I wish to start this off by saying that Jesus pretty obviously (atleast to me) does speak against violence generally, and on a purely red letter level I have trouble reaching the conclusion that violent revolution is considered virtuous biblically. That would be fine, but I also feel that extreme pacifism leads to conclusions that are as tragic as they are monstrous and honestly make me doubt christianity more than violence as much as it sucks to say

Non violence is and always will be the on paper most ethical form of resistance, changing hearts is better than making them stop beating, but I can't pretend there aren't situations where strict non violence seems like martyring the oppressed for the sake of your own virtue. The holocaust wasn't stopped by non violence obviously and the United States is faced with a leader that's vaguely hinting toward genocidal tendencies and I'm terrified of the idea that I'm supposed to watch all my trans friends in red states be rounded up and killed someday because I can't ethically do anything because I'm supposed to love the nazis enough to stand back while they hurt everything and everyone I love that isn't white cishet

It's not that I hate these people there genuinely aren't many people I feel actual hatred towards, but these are people brain broken by the most effective propaganda scheme in world history with weapons that are made to allow them to kill me without even truly having to think about it with just a press of a button. They're establishing a surveillance state that will make non violent protest a death sentence, and fuck if I know what to do about that even idk. As much as I want to shake the dust off my feet and not force myself to engage because violence is scary to me doing that if they do what they seem like they're going to do is going to get everyone I love starved and murdered

I apologize for the ranting but it's so hard to be a Christian right now because I'm scared and that pacifism feels like it's going to feed more innocent blood to the cross. I don't want to go to the gates and be given a gold star because I was a good Christian girl and didn't dare stop the machine because I was too busy following The Way over the mangled corpses of everyone I care about. Why is that what Christ wants for me and them??

Hello, I am part of a group of people who are in the process of launching a Marxist Christian organization called Red Star Ministry--we've existed on Facebook for a few years and had a very positive reception but in light of the historical moment we're in in the United States we felt it was time to form a real organization that could make an impact in the world.

As we move closer and closer to formally launching the org we would love to talk to like-minded individuals about what we do. Can anyone recommend any good podcasts or content creators who we could reach out to that might be interested in talking to us? We're nondenominational and while our political orientation leans Marxist-Leninist-Maoist we try to avoid sectarianism and needless antagonism with other kinds of leftists.

I was wondering if anyone had any texts that speak in fiery language about God's justice towards the oppressor and oppressed, His desire to see cruel rulers toppled and His desire for the poor and suffering to see justice. Scripture is fine but I was mostly thinking non-scripture. Thank you all ❤️

I identify as a militant antifascist. My knee jerk reaction right now is to get back into a fighting mentality. That is damaging to my mental health. I spent enough time in weird groups to make my DID a lot worse than it would be if I were participating in something less confrontational, like food not bombs or something. My issue is that I would like to distance myself from a feeling of wrath. I think it's demonic and has been a thread of negative spiritual influence for my whole life. It totally ruins my ability to organize effectively because I respond badly to stress and can't always hear other people's input about it.

Hello everyone my name is Cole, I’m currently writing a book on the historical relationship between Christianity and Fascism (~1919-1945). During my research, which began as a pre-COVID conception of a thesis for my MTS. During my research I have found three books that I think pair perfectly together to give a clear picture of the problem of American Christofascism.

1. The Twisted Cross by Doris Bergen: In this book, Bergen uses historical documents to examine the personalities and actions of the Deutsche-Christen Movement. Chapter 4 especially focuses on the issue of masculinity within this movement, and the book in general discusses the movement’s role in the German Church Conflict. It lays out in detail what the Christianity of Nazis looked like.

2. Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: My one critique of this book is that it starts too late. Because of its focus on the lives and influences of Billy Graham and John Wayne the American fascisms of the 1910’s-1930’s are not covered. However it more than accurately describes the movement of American fascism that we are dealing with today and how we came to the utter nonsense that has been our reality for the last week. By the time you finish it you will have no doubt that the group described in the Twisted Cross is a twin to the one in Jesus and John Wayne.

