Is it right for a Christian to be a radical?

Quick answer

Jesus, who Himself was a radical, did not condone every type of radicalism as good. Rather, He taught that some types are positive but others can be harmful.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible shows a type of radicalism that is contrary to what the world views as good. Jesus sets many examples of what a radical Christian should look and act like. Where the world condones violence and aggression, Jesus instead models deep commitment, suffering, and accepting persecution from the world. The Bible tells us throughout the New Testament that Jesus did not fight back when He was persecuted, He did not use violence or encourage others to, and He forgave those in sin instead of condemning them. Our lives in Christ should be defined by things like peace, gentleness, and forgiveness. Though living radical faith may bring experiences of persecution and suffering, Jesus also promises abundant life and joy to His followers. This kind of radical, sacrificial faith is pleasing to God.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

The book of Micah indicates what God expects from His followers: acting justly, loving mercy, and being humble in our continued walk with God (Micah 6:8).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

The Sermon on the Mount, which includes the Beatitudes, gives clear direction on the way Christians should live. Some of the ideas Jesus presented were quite radical when He spoke them and remain so today. Jesus tells us to take the high road in conflicts, not resist people who insult our faith, and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:3-12, 39, 44).

We must prioritize God and our faith above everything else to truly be followers of Christ. Our faith should not be second to anything but rather should have our full dedication and attention (Matthew 10:37-39, Luke 9:23). In a world of living for self, this is a radical notion.

In the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus illustrates how we, as His followers, should treat those around us, no matter who they are. Christians are called to show God’s love to everyone, even those who others might ignore or find unworthy (Luke 10:30-37).

Some of Jesus’ strongest critiques of undesirable religious behavior were aimed at the Pharisees and religious leaders of His day who made their religion a show for others to get attention and praise for themselves. They also caused suffering for many of the people they led by creating harsh rules and punishments that did not line up with the heart of God. We are cautioned against acting this way (Luke 11:37-54, Matthew 23:1-39).

Jesus shows His standard of love and forgiveness in His interaction with the woman caught in adultery. He addresses the woman’s sin and calls her to repentance, but He does not condemn her, as He rightfully could have. Jesus calls us to this same radical forgiveness and gentleness when interacting with those struggling with sin and condemned by others around us. (John 8:4-11)

Our lives as believers should be clearly characterized by radical love (John 13:35, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8).

Radical Christians should no longer live to gratify our sinful human nature, but rather to please the Spirit of God in us (Romans 8:13, 1 Corinthians 3:3).

The Fruits of the Spirit are attributes and characteristics that should define the life of the believer and be evident to others through our words and conduct (Galatians 5:22-23)

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The radicalism we see in the world is loud, violent, destructive, and often filled with anger. God calls us to a completely different form of radicalism. The radical life of a believer should be defined by love, forgiveness, and gentleness. When we live this way, we fully reflect God’s love to the world around us. Living our faith radically may include accepting and experiencing persecution and insults from those around us. Throughout these experiences, we are promised that we will be given peace and joy from God and will have His presence with us at every moment.

UNDERSTAND

The world’s and God’s definitions of radicalism differ significantly.

Jesus calls His followers to live lives of radical love, forgiveness, and generosity toward others.

When we live radical Christianity, we receive the benefits of peace and joy from God.

REFLECT

Which Christian value do you find most “radical” in the context of today’s society?

As a Christian, do you view yourself as a “radical”?

What is the most difficult part of Christian “radicalism” for you to act on?

ENGAGE

How can we share the gospel with someone whose life is characterized by the world’s radicalism?

How might the radical love Jesus preached help to reach those whose lead nonconformist lives?

What are the different consequences that come from the world’s radicalism versus Christianity’s radicalism?