Could Jesus be Considered 'Woke'?

 

Christians Reflect on Modern Perspectives:

Could Jesus be Considered 'Woke'?
by Kenny Sallee, ThM

Many American Christians are engaging in deep reflection as they encounter evolving interpretations of foundational aspects of their faith.

The Sermon on the Mount, documented in the Gospel of Matthew, is a pivotal reference for Christian ethics. Esteemed as a bedrock of Christian teachings, it has touched innumerable lives, underscoring virtues like love, humility, and peace. However, the evolving context of our modern world is reshaping how these essential teachings are perceived and understood.

As some frame Jesus' teachings in the context of modern social awareness or "wokeness," certain believers are expressing unease or even skepticism. For them, these interpretations can sometimes seem synonymous with 'liberal talking points', leading to an internal discourse within the community.

Was Jesus 'Woke'?

The term 'woke' has become prevalent in 21st-century socio-political discourse, often used to describe a heightened awareness of social and racial injustices. It encompasses a range of issues from gender equality to systemic racism, and it emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging the lived experiences of marginalized groups. Given this modern context, some might wonder how historical figures, such as Jesus, might fit into this narrative. Would Jesus be considered 'woke' by today's standards?

Historical Context

First and foremost, it's essential to understand that the term and its contemporary implications didn’t exist in Jesus' time. Jesus lived in a vastly different cultural, social, and political context. However, examining His teachings and actions might provide insights into how they might correlate with today's definition of being 'woke'.

Jesus’ Teachings on Social Justice

Jesus consistently taught love, compassion, and justice. Many of His parables and interactions can be interpreted as critiques of societal norms and as calls for social justice.

1. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): This parable challenged the ethnic prejudices of the day. By making a Samaritan—a group despised by the Jews—the hero of the story, Jesus highlighted the value of every individual irrespective of their ethnic background.

2. The Woman at the Well (John 4:1-26): In this story, Jesus converses with a Samaritan woman—an act that defied both gender and ethnic norms of His time. He acknowledged her worth and dignity despite societal prejudices.

3. Jesus and the Outcasts: Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently reached out to those marginalized by society—tax collectors, prostitutes, lepers, and the poor. His actions were often controversial, signaling a departure from accepted norms and an emphasis on love and justice over rigid adherence to tradition.

Feminism and Gender Equality

Jesus' interactions with women were radical for His time. He treated women with respect, frequently conversed with them, and even had them as primary witnesses to significant events, like the resurrection. This was in stark contrast to many of the cultural norms of His era.

Economic Justice

Jesus' teachings on wealth and material possessions also bear noting. His statement that it's easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24) reflects a critical view of wealth without social responsibility.

Conclusion: Was Jesus 'Woke'?

Attempting to fit Jesus into any modern socio-political category, including 'woke', can be problematic. However, many of His teachings align with the values of social justice, equity, and a challenge to oppressive structures that the 'woke' movement embodies today. In His time, Jesus was indeed radical and counter-cultural, advocating for love, compassion, and justice in a way that challenged the status quo.

If being 'woke' implies an awareness and active engagement against societal injustices, then, by that definition, many of Jesus' teachings and actions resonate with this ethos. However, it's essential to approach this topic with nuance, recognizing the differences in context and understanding.