the empire

Jesus talked a lot about the Kingdom of God during his time on Earth. Which is pretty revolutionary in and of itself.

And it really starts to get interesting when you compare the Kingdom of God against the texture of the empire during Jesus day.

Because the message of the Kingdom was delivered in a context – and that context influenced the way everybody heard Jesus’ message – and, more importantly, what they saw in God’s kingdom that stood in contrast to the empire.

The empire, of course, was Rome.

They were the military might of the day – protecting their interests and growing their influence through military force.

People who were Roman found deep identity in their nationality. For through it they had protection, benefits and freedom greater than the rest of the world.

Rome’s technology was world-class. Their citizens were collectively smarter, faster and had a higher business acumen than anyone else.

And these benefits lead to certain rhythms of life.

Leadership was paramount. Except they didn’t call it leadership, they called it power. Any leader, worth anything, would flex his power – holding it over his people’s heads. He would squash opposition. Stand strong through force. And do whatever necessary to build his empire.

Money was central. Just as always in affluent societies, there were haves and have-nots. The more you could collect, the better your life went – indoor plumbing was even possible, for a price. People spent money decorating their homes, buying clothes and going to entertainment events (all three of these were new in Jesus’ day).

Tradition, things and growth were more valuable than people. And so systems were create to protect the traditions of the past, acquire more things and promote growth – and often those systems were oppressive to individual people.

Of course, Jesus message was different.

Servanthood is paramount. Because the best and strongest people were the ones who gave their lives up for others.

Love is central. Jesus never really showed people God’s blessing through material possessions, tangible blessings or keeping up with the latest trends in society. He showed people God’s blessing through revolutionary love.

People are more valuable than tradition, things and growth. And Jesus would sacrifice the large, shun fame and resist collecting things in order to minister to one person.

So, at some point we have to ask ourselves, do our lives look more like the Kingdom, or more like the empire? Because Jesus came to save us from the empire. And welcome us to the Kingdom.

…more soon, but I would love your thoughts now.