July 7, 2024 "Jesus Tells Us To Abandon Discrimination"

ReNew Ames Messages

Here's a weird one to tackle before sabbatical! It's an odd little story about the Sadducees confronting Jesus with a question about marriage after the resurrection. Here are some things that I notice about the story that might be helpful. First, I notice that just like the Sadducees had questions, we also have questions. The thrust of this part is this: it's okay to question spiritual things. It's okay to question your beliefs - to interrogate what's been handed down to you. In fact, I think Jesus invites us to ask more questions. We do not need to be afraid. Sometimes great questions can lead to lots of growth. Second thing I notice, privilege can be dangerous. When we read stories about Jesus in the Bible we notice how privileged people are always using, manipulating people on the margins to discredit Jesus. People in pain don't matter to people with privilege. But maybe it's the people on the margins who understand resurrection better than anyone. They're the ones who need resurrection now - not just after they die. Lastly, I wonder if we really want this place Jesus is describing (effectively describing heaven). People won't marry and won't be given in marriage after the resurrection. For these people, the woman belongs to the husband - the wife is his property. Jesus says that won't happen in heaven. No one belongs to another person because all are children of God. He's describing a place where things like sex, sexuality, gender, class, and status no longer define people. If that's the case, then churches shouldn't be involved in any kind of discrimination whatsoever. Lastly...communion - which is a foretaste of heaven. We all gather around the table together. There is no hierarchy here - we're all on the same level because we all belong to God and we're all in need. Speaker: Aaron Vis Scripture: http://bible.com/events/49285865