I don’t know that there has ever been a greater divide in how Christians see Jesus than right now. I fear many are picturing an American Jesus with a US flag draped over his shoulders holding an AK-47. Friends, that picture is completely contrary to Jesus who “so loved the world” (John 3:16). Today I invite you – I urge you – to discover Jesus of the Gospels, the one who demanded Peter put down his sword and told the accusers to drop their stones.

Read Matthew and hear the teachings of Jesus our one true King. Read Mark and discover Jesus’ authority as one who came to serve. Read Luke to hear a detailed account of the life of Jesus who brings salvation for all. Read John and be reminded of Jesus as the God who loves you.

According to Jesus, our mission is to love God and to love people (Matthew 22:36-40). This is not weak love, but powerful love that is willing to stand against the cultural current that villainizes groups of people calling them unworthy of our care and that tolerates violence as long as it against others.

The battle we fight isn’t against people, skin color, gender, flesh or blood (Eph 6:12). We fight the spiritual forces of evil that sow hatred, fear, and division. But here’s the heartbreaking truth – so many Christians have been duped into thinking the exact opposite! So many are believing that divisive rhetoric and actions against people different than themselves is a Jesus thing. I assure, it is not.

So, please. Quit listening to the divisive content, the cultural constructs, and the lies about who Jesus is and what Jesus calls Christians to do and be. Read the Gospels for yourself. Slowly. Praying the Holy Spirit would reveal Jesus’ priorities to you and that they would become your own. Discover Jesus of the Bible in the Gospels. Put down your sword and your stones and read it for yourself.

The Gospel of John is a good place to start.

If you are looking for a church defined by Jesus, not by culture or politics, join me at First United Methodist Church of Festus/Crystal City. We are an open congregation preaching Jesus’ love and grace and making a difference in our community. www.FestusUMC.org