The Wired Word for 12012024 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 12/01/2024 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article1.be68295a7e40.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 12/01/2024 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#faith, #evangelicalism, #tonycampolo] - #faith - #evangelicalism - #tonycampolo Author: Communication Resources Source: The Wired Word Reference: [Original Source](https://www.thewiredword.com) date created: 2024-12-01 14:35 --- # Title: Reflecting on Tony Campolo’s Legacy and Red Letter Christianity ## Table of Contents: 1. 📝 [Summary](#-summary) 2. 📖 [Main Content](#-main-content) - 🗒️ [Notes](#-notes) 3. 📖 [References](#-references) 4. 🗣️ [Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) 5. 📰 [Newsletter Blurb](#-newsletter) 6. ✅ [Action Items](#-action-items) 7. 🧪 [Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) 8. 📊 [Methodology](#-methodology) 9. ❓ [Questions](#-questions) 10. 🔮 [Future Research](#-future-research) 11. 💡 [Implications](#-implications) 12. 🧠 [Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) 13. 📊 [Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) 14. 🌍 [DEIB Assessment](#-deib-assessment) 15. ✅ [Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) 16. 🔍 [DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) 17. 🔍 [SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) 18. 🎯 [Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: Tony Campolo, an influential American Baptist minister, sociologist, and advocate of “Red Letter Christianity,” has passed away at 89. Known for blending faith with social action, Campolo emphasized addressing poverty and racism as core Christian tenets. His legacy includes inspiring young Christians and challenging evangelicals to embody Jesus' teachings on social and ethical issues. This note explores his life, the essence of Red Letter Christianity, and its implications for modern faith. --- ## 📖 Main Content: ### 🗒️ Notes - **Tony Campolo’s Background**: - Born in Philadelphia, Tony Campolo was a sociologist, preacher, and author of 35 books. - He held degrees from Eastern University, Palmer Theological Seminary, and Temple University. - He was an advocate for social justice, inspired by his immigrant upbringing and Baptist mission experiences. - **Red Letter Christianity**: - Founded by Campolo and Shane Claiborne in 2007. - Focuses on prioritizing Jesus' words (traditionally printed in red) in addressing poverty, racism, and inequality. - Emphasizes living the teachings of the Gospel in action and spirit. - **Social Action and Evangelicalism**: - Campolo linked the Gospel to advocacy for marginalized communities. - He opposed the blending of church and state, famously quipping about its negative impact. - Sought nonpartisanship but faced challenges in bridging divides. - **Influence and Legacy**: - Known for inspiring young people and emphasizing humility and mercy. - Faced criticism but was defended by evangelical theologians. - Advocated for Christianity as transformative for both spiritual and material well-being. --- ## 📖 References: - Religion News Service - God's Politics by Jim Wallis - Baptist News Global --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. Campolo believed Christianity is transformative, rooted in his parents’ experience with a Baptist mission that saved them from poverty. He emphasized that faith isn't solely about securing a path to heaven but about actively improving the world. 2. Campolo viewed the merger of church and state as harmful, describing it as mixing "ice cream with horse manure," which ruins the former without affecting the latter. --- ## 📰 Newsletter: ### Title: Remembering Tony Campolo and the Spirit of Red Letter Christianity This week, we reflect on Tony Campolo’s legacy, a pioneer in connecting evangelicalism to social action. Campolo’s message urged Christians to prioritize Jesus' teachings by addressing poverty and racism. His Red Letter Christianity movement remains a beacon for faith-driven change. Explore his life, works, and how his vision challenges us to integrate compassion into our actions. [Learn more here.](https://www.thewiredword.com) --- ## ✅ Action Items: 1. **Professional Alignment**: - Incorporate Campolo’s vision into discussions about integrating social action with open-source initiatives. - Use his storytelling approach to inspire new contributors in WordPress. 2. **Career Aspirations**: - Apply lessons from Red Letter Christianity to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech ecosystem. 3. **Education and Outreach**: - Develop curriculum modules based on Campolo’s teachings for faith-based technical education programs. --- ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - Red Letter Christianity increases engagement in youth-led social justice initiatives. - Prioritizing ethical teachings in religious communities reduces polarization. --- ## 📊 Methodology: - **Surveys**: Collect data from Red Letter Christian groups on the perceived impact of their initiatives. - **Comparative Studies**: Analyze communities practicing versus not practicing these principles. --- ## ❓ Questions: - How can modern Christian communities balance spiritual and social responsibilities? - What actionable steps can faith-based organizations take to address systemic inequality? --- ## 🔮 Future Research: - Longitudinal studies on the societal impact of Red Letter Christianity. - Exploration of interfaith approaches to social justice inspired by Campolo’s model. --- ## 💡 Implications: - Shifting focus to Jesus' ethical teachings could redefine evangelical priorities. - Strengthened youth engagement through relatable and actionable faith models. --- ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: ### Visual Learners: - **Present**: Sparse. - **Improve**: Add diagrams summarizing Campolo's key messages. ### Aural Learners: - **Present**: Limited. - **Improve**: Provide links to Campolo’s recorded sermons. ### Logical Learners: - **Present**: Strong logical flow. - **Improve**: Include frameworks for applying Red Letter Christianity principles. --- ## 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - **Screen Reader Compatibility**: Ensure articles are formatted with semantic HTML. - **Improve**: Add alt text for historical images of Campolo. --- ## 🌍 DEIB Assessment: - **Representation**: Incorporate stories from diverse demographics inspired by Campolo’s message. --- ## ✅ Logical Validity: - **Strengths**: Clear causal links between faith and social impact. - **Weaknesses**: Risk of oversimplification in some analogies. --- ## 🔍 DARVO Analysis: - No DARVO tactics detected. The article focuses on Campolo’s contributions without denying criticism. --- ## 🔍 SEO Evaluation: - **Title Tag**: Optimized. - **Keyword Placement**: Effective use of "Red Letter Christianity." - **Improve**: Enhance internal links to related content. --- ## 🎯 Conclusion: Tony Campolo’s life exemplifies the fusion of faith and action. By prioritizing Jesus' teachings, he challenges us to make meaningful impacts in our communities. Let’s continue this legacy. --- tags: [#faith, #questions, #reflection] - #faith - #questions - #reflection Author: Communication Resources Source: The Wired Word Reference: [Original Source](https://www.thewiredword.com) date created: 2024-12-01 15:00 --- # Title: Answering Reflection Questions on Tony Campolo’s Life and Legacy ## Table of Contents: 1. 