Too many theologians try to present Jesus as this meek figure who never stood up and fought. While there are certainly times this was the case, it was not always, as is apparent from Mark 11. In this chapter, Mark describes a very bold, arguably militant, Jesus. From something as simple as cursing a fig tree to overturning the temple commercial system, Jesus demonstrated a boldness and fighting spirit most modern Christians lack.
What marks the difference in circumstances between the meek and fighting Jesus? To be honest, I'm not sure. One can make an argument for righteous indignation with people making money off of worship in the temple courts. Or perhaps it was a social justice fight. But cursing a fig tree for not bearing figs when it wasn't fig season? I've encountered a lot of theories about what that was about, but I haven't been satisfied by any of them.
What lesson can we then learn about when it's appropriate to fight and when it is better to be meek? I'll have to think more about that one.
No comments:
Post a Comment