There are many themes in Jesus’ teachings, but the most prominent theme and perhaps the core of his teachings is forgiveness. He says, “…Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also…Do to others as you would have them do to you...Forgive, and you will be forgiven…for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” (Luke 6: 27-38) This passage from the Gospel of Luke shows the forgiveness that is at the heart of Jesus’ teachings.
Jesus taught that forgiveness is important in this current life, for it will allow us to be rewarded in heaven by God. He stresses, however, that these acts of forgiveness must be true and made with good, pure intentions, for God’s judgment will be based upon what is in our hearts. Further, Jesus teaches that we should forgive “the ungrateful and the wicked” for they have not found the glory of God. Elaborating on this point, he teaches that we must recognize that those who don’t behave righteously are the people that need more help turning to God. This idea is the reason why he eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners; they need more guidance than the righteous do.
Another theme of Jesus’ teachings that relates to forgiveness is the concept of renouncement. Jesus teaches that we should not ask for what has been taken from us, that we should accept that we must sacrifice sometimes, and that we should give up even more to those who are in need. This surrender of material goods, or sacrifice, connects to forgiveness; we must absolve those who take from us (to whom we sacrifice) in order to be closer to God. This concept of surrender later expands into a practice of self-denial during Monastic periods.
Jesus performed many acts of kindness and taught much about forgiveness. Christians believe that Jesus’ final act of forgiveness was dying for the sins of all mankind. It is interesting that Christian crusaders, who so strongly fought for their belief in Jesus (and thus his teachings of forgiveness), seemed to have forgotten that the core of their own religion was, and remains to be, mercy and clemency.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Christianity
The bible clearly states that Jesus’ work was to cure the sick. The sick are the majority of people living long ago and today, these people include the prostitutes, substance abusers, thieves, and sinners in general. The groups described need some sort of inspiration and or guide onto a better path through life; a path that would both please God and themselves. Christianity seems to be a religion for the oppressed and depressed, a religion for people who have needs and are willing to abide by a divine law in order to live a life accepted by society.
If you read between the lines and analyze Jesus’ teaching in Luke, you can see that all fingers are pointed at the people in control (the leadership). According to the New Testament, the cause of poverty is because the leadership fails to attend to the needs of the poor and make them feel welcome. The lack of compassion and brotherliness causes the poor to turn to other methods in order to survive. The majority doesn’t have anyone or place to run to; usually “worldly things” are common sources of comfort; such as secular music, drugs/alcohol, etc. The purpose of Jesus teaching was to give comfort and also a solution to their problem. “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God” (Luke 6:20). To the empty stomachs and dry throats, “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled” (Luke 6:21). Those with the empty bowls don’t need to worry, the food will come to them, for they don’t have to turn from God’s will, and sin, but instead have faith and they will be blessed.
The small percentage of the population, the extremely wealthy, doesn’t encounter the same situations that the poor seem to face. Many wealthy people don’t feel the need to call on a higher power for divine intervention, because many of their problems can be solved with the material things that they already posses. Christianity speaks to those who don’t have; this religions says that it doesn’t matter what you have in your hand but what you have in your heart because that’s what truly matters for “Your reward will be great, and you will be the children of the Most high” (Luke 6:35).
Although Jesus’ teachings correspond to the problems that the poor face, it also can relate to the everyday life of the world as a whole. He talks about charity and the simple fact that giving is only good for the soul if one only gives without an expectation for something in return. Giving to charity for recognition looses the meaning of ‘charity’. The laws of Christianity and Judaism are morals that many cultures/ societies with hold today. For example, in Bible it says to not judge people, give unto others, love thy neighbor, and pray for those who abuse you. The manner that God wants his people to behave by is of peace and equality. Christianity is not solely giving praise unto God and he will show one favor, but it also helps him/her find a safe path through life. By following the path of righteousness, it would not only look good in the eyes of God but also society because the foundation of the Modern world is built on the major religions, including Christianity.