🙏 [Role Models in Faith](#-role-models-in-faith) 2. 🌟 [Evangelical Good News](#-evangelical-good-news) 3. 👩‍🎓 [Ministry to Young People](#-ministry-to-young-people) 4. 📜 [Red Letter Christianity](#-red-letter-christianity) 5. 🎺 [Instruments of God](#-instruments-of-god) 6. ✨ [Biblical Teachings](#-biblical-teachings) 7. 💡 [Further Reflection](#-further-reflection) --- ## 🙏 Role Models in Faith ### Question: Who have been your role models in the faith, and why are you thankful for them? - **Answer**: My role models include people who exemplify humility, service, and action, such as Tony Campolo and Shane Claiborne. I admire their focus on living out Jesus' teachings in practical ways. I’m thankful for their ability to make faith accessible and actionable. --- ## 🌟 Evangelical Good News ### Question: How is bringing good news to the poor true for you? What do "the poor" lack, in your view? - **Answer**: Bringing good news means addressing systemic inequities and ensuring that resources, dignity, and opportunities are accessible to everyone. "The poor" lack m - Summary: On this Thanksgiving weekend, we are grateful for Christians throughout the ages who have inspired and guided us. Dear Class Members, On this Thanksgiving weekend, we are grateful for Christians throughout the ages who have inspired and guided us. Since Tony Campolo, the sociologist and famed "Red Letter Christian" has recently died, this installment of *The Wired Word* will invite you to reflect on his life, give thanks for others who have been role models of the faith, and consider what it means to be a "Red Letter Christian," giving priority to the words of Jesus, which traditionally appear in red in English translations of the New Testament. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Tony Campolo, Sociologist and "Red Letter Christian," Has Died*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of December 1, 2024** **In the News** Tony Campolo, an American Baptist minister and sociologist, has died at age 89. A native of Philadelphia, he was known for his inspiring preaching and sense of humor, which made him a popular speaker at churches, Christian conferences and college campuses. He spent much of his career trying to convince evangelicals and other Christians that their faith should move them to address social issues such as poverty and racism. According to *Religion News Service*, Campolo held degrees from Eastern University, Palmer Theological Seminary and Temple University, and was the author of 35 books. He taught sociology, first at the University of Pennsylvania and then at Eastern Christian College. He also served as an associate pastor at Mount Carmel Baptist, a predominantly African-American church in Philadelphia. "Tony Campolo," reflected theologian and activist Jim Wallis in his newsletter *God's Politics*, "was known as a great preacher but was, above all, an evangelist who proclaimed 'good news to the poor,' just as Jesus did when he launched his mission at Nazareth. That phrase, 'good news,' is a translation of the Gospel of Luke's original Greek word, *evangel*, from which we get the words 'evangelist' and 'evangelical.' Tony was an evangelical, through and through, who believed that genuine evangelicals needed to bring good news to the poor. Period." According to *Baptist News Global*, Campolo was awakened to the power of racism as a teenager when New Berean Baptist, his family's church, refused membership to an African-American woman in 1951. When this pattern of exclusion repeated itself in the 1960s, at a Pennsylvania church that Campolo served as pastor, Campolo resigned his pastorate. While Campolo urged Christians to address social ills, he was wary of mixing church and state. "Putting religion and politics together is like mixing ice cream with horse manure," [he said to the comedian and television host Stephen Colbert](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBbu1SjLX-2BOSQfHBBttjWLbryqy2rXzRDO2FpRb-2BR4zzWeiD8CHDfE9DRcTGcTvuUg8nVkZqkisrWK-2FMUyoUCGOhbRcyNNfXiC0pPl7T7emTT67S_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuyRQsp82PAmPm7aen62B1cRIHbEWBQM9gmRquI00xJjzzzCuRpc16yEBhjSaNW2BrtBynJePMBwSbQg-2FaK2ujX1qMt3moxLyoPtgvuNPWHMihbVuMMNrT-2BX9y2mgy2zZDwY0-2F5xpZGH43gL8ewa7UYWgNnoXpr-2BMtE6Jx-2BV-2FDb9Mxw2-2FfolRYlLTBwoOEX1gDOOqO1sbfglltksy-2Fq2joII-3D) in 2006. "It doesn't hurt the horse manure; it ruins the ice cream. And I think that this merger of church and state has done great harm to religion." Campolo believed that both the political left and political right had contributions to make, and he tried to remain nonpartisan, with limited success. Campolo had a gift for reaching young people with the Christian gospel and inspiring them to go out and try to change the world. His books included *"It's Friday but Sunday's Comin'," "Who Switched the Price Tags?" "The Kingdom of God Is a Party"* and *"A Reasonable Faith."* In 1985, he lost a speaking opportunity at Youth Congress, a national event in Washington, D.C., after critics complained that his book *"A Reasonable Faith"* was heretical. A panel of evangelical theologians disagreed, however, determining that "Tony Campolo cannot rightly be called a heretic," according to *Christianity Today*. Campolo believed in the power of Christianity to change lives in this world, as well as to save people's souls. This conviction grew out of his experiences as a child of Italian-American immigrants, when he witnessed a Baptist mission changing his family's life. "My father couldn't find a job and they were totally impoverished," Campolo said in a 2016 online interview, "and a Baptist mission in South Philadelphia reached out to them, got my father a job, got them a place to stay, put their feet on solid ground and really saved them from despair and destitution." He said that people often asked him, "Where did you get your social consciousness? Where did you get your commitment to the poor, before it was ever fashionable?" His answer: "My mother and father saw in the way they were treated by a group of Baptists that this is what Christianity is about. It's not about getting a ticket to heaven, it's about becoming an instrument of God to transform this world." In 2007, Campolo joined author and activist Shane Claiborne to create "Red Letter Christians," an organization that got its name from the practice of Bible publishers printing the words of Jesus Christ in red ink. This group prioritized the words of Jesus and highlighted his social and ethical teachings. "You'd be hard-pressed to find someone who has influenced evangelicalism more than Tony Campolo in the last 50 years," Claiborne told *Religion News Service.