Being radical for Jesus means being subject to the authorities (Rom. 13:1). It means being patient in tribulation, constant in prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints and showing hospitality (Rom. 12:12-13). These aren’t particularly exciting things, but I think we need to realize that these are radical! The world does not operate this way. Those who don’t know God curse in the midst of tribulation, never pray, indulge their sins, curse their enemies and despise righteousness.
If we seek to obey the Bible, we will be radical. If we seek to follow Jesus, that will inevitably lead to crazy love.
I’m not opposed to doing big things for God. We need more people in the mission field and the orphanages.
But for most of us, being radical for Jesus means being faithful to do the “ordinary” Christian things. The Christian life is inherently radical, inherently risky and inherently crazy. Following Jesus means dying to myself every single day. That is radical. If I seek to obey God’s word, my life will look very different than the rest of the world.
If God calls you to go to the mission field, wonderful! Go hard.
But if God calls you to the cubicle field, don’t feel guilty! Be radical right where you are. Fight against your sin. Serve your spouse. Give generously. Spend time with the outcasts. Share the gospel with your neighbors.
Remember, Jesus doesn’t just want your risk. He wants all of your life.