3. Complicity in the Holocaust by Robert Ericksen: I’ve read a number of books summarizing the German Church Conflict in the last five years, and this is the first one I have read that summarized the entire issue into a concise and informative package (with bonus chapters discussing complicity in academia.) Ericksen references Bergen a number of times in his writing and the two make wonderful companions for each other, as well as showing aspects of the Holocaust and church failure that must be highlighted for the future.

Jesus Christ: The Social Revolutionary and Spiritual Teacher

Hi, I’d like to share some thoughts I’ve been reflecting on about Jesus Christ, his teachings, and their relevance to our world today.

Here’s where I’m coming from: I’m a former Evangelical Christian. Over time, I’ve come to view modern Christianity in America as a desecration of Jesus’ true teachings—a betrayal of his spirit.

I divide Christianity into two types: pre-Constantine Christianity and Constantine Christianity. Pre-Constantine Christianity was a radical, spiritual tradition rooted in the transformative teachings of Jesus. But when Constantine made Christianity the official religion of Rome, the essence of the faith was lost. The mass baptisms introduced during his reign transformed Christianity from a deeply personal and spiritual practice into a tool of imperialism—a set of moral codes designed to control society rather than liberate the individual spirit.

This imperial form of Christianity persists to this day. In America, Christianity is often synonymous with loyalty to the government, militarism, and moralistic nationalism. Yet, it is almost entirely devoid of the true spirituality that Jesus embodied.

I believe that Jesus, through his crucifixion, was engaging in a spiritual practice similar to the Buddhist concept of attaining the rainbow body. In Buddhist teachings, this occurs when one dissolves all inner anger, hatred, and attachments, attaining such purity that their very being transforms into light.

Jewish Mysticism and Kabbalah

While this idea might seem foreign in a Christian context, it aligns with concepts found within Jewish mysticism, specifically Kabbalah and its antecedents. In Kabbalah, there is a belief in tikkun olam—the healing or repair of the world—which begins with healing the inner world of the self. There are also meditative practices and esoteric teachings focused on transforming the self by aligning with the divine.

Before the formal development of Kabbalah in the 12th and 13th centuries, early mystical traditions within Judaism included ideas that Jesus might have been aware of. For example:

Merkavah Mysticism: Emerging in the Second Temple period, this tradition focused on ascension, visionary experiences, and direct encounters with God’s presence, or Shekhinah. Jesus’ transfiguration—where he became radiant in the presence of his disciples—resembles these descriptions of divine encounters.

The “Light of God” in Jewish Mysticism: The concept of pure light, which represents divine presence, appears frequently in Kabbalistic thought. It is possible that Jesus’ teachings reflected an effort to reintroduce this mystical understanding to Jewish spirituality, which was being overshadowed by militarized resistance to Roman occupation.

Purification and Self-Transformation: Central to both early Jewish mysticism and Jesus’ teachings is the idea that spiritual growth requires overcoming internal struggles—what we might call inner jihad. Anger, hatred, and fear are obstacles that prevent one from experiencing divine unity.

These ideas likely converged with other philosophical and spiritual influences, such as Hellenistic thought or even indirect exposure to Buddhist ideas, which were beginning to flow into the Roman Empire through trade routes.

Jesus as a Spiritual Rebel

Jesus’ mission, as I understand it, was to remind the Jewish people of the spiritual essence of their tradition. He opposed the growing militarization and nationalism within Judaism during the Roman occupation, which he saw as a betrayal of their sacred teachings. He sought to lead people away from hatred and toward the divine essence within themselves—what Kabbalah might later describe as the spark of divine light present in every soul.

Jesus’ life exemplifies the role of a wandering sage, offering wisdom to help people heal spiritually and resist the forces that corrupt the soul. He understood that the true Messiah was not a military figure but a spiritual leader who would guide the people back to God.