* Campolo died surrounded by family at a Philadelphia retirement community where he and his wife, Peggy, had lived since 2006. His speaking career ended in 2020, when he suffered a debilitating stroke. More on this story can be found at these links: [Tony Campolo, Sociologist and Famed Red Letter Christian, Has Died.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzZtaqMzawRTf7EtlI8nruj4kSrsOTse8TRm8i-2FKelbOJkLTQdGzzipnLKHJ5Rctxwk0CDhGkfGRsEU7HlfjexSQ8paYrXxziTBBDeqeJ4vzHw-3D-3DwMYo_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuxPtjzqNFVhMb4Y7cHRuqi1pXk3l4-2Bj3t8qgcsV-2FBQFt-2BP8oiTxf4tgIG8wKi3jUXbp4UmDoLkXDibrXzNcqG9I4LCpyZyv0N0H7VjnWaXubA6GEHnaH77q5iuIs6vvw81z442Arwig8BCXTV-2BGJd3qQH8aKYp2W2s1lN9cUqnXf0vAdiIsVisxhaazmJwOfFzrR5HitH0cxg69jTGAeQno-3D) [*Religion News Service*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzZtaqMzawRTf7EtlI8nruj4kSrsOTse8TRm8i-2FKelbOJkLTQdGzzipnLKHJ5Rctxwk0CDhGkfGRsEU7HlfjexSQ8paYrXxziTBBDeqeJ4vzHw-3D-3D_Hgf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu3X-2B4Tn4K0RBYSYYLkXgHxk4yuVechet6Yk4bM-2FmwYePHspSNwaS3td9MZAyqbkpio9g6E6p4oQPVg-2FKlnBcD281In7gh8BbftqBQYHSbdBX0FvLhZMhivzKabPF0Bd6cZmXBqTiH9GMloADjYPLgLoE-2Br3GTwaCMzsiCSLVA9jcdMyoY8ur-2F3eUMwv0ILL3C70Rj-2Fy6j2nbXI4piaknDuA-3D) [Tony Campolo: Evangelist to the Evangelicals.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPC-2BpxE3IRnxdCgLv-2FWPxCF8YcJkcyXy3W2wcXDY-2BsUMz8TTff0P4EHAtHMpbFw1CUH3jeBKtx1xml8ug7j02-2B7PILZIt4vm0e3IH-2FTWwgv4hVEuGsxbRnkwRdZtbp-2BbxDmSuCHOOG4I9gngNKH-2BIdUl25KaQlwQPFCQjN1dIBnhyVGYS_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu286nFIrHaowLH3-2FB4jObA802buc8YJjcX-2F-2FBZ8bAAxOE-2B9gzxdUrY0tVQZ-2BHdnwEOn5KrlJ0yvt8-2Bu8XzbC3QegEl288xpxXvaU7yl910Ak7lfAzjFUc9ChnIVGVF6o3K-2FTWOziSghFsacRvU11wb1mTLtjNBVh3qZ7Qtq6CBHpofO-2BJUjR-2Fpi7iwY1m4P2F0Ylqt7Qq7F-2FiBPgVzCvglU-3D) [*God's Politics with Jim Wallis*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPC-2BpxE3IRnxdCgLv-2FWPxCF8YcJkcyXy3W2wcXDY-2BsUMz8TTff0P4EHAtHMpbFw1CUH3jeBKtx1xml8ug7j02-2B7PILZIt4vm0e3IH-2FTWwgv4hVEuGsxbRnkwRdZtbp-2BbxDmSuCHOOG4I9gngNKH-2BIdUl25KaQlwQPFCQjN1dIBnhyOjSU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu2nVhXUsrLFBp2hpK6AkFzLkMLTJicb54qjdMlAikHmSUTACdGvFBgR-2BTfSIxDhFk7hBxP4KlIqqqZQKsrbQvmKPtQA4XZlZC2vJ6UiPRKDWOnE5NGnS3yolo-2BGahjQexJ6R-2FgEsQJO4URzZIjRsq-2FK2WUUhlOU1QAEfK0SnqHz5s6DyCNmuylVS9XaoLLKXQ53-2F4lfx7RviZtON80IWIFw-3D) [Sunday Came for Tony Campolo.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbu2hAa7QMsfvJ1VoFQNH4OtkVx45-2B24NMm-2BJd7IftsuxU7S3kvulo7vG261lYfhkag-3DiRfj_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuyPD4IManHr2Pq97EdQuK3t0mubB9YBAfgK-2FCGMGi2NZijdWJZk57er9vg1BL-2F2O4mTL9a-2FDhMXlKdB1lGnCEEWdQwS632Fa1gvNrqIbONDCBTE-2BpyjlDelr-2BdtByGvLHBAQcMcmr-2FwTL0ZFKEvGG1ghDeT9jG-2Fj8bHzt1UHuz-2FgCmd3op7uap9htQQMMjHW0rkfHZ4lWQD6PiDZDOP4G-2BQ-3D) [*Baptist News Global*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbu2hAa7QMsfvJ1VoFQNH4OtkVx45-2B24NMm-2BJd7IftsuxU7S3kvulo7vG261lYfhkag-3DKqnr_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu2d8AcvqI-2Bo-2Br4lhaxcl0CkZ1pf5lsPKRZwFXYfObN-2BnFFsCNfRGH9lABtHMrfB054kA3shAAv9rfSbGMxKyEeAV5TMrs3pHiYTZjlYTZf03WclIFiZP89e-2B2-2BJfWmL4iyjhGoq8f8pK9wLF9vyfxlUjS-2FbRhZHC1exo-2Fqz116iO7nQeAQVg1qA6-2B72qqtmdXSepJreYSczHhyTNpMLvTbA-3D) **Applying the News Story** Use the life of Tony Campolo as an opportunity to reflect on Christians through the ages who have inspired and guided you. Tony was a powerful storyteller, as Jesus was, and if you never heard him speak you might want to check this out: [The Kingdom of God is a Party](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2Fro3t91c6bQ5er7rfjUwSpibPqLKMqCVEJPYTg6xZ0UQ-3D-3Dhm7r_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu11CZPQK2XQPQX-2B8lzbWrPGVgoRHnP9S7cNC7Tm03X300mfbh-2F7XJFQukIZ3FLSTh5Ti6AKRjDJQ-2FNgS7QPO8o0LgQ3b0DipYhOtd-2FbNoORJySGzxvDnzAZiHrFVWMmHCH2BnHHa3kXKcdE0-2B0fAfPZf9Hp3EJw1QGAq8eA8yAvTk6-2F97iDo39shY6rFF-2Fwi-2BxWfG2ZrkQ0JhFiMMllsERo-3D). Discuss the significance of Campolo's life as a preacher, sociologist and author -- especially his blending of evangelism and social action. Talk about what it means to be a "Red Letter Christian," one who prioritizes the words of Jesus Christ. **The Big Questions** 1. Who have been your role models in the faith, and why are you thankful for them? 2. "Tony was an evangelical," said Jim Wallis, "who believed that genuine evangelicals needed to bring good news to the poor." How is this true for you, if at all? In what ways, if any, is this connection between the gospel and social action made in your church? What is meant by "the good news"? What do "the poor" lack, in your view? 3. Campolo had a gift for reaching young people with the Christian gospel and inspiring them to go out and try to change the world. Why should ministry to young people be a priority in the Christian community? In what ways should they be challenged to change the world? Be specific. 4. Do you consider yourself to be a "Red Letter Christian," prioritizing the words of Jesus? Why or why not? 5. Campolo talked about being "an instrument of God." How do you see yourself being such an instrument? What are the ways in which members of your church are instruments together, and how is God using your congregation to impact the world? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **2 Kings 2:11-13***As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them, and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha kept watching and crying out, "Father, father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!" But when he could no longer see him, he grasped his own clothes and tore them in two pieces. He picked up the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him and went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan.* (For context, read [2 Kings 2:1-14.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxa4KBD6YS97hxayp3x43axOUIAMhYNTRcn0gz4vz-2FgVNN2SH9y6fQQYeMw-2Bi5DXsAkRf1_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu5-2FsEVsFa882-2BOi1j7Re2iZPxZa8i5Xd7jWV-2F1kQqlyKS7u1wBSgjE5UZt3Z3lI-2F5CnS15QU1YcC5wFWZcibxnPw9LjCqRHEGGzdNWkB9Z234l-2B9RcxCFBlkWa-2FePny-2FutqSz6xNzutkZLnvcB8FtejgVNPzujKjhNEHQ-2F0kQy-2BrSWehelfFoiJsihH-2FzEqW6KB8P23p6s7cxjlykJevhwg-3D)) In 2 Kings, a prophet named Elisha is upset by the departure of his mentor Elijah. As the story begins, the two men are on the road outside Gilgal, near the Jordan River. Elijah knows that his prophetic work is coming to an end, so he tries to separate himself from Elisha. Elijah says to his younger colleague, "Stay here; for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel." But Elisha says, "I will not leave you" (vv. 1-2). Then the two men, followed by a company of prophets, proceed to the Jordan River. Elijah takes his mantle, which is a cloak made of cloth, rolls it up, and strikes the water. The water is "parted to the one side and to the other" (v. 8), reminding everyone of the parting of the Red Sea, when Moses led the Israelites out of captivity. It also brings