If you read between the lines and analyze Jesus’ teaching in Luke, you can see that all fingers are pointed at the people in control (the leadership). According to the New Testament, the cause of poverty is because the leadership fails to attend to the needs of the poor and make them feel welcome. The lack of compassion and brotherliness causes the poor to turn to other methods in order to survive. The majority doesn’t have anyone or place to run to; usually “worldly things” are common sources of comfort; such as secular music, drugs/alcohol, etc. The purpose of Jesus teaching was to give comfort and also a solution to their problem. “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God” (Luke 6:20). To the empty stomachs and dry throats, “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled” (Luke 6:21). Those with the empty bowls don’t need to worry, the food will come to them, for they don’t have to turn from God’s will, and sin, but instead have faith and they will be blessed.
The small percentage of the population, the extremely wealthy, doesn’t encounter the same situations that the poor seem to face. Many wealthy people don’t feel the need to call on a higher power for divine intervention, because many of their problems can be solved with the material things that they already posses. Christianity speaks to those who don’t have; this religions says that it doesn’t matter what you have in your hand but what you have in your heart because that’s what truly matters for “Your reward will be great, and you will be the children of the Most high” (Luke 6:35).
Although Jesus’ teachings correspond to the problems that the poor face, it also can relate to the everyday life of the world as a whole. He talks about charity and the simple fact that giving is only good for the soul if one only gives without an expectation for something in return. Giving to charity for recognition looses the meaning of ‘charity’. The laws of Christianity and Judaism are morals that many cultures/ societies with hold today. For example, in Bible it says to not judge people, give unto others, love thy neighbor, and pray for those who abuse you. The manner that God wants his people to behave by is of peace and equality. Christianity is not solely giving praise unto God and he will show one favor, but it also helps him/her find a safe path through life. By following the path of righteousness, it would not only look good in the eyes of God but also society because the foundation of the Modern world is built on the major religions, including Christianity.
Christianity
Christianity began as a religion for the minority that was suited for oppressed outsiders. But over the years it has become a religion for the majority that is theologically suited for both the oppressed and the dominant insiders. Christianity began as a small sect of Judaism that through the acts of Paul became the dominant religion of the world. In the early days of Christianity Jesus’ teachings appealed to the commoners of Galilee. He preached “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God… Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you… for surely your reward is great in heaven (Luke 6:22-24).” Jesus obviously appealed to the poor and oppressed, while his teachings were threatening to the wealthy elite of the Jewish community. Yet again later in the Gospel of Luke Jesus emphasizes his belief that the poor are closer to the kingdom of heaven than the wealthy. Jesus says, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God (Luke 6:25-26).” At this early stage of Judaism it is hard to believe that any person of wealth would feel inclined toward this small sect of Judaism.
Today people from many different social classes are Christians. In the modern world the oppressed find comfort in Christian teachings. People of higher social status also find comfort in the moral implications of Christianity. Wealthy Christians, to follow the teachings of Jesus, must donate to charity and give away much of their wealth to help the less fortunate. But do many modern-day wealthy Christians give away most of their money to help the poor? If they don’t can they consider themselves devout Christians? If not then maybe Christianity is only suited for the oppressed and poor.
Today people from many different social classes are Christians. In the modern world the oppressed find comfort in Christian teachings. People of higher social status also find comfort in the moral implications of Christianity. Wealthy Christians, to follow the teachings of Jesus, must donate to charity and give away much of their wealth to help the less fortunate. But do many modern-day wealthy Christians give away most of their money to help the poor? If they don’t can they consider themselves devout Christians? If not then maybe Christianity is only suited for the oppressed and poor.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Christianity: Modern Day Jesus?
In the modern world, I believe it would be almost impossible for someone to recreate Jesus’ teaching in a way that attracts such a substantial following that Christianity is now. First of all, I don’t think such a message would be taken well in the United States, which is, at least in theory, a secular country. Specifically in the US, we have the freedom to choose whether or not to practice religion, what religion to practice, and to what extent to practice this religion. Since people have this choice, I think that most people are content with what they've chosen, and I don't think that the general population would take too kindly to a middle-class nobody proclaiming any one of these religions as incorrect or immoral.
Also, I think it's important to recognize that although Jesus undoubtedly presented a message with great appeal, I believe many external circumstances controlled the popularity with which this message was spread. For example, with his messages saying “blessed are the poor, for yours is the kingdom of God”, he appealed to the suffering majority of the population of 1st century CE Israel (Luke 6:20). People who are unhappy with their present circumstances are in general, more susceptible and more open to hear messages or suggestions on how to improve their lot. Also, the popularity of Christianity after Jesus’ death was highly influenced by his followers, such as Paul, and other external factors, such as the expulsions of Jews from Israel in 70 CE.
