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Despising and Rejecting Jesus Today

Despising and Rejecting Jesus Today

The prophet Isaiah predicted that Jesus would be “despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not” (53:3 NIV84).

Reading the Gospels, we can certainly see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Jesus’ earthly life. He was despised, rejected, and not valued or esteemed; He was eventually crucified, not merely by the pagans, but by those who claimed to be Bible-believing followers of God.

Two questions we should ask:

  1. Why did the Jews—the very people claiming to be preparing for the advent of the Messiah—despise and reject Him two thousand years ago?
  2. And does this prophecy apply beyond His earthly life; are people today, including Bible-believing Christians—the people today claiming to be preparing for the second advent of the Messiah—in danger of despising and rejecting Him?

When Jesus came to Earth, the people who were entrusted with being the avenue through which He would be born—and who were given the ceremonial teaching tools, the prophecies of His coming, and the historic evidences of God’s mercy, love, and gracious interventions for their good—hated and rejected Him. Why? What was happening in their lives, situation, society, religious teachings, and belief system that caused them to despise the message that Jesus taught?

Jesus offered them a message of love, freedom, openness, truth, integrity, mercy, grace, and forgiveness for all people, including their enemies:

You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect (Matthew 5:43–48 NIV84, emphasis mine).

Jesus told them that if they desired to be perfect, if they wanted to be part of the family of heaven, they needed to love their enemies, to pray for those who persecuted them, to be gracious and kind to those who did them injustices.

But consider the mindset of the people to whom Jesus said this. They were living in an occupied land. The Romans were their rulers. The Jews were not autonomous. They had puppet leaders installed by Rome, including their kings (Herod) and high priests (Caiaphas). Romans were pagans; their society was built on slave labor. The Jewish people were predominantly non-citizens and didn’t have the rights of a Roman. In this environment, the Romans perpetrated all kinds of injustices upon them.

And Jesus was now telling them to love their enemies and pray for those who persecuted them. It would be like telling the French people during the Nazi occupation to love the Nazis and pray for the welfare of the German soldiers.

How do you think such a message would be received by the people in Ukraine today? What if your country had been invaded and taken over by an occupying force—and then a preacher came to town and told you to love your invaders and to pray for those who had raped your daughters and enslaved your sons?

Do you get some sense as to why the Jewish leaders despised, hated, and rejected Jesus? They didn’t want a Savior to save the people from fear, from selfishness, from hate, from abusing others. They wanted a savior who would empower them to do the very same thing to the Romans. They wanted a leader who would make their military strong, who could miraculously feed the troops, who could raise soldiers killed in battle to go back out and fight some more. If Jesus would have embraced their methods, sought to use physical might and power to destroy their earthly enemies, they would have embraced Him in a heartbeat.

But Jesus said,

My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place (John 18:36 NIV84, emphasis mine).

Jesus’ kingdom is the kingdom of love, truth, and liberty. He came to lead humanity away from a worldly focus to an eternal focus, from earthly justice to godly justice, from physical warfare to spiritual warfare, from a deliverance from human oppressors to a deliverance from sin that causes all oppression. But they didn’t like this focus. They preferred the earthly to the divine, the selfish to the selfless, the power-over-others paradigm to the power-to-serve-others paradigm.

Jesus is seeking loyal friends, not submissive servants. And friendship, loyalty, love, and devotion cannot be achieved through the use of might and power; it can be achieved only by truth presented in love while leaving people free. This is why Scripture teaches God’s method of warfare is “‘not by might nor by power, but by [His] Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6 NIV84). God cannot win hearts and minds by threatening and then killing those who won’t love and trust Him. Thus, Jesus’ kingdom does not advance through military might; it advances through people loving their enemies, praying for those who would abuse them, forgiving those who wrong them, being kind to those who invade their countries and persecute them—and then trusting God with the outcome.

Jesus told them,

You have heard that it was said, “Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.” But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:38–39 NIV84, emphasis mine).

Do you see why the Jews hated and rejected Jesus? It is because they were being dominated, abused, and exploited by real injustices—and they wanted “justice;” they wanted someone to come with a strong hand to punish the Romans. They did not want meek and gentle Jesus.

