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Outrage is everywhere. We see it in social media debates, political divisions, and personal conflicts. Defined as a strong reaction of shock, anger, or indignation in response to perceived injustice, outrage often leads to emotional distress, public protest, or even defiance. But this level of frustration and division isn’t new. As Ed Stetzer reminds us in Christians in the Age of Outrage, we are called to live as gospel-centered believers in a world filled with shouting, anger, and hatred.
Rejection is a painful reality of life. Joseph experienced it when his brothers mocked him, threw him into a pit, and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:17-28). Jesus, too, was despised and rejected, yet He embraced His suffering, knowing God’s purpose in the pain (Isaiah 53:3-6). Pastor Tony Evans reminds us that Jesus willingly endured rejection because He trusted in the Father’s plan. Instead of responding with outrage, Jesus responded with love, bringing redemption to a broken world (John 3:16-20).
Jesus calls us to something greater than revenge or anger. In Matthew 5:38-41, He teaches us to turn the other cheek, to love instead of retaliate, and to trust God instead of reacting in rage. On the cross, He didn’t cry out in condemnation but in forgiveness: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)
In an age of outrage, Jesus gives us a better way: Trust, not outrage. Love, not outrage. Maturity, not outrage. Will we follow His example?