to mind the journey through the Jordan River, when Joshua led the people into the Promised Land. Once on the other side, Elijah says to Elisha, "Tell me what I may do for you before I am taken from you." Elisha says, "Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit" (v. 9). Elisha is not asking to inherit Elijah’s money or property, but is requesting a double share of the older prophet's spirit. He wants to be seen as Elijah’s heir, and to continue his powerful work. A chariot of fire and horses of fire separate the two, and Elijah ascends into heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha watches the ascent of Elijah with anguish, until he passes out of sight. Then Elisha picks up "the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him." TWW Team member Frank Ramirez, who admires Campolo, says, "We're like Elisha, imagining Tony rising in a chariot of fire to glory, while we are challenged to speak prophetically, love audaciously, and live the kingdom. The ball's in our court." > **Questions:** When have you grieved the loss of a Christian mentor, and what did you want to inherit from them? What does it mean to you to inherit "a double share" of a person's spirit? How can you continue their good work in the world? **Matthew 5:43-44***[Jesus said,] "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you ..."* (For context, read [Matthew 5:38-48](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxWtnvLLG9dM2F2UPA5PeWkr8AIoF8qREmWYc2BwHCFfgrgyCWKRsFF1Pzhhf7Pr9JWMiM_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuzAnrKNbVaMm66Cj1Nv-2BfEOQ8DIgV05DIHP4DRc0FKWLuopxR5YooFMpbrmM7RmhAl9XtSeLl4VZ-2BhKJoGyC22JJsJ9eGC-2FTVlRz3JC9VxCWq-2FjkWrJkV8NsJ-2FqIbnMAj-2FBLXF2-2BV-2FrUF4LKCwek54XmKGonM-2BEtsSy480Ko6rjRj-2BXRCoaHPmsK2-2F-2FSIlS2eNuRlsB0xVFjHNBCiVItB3I-3D).) In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus was speaking to a group that knew the tradition of an "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (v. 38). Instead of recommending a violent reaction to violence, he issued a new set of guidelines, "Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also, and if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, give your coat as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile” (vv. 39-41). In a world accustomed to an eye for an eye, this was a new way of responding to attack. To the natural reactions of fight and flight, Jesus reached into his Jewish tradition and pulled out a third response: Love. This reaction requires real bravery and commitment. Completely cut off from warm and fuzzy feelings, this love is grounded in a deep determination to respond to danger by acting in a Christ-like way. According to New Testament scholar Eugene Boring, Jesus calls "for his disciples to reject absolutely the principle of retaliatory violence." This response makes no sense unless it is seen in the context of the kingdom of God. In this heavenly kingdom, enemies are embraced and turned into friends, not rejected and put to death. As Jesus said, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Love does not retaliate, but instead it seeks the welfare of the other person, even if that person is an evildoer. By responding with nonviolence, generosity and helpfulness, Christians stand a chance of leading an enemy closer to the kingdom of God. > **Questions:** Which of the "red letter" teachings of Jesus are hardest for you to embrace and incorporate into your life? Why did Jesus call people to such a difficult way of life? In your opinion and experience, what is the goal of his teachings? What might be a "red letter" teaching that you believe could be misapplied? **Luke 4:18***[Jesus said,] "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor ..."* (For context, read [Luke 4:16-20](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyUecSvquDWyfNbCngcKgQlreYXBaiwFFriNKZzZZuWs512Awdj2rOiZjVTbkfFQWsezH_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuz98a-2FSwDX6uj-2FLBVLNmq5MlHciIT2-2B4j4OzWTyq5FYNqkYYdxtO9JvJ-2FlrhdsXYJlGdB18ojcG61ArHIPTzkATgULfyZMt1w5xcKdyUxUm9SS3GEDZDCYWTBJt9bBfzOvuZeRlE6EgHOPM-2F2XSBx7ovruIKz90lASuAokfWMs4pzrtlqSeA-2F79SbCBv7OstsHbqBW1GX8ME2BmmwNkJ2IY-3D).) In the gospel of Luke, Jesus is tempted by the devil and survives 40 days in the wilderness, then returns to his home region of Galilee. Arriving in the town of Nazareth, Jesus goes to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, as was his custom. As an observant Jew, he is welcome to participate in the synagogue worship service, including the public reading of Scripture. Jesus stands and reads from the scroll of the Hebrew prophet Isaiah. "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me," he says, reading from Isaiah 61, "because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind" (v. 18). Then he inserts the line from Isaiah 58:6, "to set free those who are oppressed," before returning to Isaiah 61 for the words, "to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" (v. 19). Then Jesus rolls up the scroll, gives it back to the synagogue attendant, and sits down. The eyes of all in the synagogue are fixed on him, because they know he is going to speak. "Today," says Jesus, "this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing" (v. 21). Jesus identifies himself as the one anointed by the Spirit of the Lord, and by reading these words from Isaiah he talks about the direction his anointed ministry will take. He makes it clear that his ministry will be all about good news to the poor, release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind. > **Questions:** How central are these words of Isaiah to the mission and ministry of Jesus, in your opinion? What role do they play in your life? Where do they impact the mission and ministry of your church, if at all? How do you and your church define "good news," "the poor," "the captives" and "the blind"? **Acts 20:35***[Paul said] "In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"* (For context, read [Acts 20:32-35](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxQ6szpYef1Y3DTeTMyXxuIBbMD4NH7IXW7axZIi39z71-2BLlt06NiU1uQp7GEGaRGLlB7I_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu7tVpvRIj9ElXaBujyADxomoSLV7CeLkaOQd-2FaSJiTedUQK-2BJKS8S-2FPgc7JT-2BvTVk1iaVbgw8IMlzdFdce661Yzw5owqCt-2BMCK5u5M8aS8ZuhvNNmAxdSxZW4fAk3oSxODUW9H5a8a7zV6I2qk-2FqyoLeBT1bp8Sw89iVgcS92mYR0YW78rkn0dtrMYFGjV5A9N9aedG0n-2F6OhQucchXKBkM-3D).) In Acts, Paul speaks to a group of Ephesian elders and says, "You know for yourselves that I worked with my own hands to support myself and my companions" (v. 34). He did this as an example of working to "support the weak," in obedience to the words of Jesus himself, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Paul worked with his own hands, probably as a tentmaker, to support himself and his companions, but even more importantly he supported "the weak" of his community, in line with the words and example of Jesus. "The purpose of appealing to Jesus," notes Bible professor Robert W. Wall, is to underscore the truth "that