As you see the abuses, injustices, exploitation, and wrongs being perpetrated upon the powerless, defenseless, and vulnerable in society today, do you respond like the Jews did two thousand years ago? Are you tempted with hate, do you long for a vengeful deliverer who will come and punish these wrongdoers, to make them pay, to put them in their place?

Or do you love your enemies, pray for those who are abusing you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven?

Jesus asked what kind of people He would find when He returns: “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8 NIV84). Will He find people faithful to Him and His kingdom of love, or will He find, like He did two thousand years ago, people who call themselves His people but who despise and reject Him because they want a different kind of savior?

Ask yourself: Which Savior are you looking for? Will you love and embrace Jesus—or despise and reject Him?

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Testimony 12

I have been really blessed reading your response to the various questions on your site.

K.C., OH, USA

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 30

God lead me to your book “The God-Shaped Brain” while I was searching for another book about the brain and then to your interview about your book on HeartWise Ministries [where] I found out about [Come And Reason Ministries]. I’m now devouring the webcasts of your Bible studies. I have been so greatly blessed and I thank God so much for your courage to speak the Truth in love no matter what. Listening to you contrast the two opposing systems (laws) and digging deep to unearth the hidden treasures in the Bible makes me so incredibly happy and I feel very blessed to be part of your Bible Study Group although I live far away. I am just so excited that there is a group of people that is spreading the Truth about the character of God and it saddens me how few realize what our Father in Heaven is really like.

Kessy B., Australia

 

Testimony 22

I have found your Bible study class lectures to be very inspiring and useful as I prepare to teach class every other week. I subscribe to the podcast and download your notes on the weeks I teach. The audio and notes are such a great help in preparing. My own understanding of God’s character has grown as I teach the class. Commendations on the thought-provoking and well-prepared material Come and Reason provides. Personally, I get excited by the tie you make between the spiritual and mental/physical domains.

A.A. Corrales, NM, USA

 

Testimony 21

I am absolutly on fire with the message at Come and Reason! I can’t get enough! I’ve read your book, blog, and articles. I’ve listened to your Bible study podcasts, your radio show, and your series – all excellent! It wasn’t until the past couple of years that I have I like I’m becoming “healthy,” with more to share with others than just beasts and commandments! I used to be a Bible worker and preached when the pastors were gone until I had had enough. I didnt realize at the time what the problem was, but i know now… the message wasn’t properly focused. Now my flame is rekindled. All of your little examples are so perfect in explaining something “complicated” and making it easily understood! Now I’m trying to shape it into a life changing evangelistic series! Thank you!

M.T., USA

 

Testimony 23

I would just like to add my voice to the many people who, I believe, must have contacted you to express their appreciation for the “Healing the Mind” DVDs. I’ve been listening to your Bible study class discussions for many years and I’ve been personally blessed by your research and teaching about the character of God.

L. G., Oakland, MI, USA

 

Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 61

I grew up in a prominent protestant church and had what I like to call religious anxiety. I’ve always had questions about God and Salvation that no one could seem to answer.  I didn’t know how to find resolution. During 2020, at the height of my anxiety, I fell to my knees and begged God to show me truth and light and to give me the hope that I’ve been longing for. Days later, I stumbled upon your online videos and it was like a veil was lifted and EVERYTHING made sense! For the first time in my almost 39 years of life, my religious/spiritual anxiety has lessened. I feel a sense of freedom and peace I’ve NEVER had before… and it’s all because my view of God has changed. Thank you!

Ashleighn C.

 

Testimony 43

Two years ago I stumbled upon your book, “Could It Be This Simple,” and then found “The God-Shaped Brain” videos on YouTube, your bible study class, and the ‘Come And Reason’ mobile app. I shared your book with a friend and after nine months of showing love, patience, and kindness this person has been changed by the love of God, too. The same love that healed me, I now express to other women in tangible ways, such as to a Baptist woman with high anxiety and childhood trauma. She was extremely happy and relieved when I shared about the so-called “judgment of God” and burning in hell. She had no desire to serve a God that was so harsh. I have repeated the phrase dozens of times to her. “What we believe has power over us, but we have power over what we believe…”

This message that you are sharing has changed my life. I will continue to serve other women and bring this message of God’s healing love to their lives by sharing your books, YouTube videos, and The Remedy Bible app. Keep up the good work. Don’t be discouraged. God is doing a mighty work in and through this ministry!

