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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
The idea of radical Christianity is based on the actions of the one we should constantly seek to imitate; Jesus Christ. The most memorable incident of radical zeal being his violent cleansing of the temple precincts, causing his followers to recall the words of David to describe what they had just witnessed – "…zeal for your house consumes me,…" John 2:17 (See also Matthew 23:1-35)
Jesus’ zealous sense of ministry was responded to in a number of ways. Some tried to forcibly crown him King (John 6:15), then because of disappointment in their inability to fully understand him, they refused to follow him any longer (John 6:60 & 66); finally, many vindictively attacked him, calling for his crucifixion in frustrated anger (Matthew 27:11-26, John 12:12-15) – only a few continuing to faithfully follow him. (John 6:67,68) Throughout his ministry, Jesus was alternately accused of being demon-possessed and insane (Mark 3:20-23, John 10:19,20) or affirmed as the Christ (Matthew 16:16), the Son of God and rightful heir to the throne of David. (Matthew 21:1-11) He was challenged because of his association with sinners (Matthew 9:10,11), yet continued to respond to the inquiries and interest of the needy. (Luke 19:1-10, see also Luke 7:36-50 & John 8:1-11)
Never reluctant to address an honest question or doubt (John 3:1-21), he never-the-less allowed everyone he came in contact with to decide their own course in life. (Matthew 19:16-22) His desire was for God to be glorified through his actions by fulfilling God’s plan for man’s redemption and salvation. (John 17:1-5)
What was so radical about Jesus’ approach to life? His expectations remained the same regardless who he was with or their position in society. Repent, and live a life worthy of your calling as a people of God. Sounds easy enough – until some of the particulars got in the way; like bearing a burden for others, daily carrying a cross of identification in following him (Luke 9:23), losing our preferences in life to gain true purpose in abundant living (Mark 8:35) through the personal use and spread of his gospel (Matthew 10:39); grasping the concept that it is through giving of our ourselves and submitting to his will that true life is realized, the promises of provision and loving care leading us to the conclusion that we can’t out-give God. (Luke 18:29, Matthew 19:29) He then went on to promise persecution (John 15:20) as well as reward for remaining true to his teachings (Matthew 10:22); asking that we shock the world into recognizing this call to Christ by responding contrary to what is considered normal to the demands of life. (Matthew 5:39-41) Epitomized by his expectation that we be willing to do to others what we would prefer done to us and not as they have already done. (Matthew 7:11) On top of all that, he claimed to be God. (John 14:6,7)
However, we are not called to ostentatious display to get attention, as he urged us not to perform our "acts of righteousness" for all to see. (Matthew 6:1-7,16-18) He warned against judgmentalism – even as we exercise discernment – and taught love for enemies as well as friends and family. (Matthew 7:1-6,14 & 15; 5:44) If that’s not radical, I don’t know what is; legitimate Christianity encompassing totally different principles than the value-system and worldview of a society that continues to be grounded in boastfulness and lust. (1 John 2:15,16) Having been pulled out of the world at Christ’s invitation, we no longer fit or belong to it (John 15:19); as such, it will hate us and attempt to limit our influence. We must therefore be on guard, standing firm in our faith, courageously strong in dealing with sin and its consequences; while doing all things in love. (1 Corinthians 16:3)
Radical Christians love sincerely, hating evil – clinging to good – while remaining devoted to others. They remain joyful in hope and patient when afflicted through a prayerful faith; sharing material wealth as well as the Lord with those in need. Rejecting pride and favoritism fosters harmonious relationships with all "classes" of people; empowering us to empathize with those who are joyful as well as those who suffer loss. Never taking matters into their own hands, radical Christians refuse to avenge themselves, always striving to do the right thing – as far as it depends on them – in every situation. (Romans 12:19-21) In essence, doing all things, whether in word or deed, for the glory of God in the name of the Lord Jesus; giving thanks to God the Father through him. (1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17)
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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