Also, I think it's important to recognize that although Jesus undoubtedly presented a message with great appeal, I believe many external circumstances controlled the popularity with which this message was spread. For example, with his messages saying “blessed are the poor, for yours is the kingdom of God”, he appealed to the suffering majority of the population of 1st century CE Israel (Luke 6:20). People who are unhappy with their present circumstances are in general, more susceptible and more open to hear messages or suggestions on how to improve their lot. Also, the popularity of Christianity after Jesus’ death was highly influenced by his followers, such as Paul, and other external factors, such as the expulsions of Jews from Israel in 70 CE.
Christianity and the Majority
Although Christianity, at the time of Jesus, only accounted for a small minority of the population in that Jesus only had a few hundred followers, it has since grown to incorporate a literal majority of the modern world’s religious individuals. During the time of Jesus, Jesus’ teachings grew from traditional Jewish beliefs, yet Jesus’ interpretation and presentation of God’s law and led the followers of Jesus to be of a particular social and economic majority. Only a small fraction of this majority in actuality associated with Jesus’ teachings, but the teachings themselves were oriented towards impoverished and poorly educated citizens; one of the most probable causes for the Temple’s dissent of Jesus and his beliefs was that Jesus was unifying a group of people who were dissatisfied with the treatment they were receiving from the leaders, who withheld that lower people were not able to mix with the upper classes. Thus, in a manner of speaking, early Christianity was not only a religion for the oppressed majority, but also a potential threat to the minority, the elite Jewish leaders.
Modern Christianity, as the religion with the largest followers, grew from early Christianity because of the work of Paul. Historically, Paul’s contribution to the growth of Christianity determined the faction between Judaism and the Church as Paul distinguished the two sects as different religions. The reaction to this was the defining moment in making Christianity the largest religion and the religion for the majority of the population, changing the identity of Christianity from the religion of the opposed to a religion of a much more stable people.
Modern Christianity, as the religion with the largest followers, grew from early Christianity because of the work of Paul. Historically, Paul’s contribution to the growth of Christianity determined the faction between Judaism and the Church as Paul distinguished the two sects as different religions. The reaction to this was the defining moment in making Christianity the largest religion and the religion for the majority of the population, changing the identity of Christianity from the religion of the opposed to a religion of a much more stable people.
Faith vs power
Christianity’s immediate appeal is to the dispossessed, which is why it was able to take root and spread so successfully. Jesus’ message (of asceticism, humility, redemption from sin, faith’s primacy over power, acceptance of the downtrodden, equality in the eyes of God, reversal of the power structure and the meek inheriting the earth) is one that speaks most directly to sinners and the powerless, in celebrating the reverse of the materialistic assignation of status. Status on earth, associated with riches and power, does not correlate to status in heaven, which is defined by spiritual purity and godliness.
However, once Christianity reached a critical mass of followers, and ceased to become a minority sect, other aspects of its theology appealing to the powerful must have become equally, if not more, prevalent. For example, in the 4th century, when the Roman emperor Constantine converted, it probably wasn’t because he was attracted to the idea of God raising poor folk and a-casting down the proud. Likewise, how would the Church have developed such a powerful hierarchy and attained such heights of authority if the religion were unsuited to such an arrangement?
It seems that Christianity has often faced this conflict between Jesus’ teaching and ecclesiastical or political structure. The Reformation was spurred by a reaction against the church’s excesses and abuses of power. More recently, I think liberation theology has something of the same flavor, while some Protestant strains reconcile faith and prosperity with the idea of God’s favor showing itself through earthly success. While mutable enough to be appealing to those from both ends of the status spectrum, Christianity’s original message may get diluted or forgotten when its followers encounter power.
However, once Christianity reached a critical mass of followers, and ceased to become a minority sect, other aspects of its theology appealing to the powerful must have become equally, if not more, prevalent. For example, in the 4th century, when the Roman emperor Constantine converted, it probably wasn’t because he was attracted to the idea of God raising poor folk and a-casting down the proud. Likewise, how would the Church have developed such a powerful hierarchy and attained such heights of authority if the religion were unsuited to such an arrangement?
