Avoiding Division is Political

In the fifth episode of our Lent podcast series, ecological ethicist Byron Smith is joined by Common Grace’s Creation and Climate Justice Coordinator, Jane Kelly, and climate scientist Felicity McCormack for a conversation about Jesus cleansing the temple in Matthew 21.

This powerful moment in Scripture reminds us that Jesus wasn’t afraid to challenge injustice—sometimes in ways that were seen as disruptive or divisive. As followers of Jesus, we, too, are called to speak up, express righteous anger, and lament when things are not as they should be. But too often, in our churches and society, a perspective is labelled “divisive” simply because it challenges the status quo. Yet maintaining the status quo is just as much a political act as calling for change.

When it comes to climate justice, those who speak out against environmental destruction are sometimes accused of causing division—when, in reality, the real harm is being done by those profiting from pollution. Felicity shares her own experiences navigating difficult conversations and reflects on how opposing views on climate action often stem from shared ethical concerns. Byron, Jane and Felicity also explore how the church can be a place of hope and an alternative community in the face of an uncertain future.

Listen to this podcast episode below

You can also download the episode via this Google Drive link.

A transcript of this conversation can be downloaded here. 

Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’”

The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were indignant.

“Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him.

“Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read,

“‘From the lips of children and infants

    you, Lord, have called forth your praise’?”

And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.

Matthew 21:12-17

________

We invite you to pray and continue reflecting on this conversation today. 

Reflect:

Can you think of any other passages where Jesus could be said to be "divisive"? Can you find any pattern about why he may have acted this way?

Have you ever had a discussion with a Christian about an injustice that has turned into a disagreement? What are some shared beliefs that both of you may have brought to that topic?

Can you think of a topic important to you that does not seem to be discussed in your church? What might be an appropriate way for you to raise it in church community?

Pray:

Loving God,

We pray that our churches would be places of honesty and healthy discussion. Help us to raise important issues even if they are rarely talked about. Help us to listen with grace to those with whom we disagree. As we consider the climate crisis, help us imagine ways that our churches can be places of hope, honesty, lament, and true community.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Go Deeper:

Common Grace’s Climate and Creation Justice advisory team have collected resources that have helped inform, encourage and inspire them. Learn about the science of climate change, explore resources produced and published by Common Grace and discover further links to videos, podcasts and book recommendations here. 

	Jane Kelly is Common Grace’s Creation and Climate Justice Coordinator. Based in Western Sydney on the lands of the Toogagal people of the Dharug nation, she has studied theology, ministry, ethics, and legal studies. Jane is passionate about connecting with people, hearing their stories, and seeking a better future for all of God’s creation.
	Felicity McCormack is a Senior Lecturer in Antarctic Science at Monash University, researching how Antarctic ice flow contributes to sea level rise. Her work helps reduce uncertainty in sea level projections, particularly for vulnerable communities in the Indo-Pacific. Based in Naarm/Melbourne on Wurundjeri land, she finds solace in walking along the Birrarung/Yarra River when the weight of climate change research feels heavy. Felicity is also part of Common Grace’s Creation and Climate Justice advisory team.
	Byron Smith is an ecological ethicist helping churches connect the care of creation with Christian discipleship. He holds a PhD in theological ethics, exploring emotional responses to climate disruption and their relationship to faith and identity.