Exploring Parallels: Modern Political Ideologies and Jesus’ Teachings

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Jesus’ Teachings

The teachings of Jesus, as recorded in the Bible, have had enduring influence for more than 2,000 years on everything from culture to religion to politics. While Jesus’ primary mission was spiritual, his teachings addressed issues of justice, equality, and the treatment of  marginalized individuals, which resonate with several modern political ideologies.

The very first recorded sermon Jesus gave was one in which he clearly defines the life of the Believer and how we are to respond:

“He began to teach them. He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.”  Matthew 5:2-11

To summarize how we are to govern ourselves and conduct our own affairs:

Social Justice and Progressivism

Jesus emphasized caring for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized, advocating for compassion and equity. This aligns closely with contemporary social justice and progressive ideologies that prioritize welfare, healthcare, and support for disadvantaged communities.

Matthew (25:35-36), Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

Pacifism and Nonviolence

Jesus’ teachings often promoted peace and nonviolence, emphasizing love for one’s enemies and turning the other cheek. These principles are fundamental to pacifist ideologies and movements advocating for nonviolent resistance.

In the Gospel of Matthew (5:39), Jesus instructs,

“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”

Libertarianism and Individual Freedom

Jesus emphasized the importance of personal faith and responsibility, which can be seen as aligning with libertarian principles that prioritize individual freedom and autonomy. His teachings often highlighted the importance of personal choice and accountability.

Economic Equity and Communitarianism

Jesus’ teachings on wealth and material possessions align with communitarian ideals that emphasize economic equity and the well-being of the community. He often warned against the dangers of wealth and advocated for sharing resources.

In the Gospel of Luke (12:15 NIRV), Jesus says,

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

It is easy to confuse a particular political party or person with God’s Divine will, but the truth is that God puts people in power and takes them out of power; He also will simply allow a people or nation to choose their own leader. He uses whom He chooses and is no respecter of persons or political parties.

 “For there is no respect of persons with God. Romans” 2:11 KJV

So, Was Jesus Left or Right?

Neither. Jesus was the Son of God.

He was sent to do the will of his Father and that was the only allegiance and mission Jesus ever had. His ideologies do not fit any one particular party or government, but cross over through many.

Jesus respected all earthly authority unless it conflicted with the divine purpose for which He was sent but no Believer should ever forget that God is the One in control, not the left or right.

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