However, radical also has a different meaning, that of getting down to the roots of a problem. In that way, radical ideas or actions go beyond small adjustments to otherwise just systems. If a problem or injustice in our world is rooted in deep cultural, political, or religious assumptions, then looking at its roots becomes critical. It helps remind us that the world we currently live in is neither the kingdom of God, nor the divine commonwealth: not even close. PCU once produced a book called Resistance that encouraged readers to go beyond simple reforms. They were encouraging us to live a more radical Christianity.
Historically, the word radical has also been a way to describe church communities that have emphasized church as a distinct way of living, particularly those belonging to the Radical Reformation. These include Church of the Brethren, Mennonites, Quakers, and those sympathetic to this approach. Additionally, there are newer groups focusing on "radical discipleship" as a key component of what it means to follow Jesus.
It is difficult to reclaim words that have been abused by our society. Sometimes it is too much work to experience them in a different light. In that case, it is best to come up with new words and images. But as our quote of the week demonstrates, there are lots of other "scary" words that can help us re-imagine what the way of Jesus is all about!
Trying to follow the radical way of Jesus,
Timothy Murphy
Executive Director