The Two Faces of Jesus

Janus was a major Roman god two thousand years ago.


Janus was the god of transition. He oversaw the beginning and the end of many of Rome’s events. Most significantly, he oversaw the beginning and the end of conflict. Janus is associated with war and peace.

The Two Faces of Janus

When Rome was at war, the doors to the Temple of Janus were left open and left closed when Rome was at peace.

As the god of transitions, Janus is depicted with two heads. He was always looking forward to the future and backward to the past.

Today’s verses are 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11.

The Christians in Thessalonica are being persecuted by society. Paul is reminding the Thessalonians that Jesus will return.

On his return, Paul tells us that Jesus will show both of his faces.

On the one hand, he will redeem all Christians, those living and those who have previously died. This is Jesus’ face of faith, hope and love.

On the other hand, unbelievers will be greeted by Jesus other face. They will suffer Jesus’ wrath, and that means suffering eternally in the burning lake of sulfur.

 

Some have argued that the Christian Church is the oldest earthly institution. As old as the church is, it has always suffered  persecution of one sort or another.

 

We in the USA rarely suffer physical persecution. From this perspective, we are blessed.

 

Around the world, however, Christians are being put to death for their faith at an alarming rate. While this is a cause for concern, those martyrs are also blessed, probably more than we are.

 

Paul continues with instructions for living in an era of persecution. He reminds us to be self controlled, be in God’s Word and to encourage each other. We are to demonstrate our faith, hope and love to the rest of the world.

 

Jesus has two faces. His face of wrath will be shown to unbelievers on the last day.  We see his second face and we are to share it with others by demonstrating our faith, hope and love.

 

What can you do today to share the face of Jesus?