Jesus Christ Smorgasbord

By Kevin Anselmo

You have probably heard of the film Jesus Christ Superstar, produced back in 1973. Now I think we need a new film entitled “Jesus Christ Smorgasbord”. Such a title succinctly would sum up the way people in general perceive Jesus Christ.

Of course a smorgasbord is a type of meal, originally derived from Sweden, in which an array of dishes are spread out across the table. Guests pick and choose the dishes which are most appealing, leaving the undesirable on the table for others. In the 21st century, I think this image best describes how people approach Jesus Christ’s teachings. Pick and choose and leave the less desirable on the side.

I recently heard a talk from Scotty McLennan based on his book “Jesus was a liberal”. McLennan, who heads Stanford University’s religious affairs, eloquently points out some of Jesus’ more “liberal” viewpoints (the word liberal itself is of course subjective to our cultural viewpoints. McLennan is referring to liberal from the US political point of view).

Jesus Christ, based on the gospel writers portrayal of him, was indeed radical. He completely revamped the societal norms of the time. From teachings that emphasized concern for the marginalized - women, foreigners, children, the poor, tax collectors - to the way he viewed “working” on the Sabbath - Jesus Christ based on the gospel writers’ depiction was truly revolutionary. McLennan, and many others (including myself for that matter) are keen to point out these teachings of Jesus.

Less appealing are teachings such as when Jesus says that he is the way the truth, and the life. “Nobody comes to the father, but by me,” Christ states in gospel of John. Similarly, the thought of “taking up our crosses” and following Christ doesn't on the surface seem so glamorous. McLennan, and surely many others, while praising the “liberal” teachings and words of Christ, tend to downplay some of Christ’s claims to divinity. In some cases, such teachings of Christ are utterly rejected in exchange for a more universal acceptance of all religions as being equally adequate ways to salvation and God.

Belief in only Christ as the means to salvation may indeed sound unappealing. But could it be true? Believer or not, most would agree that in the last 2,000 years, few have changed the course of history as dramatically as Christ. Jesus Christ Smorgasbord may be the masses most desirable approach in coming to an understanding of this influential figure. But is it the most effective and true way of approaching and understanding Christ? A child may go to a smorgasbord and select only the deserts. Sweets are the most appealing for many of all ages, especially children. But is choosing only the desirable deserts most healthy for a human being? In the same way, is choosing only the “desirable” claims of Christ the most effective way to understanding God? As a child reluctantly eats his/her veggies, is it possible that acceptance of all of Christ’s teachings - even the unappetizing- are really better and healthier for us in the long run?

Just some “food for thought” for the next time you reluctantly eat some healthy dish that may not necessarily taste as scrumptious as your favourite dessert …. : )