Jesus’ teachings against militarism echo Jewish prophetic traditions, where prophets like Isaiah and Micah envisioned a time when swords would be turned into plowshares, and nations would no longer wage war. In this way, he sought to repair not just individuals but also the collective spirit of his community.

The Crisis of Modern Christianity

Herein lies my critique of modern Christianity: it has become the very thing Jesus fought against. Today’s Evangelical Christianity is deeply intertwined with nationalism and imperialism. It lacks a spiritual framework to help believers engage in true self-transformation—the kind that Jesus exemplified through his own spiritual practices and teachings.

For example, while some modern Christians practice speaking in tongues or engage in emotional worship experiences, these practices often lack the depth of spiritual systems found in earlier traditions. Catholicism, on the other hand, has preserved some mystical elements, possibly influenced by Kabbalah. During the Crusades, interactions between knights and Jewish communities likely led to the exchange of esoteric knowledge, which may explain why certain mystical elements survive within Catholic theology.

Inner Jihad and the Healing of the World

If modern Christians—or anyone, for that matter—truly wish to honor Jesus’ teachings, they must shift their focus from external conflicts to internal struggles. Jesus understood that hatred, anger, and fear within us manifest as external suffering in the world. This is where the concept of inner jihad becomes relevant.

The inner jihad, or spiritual struggle, is about confronting and dissolving the inner demons—our fears, attachments, and hatred—that keep us separated from divine truth. Jesus exemplified this through his teachings, his actions, and ultimately, through his crucifixion.

Today, many Christians fail to engage in this spiritual struggle. Instead, their religion has become a tool for political power and cultural dominance, mirroring Constantine’s imperial Christianity rather than the revolutionary teachings of Jesus.

Conclusion: A Call to Spiritual Revolution

If we truly want to heal the world—to dismantle the systems of oppression and suffering that surround us—we must first heal ourselves. External revolution must be accompanied by internal transformation. Jesus’ life reminds us that spiritual renewal and societal change go hand in hand.

The sickness in the world is a reflection of the sickness within us. Just as Jesus sought to purify the spiritual heart of his people, we must confront the inner forces that create suffering. Only by doing so can we participate in a spiritual revolution capable of transforming the world.

This, I believe, is the true message of Jesus Christ—a message that transcends religion and calls on all of us to work toward healing both within and without.

Confront them in their work place and force them to resign.

Our future is at stake.

Every single person over 65 should be gone from state and federal government by March.

Sooooo... there's a whole lot on my mind, but I'm gonna try to make it clear & concise. As of now, I'm a 25 yo guy who is on unemployment, only recently got my GED & am going to be taking my drivers test in the next 2 months, all while living with my grandparents after my mom passed unexpectedly in July. I came back to God this month after years of living my life as I wanted, but now I'm quite lost, as far as my next steps.

I feel like a good next step would be to go to Bible college, continue my education, dig deeper in the Bible & build that network of lifelong Christian friends.

I also feel like I need to be going back to work, saving up for a place of my own & trying to find a home church, somewhat in order to help me feel like an adult again.

I've talked to family members & they have all told me to keep my plans "with open hands" (more or less, not jumping into anything until I feel that God has told me to go that way) & I really am trying to, but the anxiety I'm feeling about not having any plans in place is driving me crazy, especially after the past 6 months where everything has changed drastically (mom passing, losing my job, moving to the other side of Minnesota to live in my grandparents basement).

I really would love some input & advice, about any & all of it. If you don't have any of either, please pray for me to have clarity to understand what God wants me to do next, along with the strength & desire to do it.

If there is anything you need praying for please write it in a comment on this post. There are no situations "too trivial" for G-d to help out with. Please refrain from commenting any information which could allow bad actors to resolve your real life identity.

As always we pray, with openness to all which G-d offers us, for the wellbeing of our online community here and all who are associated with it in one form or another. Praying also for all who sufferer oppression/violence, for all suffering from climate-related disasters, and for those who endure dredge work, that they may see justice and peace in their time and not give in to despair or confusion in the fight to restore justice to a world captured by greed and vainglory. In The LORD's name we pray, Amen.

