insider and outsider

Isaiah 56:1, 6-8   Ps 67   Romans 11:1-2, 29-32   Mathew 15:(10-20) 21-28

It is hard to read our biblical texts about racial identity without thinking about our current societal debates. The heated arguments about identity politics and whose lives matter could easily drown out God's revelation. A disclaimer, in a world where one person's peaceful protest is another's riot, it is clear that we cannot seem to agree on much of anything, so listen to my words with a grain of salt.

I believe that since Eden, the world has consisted of insiders and outsiders. Adam and Eve could certainly testify how quickly that can change. Salvation, God's kingdom rule through our Lord Jesus, will hopefully free us from hatred and heal our brokenness and divisions. Until then, unfortunately, we will struggle to live in peace with one another.

I have consistently taught that sin is a heart condition, generated by sinful desires and false thoughts. In addition, I believe that we deeply wounded and more than a little afraid. The world is dark and corrupt since they left that Garden, and only repentance, confession and personal reform empowered by God's Holy Spirit can improve humanity. I believe Jesus teaches that until we are made whole and holy, our efforts to change the world will never make it better. (the mote in your eye)

Many progressive preachers will declare that the exchange between Jesus and the pagan woman illustrates Jesus' racism and sin. I reject that idea completely!

Reading Matthew, Jesus makes clear throughout that His mission is to Israel. He tells the disciples to focus only there. So when Jesus is confronted by the woman--a person who worshipped false gods--He tells a maschal (wisdom illustration or parable) about feeding children and not dogs. The comparison is obviously indelicate, but it is also accurate. Membership status matters. This is why the same people who would demand that the US have open borders remain steadfast in making sure that only certified convention delegates are on the floor. We will never let members of other denominations vote at our convention, or even members (!) if they are not delegates. And I would agree that they shouldn't. Identity requires boundaries. There really are insiders and outsiders, even in church.

So why does Jesus cross over to the fringe and heal the daughter? Because the mother's faith opened her to membership in God's people. The love and mercy of God are available to those of humble faith. When a pagan Canaanite addresses Jesus as Messiah and Lord, she has begun the process of personal conversion necessary to be a citizen of the Kingdom.  

At the end of the Gospel, we hear the rest of the story! Jesus will send His disciples to all the pagan nations. He will command them to make disciples and teach all that He has taught. The last judgement, the final declaration of who is inside and who is outside, is still in the future. It is for our Heavenly Father to determine. Our task is to bring the healing love of Jesus to everyone until that day.

Which brings us back to today's political conflicts. Whatever side you are on in all this, make sure you pray for the healing and salvation of those with whom you disagree. Love them with the heart of Jesus and recognize their humanity and need. That is a discipline which will go a long way to helping you repent and change your own heart.