Many Christians ask 'what would Jesus do,' but perhaps they should take a step back and ask if Jesus would even admit to being a Christian in the context of contemporary American Christianity. What, if anything, do American Christians today have to do with the principles and commands attributed to Jesus in the Bible?

Ian Greenleigh writes:

Would he look upon mega-churches, television stations and millionaire preachers and see his essence reflected? Would he rather visit an anti-gay rally or a homeless shelter? [...] Jesus’ words do convey a clear message. If nothing else, righteousness in his eyes entailed a love of God and a compassion for all humans. How does the United States live up to the standards set by Jesus himself? [Daily Texan]

Part of the problem, according to Greenleigh, is American capitalism itself:

Capitalism, and the mentality that it espouses, stand in stark contrast to any serious interpretation of Christ’s words. Passages like, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God,” all but preclude anyone from being simultaneously wealthy and pious. Even so, many challenge the accepted meanings and translations of scripture in order to make their otherwise reprehensible actions and values seem Christian in nature.

The problem with Christianity is that it is irreconcilable with the American dream. For centuries, humans have been yearning for a way to synthesize religion with principles the Bible has been used to justify every imaginable human tendency and system of rule. Allusions to the public good are ignored, while the most damning passages are highlighted and used to stir up hate to reinforce self-serving ideologies.

Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that Christianity is “irreconcilable” with power — economic, political, social, etc. Jesus is constantly described as praising an ideal of serving others rather than being served, giving up power and prestige in favor of doing God’s will. There is little to nothing in the words attributed to Jesus that defends, helps, supports, or is even just sympathetic to those who wield power over others.

How many American Christians are really willing to give up economic, political, social, or personal power, though?

 

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