The Beatles song of 1968 posed the question “so, you say you want a revolution? Well you know, we all want to change the world”. The history of the world could be written in terms of wars, revolts and revolutions. While recent literature (especially that written in the USA) argues that the first revolution was the American Revolution of the late 18th Century and that of course, in their view was the most important, revolutions have been around much longer than that. The first recorded in history was in Egypt over 2500 years before the birth of Jesus, which is probably about 500 years before Abraham! There has probably never been a year since, when there has not been a conflict of ideas, or ownership of resources somewhere in the world since.
Political revolution usually occurs when one group of people feel they are being unfairly treated or oppressed by the ruling class. Often, but not always it results in violent action and the emergence of a new ruling elite. There are other revolutions as well, of ideas, values and even the means of production. Change usually meets resistance and the fear of losing something of value and conflict can result. History is filled with the names of revolutionary leaders, some wanted power, others had new ideas in science or politics, there were those who campaigned for individual rights and protections and some wanted a greater distribution of wealth. It seems that John Lennon was right, everybody wants to change the world – in some way.
Jesus emerged on the shores of the Sea of Galilee with a call to revolution. The Jews, who were oppressed by the Romans, saw him as the deliverer they had waited for. Some of his followers were already heavily involved in a rebellious group called Zealots. They didn’t want equality for everyone though, they just wanted to regain their position as rulers, not servants. They were comfortable with people being oppressed, as long as it wasn’t them. Jesus quickly gathered a following, his hearers were anxious for him to outline how things would be restored; so, when he sat down on the hillside to explain what the new kingdom would look like they were eager listeners. What Jesus said though turned everything on its head.
Jesus delivered what we call the Sermon on the Mount (there is another sermon which is similar called the ‘Sermon on the Plain’ recorded by Luke in chapter 6:17-49 of his gospel). He presented a challenging system of ethics that he expected his followers to live by in this present age. He explained the reality of discipleship in the everyday world through the presence and power of the kingdom of God. (ESV.org). In the new kingdom the citizens were to serve, not be served. They were to be meek and humble rather than domineering and arrogant. Persecution was to be expected, but not only should they be peacemakers but to always be merciful. He had much to say that directly challenged the expectations and aspirations of the listening crowd. Their focus was to be on heaven, not on wealth and comfort on earth. To expect God to meet their needs daily, not in abundance of riches stored up for the future. They had to forgive their oppressors. They were astonished.
This is the revolution Jesus wants his followers to be a part of. He is calling for those who will live according to the values of his Kingdom to change the world through their example and their teaching. So, you say you want a revolution? Well here it is, join him by ‘not conforming to the pattern of this world, but by the renewing of your mind. It will cost you your life!
(This is day 1 of week 18 of a Series of daily postes entitled Jesus the Rvolutionary)
Richard W.Foster 