Like many of you, I am shocked and grieved by the violence that rocked our nation’s capital this past week. When I heard that the capital had been breached, I was horrified. Then when I turned on the news, I was sickened in the pit of my stomach to see someone rushing into the capital while waving a flag with “Jesus” emblazoned on it.
Friends, let me be perfectly clear: This is NOT the way of Jesus.
No matter how passionately we might hold our various political views, followers of Jesus have a higher calling. We are followers of “the Way,” as the early church was known. We follow the way of Jesus. And the way of Jesus is not just a body of truths, it is a way of life. We pattern our lives after the one who loved His enemies—that would be us—and prayed for those who persecuted Him—again, us. The way of Jesus is non-violent. The way of Jesus is love for enemies. The way of Jesus is the cross. And it is the way we must follow (1 Peter 2:21–24).
Tragically, many people will see that flag bearing the name of Jesus and assume that kind of violence and outrage is what Jesus is all about. I weep when I consider of the damage that has been done this week in tarnishing the name of our Jesus. So let me say it again loud and clear and unequivocally: This is NOT the way of Jesus.
I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1–4)
You are loved, more than you know!
Pastor Philip
Thank you. This last four years have been anything but peaceful. Jesus reigns.
Thank You!
The Jesus flag still haunts as I close my eyes to rest.
You’ve put into words for me what is in my heart and hopefully will give me courage to speak TRUTH when confronted with the lies all around me.
Thank you again!
Thank you for these wise words, Pastor Philip!
Blessings to you and your family,
Vicki Hornung Reyes
TMC missionary in Mexico
Thank you so very much, Pastor Philip, for this thoroughly Biblical guidance on how to respond to the events of January 6th.
I find that I need to seek an exemplary, thoughtful response based on love of others, instead of an all-too-easy response that offers only condemnation of people.
Amen! Pastor Philip… We pray for the healing and restoration in our Nation. Many people are hurt and confused. There is hope for a better tomorrow in Christ today. Psalm 23
It is so important that Christians realize the optics of their actions. Are they exhibiting the fruits of the spirit? We are known by our fruit. Many have turned away from Christianity in the last 4 years because of the hate and ignorance that has been visible with those that call themselves Christians.
Your words are so true! Someone thinking they are making a statement in Jesus name are misguided. Not guided by the Holy Spirit.
Thank you so much. I do not have a platform so I do appreciate you stating these truths. After 4 years of hate and bullying unfortunately this has been the outcome. I pray that Christians will look and evaluate based on what the Word says. Thank you so much.
I accepted Jesus Christ as my savior when I was 11 years old. I can honestly say that I can see his foot prints in my life. HE has blessed me in so many ways that I thank HIM and look to my devotions to express myself. HE is number one in my life.