PDF Summary:Simply Jesus, by N. T. Wright

What was the mission of Jesus, and how did it challenge the prevailing expectations of his Jewish contemporaries and the Roman Empire? In Simply Jesus, N. T. Wright examines Jesus's words and deeds in the context of first-century Palestine, arguing that his life marked the commencement of God's long-awaited kingdom. This book explores how Jesus embodied the union of the divine and human realms, personifying holiness in new ways while rejuvenating humanity's relationship with the Creator.

Through his death and resurrection, Jesus achieved victory over sin and mortality—a pivotal event that empowered his followers to enact God's sovereign will through their united advocacy of justice, compassion, and reconciliation. Wright calls the church to be a prophetic voice amidst worldly powers while exemplifying the essence of Jesus's reign as it awaits final fulfillment upon his return.

(continued)...

Context

• In first-century Judaism, many expected the Messiah to be a political and military leader who would liberate Israel from Roman occupation and restore the kingdom of David. This expectation was rooted in various Jewish texts and traditions that emphasized a triumphant and powerful deliverer.
• The concept of a suffering servant comes from the Book of Isaiah in the Hebrew Bible, where a figure is described as bearing the sins of others and being led like a lamb to the slaughter, which was not traditionally associated with the Messiah.
• In the Book of Daniel, the "Son of Man" is a heavenly figure who is given authority and dominion. This imagery contrasts with earthly kingship and suggests a divine aspect to the Messiah's role, emphasizing spiritual authority over political power.
• During Jesus's time, Judea was under Roman occupation, which was often harsh and oppressive. The Jewish people were subject to heavy taxation and had limited autonomy, leading to widespread desire for liberation and the restoration of a sovereign Jewish state.
• In the ancient Near East, kingship was often associated with power, conquest, and divine favor. A king who suffered or was defeated was typically seen as having lost divine support, making Jesus' approach counterintuitive to contemporary expectations.
• Crucifixion was a method of execution used by the Romans primarily for slaves, rebels, and those considered threats to the state. It was designed to be a public spectacle, serving as a deterrent to others.

Jesus' message that God's kingdom was imminent but not yet fully realized caused confusion among his disciples as they struggled to reconcile his words and actions with their existing beliefs about the characteristics of the Messiah and his domain.

Wright emphasizes the intrinsic tension that emerges because Jesus's kingdom is both a current reality and something expected to be completely realized in times to come. Jesus announced the dawn of the long-awaited epoch, with the divine domain at hand, and he predicted an eventual climax, an impending judgment, and the assuredness of his own magnificent comeback. Wright argues that this clear distinction showcases a realm established by Jesus' actions, awaiting its final fulfillment.

Wright points out that this predicament led to confusion among Jesus' followers. They struggled to reconcile the direct effects of his miracles and teachings, which included forgiveness, with their expectations of an imminent kingdom that would overthrow Roman rule and reestablish Israel's significance. Wright argues that this conflict highlights the intricate nature of comprehending the realm of the divine, which both aligns with and defies human expectations, manifesting in the present yet remaining to be fully actualized.

Context

• Jewish apocalyptic writings often depicted a dramatic intervention by God to establish His kingdom. These texts influenced the disciples' understanding, leading them to anticipate a sudden and visible transformation of the world order.
• The period was marked by social and political unrest, with various messianic claimants appearing, which may have influenced the disciples' understanding and expectations of Jesus' mission.
• The notion of an "already but not yet" kingdom challenges linear conceptions of time and fulfillment, suggesting a dynamic process where divine reality is both present and future, inviting followers to live in a way that anticipates its full realization.
• In Christian theology, this is often associated with the Last Judgment, where all individuals are judged by God. It is a time when moral and spiritual accounts are settled, and it is a central theme in apocalyptic literature.
• Eschatology refers to the study of end times or the final events in the world. Jesus' teachings often included eschatological themes, emphasizing a future hope where God's justice and peace would be fully realized.
• This concept challenges believers to engage with the world actively, working towards justice and peace, while maintaining hope and faith in the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises.

The crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus marked the commencement of God's reign, profoundly altering perceptions of holiness in terms of place, time, and material nature.

Jesus embodied the fusion of divinity with humanity, establishing a rejuvenated relationship between God and those who follow Him.

Wright asserts that the pivotal moments shaping the unique and conclusive union of the divine and the terrestrial were the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus embodied both the characteristics of a servant enduring hardship and those of a ruling Messiah, thereby fulfilling the deep-seated hope for God to come closer to His devotees. Divine presence was no longer confined to a specific holy location like the Temple in Jerusalem; Jesus himself became its personification.

