WHY JESUS WAS KILLED MARTYDOM AS A CATALYST FOR SOCIAL/SPIRITUAL REFORM

© 1978 M. Bennett Hooper (Revised 9/27/2006)

Jesus of Nazareth was not only a man among men, but then as now a paradox when reviewed in terms of the human experience. He was and should be the supreme example for those who seek revolutionary heroes especially the oppressed peoples of the world. His is the paramount example of the thesis which asserts that social and political reform cannot and will not be accomplished unless those seeking the reforms are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice when the time comes and that sacrifice or rather choice is inevitable.

Jesus was a lover of the known world and everything in it. He was broadminded as evidenced by his choice of companions; his ministry among the untouchables of his society. He was firm but compassionate, ethereal and earthy and above all patiently impatient as evidenced in his acceptance of what was to be his ultimate destiny. You see Jesus knew that his truth in order to survive the ages would require his martyrdom. So we see in his death, the twin martyrdom of the physical and spiritual body. But why was it necessary for this man among men to die?

An examination of political realities places Jesus and his ministry in perilous times. The Jewish state once again was ruled under foreign domination in the person of the Roman Caesar. Man was once again declaring himself God something Jesus never did. Funny how some things never change as man once again declares himself God and proclaims to all dimwitted enough to listen that my way is the right way. My path is the only path and destiny becomes a bitter cup for those desperate to drink from the physical offerings of tyrants of every hue.

The God in me salutes and honors the God in you may the reflection not be tarnished by today’s’ realities and unlimited frailties.