Over the centuries, countless atrocities have been committed in Jesus' name—holy wars, inquisitions, slavery, witch hunts, colonization, and antisemitism—often by Christians who believed they were upholding righteousness. These acts stand in stark contrast to the teachings and example of Jesus, who chose peace over violence, mercy over judgment, and love over power. From his own words and actions, it’s clear: Jesus calls us not to conquer in his name, but to serve, to liberate, and to love with radical compassion.
The pattern that emerges through history is clear: whenever Christianity is twisted into a tool for domination or exclusion, it ceases to follow Jesus. True discipleship is not about outward appearances of faith, but about inward transformation and outward grace—about doing the will of the Father, not simply invoking the name of Christ. As followers of Jesus today, we are called to reclaim the core of his message: healing, humility, and justice for the oppressed.
Today’s episode reminds us that spiritual integrity requires vigilance. The same spirit that led Jesus to heal the wounded, dine with the rejected, and forgive from the cross must animate our lives and our communities. Let us not just wear the cross—let us carry it, walking daily in the way of Christ. The world does not need more religion cloaked in power; it needs the living witness of people who know Jesus, love like Jesus, and live for Jesus.