Jesus's behavior within sacred spaces indicated a transformation in the conventional perception of holiness, signaling its forthcoming obsolescence and the establishment of a new locus for divine presence within himself.

N. T. Wright suggests that Jesus, by performing intentional symbolic acts within the Temple, contested the established notions of what constitutes a holy place. Jesus' bold move to expel the currency traders and animal sellers from the Temple was a significant confrontation with its entrenched customs and authority. Wright proposes that this deed transcended a mere demonstration against dishonesty or an appeal for change. The Temple's importance reached its peak as a new focal point for God's presence was established in the person of Jesus Himself. Jesus, through his life, self-sacrifice, and victory over death, embodied the essential meaning represented by the Temple, thus positioning himself as the true nexus where the divine and the mortal realms meet, the legitimate dwelling place where the Divine resides.

Context

• The Jewish Temple in Jerusalem was the center of religious life, where sacrifices were made, and it was considered the dwelling place of God on Earth. It was a symbol of Jewish identity and religious practice.
• This redefinition of holiness and divine presence laid the groundwork for the early Christian belief that Jesus was the ultimate revelation of God, making traditional temple worship obsolete for his followers.
• This shift in understanding contributed to the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities, as it no longer required adherence to Temple-based rituals, making the faith more accessible to Gentiles.
• This act symbolized a shift from ritualistic practices to a focus on personal faith and relationship with God, which was a radical departure from the traditional Jewish understanding of worship and holiness.
• The currency traders and animal sellers were part of an economic system that supported the Temple's operations. The exchange of money and sale of animals were necessary for maintaining the sacrificial rituals prescribed by Jewish law.
• This event is part of a larger narrative in the Gospels where Jesus redefines religious practices and beliefs, emphasizing internal spirituality over external rituals.
• Jesus' actions in the Temple, such as overturning the tables of the money changers, were seen as prophetic gestures that challenged the existing religious order and pointed to a new understanding of God's presence.
• The belief in Jesus as the meeting point of divine and human realms is closely tied to the resurrection, which Christians view as the ultimate demonstration of Jesus' divine authority and the validation of his teachings.
• The Temple symbolized the covenant between God and Israel, serving as a physical representation of God's promise and presence. It was a place of pilgrimage and worship, deeply embedded in Jewish identity and spirituality.

Jesus' approach of challenging the conventional Sabbath practices and announcing the arrival of a new era indicated the emergence of God's long-awaited kingdom.

Wright demonstrates how Jesus' engagement with the Sabbath further exemplifies his redefined understanding of sacred time. Jesus deliberately performed healings and engaged in activities often forbidden on the Sabbath, thus challenging the belief that strict observance of this day of rest was a means to secure favor from the divine. Jesus announced the dawn of a new era, signifying the onset of the long-awaited reign of God. Wright suggests that the day of rest symbolized the tranquility intended for humankind, and Jesus began to actualize this tranquility while establishing the groundwork for his kingdom.

Wright underscores that throughout the course of history, the concept known as the sabbath of sabbaths did not disappear but rather transformed profoundly. The true essence of the Sabbath is now understood not through rigid compliance with regulations, but through celebrating God's victory over evil and the initiation of His dominion. Jesus's self-sacrifice and subsequent resurrection are the culmination of the Divine's efforts in creation and redemption, epitomizing the deepest expression of Sabbath peace.

Practical Tips

• Reevaluate the 'rules' you live by and identify one that may be unnecessarily restrictive. Once you've pinpointed such a rule, consciously break it in a way that results in a positive outcome. If you have a personal policy against using technology in the evenings, try using that time to video call a distant friend or family member, thereby turning a restrictive rule into an opportunity for connection.
• Volunteer for a community service project that aligns with your values on a day traditionally reserved for rest. This action transforms the concept of sacred time from passive observance to active engagement in making a positive difference. Choose a cause you're passionate about and dedicate regular time to it, which can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that redefines your understanding of sacred time.
• Start a small study or discussion group with friends or family to explore what a new era means to each of you and how you can support each other in living out those values. This doesn't require any special skills, just a willingness to listen and share. It can be as informal as a monthly coffee meet-up where you discuss ways to incorporate these values into your personal and professional lives.
• Start a weekly tradition of a tranquility meal with family or friends, where the focus is on enjoying each other's company and the food, without distractions like television or smartphones. This practice fosters a sense of community and relaxation, reminiscent of the communal aspect of the Sabbath, and allows for deeper connections to be formed.
• Explore the evolution of rest by tracking your own rest patterns for a month, noting changes in your feelings and productivity. Start a rest journal where you document the times you rest, the activities you do to unwind, and how you feel before and after. This personal data can reveal your unique rest rhythm and how it might have shifted over time, similar to historical transformations.
• Establish a "Dominion Day" once a month where you focus on stewardship and care for your environment. This could involve activities like planting a tree, cleaning up a local park, or starting a recycling initiative in your neighborhood. By doing so, you're taking a hands-on approach to initiating dominion in a way that benefits the community and the planet.
• Volunteer for a local charity or community service project that focuses on helping others to rebuild their lives. By actively participating in the process of helping others to find peace and start anew, you embody the principles of self-sacrifice and contribute to the creation of a supportive community.