I think this was the first thing I've ever read that was an explicitly leftist Christian text. Been a Unitarian Universalist for a while. I also identify as an atheist but am very interested in learning more about how radical Christians view the world and god's place in their worldview. What should I follow it up with?

I know of Ben Cremer and David Haywood (The Naked Pastor), are there any others you would recommend (specifically I'm looking for ones that write articles/blogs/newsletters etc), thanks

Hey guys, I’m struggling with these verses. It’s seems like Jesus is saying marriage is between a man and a women. I have heard that it is the case that he was answering a specific question, asked by the religion people of the time, if this is the case, why is the first part (regarding man and women) disregarded but not his teaching in divorce?

Thank you all for you help, I’m really trying to understand it a bit better.

https://youtu.be/8XJfqtKh6PQ?si=hiCpipvVElwkfoUE

TLDW: she recited since debunked claims about systemic sexual assaults by Palestinians on Oct. 7 and supported a military response by Israel. Since then she has never had any criticism for the US government’s support of the genocide.

Not really sounding like a Christian question, but well, I have no idea where else I should ask this.

By Libertarian Communist Ideologies I mean those like Autonomism, Council Communism, Anarcho-Communism and other. I'd like to hear which one you prefer the most

Title: "A Walk Through the Modern World"

The air buzzed with the hum of city life as the Lord, Adonai, and His Son, Jesus, walked silently among the people of a modern American city. The streets were filled with the noise of traffic, the rush of pedestrians, and the glow of countless advertisements. It was an unfamiliar world, yet one where the hearts of men were still the same. They had come to see how the modern Christians lived, and how they had understood the ancient words of truth.

Jesus stopped at a busy street corner and observed a large church building. The sign out front advertised a "prosperity gospel" service, promising wealth and success to all who attended. People in suits and dresses were entering, smiles on their faces, as if expecting something grand.

"Father," Jesus began, His voice soft yet firm, "is this what they think I came for? To give them wealth and fame?"

Adonai, towering beside His Son, surveyed the scene with a deep sadness in His eyes. "No, My Son. Their hearts have been swayed by the ways of this world. They seek earthly treasures, not understanding that true riches are found in heaven."

They moved closer, their steps unseen by the crowds around them. Inside the church, a pastor stood on the stage, delivering an impassioned sermon, promising that faith would bring material blessings. The congregation nodded along, a chorus of agreement filling the air.

Jesus’ brow furrowed. "This is not the message I gave them. I came to seek and save the lost, not to make them wealthy. I spoke of taking up crosses, of self-sacrifice, of loving the poor and the needy. Why have they strayed so far from the truth?"

Adonai’s voice was deep, a mix of grief and compassion. "The world has shaped them. They have forgotten that My kingdom is not of this world. They have built kingdoms of their own, and in doing so, they have built walls between themselves and Me. But I will not leave them, My Son. I will call them back."

They moved on, unnoticed, through the streets, and came upon another scene: a group of Christians gathered outside a coffee shop, arguing over the latest political controversy. Their voices were raised in anger, divided by opinions, some speaking of love and others speaking of judgment.

"Father, look at them," Jesus said, His heart breaking. "They fight and bicker, even though I taught them to love one another, to be peacemakers."

Adonai’s voice came, quiet but powerful. "It is the human heart, My Son. They hold grudges, they are swayed by fear and pride. They think they are standing for truth, but they forget that love is the greatest commandment. They have become so focused on what divides them that they fail to see what unites them — My love for them all."

Jesus turned to face the group, His eyes filled with compassion and sorrow. "Will they ever see it, Father? Will they ever understand that the love I gave is the love they must give in return?"

Adonai, with a tender smile, placed a hand on His Son’s shoulder. "They will, My Son. Some will see, some will hear. And they will turn, and they will remember. But it is up to them to choose. I gave them free will, and with it, the power to choose love over hate, unity over division."