the community's solidarity is only as strong as its commitment to its own 'weak.'" The Greek for "weak" can also mean "sick" or "diseased." > **Questions:** How do you strike a balance between working to support yourself and working to "support the weak"? What importance does this have in your obedience to the words of Jesus? When and how has the church challenged you to support people who are disabled, sick or diseased? **For Further Discussion** 1. "Campolo points to the humility of following Jesus as the outward actions and words we use to live out [our] faith: caring for others, showing mercy and compassion, the willingness to engage kindly with those whose views and opinions differ," writes TWW team member Mary Sells. "There is nobody whom God despises (even if he hates our sin, he loves us). How do we live the love of God and evidence it to others? Do the Gospels speak to us about how to live and act and speak? Jesus said and showed us that he who is first will be last, and he who is last will be first. What does that mean to us? Who is last to us -- poor? imprisoned? sick? lonely? someone with whom we disagree politically or otherwise?" Offer your response to one or more of these questions. 2. [Cara Meredith recalls that](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbt5fFPSGRmoYg1Ilqen6Ms8GW-2BMYUmIkV4jnaQL9neXXousmvo39-2BlyVOKfGWLZQUdn074ceK541bJTz4a1TadRkGys_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu6hxYwayLRgkZHNzU-2BraJkbHyyB-2FJikoxtKu2AGrBwAhTbl-2BypLf-2FPEgZOCIH235C3h-2BcwOJ5bvurEaXfUwVVN8u-2BZeRL2HzxltUWjImYg2gBpgb-2FBLhVOc-2FRvMohHdu-2B9SsunXh-2FKtxNx9ozg2FIvhYiHinbqCVlJhKa2NXd6Lca-2B4UkGavDdRVZH-2B89whiasoZNUkYTmqvHAa85htqRdQ-3D) in the early to mid-1980s, Tony Campolo often began addressing college audiences with the following opening lines: *I have three things I'd like to say today. First, while you were sleeping last night, 30,000 kids died of starvation or diseases related to malnutrition. Second, most of you don't give a [expletive]. What's worse is that you're more upset with the fact that I said [expletive] than the fact that 30,000 kids died last night.* Meredith says that "it was Campolo who showed me Christianity isn't just about getting that lucky, golden ticket to heaven. Instead, faith is about looking beyond ourselves. Faith is about doing and being as Jesus showed us to be, which also means faith is about addressing social problems like racism and poverty." Respond. 3. TWW team member Bill Tammeus recalls, "Several decades ago, Tony Campolo spoke at my church. The only thing I remember besides his endless energy was his emphasis on how much the Hebrew Scriptures emphasized the need for fairness in business transactions. Such as accurate weights" ([Leviticus 19:35-37](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxjEJmKyTKrwMbYoHzGlAEZZfBzBxN4u-2FLrUvFsMMCQsJs6r8uEviMMlLCDXU1rx1VAWVa_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu5xQ2nY4qRNCnGXriwnf-2BgM7f-2BGGHm5M8LNbNZm5XiezBZNC6zLVO9K6sKafuOvdZAjJoeAJ6lkGEtTpoXhiqw7AzR1vJIXO1dY0PFZYjtwyfzV8Azx0TR-2FidV5uBvcvyZIbMRPqFSvYbEFB5e7na-2FX22cl8jc-2FeE4RiI2jeAi2pecL3I78-2Bn2eyWrWL9fFvnLHMmwkoebGv3QBWtrR3oq0-3D)). What is the importance of this connection, in your opinion? How does it influence your behavior, if at all? 4. Name a person whom you consider to be a role model of the Christian faith. What impressed or inspired you about them? What surprised you? What concerned you? If you could ask them one question, what would it be? **Responding to the News** Identify one quality of Tony Campolo, or another Christian leader, that causes you to feel deep gratitude. Make a commitment to develop that quality in yourself, and find a concrete way to express it in your life. **Prayer** We thank you, Lord God, for all who have lived the Christian faith and shared it with us. Help us to continue their work in the world, both by sharing the gospel and improving the world. In Jesus' name. Amen. **Copyright 2024 Communication Resources** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=ePBE4Y0TvXDxU38BZTzJ_KL4XbyTnmWQkOmeqdORibhoMDAwdTAwMH3GhvVUO8FfQPyXOvKXB3SEIX9CkytWmwumR5q-ef-rjaaHCT1Y0p7s1OJkADzF5915FLePt6jvetz7gJQBJR3oLuiFSrHLF-jFlf0L0BJ8C-9AiMI3j7z86fvDU0nfgLphi3UMPOvcyN-sPDJdkKLdQO2565r0KMzuKy6oRr3xFcWoGHpwdCT_NA9Uc4w7ie4MTSz9wzf5_xDMZIcW8QTuSNrgA1oaxFgVwCimxNgTY9CXuhvUMjUufenlJeo25wf1YoR7Y9Vrwt7bcyFxG3VqUTO6i_AaJY6Yjuh2wvCotxDV2OXzL6CYQqOcAz-QbX7KkQmVEMyGPJ0DeRd91hRFiB-G6P3b1e9WpTdfL_3pieAER5tmESKPLdtaqOxT1oQnBhcigici0HRtLYEWkVF8RANJphjlh_aerQh2GG0ly8HdcHd6odO-48XKxKlQqNqjUWBwT8lZr03AeOiiFmyUsX5iltqpZlBaHSUevBczJiFPlNo8JtHhUTlLFMwDxBAqUigOgM8Vz3X3m6SJDodtHtozeDhVIbwahy76D6AQaZBbUXZ8SOiYXNGDr9EW6OXNJpB-8v2zZJjyuRcDeeM=) <div>Dear Class Members, On this Thanksgiving weekend, we are grateful for Christians throughout the ages who have inspired and guided us. Since Tony Campolo, the sociologist and famed "Red Letter Christian" has recently died, this installment of The Wired Word will invite you to reflect on his life, give thanks for others who have been role models of the faith, and consider what it means to be a "Red Letter Christian," giving priority to the words of Jesus, which traditionally appear in red in English translations of the New Testament. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Tony Campolo, Sociologist and "Red Letter Christian," Has Died The Wired Word for the Week of December 1, 2024 In the News Tony Campolo, an American Baptist minister and sociologist, has died at age 89. A native of Philadelphia, he was known for his inspiring preaching and sense of humor, which made him a popular speaker at churches, Christian conferences and college campuses. He spent much of his career trying to convince evangelicals and other Christians that their faith should move them to address social issues such as poverty and racism. According to Religion News Service, Campolo held degrees from Eastern University, Palmer Theological Seminary and Temple University, and was the author of 35 books. He taught sociology, first at the University of Pennsylvania and then at Eastern Christian College. He also served as an associate pastor at Mount Carmel Baptist, a predominantly African-American church in Philadelphia. "Tony Campolo," reflected theologian and activist Jim Wallis in his newsletter God's Politics, "was known as a great preacher but was, above all, an evangelist who proclaimed 'good news to the poor,' just as Jesus did when he launched his mission at Nazareth. That phrase, 'good news,' is a translation of the Gospel of Luke's original Greek word, evangel, from which we get the words 'evangelist' and 'evangelical.' Tony was an evangelical, through and through, who believed that genuine evangelicals needed to bring good news to the poor. Period." According to Baptist News Global, Campolo was awakened to the power of racism as a teenager when New Berean Baptist, his family's church, refused membership to an African-American woman in 1951. When this pattern of exclusion repeated itself in the 1960s, at a Pennsylvania church that Campolo served as