Politically Correct: Jesus Confronted With Truth

All spoke well of HIm and were amazed at the gracious words that came from His lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked. (Luke 4:22 NIV)

Customs

Being a Jew, customs were expected to be followed. Jesus returned to Nazareth. Was He willing to be politically correct? His first public encounter came Sabbath day in the synagogue. He stood and read from the scroll of prophet Isaiah:

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4: 18,19 NIV)

Politically Correct

As soon as Jesus finished, the people were amazed. His words were gracious and so far tradition was kept, politically correct. As He sat down, all eyes went His direction. Being politically correct, He would have smiled with a nod…Not so much. Jesus did not remain silent.

Truth

He confronted this group with truth:

1. A prophet is not accepted in his hometown.
2. Elijah could have been sent to any of the widows, yet was sent to the widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon.
3. Only Naaman, the Syrian, was healed during Elisha’s time when there were many in Israel with leprosy.

You may be thinking…what was the problem? These individuals were not Jews. Miracles were received by foreigners. This was not politically correct, the Jews were God’s chosen people. Jesus’s fellow townspeople turned 180 degrees almost in the same breath. They were offended and became furious.  Jesus was driven out of town with plans of throwing Him down a cliff. Instead, He walked away through the crowd.

Purpose

The scenario today is not much different where being politically correct is expected. However, Jesus set the example to voice truth. He spoke with purpose, not to be argumentative. God knew salvation would soon be opened to the Gentiles. Jesus was informed. He just spent 40 days in the desert fasting. He was empowered by the Holy Spirit. Truth overflowed from Him.

God’s Impeccable Timing

God’s timing is impeccable. Studying the Christmas story has brought out many points relative for today. We must be informed and empowered in order to stand in truth against politically correct. Time spent in prayer, Bible study, and attending church are all ways of spending time with Jesus. Fasting is an advanced principle for all believers. This takes determination, discipline, and dependance on Jesus Christ. Very few will ever complete a 40 day fast. Show God we are serious with a 24 hour fast, a three day fast, a seven day fast, or a 21 day fast. This is like training for a marathon. No one runs the Boston Marathon first time out. It’s Motivating Monday! Let’s be prepared with truth. Time to set people free.

Be encouraged!