From John the Baptist to MLK Jr.

Reading through the Bible, you will see how radical many people are when it comes to what they believe and what they are called to be and stand for. John the Baptist is known as a forerunner of Jesus. He declared that one greater than himself was coming and was the one who had been prophesied as the messiah (Matthew 3:1-3). Today, some might say that John was “savage;” not because of how he lived but because of his radical ministry.

Like Jesus, John was a Nazarite and lived a very distinct lifestyle. What he wore, what he ate, and how he adorned his hair are evidence of that. John’s life is remarked by Jesus as “of all who have ever lived, none are greater than John (Matthew 11:11). We know that John was jailed and eventually his life was ended when he confronted Herod Antipas over marrying Herodias, his brother’s wife (Luke 3:19). John proclaimed the Kingdom and challenged the culture. That was his life. He risked all to do it.

Like John the Baptist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr also risked everything. He lived a life where he preached and proclaimed the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. At a time of civil unrest and great upheaval, he risked jail and his own life to challenge the status quo for civil liberties. Today, all around the world, people are remembering the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Many school children, parents, and others will be home or out attending commemorations and events. I’m actually attending a Leadership summit with my son at the end of the week. However, it has caused me to revisit some thoughts that I’ve had over the last few years.

Three years ago, I wrote a piece wherein I stated that King’s dream cries for new voices for today. I still believe this today. However, I believe that the voices that are needed, won’t just be voices for civil liberty but justice in every area. In an age of “cancel culture” and radical progressivism, it has become an affront to the Kingdom and God’s Ekklesia. I believe with all my heart that we will soon see a new boldness from people of God who will once again risk everything to challenge culture and the lies that are blinding and binding not only God’s people but everyone that does not know the truth.

You may have heard about such people in certain circles and under specific circumstances of a pastor here and there who have arisen to challenge change or resist cultural decay and decline. The rot that has permeated all the spheres of society is about to see God’s bold and courageous step forth with a fierceness that has not been seen since the days of MLK and John the Baptist.

My prayer today is that if you likewise feel the need for radical voices to rise in this day, you too will pray for them, their strength and courage. The days ahead will require such people as John the Baptist and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The faith to boldly proclaim both the Kingdom and challenge culture is necessary. These are troubling times and the carriers of salt and light must show up where they are needed most.