pastor, Campolo resigned his pastorate. While Campolo urged Christians to address social ills, he was wary of mixing church and state. "Putting religion and politics together is like mixing ice cream with horse manure," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBbu1SjLX-2BOSQfHBBttjWLbryqy2rXzRDO2FpRb-2BR4zzWeiD8CHDfE9DRcTGcTvuUg8nVkZqkisrWK-2FMUyoUCGOhbRcyNNfXiC0pPl7T7emTT67S\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuyRQsp82PAmPm7aen62B1cRIHbEWBQM9gmRquI00xJjzzzCuRpc16yEBhjSaNW2BrtBynJePMBwSbQg-2FaK2ujX1qMt3moxLyoPtgvuNPWHMihbVuMMNrT-2BX9y2mgy2zZDwY0-2F5xpZGH43gL8ewa7UYWgNnoXpr-2BMtE6Jx-2BV-2FDb9Mxw2-2FfolRYlLTBwoOEX1gDOOqO1sbfglltksy-2Fq2joII-3D">he said to the comedian and television host Stephen Colbert</a> in 2006. "It doesn't hurt the horse manure; it ruins the ice cream. And I think that this merger of church and state has done great harm to religion." Campolo believed that both the political left and political right had contributions to make, and he tried to remain nonpartisan, with limited success. Campolo had a gift for reaching young people with the Christian gospel and inspiring them to go out and try to change the world. His books included "It's Friday but Sunday's Comin'," "Who Switched the Price Tags?" "The Kingdom of God Is a Party" and "A Reasonable Faith." In 1985, he lost a speaking opportunity at Youth Congress, a national event in Washington, D.C., after critics complained that his book "A Reasonable Faith" was heretical. A panel of evangelical theologians disagreed, however, determining that "Tony Campolo cannot rightly be called a heretic," according to Christianity Today. Campolo believed in the power of Christianity to change lives in this world, as well as to save people's souls. This conviction grew out of his experiences as a child of Italian-American immigrants, when he witnessed a Baptist mission changing his family's life. "My father couldn't find a job and they were totally impoverished," Campolo said in a 2016 online interview, "and a Baptist mission in South Philadelphia reached out to them, got my father a job, got them a place to stay, put their feet on solid ground and really saved them from despair and destitution." He said that people often asked him, "Where did you get your social consciousness? Where did you get your commitment to the poor, before it was ever fashionable?" His answer: "My mother and father saw in the way they were treated by a group of Baptists that this is what Christianity is about. It's not about getting a ticket to heaven, it's about becoming an instrument of God to transform this world." In 2007, Campolo joined author and activist Shane Claiborne to create "Red Letter Christians," an organization that got its name from the practice of Bible publishers printing the words of Jesus Christ in red ink. This group prioritized the words of Jesus and highlighted his social and ethical teachings. "You'd be hard-pressed to find someone who has influenced evangelicalism more than Tony Campolo in the last 50 years," Claiborne told Religion News Service. Campolo died surrounded by family at a Philadelphia retirement community where he and his wife, Peggy, had lived since 2006. His speaking career ended in 2020, when he suffered a debilitating stroke. More on this story can be found at these links: <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in; background: white;"> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzZtaqMzawRTf7EtlI8nruj4kSrsOTse8TRm8i-2FKelbOJkLTQdGzzipnLKHJ5Rctxwk0CDhGkfGRsEU7HlfjexSQ8paYrXxziTBBDeqeJ4vzHw-3D-3DwMYo\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuxPtjzqNFVhMb4Y7cHRuqi1pXk3l4-2Bj3t8qgcsV-2FBQFt-2BP8oiTxf4tgIG8wKi3jUXbp4UmDoLkXDibrXzNcqG9I4LCpyZyv0N0H7VjnWaXubA6GEHnaH77q5iuIs6vvw81z442Arwig8BCXTV-2BGJd3qQH8aKYp2W2s1lN9cUqnXf0vAdiIsVisxhaazmJwOfFzrR5HitH0cxg69jTGAeQno-3D">Tony Campolo, Sociologist and Famed Red Letter Christian, Has Died. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzZtaqMzawRTf7EtlI8nruj4kSrsOTse8TRm8i-2FKelbOJkLTQdGzzipnLKHJ5Rctxwk0CDhGkfGRsEU7HlfjexSQ8paYrXxziTBBDeqeJ4vzHw-3D-3D\_Hgf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu3X-2B4Tn4K0RBYSYYLkXgHxk4yuVechet6Yk4bM-2FmwYePHspSNwaS3td9MZAyqbkpio9g6E6p4oQPVg-2FKlnBcD281In7gh8BbftqBQYHSbdBX0FvLhZMhivzKabPF0Bd6cZmXBqTiH9GMloADjYPLgLoE-2Br3GTwaCMzsiCSLVA9jcdMyoY8ur-2F3eUMwv0ILL3C70Rj-2Fy6j2nbXI4piaknDuA-3D">Religion News Service</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPC-2BpxE3IRnxdCgLv-2FWPxCF8YcJkcyXy3W2wcXDY-2BsUMz8TTff0P4EHAtHMpbFw1CUH3jeBKtx1xml8ug7j02-2B7PILZIt4vm0e3IH-2FTWwgv4hVEuGsxbRnkwRdZtbp-2BbxDmSuCHOOG4I9gngNKH-2BIdUl25KaQlwQPFCQjN1dIBnhyVGYS\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu286nFIrHaowLH3-2FB4jObA802buc8YJjcX-2F-2FBZ8bAAxOE-2B9gzxdUrY0tVQZ-2BHdnwEOn5KrlJ0yvt8-2Bu8XzbC3QegEl288xpxXvaU7yl910Ak7lfAzjFUc9ChnIVGVF6o3K-2FTWOziSghFsacRvU11wb1mTLtjNBVh3qZ7Qtq6CBHpofO-2BJUjR-2Fpi7iwY1m4P2F0Ylqt7Qq7F-2FiBPgVzCvglU-3D">Tony Campolo: Evangelist to the Evangelicals. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPC-2BpxE3IRnxdCgLv-2FWPxCF8YcJkcyXy3W2wcXDY-2BsUMz8TTff0P4EHAtHMpbFw1CUH3jeBKtx1xml8ug7j02-2B7PILZIt4vm0e3IH-2FTWwgv4hVEuGsxbRnkwRdZtbp-2BbxDmSuCHOOG4I9gngNKH-2BIdUl25KaQlwQPFCQjN1dIBnhyOjSU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu2nVhXUsrLFBp2hpK6AkFzLkMLTJicb54qjdMlAikHmSUTACdGvFBgR-2BTfSIxDhFk7hBxP4KlIqqqZQKsrbQvmKPtQA4XZlZC2vJ6UiPRKDWOnE5NGnS3yolo-2BGahjQexJ6R-2FgEsQJO4URzZIjRsq-2FK2WUUhlOU1QAEfK0SnqHz5s6DyCNmuylVS9XaoLLKXQ53-2F4lfx7RviZtON80IWIFw-3D">God's Politics with Jim Wallis</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbu2hAa7QMsfvJ1VoFQNH4OtkVx45-2B24NMm-2BJd7IftsuxU7S3kvulo7vG261lYfhkag-3DiRfj\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuyPD4IManHr2Pq97EdQuK3t0mubB9YBAfgK-2FCGMGi2NZijdWJZk57er9vg1BL-2F2O4mTL9a-2FDhMXlKdB1lGnCEEWdQwS632Fa1gvNrqIbONDCBTE-2BpyjlDelr-2BdtByGvLHBAQcMcmr-2FwTL0ZFKEvGG1ghDeT9jG-2Fj8bHzt1UHuz-2FgCmd3op7uap9htQQMMjHW0rkfHZ4lWQD6PiDZDOP4G-2BQ-3D">Sunday Came for Tony Campolo. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbu2hAa7QMsfvJ1VoFQNH4OtkVx45-2B24NMm-2BJd7IftsuxU7S3kvulo7vG261lYfhkag-3DKqnr\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu2d8AcvqI-2Bo-2Br4lhaxcl0CkZ1pf5lsPKRZwFXYfObN-2BnFFsCNfRGH9lABtHMrfB054kA3shAAv9rfSbGMxKyEeAV5TMrs3pHiYTZjlYTZf03WclIFiZP89e-2B2-2BJfWmL4iyjhGoq8f8pK9wLF9vyfxlUjS-2FbRhZHC1exo-2Fqz116iO7nQeAQVg1qA6-2B72qqtmdXSepJreYSczHhyTNpMLvTbA-3D">Baptist News Global</a> </div> Applying the News Story Use the life of Tony Campolo as an opportunity to reflect on Christians through the ages who have inspired and guided you. Tony was a powerful storyteller, as Jesus was, and if you never heard him speak you might want to check this out: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2Fro3t91c6bQ5er7rfjUwSpibPqLKMqCVEJPYTg6xZ0UQ-3D-3Dhm7r\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu11CZPQK2XQPQX-2B8lzbWrPGVgoRHnP9S7cNC7Tm03X300mfbh-2F7XJFQukIZ3FLSTh5Ti6AKRjDJQ-2FNgS7QPO8o0LgQ3b0DipYhOtd-2FbNoORJySGzxvDnzAZiHrFVWMmHCH2BnHHa3kXKcdE0-2B0fAfPZf9Hp3EJw1QGAq8eA8yAvTk6-2F97iDo39shY6rFF-2Fwi-2BxWfG2ZrkQ0JhFiMMllsERo-3D">The Kingdom of God is a Party</a>. Discuss the significance of Campolo's life as a preacher, sociologist and author -- especially his blending of evangelism and social action. Talk about what it means to be a "Red Letter Christian," one who prioritizes the words of Jesus Christ. The Big Questions 1. Who have been your role models in the faith, and why are you thankful for them? 2. "Tony was an evangelical," said Jim Wallis, "who believed that genuine evangelicals needed to bring good news to the poor." How is this true for you, if at all? In what ways, if any, is this connection between the gospel and social action made in your church? What is meant by "the good news"? What do "the poor" lack, in your view? 3. Campolo had a gift for reaching young people with the Christian gospel and inspiring them to go out and try to change the world. Why should ministry to young people be a priority in the Christian community? In what ways should they be challenged to change the world? Be specific. 