It seems that Christianity has often faced this conflict between Jesus’ teaching and ecclesiastical or political structure. The Reformation was spurred by a reaction against the church’s excesses and abuses of power. More recently, I think liberation theology has something of the same flavor, while some Protestant strains reconcile faith and prosperity with the idea of God’s favor showing itself through earthly success. While mutable enough to be appealing to those from both ends of the status spectrum, Christianity’s original message may get diluted or forgotten when its followers encounter power.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Christianity
Christianity is the largest religion in the world today; however it began as a sect of Judaism in the first century C.E. when the Roman Empire was at its peak. Christianity started as a small group of Jews who believed that Jesus was the messiah. Although it started, as a small group of followers, Christianity soon became a religion for the majority; a theology better suited for the people who were oppressed. Jesus was a teacher and was known as a worker of miracles. He healed the sick, the blind and fed the hungry. He was a man who taught all, regardless of social status. He emphasized that people should be judged by their actions rather than their status. He told all oppressed that they would be forgiven for their sins and would be rewarded if they repented. This made the religion of Christianity appeal to the oppressed outsiders that were contained within the Roman Empire.
Paul, the best-known early Christian, began as a strong minded Pharisee actively persecuting Christians. Realizing that Jesus was in fact real, he became a spokesperson for the Christians. Paul is a helpful reason that Christianity stayed alive. He helped to make the religion more appealing for the majority by traveling across the Roman Empire preaching to gentile audiences. Circumcision and the conversion to the Jewish faith seemed to be the biggest challenge in his missionary work. This is when Paul led the movement to allow gentiles to convert without first becoming Jews and following the laws of Judaism. This allowed converts to come very easily into the church. The theology that was well matched for the oppressed soon became a religion that also was a good fit for the majority, including the dominant, in the centuries to come.
Paul, the best-known early Christian, began as a strong minded Pharisee actively persecuting Christians. Realizing that Jesus was in fact real, he became a spokesperson for the Christians. Paul is a helpful reason that Christianity stayed alive. He helped to make the religion more appealing for the majority by traveling across the Roman Empire preaching to gentile audiences. Circumcision and the conversion to the Jewish faith seemed to be the biggest challenge in his missionary work. This is when Paul led the movement to allow gentiles to convert without first becoming Jews and following the laws of Judaism. This allowed converts to come very easily into the church. The theology that was well matched for the oppressed soon became a religion that also was a good fit for the majority, including the dominant, in the centuries to come.
Christianity
Is Christianity a religion for the minority or for the majority? Is the theology better suited to people who are oppressed outsiders, or dominant insiders?
Christianity’s themes of forgiveness and salvation lend themselves best to those in the minority. Final judgment in front of an omniscient God allows struggling groups to face the hardships of Earth. Knowing that ultimately all men will be judged in front of God (the only judge who truly matters), followers of Christianity can have the peace of mind that their suffering on Earth will not go unnoticed. Minorities can find the strength to endure injustices with the knowledge that the bountiful Christian Heaven that awaits them after life on Earth will be earned through their suffering and true faith in God’s love. Salvation is an achievement that does not come from any kind of material gain; in fact it comes from a detachment from material wealth and worldly concerns. These are attachments that minorities do not usually have, making this very philosophy of salvation easily accessible to minorities. Salvation is perhaps the central theme of Christian theology, and therefore the goal of Christian life that minorities can control for themselves. Although they may not be able to control much on Earth, minorities have complete control of their life and afterlife with God.
Jesus’ struggle as the voice of a minority in his lifetime can also be an inspiration to minority groups today. The relatability of Jesus’ life and his teachings to the struggles of minorities exists mainly because the creation of Christianity arose from another minority’s struggle. Seeing Jesus, arguably the main figure of Christianity, endure persecution and hardship makes Jesus and his teachings relatable to minorities hoping for justice within their own societies. As minorities strive to find their own voice in their respective societies, Jesus’ teachings of patience can allow minorities to take hardships as part of God’s plan, or part of their journey to Heaven. Jesus’ famous ‘turn the other cheek’ philosophy can be a source of strength to minority groups facing persecution or oppression. Some sects of Christianity also emphasize the importance of the Holy Family, and familiar networks often serve as main support systems within minority groups.
1st question- christian for the oppressed or the dominant?