They continued their journey, watching silently as the world went on around them, each soul going about their day, unaware of the presence of their Creator. But their eyes were never far from those who believed in them.

After a while, they came upon a more disturbing scene: protesters stood outside an abortion clinic, shouting angrily at those entering. They held signs with harsh words, condemning those they deemed guilty. The protesters’ faces were filled with fury, their voices loud with accusations, while the women who entered the clinic walked past with their heads down.

Jesus stopped, His expression full of sorrow. "Father, why do they stand here, shouting in My name? Do they not understand that I did not come to condemn, but to save?"

Adonai’s voice was heavy with grief. "They have forgotten My heart, My Son. They see the world through the lens of judgment, not compassion. They think they are standing for righteousness, but they are standing on the wrong side. My heart breaks for the hurting, for the broken, for those who feel they have no choice. I have never called My people to stand in condemnation, but to reach out in love and understanding."

Jesus sighed deeply, looking at the women who passed by, their eyes filled with fear, sorrow, and pain. "And what of them, Father? What do we say to those who feel they are abandoned, those who are caught in their own despair?"

Adonai responded with tenderness. "Tell them that I am here. Tell them that they are not forgotten. My love covers all things, and there is no sin too great, no decision too final, that My grace cannot reach. I did not come to cast stones, but to offer healing to the brokenhearted."

Jesus turned to the protesters, their anger so clear in their eyes. "Do they not see, Father? Do they not see that My love is for all people, regardless of their choices? I came to set the captives free, not to bind them in chains of guilt."

Adonai’s voice was soft but firm. "I call you to mercy, not sacrifice. You have the law, but you have forgotten love. You have sought righteousness, but you have neglected justice. My people must learn to love as I have loved them — unconditionally, without pride, without condemnation."

Jesus nodded, His heart heavy but resolute. "And I will keep calling them, Father. I will keep showing them the way of grace."

Together, they stood there, watching as the world carried on around them — a world full of pain, division, and confusion. But in the midst of it all, the love of the Father and the Son still reached out, still beckoned, still waited for all to return.

As they turned to leave, Jesus spoke one final time. "Father, how long will it be before they truly return to You?"

Adonai, with a voice full of patience and eternal love, replied, "I have been patient with them for many generations. I will wait, My Son. I will always be here, calling them back, waiting for the moment when they choose to listen to My voice."

Jesus nodded, understanding His Father’s heart. "And I will be with them always, even to the end of the age."

With that, they vanished into the crowds, unseen, but present, as they always had been — a quiet witness, offering love, hope, and redemption to a world that had forgotten the depth of their message.

Why would queer people and immigrants need mercy? They have done nothing wrong. They need full respect as persons. Mercy is for those with fault. Those who are strangers in the land or who live and love outside of tradition gender norms deserve something more profound and humanizing than mercy. Mercy is what you show criminals.

The preacher said to the president, “have mercy on their souls”

“There’s kids out there really scared and your policy takes a toll”

But the president didn’t like the preacher, and he did well in the polls

Telling people he’d deport my friends and fill Arabs full of holes 

We like to think the world will change when the right guy finally runs

Then we’ll mourn our sin in electing him when a genocide he funds

There’s nothing sacred about our state, there’s nothing new under the sun

A righteous leader would help the people; we know that’ll never be done

The preacher’s words fell on deaf ears the day she took the pulpit

The case for Trump’s eternal soul—I’m afraid we’ll never solve it

He’s playing with so many lives like a child in a ball pit 

How many balls will spill out? I don’t think we’ll ever call it 

A camel through a needle’s eye or a hummer through a hoop 

The rich stand no chance of heaven’s light, to new lows they always stoop

There’s no stopping greed and hate when mercy has flown the coop

From the Dems back to the GOP, we’re stuck in one scary loop

If we cared we’d all rise up and demand a monumental change 

But there’s so much apathy among our people; revolution’s not in range

We did not stop a genocide; we would not turn the page

The preacher cries for mercy; the president puts us in a cage