Red Letter Christians is a movement that holds the teachings of Jesus — which are highlighted in red letters in many Bibles — as central to our understanding of the Bible. Christ is the lens through which we interpret the Word and the world. Not only do we have words on paper, but the Word becomes flesh in Jesus.
There are many passages in those red letters … but here are a few that have shaped us as a movement. We encourage you to explore God’s word, both the stuff in red and the stuff in black. And we invite you to give Jesus a chance, even in spite of the embarrassing things we Christians have done in his name.
The Beatitudes
Jesus said:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.“
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
- Jesus sends the disciples
- Parable of the Sower and Seeds
- The Rich Young Ruler
- Parable of the Two Sons
When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.
Luke 11:2-4
- Come to Me
- The Greatest Commandment
- The Good Samaritan
- The Goats and the Sheep
Whoever wants to save their life will lose it,
but whoever loses their life for me will save it.
Luke 9:24
- Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet
- Jesus Comforts and Prays for Disciples
- Jesus Disarms Peter
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21
- The Lost Sheep
- Stumbling Blocks
- The Great Commission
- Jesus Reconciles Peter
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
To find all lectionary readings for the coming week, please check out Vanderbilt’s site here.