The existence of leftists and rightists presents an intriguing dichotomy within human societies. Whether these two perspectives can ever be reconciled remains an open question. Leftists are often viewed as communistic, while rightists are seen as champions of freedom. Interpretations of both stances are subjective and vary from person to person. In some nations, political divisions are so extreme that a consensus seems unattainable. Societies are split along ideological lines, aligning with either leftist principles or rightist views. These divisions, however, reflect the complex nature of the world we inhabit, until a unifying event occurs.
Humans have developed methods to define what is considered leftist in contrast to rightist, with the defining patterns being inherent. The dichotomy lies in defining good and evil, where good is determined by the principle of the greatest benefit for the majority. Conversely, bad is defined as what brings the least benefit to the majority. This does not imply that leftists are always correct, or the opposite. Confusion is resolved not necessarily by adhering to a specific philosophy, but by embracing a principle that promotes the greatest good for the majority.
Each appears to be firmly rooted in their respective ideologies. Considering that all humans descend from Adam, how did such divisions arise? Despite sharing Adam’s original sin, they are divided on principles that ought to unify them. To comprehend human behaviour, it is beneficial to grasp the characteristics of these two fundamental principles. These divisions are depicted in Scripture as becoming evident on the Day of Judgment as declared by Jesus. How did these groups coexist, since the beginning of humanity?
“All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me”’ (Matthew 25:32-36 NKJV).
It may appear coincidental that Jesus seems to be condemning leftists in favour of rightists, based on a secular interpretation. However, it is not appropriate to strictly apply secular definitions of ‘leftist’ or ‘rightist.’ A traditional leftist should be willing to align with rightists if it benefits the majority and vice versa. The standard should always be to provide the greatest good for the majority, rather than the greatest harm to the minority. Jesus attributed the left side to unacceptable behaviour. Humans possess intellectual abilities that are not found in other species.
The ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians can be a case in point as a pressing issue. It is inappropriate to impose a leftist philosophy without considering the values of those involved. Using religion or any other pretext to undermine human dignity cannot be justified. Every person must show love to all humans, regardless of race, without bias. Ideological standpoints are often used to justify injustices. The most effective standard for evaluating information is its positive impact on the majority, demonstrating that humans can choose right over wrong.
The creation of nuclear weapons, for instance, signifies a serious irresponsibility of the human psyche. What dominates this world lacks the philosophy of treating others as one would wish to be treated. Individuals often use self-interest to shape ideological positions, which become standards serving their own agendas. Many seek to control others based on these self-serving interests, even though the opposite approach would be more appropriate. Jesus is seen as ‘the way, the truth, and the life,’ providing a benchmark for human conduct.
The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil represents the dichotomy between two distinct opposites. Eating from this tree symbolizes the introduction of conflict into human society. The earliest instance of such conflict is recorded in the story of Adam’s sons, Cain and Abel, who, despite being brothers, were separated by the conflicting principles of good and evil. One was driven by self-interest, the other by altruism, which is aligned with divine pleasure. The dilemma did not lie in condemning someone found to be in the wrong. Rather, the principle suggests that an uninformed individual should be assisted in resolving their predicament.
This resembles a situation where one individual is endowed with material resources that another lacks. The one possessing such wealth assumes the duty to assist the less fortunate, without passing judgment on their indolence. While this has long been typical human behaviour, Jesus sought to clarify the matter. He is acknowledged as Lord because He demonstrated to humanity the correct approach to addressing social issues. Taking responsibility for our environment is a crucial part of our existence in the physical world. He exemplified this value by washing His disciples’ feet and advising them to act likewise in their own lives.
This behaviour eradicates superfluous ideologies that are crafted to instil a sense of superiority by some, over others. To address such conduct without any hint of showiness, Jesus advocated for a manner of giving that precludes recognition to His disciples (Matthew 6:1-4). When an individual works harder than their peers, they often benefit others who may remain oblivious to the benefactor’s creativity and hard work. These selfless acts may go unrecognized on Earth but are acknowledged in Heaven. While such disregard may be deemed unfair by worldly standards, it is this very principle that paves the way to eternity.