Jesus’ teachings in Gospel of Luke, when directly interpreted, is definitely for the oppressed people in Rome. As in the gospel of Luke, Jesus says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who are hungry now..who weep now….But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep”(Luke 6:22-24). Simply, being rich and famous is bad but the poor ones will have hope and positive future. Indeed, such claims were convincible to the oppressed class. In addition, at his time (around 4-30 CE) his teachings were considered radical because they definitely targeted at (against) the ruling, rich class of the Rome who were corrupted and not merciful to poor Jewish. (By the way, here I’m not taking into account his view of Jewish Laws) Therefore, it was obvious that Roman dominant class was not suitable to its principle.
However, after it became more widespread to Gentiles through Paul’s help, I think Christianity could become a major religion because of its appeal to the poor people, the actual majority. Even though the principles themselves wouldn’t directly fit the dominant insiders, since it denounces them, they could at least take advantage of its suitability to the majority poor people that they govern. I think Christianity must have been very useful for the governing power to rule or control the majority who think they are oppressed—philosophically most people think they are oppressed and poor. Furthermore, since the meaning of the teachings in the Bible –whether it’s Christian or not—always depends on the interpreter, so the later dominant-insiders could also twist its meaning to support their governing/rich position.
However, after it became more widespread to Gentiles through Paul’s help, I think Christianity could become a major religion because of its appeal to the poor people, the actual majority. Even though the principles themselves wouldn’t directly fit the dominant insiders, since it denounces them, they could at least take advantage of its suitability to the majority poor people that they govern. I think Christianity must have been very useful for the governing power to rule or control the majority who think they are oppressed—philosophically most people think they are oppressed and poor. Furthermore, since the meaning of the teachings in the Bible –whether it’s Christian or not—always depends on the interpreter, so the later dominant-insiders could also twist its meaning to support their governing/rich position.
Christianity
I think if someone today were to start preaching a message like Jesus', there could be several results. My first reaction was that he would be scorned or, most likely, ignored, like the "crazy" people on street corners mentioned by a few others. However, giving it further thought, I decided that a "modern-day Jesus" could potentially be successful. First, he would have many advantages that Jesus didn't have, and if he were smart (which I think most could agree Jesus was), they could really work for him. For instance, he would have access to a much wider audience, thanks to modern technology, as well as the increased population. Even if most people thought he was crazy, he could still get a fairly large following. Take for example Jim Jones and the People's Temple -- here's a person who is recognized internationally as being psychotic, and is in fact from a place just as notorious as Galilee (California, of course), and he was able to found a town just for his followers, not to mention convincing them all to kill themselves (something Jesus never tried, incidentally).
Personally, I think Jones' message was a lot harder to swallow than Jesus', yet he still amassed a huge following. Essentially, I think that in the modern world it is, for all intents and purposes, impossible to preach a theological message that is well received by a large majority. Jesus had the advantage of preaching to exclusively Jews, and still most of them were unenthusiastic. I can't imagine a religious message that would appeal to people of all faiths.
If a modern Jesus were to appear, it is likely that he would be dismissed as just another crazy. However, someone with the determination and charisma of Jesus has the potential to become really popular. The one thing I think would make it difficult is if he claimed to be the messiah. That could still work, but the word "messiah" makes a lot of people want to turn around and walk away. It seems, though, that Jesus himself tried to avoid referring to himself as the messiah. Then, as now, it was a dangerous word to use.
Personally, I think Jones' message was a lot harder to swallow than Jesus', yet he still amassed a huge following. Essentially, I think that in the modern world it is, for all intents and purposes, impossible to preach a theological message that is well received by a large majority. Jesus had the advantage of preaching to exclusively Jews, and still most of them were unenthusiastic. I can't imagine a religious message that would appeal to people of all faiths.
If a modern Jesus were to appear, it is likely that he would be dismissed as just another crazy. However, someone with the determination and charisma of Jesus has the potential to become really popular. The one thing I think would make it difficult is if he claimed to be the messiah. That could still work, but the word "messiah" makes a lot of people want to turn around and walk away. It seems, though, that Jesus himself tried to avoid referring to himself as the messiah. Then, as now, it was a dangerous word to use.
