Was Jesus a Liberal? This is the accusation we set out to address. We have looked at His approach to Scripture, events in His life, and various teachings of His law. Do the things we have noticed fit into the definition of what it means to be “liberal”? Let us reexamine the terms used to describe the concept and see if Jesus fits the pattern.
Liberal – The definition we used for liberal was “one who is open minded, not strict in the observance of orthodox, traditional or established forms or ways.” It would be difficult to really classify Jesus as “open minded.” After all, He did not form His opinions, beliefs, or practices based on the views of those around Him. The things Jesus spoke were from the Father (John 12:49). The things He practiced were the things of God (John 5:19; 8:29). His teachings and actions did not originate with man.
Could we say that Jesus was “not strict in the observance of orthodox, traditional or established forms or ways”? It is true that Jesus often confronted the Pharisees and condemned them for “teaching as doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15:9). However, He condemned them for elevating the commands and traditions of men to the level as divine revelation. He never condemned them for strict observance to the Law (Matthew 23:23). In fact, we noticed that in many instances His law was actually stricter than the established law (the Law of Moses) they were under.
Progressive – This has to do with an interest in “new ideas, findings or opportunities.” It can be argued that Jesus brought a new teaching to the Jewish people. He is the “mediator of a better covenant” (Hebrews 8:6). But just because Jesus brought a new teaching does not mean He was looking for new ideas, findings or opportunities while on earth. As we noted in the previous section, Jesus spoke and did the things of the Father (John 12:49; 5:19; 8:29). He was not looking for new and better ideas and practices while on earth.
Tolerant – We noticed that tolerance here has reference to “sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with one’s own” or “the act of allowing something.” We know that anyone can be accepted by Christ (Acts 10:35). Jesus came to save the world (John 3:16). Yet we have no indication in Scripture that Jesus will accept one who refuses to repent and turn away from his sin. Acts 10:35 tells us the type of person that He will accept – “The man who fears Him and does what is right.” Any can do this regardless of race, color, language, or culture; but not all will choose to do so. Jesus will accept all who will come to Him and submit to His will, but He is not tolerant of sin.
Independent Thinking – In a sense, we could say Jesus was independent thinking. He was not influenced by those around Him. As we noticed, He said and did the things of the Father. But simply being “independent thinking” does not make Jesus a Liberal. His careful approach to Scripture, application of it, and teachings of His new law certainly do not demonstrate a liberal mentality. Jesus’ thinking was independent of all worldly influences, but that does not mean He was a liberal.
Loving – Jesus is certainly a prime example of one who demonstrated love. He told His apostles, “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). He freely gave His life on the cross as a sacrifice to all. This clearly shows us His love. However, many think that showing love will preclude us from being critical or condemning of someone. This is not the case. Jesus said, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent” (Revelation 3:19). If one truly loves someone, he will show him where he is wrong – not to belittle him or make himself out to be better than him, but to help bring him back to what is right. This is what we see in Jesus.
We have looked at what is meant by the charge that Jesus was a Liberal. We have defined terms so we can clearly understand what is under consideration. We looked at Jesus’ approach to Scripture, events in His life that showed His application of Scripture, and the teachings of His law – the gospel. After examining all of these things, we have seen that Jesus was not a Liberal. This allegation that He was is simply false.
As Christians, we are to follow the example of Christ (1 Peter 2:21). To do this, we must be careful in our handling of the word of God and application of it. We need to not let ourselves be influenced by the world around us, but speak and practice the things of God. We are to “ask for the ancient paths” (Jeremiah 6:16), not look for something new. In all things, we should show love. The love we are to show is not a tolerance or an overlooking of sin. That is not love. We are to look out for the best interest of others. Sometimes this will mean reproving them for sin in their life. When this is necessary, we must be careful to speak “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). But we must speak the truth and correct them. Did Jesus possess a liberal mindset? No. Are we to have a liberal mindset in matters of religion? No. We are to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).