Jesus' remarkable actions, demonstrating his control over the natural world, heralded a transformation that indicated the eventual full renewal of the universe, guided by his divine leadership.

Wright argues that the miraculous acts of Jesus represent not just demonstrations of supernatural power but also signal the beginning of a significant transformation in the world as a result of his work. Jesus demonstrated his authority over nature with miracles such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and calming storms, all of which suggested the ultimate renewal of the universe. Wright suggests that these miracles should be interpreted not as distant deeds of a detached divine being, but as indicators heralding the emergence of a new reality within our present life.

Wright posits that the event of the Transfiguration stands as a definitive illustration of how physical substance can be transformed, revealing Jesus's body momentarily suffused with divine glow, thereby disclosing the eventual destiny intended for the entire cosmos. Wright contends that these instances confront the prevalent Western perspective, which presupposes a strict division between the physical and the spiritual realms. Jesus and his disciples were convinced that the material world was deeply connected to God's design for salvation, destined for significant transformation and renewal.

Context

• The miracles question the naturalistic worldview by suggesting that the natural order is open to divine intervention, challenging the idea that the universe operates solely according to fixed laws.
• The miracles also had political implications, subtly challenging the Roman Empire's power by demonstrating a higher authority. This would have been significant in a time when Rome claimed divine favor and control.
• The Transfiguration is considered a pivotal moment that reveals the glory of Jesus and foreshadows his resurrection and the future glory of believers.
• Many miracles involve restoring individuals to their communities, emphasizing themes of inclusion and the breaking down of social barriers.
• In early Christianity, there was a strong emphasis on the resurrection of the body, which underscores the belief in the redemption of the physical world. This contrasts with certain Greek philosophical ideas that viewed the material world as inferior or corrupt.
• The idea that the physical and spiritual are intertwined suggests that spiritual truths can manifest in the physical world, implying that divine action is not limited to a non-material realm.
• The early Christian view, influenced by Jesus' teachings, saw the ultimate goal as the integration of heaven and earth, rather than the abandonment of the physical world for a purely spiritual existence.

Jesus's mission and significance persist in molding the endeavors of the church and its impact on global affairs.

Jesus, having risen and ascended, exercises his ultimate power by impacting world forces and terrestrial affairs via the collective actions of his followers, who are empowered by his Spirit.

Wright emphasizes that the significance of Jesus's resurrection and ascension extends beyond historical events, continuing to influence the present day. They proclaim that Jesus, rather than being a fallen hero, reigns as the living sovereign, governing the world. The sphere of influence subtly emerges within the community of believers, drawing its power from His Spirit instead of aggressively seeking earthly power. Wright suggests that this unique perspective on kingship reflects the deep-seated values of the divine domain, which are founded on self-giving, resilience in the face of adversity, and providing assistance, rather than on the domination of others.

The church has the duty to embody the core of Christ's teachings by upholding His supreme authority and implementing His sacred blueprint, which includes advocating for fairness, kindness, and harmony among individuals.

N. T. Wright maintains that adherents of Jesus are charged with the responsibility of bearing witness to His supreme authority and actualizing His heavenly purposes on earth. This testimony, however, extends beyond simply declaring beliefs or indulging in solitary acts of devotion. Enacting divine rule through concrete, transformative deeds marked by love and fairness is crucial. The community of believers, often referred to as the body of Christ, is more than just a gathering of those who have been saved; it is a fellowship of individuals absolved of their sins, endowed with the Spirit to continue the mission of Jesus to bring unity and peace on Earth. N. T. Wright perceives the victory of Jesus over sin and mortality as a pivotal influence that reshapes the human experience and lays the groundwork for an innovative structure of society.

Other Perspectives

• The emphasis on the church's role in society could inadvertently lead to the neglect of the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in promoting fairness, kindness, and harmony among all individuals, regardless of their religious affiliation.
• Others might contend that the focus on divine authority can overshadow the importance of personal conscience and ethical reasoning in moral decision-making.
• The emphasis on transformative deeds may inadvertently create a works-based approach to faith, which some theological perspectives argue against, emphasizing grace or faith as the primary means of embodying religious principles.
• The idea that individuals are absolved of sins and endowed with the Spirit might be seen as exclusionary to those who do not share the same faith or have different interpretations of spirituality and redemption.
• The concept of an innovative societal structure influenced by Jesus' victory over sin and mortality assumes that current societal structures are inherently flawed or inadequate, which may not be a universally accepted viewpoint.

