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While it is popular to ask, "What would Jesus do?" the…

“While it is popular to ask, "What would Jesus do?" the better question was always "What is Jesus doing?" The first question assumes that the Savior is on the sidelines and that the burden of life and work is on our shoulders. But in that case the Savior is not really saving but is setting…” quote by M. Craig Barnes
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““While it is popular to ask, "What would Jesus do?" the better question was always "What is Jesus doing?" The first question assumes that the Savior is on the sidelines and that the burden of life and work is on our shoulders. But in that case the Savior is not really saving but is setting impossibly high standards that we attempt to imitate by doing what we assume he would do if he were in our situation. On the other hand, the question "What is Jesus doing?" is built on the conviction that he is alive, reigning, and at work in our lives. In other words, he is in our situation, and that changes everything about our mission. Rather than believing that the work of Christ is completed and that now it is our turn to try to imitate his life and work, we take on the identity of being witnesses who watch and testify to his continued work of salvation that is unfolding before our eyes.””

M. Craig Barnes

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Instead of asking what Jesus would do, ask what Jesus is doing now; this shifts focus from idealized standards to living, active faith.

In simple terms: Ask what Jesus is actively doing today.

Key Takeaway

Live with active faith, not just idealized standards.

Themes

faith active witness spiritual practice

Mood

contemplative inspirational

Type

High standards:0 Life:1 Ur Eyes:0 Question Jesus:0 Ask Jesus:0 Work Christ:0 Jesus Doing:1 Assumes Savior:0

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • community service
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

theology imitation mission

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing Jesus' active work change your daily choices?
  • What does active faith look like for you?
A Different Perspective

Idealized standards can discourage practical action.

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