Re-Enchanting... The politics of Jesus - NT Wright
Oct 9, 2024
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NT Wright, a Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall and former Bishop of Durham, shares insights from his new book, co-authored with Mike Bird. He discusses how the teachings of Jesus can reshape contemporary politics, drawing parallels between first-century challenges and today’s dilemmas. The conversation touches on the complexities of obedience, civil disobedience, and the church's role in today's political discourse. Wright critiques modern evangelicalism's evolution and emphasizes the necessity of inclusivity to reflect early Christianity's essence.
Jesus's declaration of 'Jesus is Lord' directly challenged the political authority of Caesar, illustrating the intricate link between faith and power.
The transformation of Christianity from a persecuted sect to a political entity reveals the complexities of navigating faith in public life.
Confident pluralism allows Christians to maintain their convictions while respecting diverse beliefs, embodying Jesus's teachings of love and grace.
Deep dives
The Influence of First-Century Politics on Jesus's Message
The political environment during Jesus's ministry was deeply intertwined with religious beliefs, as both politics and religion were seen as inseparable by first-century Jews and Greeks. Jesus encountered a complex backdrop marked by Roman dominance, where the emperor was viewed as a divine figure, pervading societal structures, and reinforcing that religion and politics were intimately connected. The call for God's kingship by Jesus challenged existing political powers, suggesting a radical vision that contrasted with traditional theocratic expectations. His declaration that 'Jesus is Lord' fundamentally undermined claims of Caesar's authority, reflecting early Christians' resistance to empire and their commitment to a different societal order.
The Shift from Persecution to Power in Christianity
The evolution of Christianity from a persecuted minority to an established religion is complex and multifaceted, reflecting a significant pivot in its relationship with political structures. Initially, Christians were oppressed under Roman rule, often facing severe consequences for their beliefs, but this changed when Christianity gained favor with the emperor. The introduction of Christianity as a legal and political force came with both benefits and drawbacks, as it led to questions about the authenticity of faith and the potential for compromise with imperial authority. This transition illustrates the delicate balance between being a voice of dissent against oppression and navigating the challenges posed by gaining political power and influence.
The Church's Role in Modern Democracy
In contemporary discussions about the church's influence, there is an ongoing debate about whether the church is better positioned on the margins of society rather than in positions of power. Despite some lamenting the waning influence of Christianity in the West, there is a recognition that being outside of political power can sometimes enhance a church's prophetic voice. Engaging meaningfully with political structures is essential; this includes speaking truth to power while advocating for justice and marginal voices. The church is called to a vocation of discernment, speaking not only to the implications of participation in democracy but also offering critiques that ensure governmental actions align with Christian teachings.
Navigating Modern Ethical Dilemmas
The complexities of civil disobedience are prevalent in today’s society, prompting discussions around the ethical standing of Christians in matters of obedience to authority. The biblical perspective emphasizes the importance of respecting governing authorities but also outlines the necessity of resistance in cases where these authorities promote injustice or demand actions contrary to faith. Historical examples, such as early Christian martyrdom, illustrate how believers navigated these dilemmas, drawing lines against actions deemed unacceptable to their faith. Therefore, contemporary Christians similarly must assess when to stand against authority and how to engage in constructive, peaceful protest while promoting justice and peace.
Confident Pluralism and the Kingdom of God
The concept of confident pluralism advocates for a society where diverse beliefs coexist while maintaining the integrity of Christian witness and values. This approach recognizes the importance of upholding one's convictions without imposing them coercively on others, thereby fostering an environment of respect and dialogue. By modeling the ideals of the kingdom of God, which transcends cultural and social boundaries, Christians can contribute to a richer societal narrative that celebrates diversity while advocating for justice. Ultimately, a confident pluralism aligns with the essence of Jesus's teachings on love and grace, inviting believers to engage actively and compassionately with the broader community.
NT (Tom) Wright is Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University. Tom has written extensively on Jesus, Paul and early Christianity and his work has been hugely influential across the world. As well as his notable academic career Tom has also served in the Church of England in various roles, including as Bishop of Durham from 2003-2010.
Belle and Justin talk to Tom about his new book, co-authored with Mike Bird - Jesus And The Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies. How we can re-enchant 21st Century politics with the 1st Century vision of Jesus as Lord?
There’s more to life than the world we can see. Re-Enchanting is a podcast from Seen & Unseen recorded at Lambeth Palace Library, the home of the Centre for Cultural Witness. Justin Brierley and Belle Tindall engage faith and spirituality with leading figures in science, history, politics, art and education. Can our culture be re-enchanted by the vision of Christianity?
