Some notes from John Ortberg’s message on the influence Jesus has had on history. Ortberg gave probably around 100 facts. This is just a small sample.
We are stewards of a movement that has reshaped history more than any other.
Jesus is not just the greatest king among kings, but is the King of kings.
Every world leader and king now has their birth and death marked in relation to Jesus’ birth.
Things did not change by accident.
Wherever you have an institution of self-giving for the lowly, whose recipients will never be able to repay, it probably has its roots in the movement started by Jesus.
92% of all colleges and universities started before the Civil War were started in Christ’s name.
Jesus revolutionized the arts. Dante, Bach, Luther’s hymns, Mozart, all did their work to the glory of God. Modern musical notation an invention of monks.
Separation of church and state, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God.” This is perhaps the most influential political statement ever made. It had been assumed in the ancient world that religion was the prerogative of the ruler. Jesus separated the realms.
Jesus changed how we think of human rights and dignity. The notion of individual rights, where did this come from? It was not self-evident in the ancient world. Today almost everyone says “I believe in a God of love.” Where did that come from? It was rare in the ancient world. Jesus brought a new way of thinking about God.
Jesus uniquely taught love your enemies. In the ancient world it was admired to help your friends, but harm your enemies.
The real question is not who was this man but who is this man?
His work is not done yet.