Stories of political revolution abound throughout history.  Such a revolution is usually a movement begun among those who are under the control of the current ruling structure of a given region or country.  They perceive themselves to be oppressed, and their dissatisfaction with the status quo eventually erupts in physical resistance and often escalates to combat and bloodshed as those in power are toppled and replaced with a new governing structure.  The new form of government is often radically different, and is perceived to liberate and empower the people to live freer, happier, more peaceful, and more productive lives.

In the first century, a Jewish rabbi burst onto the scene of history, and his teachings, when taken seriously, constitute nothing less than a revolution in the ethical scheme of his day and ours.  Jesus challenged the religious authorities about the emptiness of their observation of the Law.  In his Sermon on the Mount, recorded in Matthew 5, 6, and 7, he lays out a radical new interpretation of the human behaviors and heart attitudes that truly please God.  I believe Jesus was, and is, aiming for revolution in the individual human heart.  As we allow this revolution within, one by one, we also become part of Jesus’ larger revolution, which has the potential to literally change the world.  The Sermon on the Mount serves as a kind of “manifesto” on the ethics and values of the Kingdom of Christ as it is lived out in individual human lives.  It challenges us not just to agree; not just to be discontent with the legalistic righteousness of the lawkeepers; but to actually LIVE DIFFERENTLY!  Which is perhaps more profound and lasting than any of the political revolutions this world has ever known.  Join the Revolution!!!