Chapter 5 - The Hurricane
1. Wright exposes the misjudgment of Jewish hopes and national aspirations when contrasted with the prophetic vision and mission of Jesus. As a result, "The harsh wind of western empire would blast away the Temple itself..." We can certainly relate to such experiences of misjudgment as a nation in our history. Where do you remember this happening, and how did we fare with the awkward process of "recalculating?"
2. The third element of this first-century perfect storm is the wind of God. But, as Jesus declares, they failed to see it coming...distracted by dreams of national liberation. Yet, God remains sovereign over his creation, as displayed in the quote from Psalm 18:7-15. What is your picture of God's sovereignty today? Where do you witness this "wind of God" blowing among the national and global "hurricanes" surrounding us?
3. Israel's history with kings started out poorly and ended tragically. David, it seems, had the greatest impact as Israel's King. Yet, tragedy marked his life as well. Once thought untouchable and divinely protected, Jerusalem and the sacred Temple became subject to God's judgment. God's earlier promise to establish and maintain a "House of David" left the Jewish people confused, in light of their checkered past. Historically speaking, where have we and other nations of our time experienced similar struggles and confusion of identity/purpose? What are the risks and dangers of presuming to act on "God's behalf," yet chasing our own destinies?
4. Over time, it became clear that God was a much better king than any human king. Thus, in worship and song, they expressed their longing for a return of his sovereignty and the restoration of Israel and all of creation. Providing numerous Old Testament texts, Wright assembles a compelling conclusion: "The human 'shepherds' have been a dismal failure; only YHWH himself will now do...the result is that Israel will be YHWH's sheep indeed." "Somehow, when God is king, 'David' will be king." Given this rich and complex history, Jesus emerges from this royal lineage of King David to carry out God's purpose. In him, the ancient prophetic promise of God's return and deliverance was suddenly materializing before them...yet they could not see it. Why?
5. Wright concludes the chapter with this observation: "God is now in charge, and he is in charge in and through Jesus." The puzzle of Jesus, he says, boils down to two questions. Why would anyone declare Jesus to be such a king? And, what does Jesus' kingship mean for us today, in a world that largely fails to acknowledge his rule?
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