Simply Jesus

February 28
Chapter 7 – The Campaign Starts Here

1.  Wright begins by noting that Jesus issues a public proclamation that Israel’s God was at last becoming king.  The circumstances surrounding such a proclamation in Jesus’ day were vastly different from ours, as Wright illustrates.  Even so, what challenges remain regarding acceptance of divine kingship and providence?  Why are we still so reluctant to let God rule?

2.  This public proclamation effectively initiated the start of a campaign…marked by numerous healings and celebrations to drive home this new reality.  Justice and peace involve putting things right in the world; thus, broken people are healed and celebrations of God’s taking charge are launched.  Heaven and earth are coming together…evident in the forgiveness and healing of people, one by one. 

How do forgiveness and healing work hand-in-hand?  How do they combine to usher in God’s reign?

3.  Jesus’ first announcement took place in his home synagogue (one of our gospel lessons in worship earlier this month.)  This did not go well.  Jesus welcomes and includes “outsiders” into God’s kingdom…oh, no!  Where do we likewise struggle to include “outsiders” into our congregations and into our hearts?  What doubts, fears, and concerns keep us from being more inclusive?

4.  Jesus announces God’s reign again at the home of a Pharisee.  Here, Jesus is approached by a tearful and grateful woman who anoints Jesus’ feet with oil.  In announcing the forgiveness of her sins and commending her faith, Jesus again has opened the kingdom of God to everyone.  This king is indeed up-close-and-personal. 

How does this particular story hit home for you?  How close do we allow God’s love & forgiveness to touch us?

5.  The intricate interaction of John the Baptist and Herod Antipas are compelling and complex.  A lot of questions come to the surface as we read this story.  Here again, Jesus announces that God’s campaign is already underway; that God’s kingdom is quite visible in John’s ministry and his message.  From here, Jesus assembles his 12 disciples and moves God’s campaign forward.

Where do you witness God at work today in the breaking down of old “rulers” and their “kingdoms?”  What systems of oppression (and their guardians) are being challenged and addressed by the Jesus’ gospel today?