The Subversive Gospel - Part 1

The Subversive Gospel - Part 1

The Subversive Gospel - Part 1

In this teaching, the speaker, possibly Matthew Vander Els, explores the concept of subversive Christianity, contrasting it with the values and norms of the world, particularly those of the Roman Empire in the first century. The message emphasizes how early Christians challenged the authority of Caesar by proclaiming Yeshua (Jesus) as the true Lord and King. This subversion wasn't about physical revolt but about transforming society through radical love, service, and allegiance to God's Kingdom.

Caesar vs. Christ: A Clash of Kingdoms

In the Roman Empire, Caesar held titles like "Son of God" and "Lord," demanding worship and allegiance. Heralds spread the "good news" of Caesar's reign, and citizens were expected to bow and pay taxes. However, followers of Yeshua attributed these same titles to him, recognizing him as the true Messiah. This attribution was a direct challenge to the Roman Empire's authority. The early believers' creed was simple yet profound: "Yeshua is Lord, and God raised him from the dead." This declaration alone was a revolutionary act.

Subverting the Norms: The Early Church's Approach

The early Christians didn't just preach a different message; they lived a different way of life. They upstaged the Roman system by:

• Providing for the Poor: They sold their possessions to feed the needy, challenging the Roman government's role as the provider.
• Treating Slaves as Equals: They welcomed slaves as brothers and sisters in Messiah, undermining the Roman economy that depended on a vast social divide.
• Offering Freedom: They proclaimed freedom from slavery and sin to nations enslaved by Rome.

This behavior demonstrated a radical departure from Roman values, emphasizing community, love, and service over individual gain and status.

The Kingdom of God: A Present Reality

Early believers anticipated a future restoration of all creation, where the faithful would be resurrected with glorified bodies. More importantly, they believed that this future had already broken into the present through Yeshua's work. They saw themselves as "little pockets of the world to come walking around," representing God's Kingdom even in the face of persecution and oppression.

The Caesar of Self: An Internal Battle

Today, the message is to focus on internal struggles, particularly against the "Caesar of self." Modern Western culture often promotes self-centeredness and self-love, encouraging individuals to prioritize their own needs and desires. This mindset can infiltrate the church, leading believers to view their faith as a means to personal fulfillment rather than a call to serve others.

To subvert this "Caesar of self," believers are called to:

• Recognize God's Centrality: Understand that salvation originates from God and is centered around Yeshua, not personal gain.
• Embrace God's Grace: Acknowledge that salvation is a gift of God's grace, not something earned or deserved.
• Join a Community of Faith: Actively participate in a community of believers, using their gifts to bless the world.

Practical Application for Everyday Life

• Shift Your Perspective: Instead of asking God for personal blessings, ask how you can be a servant in His Kingdom.
• Love Your Enemies: Follow Yeshua's teachings by praying for and blessing those who oppose you.
• Prioritize Others: Put the needs of others before your own, finding joy in serving those around you.
• Seek Community: If you find yourself offended or disconnected from your faith community, seek another group to be a part of rather than isolating yourself.
• Be a Thread in God's Quilt: Recognize that your life is part of a larger tapestry that God is creating, even if it doesn't always make sense in the moment.

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Conclusion

The subversive gospel calls believers to challenge the norms of the world by living out the values of God's Kingdom. This involves subverting the "Caesar of self" by prioritizing God's glory, embracing community, and serving others. By doing so, believers can represent the intersection where heaven meets earth, carrying the banner of restoration, forgiveness, and love to a world in need.

References

• Luke 13:1
• Acts 4:12
• Joel 2
• Philippians 2:10
• Matthew 28:18
• Revelation
• Isaiah
• Ephesians 6:12
• Ephesians 1:3
• Deuteronomy 24

Resources

• Subversive Christianity by Brian Walsh
• The End of Religion, Encountering the Subversion Spirituality of Jesus
• Holy Subversion by Trevin Wax
• The Bible

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