Raleigh Mennonite Church

As a Christian community, called to peacemaking and reconciliation, we affirm that people of any race, ethnic identity, gender, who are gay or straight, of any ability, age, or economic status, are welcome to full participation in our congregation.

Alexamenos adores his god – Nov. 20, 2022

Scripture: Luke 23: 33-43

On this Sunday celebrating the reign of Jesus, Melissa shared the image of some graffiti archaeologists uncovered depicting a man with his arm raised toward a man with a donkey’s head nailed to a cross. Under it bears the inscription “Alexamenos adores his god.”

There are frequently two depictions of Jesus. One as a passive, suffering Jesus on the cross. The other as a warrior Christ. So much of culture, both centuries ago and in the US today, would have us worship a warrior Christ that reigns over people. Christian nationalism is one of the most current examples.

Worshipping a crucified Christ is counter-cultural, yet that is what we are called to do.

An ancient carving on a wall depicting a man raising his arm to a man with a donkey's head and the saying "Alexamenos adores his god."
Raleigh Mennonite Church
Alexamenos adores his god - Nov. 20, 2022
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