The religious congregation is responsible for holding secular authorities accountable to the standards of justice as defined by the divine, while also endeavoring to embody and promote the deep empathy and service that characterize the kingdom of God.

Wright contends that the church has a dual mission: to challenge the powers of this world and to exemplify a society founded on the principles of justice and compassion. This involves diligently monitoring secular authorities to ensure they conform to sacred standards and actively promoting communities that reflect the divine will. Wright proposes that this role of prophecy does not necessarily entail perpetual confrontation with governing bodies but rather involves interaction, critical assessment, and occasional condemnation when authorities transgress divine principles.

Wright underscores the importance of the church focusing on self-reflection instead of attributing its deficiencies solely to external influences. The community of believers is charged with manifesting God's ultimate sovereignty by actively seeking fairness and compassion, providing aid to the vulnerable and those on the fringes of society, promoting harmony and the mending of fractured relationships, and robustly confronting any forms of injustice and tyranny.

Other Perspectives

• The role of a religious congregation in a democratic society is often to provide moral guidance and support to its members, rather than to serve as a watchdog over secular authorities, which is typically the role of civil institutions and the legal system.
• In a pluralistic society, it is important for secular authorities to be neutral and inclusive, rather than adhering to the specific sacred standards of one religious tradition, which may not be shared by all citizens.
• The concept of "divine will" is subject to interpretation, and different religious congregations may have varying conceptions of what this entails, leading to a lack of consensus on what communities reflecting divine will would look like.
• The church's involvement in politics might overstep the separation of church and state, potentially leading to an unhealthy mix of religious and governmental power.
• While self-reflection is important, it is also necessary for the church to recognize and address the systemic issues in society that may contribute to its shortcomings.
• The belief that a community of believers can manifest God's sovereignty might be seen as presumptuous by some, as it assumes a clear understanding of divine intentions and the ability to act perfectly in accordance with them.
• The church's efforts to provide aid can be hampered by bureaucratic or organizational challenges, which can limit the reach and impact of their charitable work.
• Different denominations within the church often have conflicting doctrines and practices, which can lead to division rather than unity.
• The church's actions are often guided by interpretation of religious texts, which can be subjective and lead to different conclusions about what constitutes injustice and tyranny.

The Christian community's endeavors to further the kingdom, even when faced with challenges and opposition, are rooted in the victory that has been assured by Jesus's selfless act of sacrifice and subsequent rise from the dead, looking forward to the complete realization of his reign when he comes back.

The church often faces obstacles and difficulties in its efforts to bring forth God's sovereign realm. When faithfully proclaiming Jesus as Lord and working to implement his agenda, the church is bound to encounter resistance from those in power as well as from the distorted ambitions and aspirations of human societies. Navigating these challenges should be viewed not as a setback but as a collective journey through the same trials Jesus faced, leading up to his ultimate victory.

The church can move forward confidently, knowing that Jesus has achieved the decisive victory that guarantees the certain victory of His reign. Wright suggests that we look forward with certainty to Jesus' second coming, an event that will mark the completion of the new creation initiated by his death and resurrection. This promise, Wright argues, should inspire the church to move forward with resolve and courage, acknowledging the mystery of God's power revealed in weakness, and to continue its mission to brighten the world and increase its goodness until the moment arrives for Jesus, the true sovereign, to return in splendor.

Context

• Christians believe that the Holy Spirit empowers and guides them in their mission, providing strength and wisdom to overcome obstacles and fulfill their calling.
• Many Christians believe in a spiritual dimension to opposition, where forces opposed to God's kingdom actively work against the church's mission, adding a layer of spiritual conflict to the challenges faced.
• Distorted human ambitions refer to the ways in which personal or collective desires for power, wealth, or status can conflict with the church's mission. These ambitions can lead to corruption, exploitation, and moral compromise, which are contrary to the values of humility and service promoted by the church.
• Facing obstacles is also about embodying the moral and ethical teachings of Jesus, such as love, forgiveness, and humility, which are often tested in times of difficulty.
• The concept of power in weakness is central to Christian thought, where God's strength is revealed through what appears to be weakness or defeat, such as the crucifixion. This paradox challenges conventional views of power and victory.
• The second coming is seen as the ultimate triumph over evil and suffering, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promises and the restoration of creation to its intended glory.
• The church's mission includes fostering a sense of community and belonging, providing support and encouragement to individuals as they collectively work towards these goals.