36 Jesus said, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If it did, my servants would fight so that I would not be handed over to the Jewish leaders. No, my kingdom is not an earthly one.”
John 18:36
Jesus makes this statement at his trial before Pilate, confirming that though he is a king, his kingdom is not bound by the typical definitions and identity markers. When you think of earthly kingdoms, what comes to mind? How is Jesus’s kingdom different? Jesus says that his followers wouldn’t take up arms to defend it, yet the church has a long history of taking up arms in Jesus’s name. What do you think changed? Can a militarized church accomplish Jesus’s mission? Why or why not?
Each day (except Sundays) during Lent, we will post a Scripture for reflection on our theme, “Military Withdrawal.” Together, we will learn to walk in God’s ways of peacemaking and reconciliation. These posts are meant to stimulate conversation and interaction. Please post your thoughts and comments.
Tongue on Fire 