Strong personalities can be polarizing, often ruffling the feathers of the elite. The controlling, power hungry and religious leaders of the first century tried to destroy anyone who was a threat. Subsequently, as Jesus arrived onto the scene, his logic, miracles and teaching rubbed the Pharisees the wrong way. As Jesus’ fame grew, envy, fear and jealousy inspired unwholesome thoughts.
Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus, Mark 3:6.
Jesus went from a wedding day hero in John 2:1-11 to a marked man a few healings later. Sensing something wasn’t right, Jesus tried to keep a low profile by withdrawing to a remote location with his disciples. Nonetheless, his fans couldn’t get enough, walking mile after mile to have their own personal encounter with Jesus. Unfortunately, public events were no longer an option, not welcomed anymore by the Jews.
As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” – John 19:6a
Today, politics continue to shape worldviews, drastically altering the perception of churches. Although once the center of communities on the East Coast, Christian worship centers are now under attack. Offended by biblical teaching, liberals have turned to the Supreme Court to legalize homosexuality and gay marriage. If successful, the very future of Bible based churches may be in danger. Like the days of Jesus, an increasing number of opposing voices are proclaiming, “you’re not welcome here anymore!”
by Jay Mankus