“In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother. For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous. Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death.
“Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. By this, we know love because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or tongue, but in deed and truth. And by this, we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart and knows all things” (1 John 3:10-20 NKJV).
John contrasts God’s children with the children of the devil, elucidating the expectations of God’s children, which include sacrificing one’s life for others. When Jesus sacrificed His life for humanity, He did not consider whether they deserved such a sacrifice. He gave His life for those still engaged in sin, enduring pain in the process. This act exemplifies the true rightist stance, just as the leftist stance is represented. The essence of life in this world is to embody either the rightist or leftist perspective. Without a clear understanding, people may choose ideologies that steer them in the wrong direction. Obtaining it from the light bearer dispels all uncertainties.
John’s recommendations might seem similar to socialism or communism, but they are distinct from those ideologies. Communism involves regulated equitable distribution and follows the tenets of that ideology. Socialism, on the other hand, is characterized by worker ownership of industry, rather than control by private business owners. John’s teachings do not depend on coercing productivity from others but are based on the concept of sacrifice for the sake of humanity. It is believed that only at the second coming of Jesus will ordinary people learn effective administrative principles. Until then, the emphasis is on sacrifice for others.
Among the benevolent, there is a distinction between living a life of giving accompanied by praise and giving without expectation of appreciation. John speaks to the possibility of being despised for doing good, rather than being appreciated: “Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you. We know we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death” (1 John 3:13-24). Thus, John refers not to the popular form of giving that is publicized in governmental circles, but to a type of sacrifice that does not conform to the standards of this world. Jesus’ sacrifice and His teachings continue to be a symbol of the unique standard, meant for human adoption.
“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly” (Matthew 6:1-4 NKJV).
Jesus’ teachings can be rejected by anyone in this world, which is understandable since Jesus did not expect the general populace to adhere to these principles. His message is intended for the select few who are called to embrace his teachings unquestioningly, using them as a benchmark. Despite their efforts to alleviate the suffering of the destitute, John reiterates Jesus’ own words that they will be met with hatred. This is not meant to provoke questions about the rationale behind such sacrifices. Rather, it is a necessary process for those who have taken on the mantle of God’s children. To the average person, their actions may seem as illogical as Jesus’ actions were deemed to be.
However, there are also many identified as rightists who will be rewarded on Judgment Day. These individuals seem to have carried out benevolent deeds in their lives, yet they were unaware that they deserved recognition. Jesus’ prophecy depicts them as questioning their worthiness to be on the Lord’s side. Jesus responds by telling them they would have helped His brothers in various ways. This indicates that these people practised benevolence in line with Jesus’ teachings, even though they were not His followers.
Their reward stems from their commitment to a principle of altruism—carrying out good deeds without anticipation of reward. This conduct is exemplified by the Parable of the Good Samaritan, who was driven purely by his moral compass. The Good Samaritan did not pursue recognition for his compassionate acts. On Judgment Day, Jesus discloses that the accounts of such individuals, although not recorded on Earth, are kept in Heaven. It is important to recognize that Judgment Day follows the millennium. While ordinary people may believe they are oblivious to these events, they are, in fact, conspicuously recorded for everyone to observe.
“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me’” (Matthew 25:37-49 NKJV).
The only distinction among humans lies between the children of God and those whom John described as belonging to the devil. This distinction comes as a matter of individual choice, not predestination, necessarily. No human is fated for destruction or deliverance; rather, God has provided sufficient information for all to be well informed. One of the greatest services to the world is the widespread distribution of truthful information. It is not necessary to believe that God’s work is entrusted to a single individual.
“And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42 NKJV).
Disseminating truth is a service to God, rather than to the original source of the information. This service includes even simple acts, such as providing cups of water to God’s servants. True Christians collaborate in God’s work without expectation of reward. The essential truth promoted is the distinction God makes between His followers and those who serve the devil. Serving God necessitates adherence to Christ’s teachings, not one’s personal criteria.
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions––leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
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