Christianity
There are many themes in Jesus’ teachings, but the most prominent theme and perhaps the core of his teachings is forgiveness. He says, “…Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also…Do to others as you would have them do to you...Forgive, and you will be forgiven…for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” (Luke 6: 27-38) This passage from the Gospel of Luke shows the forgiveness that is at the heart of Jesus’ teachings.
Jesus taught that forgiveness is important in this current life, for it will allow us to be rewarded in heaven by God. Sometimes, however, people mistake this concept of forgiveness as an easy way into heaven, rather than a way to better the world around us and become closer to God. Some assume that if they don’t hit someone back when they are hit, they will be favored in the eyes of God. But I don’t think that this is what Jesus meant. From this passage it seems that Jesus taught people to forgive and “do to others as you would have them do to you” with good, pure, true intentions. He teaches that God will reward only those who truly forgive and “turn the other cheek” because God knows what we are really thinking and is, essentially, a part of us (the Kingdom of God is inside of everyone). This passage further reveals the core of Jesus’ teachings, for he says to “pray for those who abuse you.” By this he means to forgive and pray for those who mistreat us because they will not be rewarded by God and have not accepted what Jesus thought was God’s way.
Jesus taught that forgiveness is important in this current life, for it will allow us to be rewarded in heaven by God. Sometimes, however, people mistake this concept of forgiveness as an easy way into heaven, rather than a way to better the world around us and become closer to God. Some assume that if they don’t hit someone back when they are hit, they will be favored in the eyes of God. But I don’t think that this is what Jesus meant. From this passage it seems that Jesus taught people to forgive and “do to others as you would have them do to you” with good, pure, true intentions. He teaches that God will reward only those who truly forgive and “turn the other cheek” because God knows what we are really thinking and is, essentially, a part of us (the Kingdom of God is inside of everyone). This passage further reveals the core of Jesus’ teachings, for he says to “pray for those who abuse you.” By this he means to forgive and pray for those who mistreat us because they will not be rewarded by God and have not accepted what Jesus thought was God’s way.
Christianity
“But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you… your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High…” (Luke 6)
Jesus taught and preached his and God’s views on a great deal of subjects; however, the core of his teaching takes root in the above passage. According to Luke, forgiveness and compassion are the most dominant and prevailing lessons that Jesus taught to his audiences through parables and other manners of preaching. Forgiveness is so important in Jesus’ teachings that it should come as no surprise that God used Jesus as his prime example to the people that the validity and importance of forgiveness is vast. God’s supposed intent of sending Jesus to earth was in order to redeem the people of their sins and show his unconditional love and forgiveness through the sacrifice of his one and only “begotten son”. Jesus died for the forgiveness of our sins and to redeem us in the eyes of God.
The passage from Luke outlines the small things a person can do on earth that will inevitably be deemed by God as deserving of a great reward. By practicing forgiveness in all situations whether it be small or great (like Jesus’ death), all these acts shall be rewarded. The line, “do to others as you would have them do to you” is a statement of reciprocity that is commonly used when describing Jesus’ basic message and actions. He teaches to his audience that reacting vilely or hating others will only hurt you in the long run; instead one should pray or pity those who have yet to learn God’s teaching for they shall be punished appropriately until they find the right way. Sacrifice is also an act that ties hand in hand with forgiveness. The quote “from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt,” teaches to sacrifice everything and immediately forgive the person who caused you to sacrifice. This ideal is very similar to what Christians believe to be the reason Jesus died on the cross; to sacrifice himself for the forgiveness of everyone’s sins.
Jesus taught and preached his and God’s views on a great deal of subjects; however, the core of his teaching takes root in the above passage. According to Luke, forgiveness and compassion are the most dominant and prevailing lessons that Jesus taught to his audiences through parables and other manners of preaching. Forgiveness is so important in Jesus’ teachings that it should come as no surprise that God used Jesus as his prime example to the people that the validity and importance of forgiveness is vast. God’s supposed intent of sending Jesus to earth was in order to redeem the people of their sins and show his unconditional love and forgiveness through the sacrifice of his one and only “begotten son”. Jesus died for the forgiveness of our sins and to redeem us in the eyes of God.
