#36: Wednesday, 10 April 2019

**Luke 17:20 -- 18:8**

Jesus addresses two distinct topics in this passage that must not be conflated. The first concerns God's kingdom.

When Pharisees ask when God's kingdom will arrive, Jesus provides a straightforward response: one cannot point to it or examine it like a physical object. Luke has consistently explained this throughout his gospel. God's kingdom has already begun -- existing as a parallel reality to our earthly existence. People can inhabit this kingdom while remaining citizens of the world. Jesus himself, walking among the Pharisees, embodied that kingdom as its King.

A critical mistranslation in the King James Bible obscured this meaning. The Greek word *entos* can mean "within" or "amongst." When paired with a plural noun (the Pharisees), it necessarily means "amongst" or "in your midst," not within them. Most modern translations correctly render this: Jesus existed among them at that moment.

This ancient error opened doors to mystical misinterpretations -- allowing figures like John Lennon to imagine the kingdom dwelt within him during drug use. Jesus simply proclaimed that God's kingdom was present in his person.

The second topic concerns Jesus' Return -- his promised future coming detailed throughout the New Testament. Revelation describes him as "who was, who is and who is to come." This coming will complete his kingdom's fulfillment. Heaven will descend to earth; all creation will be renewed. Divine justice will finally address every historical wrong and injustice.

The parable of the unjust judge illustrates this theme. This corrupt magistrate ignored widows and oppressed people, belonging to society's elite. He represents systemic injustice. Jesus employs reductio ad absurdum: if even such a wicked judge eventually heard a persistent widow, how much more swiftly will God execute true judgment?

Modern Christianity hesitates discussing divine judgment, conflating it with being judgmental -- now Christianity's gravest social sin. Yet scripture presents judgment positively. Psalmists plead for judgment to come. Prophets envision creation celebrating when God judges the earth.

People fear judgment only when guilty, standing accused. Most believers occupy the plaintiff's position, not the defendant's dock. Christians long for God to judge the earth fairly, vindicating the innocent and condemning oppressors, cheats, and murderers. Prophets and psalmists shared this yearning.

When Jesus returns as judge, believers should not fear community backlash. Those guilty of bloodshed, fraud, exploitation, and falsehood will be exposed as wrong. Those standing for truth, righteousness, and nobility will be exonerated.

Jesus' Return inaugurates God's judgment day. Everyone -- guilty and innocent -- will kneel, declaring "Jesus is Lord," recognizing the judgment's fairness, whether willingly or reluctantly.

**Prayer:**

Father God, strengthen me to champion truth, right, and good despite social pressure conformity demands, including sometimes from within the church.

Grant me courage following your pathways and defending those unable to defend themselves: the very young, the unborn, vulnerable elderly, the poor, disabled, and marginalized. Help me find firm ground and the resolve to maintain it. Amen.