Jill L., Midwest, USA

 

Testimony 45

I have been confused for years about what [christianity] calls [its] most disgusting teaching. It has never made much sense to me and for that reason has been evermore empty. I have listened to your class off and on and have struggled determining what is truth, because of the resistance design law encounters in the church. So, I thank God for your ministry. What you teach makes sense. It’s logical and backed up by the power of love. I have never seen that in Christ until now. I am astounded by the insight that is found when we look at God’s ministry through design law. All strength to this message, as I believe it to be the power of God.

Brendon S.

 

Testimony 24

I wanted to thank you very much for presenting your understanding of God. I’ve always been troubled by this question: Why did Jesus have to die? Since my conversion I understood that The Father & Jesus are one, I did not have issues with that. But was there not any other way to save us than for Jesus to die? I guess I actually had a question about God – if He is so wise, how come He did not find another way? I did not see the real ‘beauty’  in the cross. Only when you explained the picture in the medical context, Jesus providing medicine for my selfishness, have I started to finally ‘see the light’. Thank you so much. Your seminar, “Healing the Mind,” are absolutely marvelous & have shared them with my family and many other people, including colleagues at work. Thanks, thanks, thanks. May God bless you abundantly in your ministry.

M. W., Australia

 

Testimony 59

I’m a native Ghanan, but am currently in France for my master’s degree. Prior to this, during my final years at undergraduate studies in Ghana, I was introduced to your ministry and I’ve been immensely blessed by what you share, especially about the Design and Imposed Laws. God richly bless you for that.

One of the first things I did when I arrived in France was to buy all four of your books. They not only helped me, but those I shared them with. I shared the message with an atheist student and I marveled at how God worked mightily in his life. Today this person shares the Love of God with others and debunks theories of who God is not. I want to share what you present in your “Heavenly Sanctuary and Investigative Judgment” pamphlet, because the message brought rest to my soul and I live today as a healthy person.

God bless you so much and your ministry.

Michael A., Ghana

 

Testimony 37

Hearing Dr. Jennings’ presentations in person came at a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey that began about nine months ago, when the fault lines inherent in my belief system began to crack under questions that most reasonable people end up asking about God and His nature. These were questions I couldn’t find answers to, and they shook my faith. I was unable let it go any longer and be satisfied. My Christian experience became distant. I was afraid; the fear in me rose like thorns, pushing me away from Jesus. And then someone heard my questions and introduced me to this ministry, and my life has totally changed.

I can tell you that this new, “present truth” message is far grander and life-changing than when I shifted from being an agnostic and then a nominal Christian. It has radically altered my worldview, because it reveals a God that makes sense. It is a revolution. I believe that Dr. Jennings’ message is the final message that must go to the world. If any message could be called “righteousness by faith,” as abused as that term is by the right and the left, this is that message, because Jennings’ biblical message identifies a God who is different, whose character isn’t an impossible contradiction.

I walk this path now without fear. I see people differently, and the Holy Spirit burns in my heart. Many call Dr. Jennings’ message false and compromising, but it isn’t false, because I’ve seen the fruits within my mind and body. It is not compromising, because in this message is the only road to holiness that makes any sense. No longer do I behold a pagan god who is always angry and suspicious. Instead, I behold a God who is freeing and loving, always working for our good, and giving me every reason to love my enemy even to my own death, just as Jesus pleads with us. God is good.

Anthony L., CA, USA

 

Testimony 54

I had a lot of pressure, as a pastor’s kid, to conform and be “good.” I was good at being “good.” I thought my life was going along well until it all started falling apart and I could not figure out why! In my search for “why is this happening to me, God?” I came across your book, “Could it be this Simple,” and God started revealing to me the many distortions I held about His character, His principles, and how He has designed His universe to operate. I remember thinking, “Wow, I have had this all backwards.” I was happy and angry all at the same time. Happy to have the light of truth break through the darkness, revealing a wonderful, beautiful way of understanding God and His plan for His children, and angry, because I felt deceived and cheated by the church, my family, and myself!

My heart thrills when I listen to your bible study lessons. Literally I have gone from death to life. It is a journey I look forward to every day, as God reveals areas this distortion affects. Praise GOD! I will ever be grateful to God for this ministry and your cooperation with the Spirit!

Karen S., Portal, AZ, USA