Reclaiming Our Identity: Jesus and the “Synagogue” of Religion

In the core of the New Testament, Jesus shares an insight that often goes unnoticed; “Those who do not gather with me scatter.” This simple statement carries a profound message urging us to reconsider our place in the religious community and reaffirm our identity in a world that sometimes pulls us away from it.

[Luk 11:23 KJV] 23 He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.

The Dispersed and the Community

The term “scatters” in this passage, translated from Greek, is also interpreted as “synagogue.” This correlation is not by chance. Jesus is not just talking about gathering; he’s addressing the spiritual connection with him within the existing religious framework, which the synagogue represented in his era.

The synagogue was more than a structure; it was a vital center of Jewish life – a space for worship, education, and communal activities. Jesus himself frequently taught in synagogues despite knowing that religious authorities were plotting against him. This wasn’t contradictory but rather a deliberate choice. Jesus recognized the importance of engaging with the establishment rather than avoiding it. Paul grasped this concept, too, and dedicated his life to proclaiming the gospel truth to his fellow Jews who were influenced by those directly involved in his crucifixion. He invested heavily in his interactions with them, resulting in the creation of two-thirds of the New Testament and Paul himself shaping Christianity as we recognize it today.

The Disgrace of Contemporary Secular Society

In this age, secular society frequently criticizes believers, pressuring them to forsake their religious identity in the interests of “relevance.” We are often told that faith is antiquated, illogical, and potentially detrimental. This societal pressure can compel us to withdraw from environments such as churches and other faith-based communities. However, Jesus’s teachings challenge this prevailing narrative. Instead of urging us to distance ourselves from the religious sphere, he encourages active engagement within it. This doesn’t imply accepting everything; rather, it involves being present, discerning, and embodying our faith amidst structures that may appear contrary to it.

Embracing Our Beliefs

Reaffirming our identity within the realm of religion makes a “come out” requirement and separation from secularity that can be costly and difficult when so many professing Christians have built their own sense of self and identify in the secular/”spirituality realm. This act of separation demands bravery and steadfastness. It necessitates entering spaces where we may face misunderstanding or criticism. It entails engaging in dialogues with individuals holding beliefs while maintaining an attitude of love and respect. Furthermore, it calls for acknowledging that our faith should not be concealed or viewed with shame. Instead, it is a gift meant to be shared—a beacon illuminating the darkness. When we come together with Jesus, we’re part of something other than ourselves – a community of believers tasked with positively impacting the world.

Meeting with (gathering with) Jesus goes beyond attending church services or participating in religious events. It’s about nurturing a personal connection with him and letting his love influence every aspect of our lives, including how we interact within the community. Gathering with Jesus gives us a wellspring of strength, wisdom, and guidance. We are empowered to navigate the intricacies of the landscape, distinguishing truth from falsehood and spreading love instead of hate. Through this connection, we are also emboldened to share the message of Jesus Christ with those who are seeking direction.

A Call to Engage

Jesus’s teachings urge us to take action. They challenge us to step outside our comfort zones and actively participate in the sphere—not as mere bystanders but as involved members. They remind us that our faith is meant to be lived out in fellowship with others who share our devotion to Jesus. It’s also an invitation for us to rediscover our identity as believers. We need to let go of the guilt imposed by society and fully embrace who we are in Christ. When we come together with Jesus, we discover our purpose and mission. We join a movement that makes a difference in the world one heart at a time.

Let’s not allow fear or uncertainty to scatter us. Instead, let’s unite with Jesus, boldly declaring our faith and living out our dedication to him in every aspect of our lives. Because in him, we find our place, our true sense of self, and our true future.