4. Do you consider yourself to be a "Red Letter Christian," prioritizing the words of Jesus? Why or why not? 5. Campolo talked about being "an instrument of God." How do you see yourself being such an instrument? What are the ways in which members of your church are instruments together, and how is God using your congregation to impact the world? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: 2 Kings 2:11-13 As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them, and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha kept watching and crying out, "Father, father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!" But when he could no longer see him, he grasped his own clothes and tore them in two pieces. He picked up the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him and went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxa4KBD6YS97hxayp3x43axOUIAMhYNTRcn0gz4vz-2FgVNN2SH9y6fQQYeMw-2Bi5DXsAkRf1\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu5-2FsEVsFa882-2BOi1j7Re2iZPxZa8i5Xd7jWV-2F1kQqlyKS7u1wBSgjE5UZt3Z3lI-2F5CnS15QU1YcC5wFWZcibxnPw9LjCqRHEGGzdNWkB9Z234l-2B9RcxCFBlkWa-2FePny-2FutqSz6xNzutkZLnvcB8FtejgVNPzujKjhNEHQ-2F0kQy-2BrSWehelfFoiJsihH-2FzEqW6KB8P23p6s7cxjlykJevhwg-3D">2 Kings 2:1-14.</a>) In 2 Kings, a prophet named Elisha is upset by the departure of his mentor Elijah. As the story begins, the two men are on the road outside Gilgal, near the Jordan River. Elijah knows that his prophetic work is coming to an end, so he tries to separate himself from Elisha. Elijah says to his younger colleague, "Stay here; for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel." But Elisha says, "I will not leave you" (vv. 1-2). Then the two men, followed by a company of prophets, proceed to the Jordan River. Elijah takes his mantle, which is a cloak made of cloth, rolls it up, and strikes the water. The water is "parted to the one side and to the other" (v. 8), reminding everyone of the parting of the Red Sea, when Moses led the Israelites out of captivity. It also brings to mind the journey through the Jordan River, when Joshua led the people into the Promised Land. Once on the other side, Elijah says to Elisha, "Tell me what I may do for you before I am taken from you." Elisha says, "Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit" (v. 9). Elisha is not asking to inherit Elijah’s money or property, but is requesting a double share of the older prophet's spirit. He wants to be seen as Elijah’s heir, and to continue his powerful work. A chariot of fire and horses of fire separate the two, and Elijah ascends into heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha watches the ascent of Elijah with anguish, until he passes out of sight. Then Elisha picks up "the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him." TWW Team member Frank Ramirez, who admires Campolo, says, "We're like Elisha, imagining Tony rising in a chariot of fire to glory, while we are challenged to speak prophetically, love audaciously, and live the kingdom. The ball's in our court." <blockquote> Questions: When have you grieved the loss of a Christian mentor, and what did you want to inherit from them? What does it mean to you to inherit "a double share" of a person's spirit? How can you continue their good work in the world? </blockquote> Matthew 5:43-44 [Jesus said,] "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you ..." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxWtnvLLG9dM2F2UPA5PeWkr8AIoF8qREmWYc2BwHCFfgrgyCWKRsFF1Pzhhf7Pr9JWMiM\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuzAnrKNbVaMm66Cj1Nv-2BfEOQ8DIgV05DIHP4DRc0FKWLuopxR5YooFMpbrmM7RmhAl9XtSeLl4VZ-2BhKJoGyC22JJsJ9eGC-2FTVlRz3JC9VxCWq-2FjkWrJkV8NsJ-2FqIbnMAj-2FBLXF2-2BV-2FrUF4LKCwek54XmKGonM-2BEtsSy480Ko6rjRj-2BXRCoaHPmsK2-2F-2FSIlS2eNuRlsB0xVFjHNBCiVItB3I-3D">Matthew 5:38-48</a>.) In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus was speaking to a group that knew the tradition of an "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (v. 38). Instead of recommending a violent reaction to violence, he issued a new set of guidelines, "Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also, and if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, give your coat as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile” (vv. 39-41). In a world accustomed to an eye for an eye, this was a new way of responding to attack. To the natural reactions of fight and flight, Jesus reached into his Jewish tradition and pulled out a third response: Love. This reaction requires real bravery and commitment. Completely cut off from warm and fuzzy feelings, this love is grounded in a deep determination to respond to danger by acting in a Christ-like way. According to New Testament scholar Eugene Boring, Jesus calls "for his disciples to reject absolutely the principle of retaliatory violence." This response makes no sense unless it is seen in the context of the kingdom of God. In this heavenly kingdom, enemies are embraced and turned into friends, not rejected and put to death. As Jesus said, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Love does not retaliate, but instead it seeks the welfare of the other person, even if that person is an evildoer. By responding with nonviolence, generosity and helpfulness, Christians stand a chance of leading an enemy closer to the kingdom of God. <blockquote> Questions: Which of the "red letter" teachings of Jesus are hardest for you to embrace and incorporate into your life? Why did Jesus call people to such a difficult way of life? In your opinion and experience, what is the goal of his teachings? What might be a "red letter" teaching that you believe could be misapplied? </blockquote> Luke 4:18 [Jesus said,] "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor ..." