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Was Jesus Political?
The word political often makes people uneasy when associated with faith. But politics, at its core, is about relationships, power, and the common good—things Jesus deeply cared about. When Jesus declared, “"Blessed are the poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 6:20) and “But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort. Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep.” (Luke 6:24), he wasn't just talking about personal piety. He was speaking truth to power.
The Gospels portray Jesus not just as a teacher or miracle worker, but also as someone unafraid to challenge unjust systems. From flipping tables in the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) to calling out religious hypocrisy (Matthew 23:13-36), Jesus confronted both spiritual and societal corruption head-on.
He didn’t hold political office, nor did he lead an organized movement—but his actions and teachings subverted the dominant power structures of his time. He associated with the poor, the sick, the outcast, and the sinner—groups cast aside by both religious and civil authorities. In doing so, he brought the margins to the center.
Many theologians argue that Jesus' teachings and actions were inherently political—not in a partisan sense, but in the way he disrupted oppressive systems and stood with the oppressed. Even Pope Francis has addressed this perspective, reminding Christians that “a good Catholic meddles in politics” because “politics, according to the social doctrine of the Church, is one of the highest forms of charity.” (Vatican News, 2013)
Jesus and the Marginalized
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is seen spending time with those who were excluded: tax collectors (Luke 19:1-10), prostitutes (Luke 7:36-50), lepers (Mark 1:40-45), and Samaritans (John 4:1-42). His inclusion of these people wasn't just spiritual—it was a radical social act that challenged cultural norms and religious gatekeeping.
As theologian James H. Cone wrote in The Cross and the Lynching Tree, "The cross is the most empowering symbol of God’s loving solidarity with the ‘least of these,’ the unwanted in society who suffer daily from great injustices. The cross, as a locus of divine revelation, is not good news for the powerful, for those who are comfortable with the way things are, or for anyone whose understanding of religion is aligned with power.”
Faith and Action Today
In today’s world, where misinformation spreads fast, and injustice still reigns in many places, looking at Jesus’ life as a guide to ethical resistance and compassion feels more important than ever. Jesus didn’t stay silent in the face of corruption—neither should we.
In fact, Pope Francis himself continues to call for Christians to take a stand for the poor and vulnerable. He reminds us in Evangelii Gaudium that “The Gospel is not merely about our personal relationship with God—it is also a call to build a more just world.” (Evangelii Gaudium, 2013)
Final Thoughts: Let Jesus Be Our Light
In a country like the Philippines, where injustice, red-tagging, and violence against dissent persist, being a follower of Jesus doesn't stop at prayer. It means loving radically, showing mercy, and standing up for truth.
To follow Jesus is to live out his teachings, both in spiritual devotion and in our actions toward others. As Christians, we are called not only to personal holiness but to social transformation.
Reading the Bible in its historical and cultural context helps us better understand the full weight of Jesus’ ministry. His life was a testament to what it means to stand for justice, even in the face of persecution. We must carry that light in our own time—boldly, lovingly, and with compassion.
Let us be reminded that faith is not passive. As Pope Francis continues to emphasize, a Christian must be engaged, informed, and courageous enough to make a difference.
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