The passage from Luke outlines the small things a person can do on earth that will inevitably be deemed by God as deserving of a great reward. By practicing forgiveness in all situations whether it be small or great (like Jesus’ death), all these acts shall be rewarded. The line, “do to others as you would have them do to you” is a statement of reciprocity that is commonly used when describing Jesus’ basic message and actions. He teaches to his audience that reacting vilely or hating others will only hurt you in the long run; instead one should pray or pity those who have yet to learn God’s teaching for they shall be punished appropriately until they find the right way. Sacrifice is also an act that ties hand in hand with forgiveness. The quote “from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt,” teaches to sacrifice everything and immediately forgive the person who caused you to sacrifice. This ideal is very similar to what Christians believe to be the reason Jesus died on the cross; to sacrifice himself for the forgiveness of everyone’s sins.
Christianity
Christianity began as a religion for the minority that was suited for oppressed outsiders. But over the years it has become a religion for the majority that is theologically suited for both the oppressed and the dominant insiders. Christianity began as a small sect of Judaism that through the acts of Paul became the dominant religion of the world. In the early days of Christianity Jesus’ teachings appealed to the commoners of Galilee. He preached “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God… Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you… for surely your reward is great in heaven (Luke 6:22-24).” Jesus obviously appealed to the poor and oppressed, while his teachings were threatening to the wealthy elite of the Jewish community. Yet again later in the Gospel of Luke Jesus emphasizes his belief that the poor are closer to the kingdom of heaven than the wealthy. Jesus says, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God (Luke 6:25-26).” At this early stage of Judaism it is hard to believe that any person of wealth would feel inclined toward this small sect of Judaism.
Today people from many different social classes are Christians. In the modern world the oppressed find comfort in Christian teachings. People of higher social status also find comfort in the moral implications of Christianity. Wealthy Christians, to follow the teachings of Jesus, must donate to charity and give away much of their wealth to help the less fortunate. But do many modern-day wealthy Christians give away most of their money to help the poor? If they don’t can they consider themselves devout Christians? If not then maybe Christianity is only suited for the oppressed and poor.
Today people from many different social classes are Christians. In the modern world the oppressed find comfort in Christian teachings. People of higher social status also find comfort in the moral implications of Christianity. Wealthy Christians, to follow the teachings of Jesus, must donate to charity and give away much of their wealth to help the less fortunate. But do many modern-day wealthy Christians give away most of their money to help the poor? If they don’t can they consider themselves devout Christians? If not then maybe Christianity is only suited for the oppressed and poor.
Christianity: for the Majority or the Minority?
Because Jesus’ teachings appealed to the poor oppressed people of the ancient world it easily evolved to appeal mainstream society, despite the fact that Christianity started as a small sect of Judaism. In the time of the Roman Empire, the majority of people were poor and oppressed by the Romans. Therefore, because Jesus’ said “blessed are you who are poor…who are hungry now,” his ideals appealed to the majority of people in the Roman Empire (Luke 6:20-21.) When Paul allowed gentiles to convert to Christianity without upholding the Law and traditional practices of the Jews, many people converted to what became “Christianity”, because they agreed with Jesus’ social teachings and attitude of favor in heaven for following those teachings, even in oppression and poverty.
Although most of the people who converted to Christianity initially were poor and probably oppressed, as Christianity became the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, it became a religion of the elite classes along with the lower ones. Christianity was able to translate so well into the lives of people of all social classes because of the morality of Jesus’ teachings. The Gospels speak of equality for all “Children of God.” The moral foundations of Christianity seem so universal that they can apply to a vast number of people despite social class. It think that the appeal of Jesus’ teachings to the poor and oppressed (a majority back then) caused it to sustain itself early on, but the strong moral foundation of Christianity helped it achieve popularity throughout social classes.
Although most of the people who converted to Christianity initially were poor and probably oppressed, as Christianity became the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, it became a religion of the elite classes along with the lower ones. Christianity was able to translate so well into the lives of people of all social classes because of the morality of Jesus’ teachings. The Gospels speak of equality for all “Children of God.” The moral foundations of Christianity seem so universal that they can apply to a vast number of people despite social class. It think that the appeal of Jesus’ teachings to the poor and oppressed (a majority back then) caused it to sustain itself early on, but the strong moral foundation of Christianity helped it achieve popularity throughout social classes.
