Geoffrey Maurer - September 15, 2024
Controversy & Encounter: Offense
Summary: Where do we turn when the life or words of Jesus offend us? Jesus was a controversial figure, yet his hard words are meant to lead us to an encounter with the Living God.
From Series: "Controversy and Encounter"
What first comes to mind as you reflect on Jesus’ life and ministry? For some, it is his crucifixion and resurrection. Others think of his wise and powerful teaching. Still others of us may primarily consider his miraculous works. But who among us first regards Jesus as a controversial figure? And yet this is a major theme of the Gospels. How often do we contemplate the regular opposition he faced? Do we meditate on our Lord as one who drew lines, confronted hypocrisy, and stirred unrest with both love and courage? Jesus did not set out to stir up anger; he came to speak life and salvation. “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:17). And yet in this world of sin and spiritual battle, even the proclamation of life and healing can bring division. This reality stands behind Jesus’ surprising statement, “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division” (Luke 12:51). Our series this Fall will look at our Lord’s controversy through the witness of John’s account. What we’ll find in the Scripture is that controversy provokes a decision. The confrontation and disputes into which the people thrust Jesus led to an encounter, a revelation of truth. Controversy can be clarifying. This is not a series about how WE stir controversy, or a ‘how-to’ for walking through conflict. Rather, through John’s Gospel, we are called to respond to Jesus’ message. As we examine the controversies in which Jesus was embroiled, may God call us to clarity, to choose Christ and to believe in Him as the One with the Words of life!
