Abolition of slavery Quote by John G. Stackhouse Jr
““Jesus treats patriarchy the way he treats much else of the law and custom of his time: ambiguously, suggestively, and sometimes subversively, but never immediately revolutionarily outside the central matter of his own mission and person...The main scandal of Jesus' career is properly JESUS - not Jesus and feminism, or Jesus and the abolition of slavery, or Jesus and Jewish emancipation, or Jesus and anything else. Those other causes are good, and they are implicit in Jesus' ministry. But they are incipient at best, and Jesus' accommodation to these various social distinctions needs to be acknowledged and then accounted for in one's paradigm regarding gender.””
About This Quote
The passage argues that Jesus’ approach to social issues like patriarchy was indirect and nuanced, focusing on his core mission rather than immediate revolutionary change.
In simple terms: Jesus dealt with social norms subtly, prioritizing his main purpose.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that change can be gradual and mission‑driven.
Themes
theology
gender
social critique
Mood
analytical
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
theological commentary
social analysis
When to use this quote
- religious studies
- gender discourse
- ethical analysis
Key Concepts
interpretation
historical context
mission focus
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we reconcile gradual reform with urgent justice?
- What role does mission play in social change?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the impact of subtle influences.
