Was Jesus Woke?

A Christian critique of contemporary “wokeness”, Jesus and the failings of modern social justice movements.

In today’s sociopolitical climate, the term “woke” is often used to describe individuals who claim to be highly aware and sensitive to social and political issues, particularly those related to race, gender, sexuality, and other marginalized identities. While it is admirable to be aware of social injustices and to work towards creating a more equitable society, the problem with “wokeness” lies in its inflexibility, arrogance, tendency to ignore dissenting views, and focus on attention-seeking rather than meaningful solutions.

So-called “woke” individuals often become rigid in their views, dismissing alternative perspectives and failing to engage in constructive dialogue. This rigidity hinders dialogue, collaboration ,progress and perpetuates unproductive and divisive conversations.

Wokeness tends to ignore or vilify dissenting views. Woke individuals usually believe that their views are the only correct ones, leading them to dismiss or ignore perspectives that differ from their own. This lack of openness to differing opinions hinders cooperation and limits the potential for growth and understanding.

Wokeness often prioritizes attention-seeking over meaningful solutions to social and political issues. While it is important to raise awareness and demand change, it is equally important to offer practical, effective solutions to the challenges we face as a society. Woke individuals almost constantly overlook the need for concrete action and realistic solutions in favor of self-promotion.

In contrast, Jesus, as presented in the New Testament, does not fit the contemporary understanding of the term “woke.” His teachings and actions were focused on sharing the message of salvation through faith in Him and living a moral life guided by the teachings of the Bible.

While Jesus did address issues of social justice, such as caring for the poor and oppressed, His approach was distinct from contemporary “woke” activism. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, He emphasized the importance of love, compassion, and forgiveness rather than advocating for specific inflexible political or social movements. Jesus called His followers to be salt and light in the world, living out their faith through selflessness, humility, and service to others.

Christ’s teachings were rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures, which emphasized obedience to God’s law and the importance of individual moral responsibility. His teachings were not focused on advocating for specific policies or social reforms but on transforming individuals’ hearts and minds through faith in Him.

Jesus advocated for love, compassion, mercy, forgiveness, dialogue, generosity, hope, faith, and understanding as the keys to living a moral life. These principles are sadly sorely missing in the lives of the so-called “woke” people who tend to embrace inflexibility, the systemic dismissal of dissenting views, alienation as a way of protection, and attention-seeking rather than offering meaningful solutions. Wokeness’ shortcomings hinder progress and perpetuate unproductive and divisive conversations.

Jesus’s teachings did address issues of social justice, but His approach was distinct from contemporary activism and emphasized individual moral responsibility and faith in God. As Christian individuals and communities, we must strive for a balance between awareness, compassion, and practical solutions in our efforts to create a more equitable and just society.

Written by Esther with the assistance of Christian AI.