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyUecSvquDWyfNbCngcKgQlreYXBaiwFFriNKZzZZuWs512Awdj2rOiZjVTbkfFQWsezH\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJuz98a-2FSwDX6uj-2FLBVLNmq5MlHciIT2-2B4j4OzWTyq5FYNqkYYdxtO9JvJ-2FlrhdsXYJlGdB18ojcG61ArHIPTzkATgULfyZMt1w5xcKdyUxUm9SS3GEDZDCYWTBJt9bBfzOvuZeRlE6EgHOPM-2F2XSBx7ovruIKz90lASuAokfWMs4pzrtlqSeA-2F79SbCBv7OstsHbqBW1GX8ME2BmmwNkJ2IY-3D">Luke 4:16-20</a>.) In the gospel of Luke, Jesus is tempted by the devil and survives 40 days in the wilderness, then returns to his home region of Galilee. Arriving in the town of Nazareth, Jesus goes to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, as was his custom. As an observant Jew, he is welcome to participate in the synagogue worship service, including the public reading of Scripture. Jesus stands and reads from the scroll of the Hebrew prophet Isaiah. "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me," he says, reading from Isaiah 61, "because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind" (v. 18). Then he inserts the line from Isaiah 58:6, "to set free those who are oppressed," before returning to Isaiah 61 for the words, "to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" (v. 19). Then Jesus rolls up the scroll, gives it back to the synagogue attendant, and sits down. The eyes of all in the synagogue are fixed on him, because they know he is going to speak. "Today," says Jesus, "this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing" (v. 21). Jesus identifies himself as the one anointed by the Spirit of the Lord, and by reading these words from Isaiah he talks about the direction his anointed ministry will take. He makes it clear that his ministry will be all about good news to the poor, release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind. <blockquote> Questions: How central are these words of Isaiah to the mission and ministry of Jesus, in your opinion? What role do they play in your life? Where do they impact the mission and ministry of your church, if at all? How do you and your church define "good news," "the poor," "the captives" and "the blind"? </blockquote> Acts 20:35 [Paul said] "In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxQ6szpYef1Y3DTeTMyXxuIBbMD4NH7IXW7axZIi39z71-2BLlt06NiU1uQp7GEGaRGLlB7I\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu7tVpvRIj9ElXaBujyADxomoSLV7CeLkaOQd-2FaSJiTedUQK-2BJKS8S-2FPgc7JT-2BvTVk1iaVbgw8IMlzdFdce661Yzw5owqCt-2BMCK5u5M8aS8ZuhvNNmAxdSxZW4fAk3oSxODUW9H5a8a7zV6I2qk-2FqyoLeBT1bp8Sw89iVgcS92mYR0YW78rkn0dtrMYFGjV5A9N9aedG0n-2F6OhQucchXKBkM-3D">Acts 20:32-35</a>.) In Acts, Paul speaks to a group of Ephesian elders and says, "You know for yourselves that I worked with my own hands to support myself and my companions" (v. 34). He did this as an example of working to "support the weak," in obedience to the words of Jesus himself, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Paul worked with his own hands, probably as a tentmaker, to support himself and his companions, but even more importantly he supported "the weak" of his community, in line with the words and example of Jesus. "The purpose of appealing to Jesus," notes Bible professor Robert W. Wall, is to underscore the truth "that the community's solidarity is only as strong as its commitment to its own 'weak.'" The Greek for "weak" can also mean "sick" or "diseased." <blockquote> Questions: How do you strike a balance between working to support yourself and working to "support the weak"? What importance does this have in your obedience to the words of Jesus? When and how has the church challenged you to support people who are disabled, sick or diseased? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. "Campolo points to the humility of following Jesus as the outward actions and words we use to live out [our] faith: caring for others, showing mercy and compassion, the willingness to engage kindly with those whose views and opinions differ," writes TWW team member Mary Sells. "There is nobody whom God despises (even if he hates our sin, he loves us). How do we live the love of God and evidence it to others? Do the Gospels speak to us about how to live and act and speak? Jesus said and showed us that he who is first will be last, and he who is last will be first. What does that mean to us? Who is last to us -- poor? imprisoned? sick? lonely? someone with whom we disagree politically or otherwise?" Offer your response to one or more of these questions. 2. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbt5fFPSGRmoYg1Ilqen6Ms8GW-2BMYUmIkV4jnaQL9neXXousmvo39-2BlyVOKfGWLZQUdn074ceK541bJTz4a1TadRkGys\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu6hxYwayLRgkZHNzU-2BraJkbHyyB-2FJikoxtKu2AGrBwAhTbl-2BypLf-2FPEgZOCIH235C3h-2BcwOJ5bvurEaXfUwVVN8u-2BZeRL2HzxltUWjImYg2gBpgb-2FBLhVOc-2FRvMohHdu-2B9SsunXh-2FKtxNx9ozg2FIvhYiHinbqCVlJhKa2NXd6Lca-2B4UkGavDdRVZH-2B89whiasoZNUkYTmqvHAa85htqRdQ-3D">Cara Meredith recalls that</a> in the early to mid-1980s, Tony Campolo often began addressing college audiences with the following opening lines: I have three things I'd like to say today. First, while you were sleeping last night, 30,000 kids died of starvation or diseases related to malnutrition. Second, most of you don't give a [expletive]. What's worse is that you're more upset with the fact that I said [expletive] than the fact that 30,000 kids died last night. Meredith says that "it was Campolo who showed me Christianity isn't just about getting that lucky, golden ticket to heaven. Instead, faith is about looking beyond ourselves. Faith is about doing and being as Jesus showed us to be, which also means faith is about addressing social problems like racism and poverty." Respond. 3. TWW team member Bill Tammeus recalls, "Several decades ago, Tony Campolo spoke at my church. The only thing I remember besides his endless energy was his emphasis on how much the Hebrew Scriptures emphasized the need for fairness in business transactions. Such as accurate weights" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxjEJmKyTKrwMbYoHzGlAEZZfBzBxN4u-2FLrUvFsMMCQsJs6r8uEviMMlLCDXU1rx1VAWVa\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT1t6SC-2FwrQ9HIP9TZIwtw-2FnlljLygoSXgiQZDUtDf-2BBjvnNhL-2BmdNXqzXM2mkvJu5xQ2nY4qRNCnGXriwnf-2BgM7f-2BGGHm5M8LNbNZm5XiezBZNC6zLVO9K6sKafuOvdZAjJoeAJ6lkGEtTpoXhiqw7AzR1vJIXO1dY0PFZYjtwyfzV8Azx0TR-2FidV5uBvcvyZIbMRPqFSvYbEFB5e7na-2FX22cl8jc-2FeE4RiI2jeAi2pecL3I78-2Bn2eyWrWL9fFvnLHMmwkoebGv3QBWtrR3oq0-3D">Leviticus 19:35-37</a>). What is the importance of this connection, in your opinion? How does it influence your behavior, if at all? 4. Name a person whom you consider to be a role model of the Christian faith. What impressed or inspired you about them? What surprised you? What concerned you? If you could ask them one question, what would it be? Responding to the News Identify one quality of Tony Campolo, or another Christian leader, that causes you to feel deep gratitude. Make a commitment to develop that quality in yourself, and find a concrete way to express it in your life. Prayer We thank you, Lord God, for all who have lived the Christian faith and shared it with us. Help us to continue their work in the world, both by sharing the gospel and improving the world. In Jesus' name. Amen. 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