The anger about the film produced in the USA allegedly insulting the Muslim prophet Mohammed came to Australia today with protests in Sydney.
There is some evidence that some of the anger has been stirred up by various organisations with political aims. Why did some obscure, very poorly made video clip uploaded to YouTube cause all this trouble? Well it was broadcast last week on a TV channel in Egypt and suddenly became very public. Crowds all around the world are being manipulated for the purposes of other people.
Whether it is cartoons in Denmark or movies in the U.S., Muslims are very quick to defend the honour of their prophet- often turning to violence to do so.
Christians are, sadly, very used to hearing the name of Jesus reviled, scorned and mocked. We endure the media taunting Christians and artists being quite sacrilegious in their productions.
Very rarely do Christians get stirred up in their reactions. We wouldn't think of holding placards saying "Behead those who insult the Saviour."
It's not because Christians are morally superior or too cowardly to confront insulters.
It is because we have a different kind of leader.
Jesus came into the world to be insulted, humiliated and to suffer. This is His mission. It is in undergoing these things that Jesus brings redemption and a new form of kingship in which the greatest must first be the least.
While Christians are every bit as offended and hurt by the world's rejection of Christ as the Muslims are of Mohammed, we have no need to defend His honour.
Jesus emptied Himself of all glory so that the Father would give Him the highest place, and one day every knee will bow to Him and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
When people insult you for following Jesus; when the world mocks and belittles your Saviour; do not be surprised. Above all do not be angry or vindictive.
This is the way of the Lord.
New Life Narrabri 