Christianity
In the past religion has been a driving force of society, guiding social development and reform. But in today’s society, it seems as if, for the most part, religion in general, Christianity specifically, has become a second priority for many people of faith. Because our modern society is not a theocracy or based strictly upon the teachings of the Christian church, religion doesn’t affect our society as a whole.
Since religion/Christianity is not usually viewed as the main influence on a person’s life, I don’t think that it really appeals to a specific social class. At certain times throughout history, Christianity has definitely been more appealing to different social classes based on significant political events of the time, as is the case with many religions, but currently Christianity doesn’t seem to be directed towards or prevalent in a specific class such as the oppressed or dominant.
However, Christianity is certainly a religion for the majority in that it is far less exclusive, strict and focused than certain other religions. There are multiple branches of Christianity, allowing for a range of beliefs, still falling under the same general category, and there are fewer limiting and life impacting rules and guidelines that might deter those who, like many, view religion as a second priority.
Since religion/Christianity is not usually viewed as the main influence on a person’s life, I don’t think that it really appeals to a specific social class. At certain times throughout history, Christianity has definitely been more appealing to different social classes based on significant political events of the time, as is the case with many religions, but currently Christianity doesn’t seem to be directed towards or prevalent in a specific class such as the oppressed or dominant.
However, Christianity is certainly a religion for the majority in that it is far less exclusive, strict and focused than certain other religions. There are multiple branches of Christianity, allowing for a range of beliefs, still falling under the same general category, and there are fewer limiting and life impacting rules and guidelines that might deter those who, like many, view religion as a second priority.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Jesus today
I think it’s safe to say that if a person similar to the person we know to be Jesus began teaching a social and political message like Jesus’, he or she would not be warmly welcomed. The first examples that come to mind (that I think are somewhat relatable) are the people who preach on the sidewalks of major cities proclaiming dramatic messages instructing passer-bys to repent now because the end of the world is near, or something along similar lines. Generally, these people are ignored by most and mocked by some. They are rarely taken too seriously, which is why it’s interesting that Jesus’ message was able to spread as much as it did, being so similar.
I tried to find out if any people had claimed to be the Messiah relatively recently, and I actually found an article about an Islamic man who claimed to be the Mahdi, or redeemer of Islam, and who was shot in the feet by Hamas after demanding to an imam that Muslims begin following his instructions. Although this man isn’t Christian, I think it’s interesting because I think he’s a good example of how people would react today to someone similar to Jesus – marking him as crazy and punishing him. I also think it’s interesting because this reaction is similar to how Jesus was received in the ancient world.
I think that Jesus’ preachings were so influential because of a confluence of factors including the time period, the location, and external events that allowed his followers to become so devoted and his teachings to spread.
PS -- I found the article at http://www.israeltoday.co.il/default.aspx?tabid=178&nid=14305
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Jewish Identity
Check out this NYTimes article on having to prove that you are Jewish in order to get married in Israel: Another layer to the complexity of modern Jewish identity.
Preview of Islam
Check out this NYTimes article, highlighting the complexity of what we tend to think of as "The Islamic World."
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Response Paper #2
Now that you have a sense of the historical context of Jesus' life and teachings, as well as a sense of how the Church progresses, choose one of the following questions:
Is Christianity a religion for the minority or for the majority? Is the theology better suited to people who are oppressed outsiders, or dominant insiders?
If someone with the equivalent of Jesus' social status, from a region of the world equivalent to Galilee, were to begin teaching a social and political message similar to Jesus' in the modern world (stick with Europe, the US or Latin America), how would that person be received by others? What does your response tell you about the influence of Jesus' ideas?
Choose a passage/event from the Gospel of Luke and explain why it can be considered the heart/core of Jesus' teaching.
Stick to the 2-3 paragraph format, and please label your post 'Christianity.'
Is Christianity a religion for the minority or for the majority? Is the theology better suited to people who are oppressed outsiders, or dominant insiders?
If someone with the equivalent of Jesus' social status, from a region of the world equivalent to Galilee, were to begin teaching a social and political message similar to Jesus' in the modern world (stick with Europe, the US or Latin America), how would that person be received by others? What does your response tell you about the influence of Jesus' ideas?
Choose a passage/event from the Gospel of Luke and explain why it can be considered the heart/core of Jesus' teaching.
Stick to the 2-3 paragraph format, and please label your post 'Christianity.'
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