Jesus lived in politically restless times. 

Jesus was a Jew in the 1st century.

During this time, the Jewish nation still operated as a theocratic nation residing in a land they believed was God-given.

The only problem?

They were subjugated by the Roman Empire who placed non-Jewish kings and rulers over the Jews (Herodians) to regulate their societal affairs. It was therefore, an incredible offense to the Jews to live without true independence, experiencing subjugation by a different people (Gentiles), while residing in their own land.

To add to these political flames was the division in how the Jews thought they should respond.

Some wanted guerrilla warfare (Zealots), while others desired spiritual retreat (Essenes). Some believed God would deliver them if they kept themselves morally pure (Pharisees), while others climbed the ladder of leadership (Sadducees). And then there were the opportunists who sought profit by working for the Romans against their own people (Tax-Collectors).

And yet it is precisely into this fragmented and restless political context that Jesus would enter, demonstrating for us what it looked like to be a refreshing presence in his culture.

Here were 5 ways Jesus was a refreshing presence during a politically charged culture: 

1. Jesus Fostered Unity 

Jesus strengthened a culture of unity amongst God’s people. He was in a small group with a former Zealot (Simon) and Tax-Collector (Matthew)! The hatred these two should’ve had for each other would’ve made the most politically divided today look tame. Jesus however, loved this group and helped them understand what bound them together. 

2. Jesus Pursued Humility 

Whether Jesus was being questioned by religious leaders (John 18:19-24) or political leaders (John 19:9-11), Jesus maintained the posture of a servant. And this was on the night of his betrayal. Jesus didn’t feel compelled to fight for himself because he knew the Father was working out something bigger than the momentary court scene.

3. Jesus Practiced Charity 

When the Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus in his words by asking about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus astonishingly engages the dialogue. It would be one thing for Jesus to have given a response, but Jesus answers with a thoughtful, profound, and instructive answer pointing all hearers to turn to their Creator God. 

4. Jesus Exercised Solidarity 

Jesus surprised his disciples by speaking with a Samaritan woman at a well. Why did Jesus break political and social taboos to speak with her? Because he saw her soul’s deep need for grace and satisfaction in God. He saw passed “the issues” to serve the underlying issue of the soul.  

5. Jesus Curated Priority 

The Jews tried to make Jesus their earthly king after he performed a few miracles. Jesus withdrew from the allure because he wasn’t after an earthly kingdom but a heavenly one. He was focused on the will of his Father, not the culture war of the moment. 

Concluding Thoughts

Jesus was a refreshing presence in his day no matter the political backdrop.

He befriended tax-collectors and Zealots. He had secret admirers amongst the Pharisees. Yes, He grated them often, but it was always for the right reasons and to their benefit.

While our politically charged cultural moment presents obstacles, may we see this as an opportunity for the church to be the salt and light Jesus has already declared us to be.

May we be known for what He was - a compelling, attractive, and refreshing presence in a world in need of grace and truth.