people might agree and some people might raise their eyebrows, but there is something about Jesus' life that we clearly don't talk much about— his political activism.
I have always been curious about this certain matter since it doesn't always come up in conversations, especially at church. During the holy week, I took the initiative to learn more about it and stumbled upon a podcast episode of Jeff Krasno's Commune, where he had a conversation with Pastor Ron Buford about the matter.
Jesus was a radical social activist, and he fought for justice for the common good.
Looking back at his life, Jesus was far from the meek and tame visionary our church paints him to be. Remember when he openly denounced Pharisees and ate meals with prostitutes? Him overturning the temple run by corrupt Sanhedrin?
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Though he did not join and led rallies on the streets just like our modern activists, there's no question, Jesus confronted the social structures of his day. In some ways, it is the reason for what happens to him at the end.
Jesus for the people
People will often just pick up the Bible without considering its context historical and cultural context, missing out on many stories showing his activism.
Jesus is already revolutionary based on the company that he kept. He was friends by lepers and prostitutes— groups that were, you know, castigated by society.
He became the face of liberation for marginalized groups and became an enemy of the state by preaching and teaching everyone to stand for truth and justice. He brought hope for everyone by bringing them in under God at the same time.
Following his footsteps
In a country such as ours, where people are being silenced by oppression and violence is being tolerated by false leaders, we should emulate Jesus— how he fought and stood against the ruling elites.
Being a faithful follower of Jesus is not only limited to prayers. Embodying the true essence of Jesus is already a kind of activism. Be the light in these trying times.
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