6. Gender and Theology - David

Gender and Theology

Rosemary Radford Ruether: Challenging Messianic Expectations

Page 1: Overview

• Introduction to the role of gender within theological discussions.

• Focus on the thoughts of Rosemary Radford Ruether surrounding messianic predictions.

Page 2: Recap

• Exploring the identity and meaning of Wisdom in the context of theology.

Page 3: Ruether's Argument on Messianic Expectations

• Challenging Traditional Views:

  • Ruether argues that Jesus challenges traditional messianic expectations.

  • Many anticipated the Messiah as a kingly figure akin to King David.

  • By challenging these expectations, Jesus also confronts patriarchal assumptions.

• The Vision of the Kingdom:

  • Ruether describes Jesus’ vision as non-nationalistic and grounded on earth.

  • It calls for a future where domination and subjugation are abolished and human needs are met.

  • Supported by the Lord’s Prayer as evidence of the earthly reign of God.

Page 4: Davidic Expectations

• David's Status:

  • The idea of a second David is a significant messianic prophecy in the Old Testament.

  • David is characterized as a warrior and liberator of the Israelites.

Page 5: Davidic Prophecies

• Messianic Predictions Include:

  • A descendant of David establishing an eternal kingdom.

  • This offspring being acknowledged as a son of God.

  • The portrayal of suffering yet still being favored by God.

  • Reference from 2 Samuel 7 explains God's promise about David's lineage.

Page 6: Jesus as the Son of David

• Genealogy of Jesus:

  • Gospels of Matthew and Luke link Jesus’ lineage to David, emphasizing royal heritage.

  • Significance of Jesus’ birthplace in Bethlehem as the royal city of David.

  • Account from Luke 2 highlights the context of Jesus' birth.

Page 7: Partial Fulfillment of Expectations

• Jesus and Kingly Representation:

  • Jesus fulfills some aspects of messianic prophecies as a king.

  • His actions (like cleansing the Temple) evoke connections to good kings like Hezekiah.

Page 8: Non-Conventional Messiah

• Jesus as a Different Kind of Leader:

  • Not a warrior king; enters Jerusalem humbly on a donkey.

  • Cleansing of the Temple done with a whip rather than violence.

  • The title 'Son of David' is more associated with healing than royal descent.

Page 9: Quotes Highlighting the Servant Role

• Servanthood in Justice:

  • Quotes from Isaiah and Matthew illustrate Jesus’ gentle and nurturing character, bringing justice and rest.

Page 10: Transcending Davidic Expectations

• Christ’s Superiority:

  • Jesus claims he is greater than David and other revered figures.

  • Reference to Matthew 22 establishes Jesus’ authority and divine role.

Page 11: Disappointment to Warriors

• Contrasting Expectations:

  • Jesus disappoints those who expected a military leader.

  • John 18:36 emphasizes the nature of Jesus' kingdom and its spiritual foundation.

Page 12: The Servant King

• Model of Leadership:

  • Jesus embodies servitude, washing his disciples' feet and teaching humility.

  • Urges followers to reject domination and embrace servant leadership.

Page 13: Revisioning the Messiah

• Rethinking the Concept of Messiah:

  • Ruether advocates for a non-military understanding of the Messiah reflecting self-sacrifice and love.

  • Jesus’ language about God promotes relationships free from hierarchy, portraying a community of equality among believers.

Page 14: Extension Activity

• Examples for Essays:

  • Choose three instances of Jesus defying messianic expectations and explain their significance.

  • Suggested areas of focus may include humility, service, and breaking of patriarchal roles.