Before Exodus
Recent studies on the political nature of Jesus’ ministry often begins with the Isaianic New Exodus. Rome is the new Egypt, where as Jesus, the new Moses (or the embodiment of Israel). It is further suggested that the Exodus is the principle story of the OT and as a result, God is a God who liberates. The poor and the oppressed are the ones that the Lord truly cares about, therefore the Ekklesia and Empire are constantly in opposition and competition until the New Heaven and New Earth etc…
Similar to the presupposition of Liberation theology, what fall to the background with such reading are the promise and covenant of God. Before God is a God who liberates, He is a God who keeps His word. Faithfulness precedes Liberation; Love before Justice.
Isn’t it interesting that the Jews decided to begin their story with Creation and not with Exodus? (Yes, I do understand that the Exodus is foundational to them as ONE people of God). The Lord listens to the cries of the Israelites both because they are in misery AND because that they are “my people”.
Filed by edmund at 6.52 pm under Culture,Faith,Politics |
One Comment
Anson
Yeah, this is exactly what Rob Bell wants to convey in his new book Jesus wants to save Christians. http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Wants-Save-Christians-Manifesto/dp/0310275024
He alludes to America (or the current world power) being the new Egypt and how Jesus is calling us for a new Exodus.
It’s a short read, but it retells the over-arching biblical story is an engaging way. And I agree with you that if we read everything under the lens of Exodus and the idea of liberation, something might be missing. I think what’s worthy of Bell’s contribution is at the last two chapters of his book, talking about the passover and the eucharist in relation to how we live our lives. Check it out if you have time.
Also see: http://blog.theoryspace.com/2008/11/30/wearelivingeucharists/
Dec 23rd, 2008
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