Rev. Jesse Jackson to London protesters: 'Jesus was an Occupier'

Oli Scarff / Getty Images

Rev. Jesse Jackson speaks to Occupy activists outside of London's St. Paul's Cathedral on Thursday.

LONDON -- Veteran activist the Rev. Jesse Jackson compared the global anti-capitalist movement to the U.S. civil rights struggle, the battle against apartheid in South Africa and the fight for Indian independence during a visit to an Occupy camp in London on Thursday.

"Jesus was an Occupier, born under a death warrant, a Jew by religion, born in poverty under Roman occupation," the two-time candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination told a crowd near Saint Paul’s Cathedral. "Gandhi was an Occupier, Martin Luther King was an Occupier, (Nelson) Mandela was an Occupier."


A man dressed in a well-tailored dark wool jacket and crisp checked shirt – not your stereotypical Occupy protester – cried as he watched Jackson. "He is my hero," he said.

While the crowd enthusiastically joined Jackson for a chant, not everybody was supportive and a few heckles punctuated his speech. 

One man who shouted that the Occupy movement wasn't addressing the needs of the homeless was detained before he reached the podium where Jackson was standing.

F. Brinley Bruton / msnbc.com

John, 34, who has been camped next to London's Saint Paul's Cathedral since Oct. 15, waits for Rev. Jesse Jackson to address Occupy protesters on Thursday.

Another Occupier, who said he's been camped out since the protest began on Oct. 15, said he welcomed Jackson. However, he remained skeptical.

"I have mixed feelings – someone told me he's quite a wealthy person," said John, 34, who declined to give a last name. "You don't know his agenda."

F. Brinley Bruton is a senior writer for msnbc.com based in London

Read more content from msnbc.com and NBC News:

advertisement
advertisement

Discuss this post

Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 ... 8

they need to rename this so-called occupy movement to the po peeps movement because the true occupiers are the elites who occupy 90% of the property, resources, and wealth of the nation while 90% of the po peeps own little to nothing as more than half of americans live in poverty or are among the working poor. as for jesse jackson... "keep hope alive"!

  • 5 votes
#1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:50 PM EST
Comment author avatarpjam09Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Jesus was a carpenter, not a greedy whiner.

Nice attempt at hijacking something totally unrelated to the cause.

  • 57 votes
#1.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:10 PM EST

So we should crucify occupiers? Seems a little harsh.

  • 19 votes
#1.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:23 PM EST

PJam09 - A good observation about Jesus' trade. But I think you missed his point about what he represented. And from you post, it looks like it alluded you too. The leaders he mentioned didn't support the tyrants that are running this and other countries into the ground. They supported the every day Joes.

  • 16 votes
#1.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:24 PM EST
Comment author avatarThe Wizard of WisdomExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Further proof that Jesse Jackson is no 'reverend'. The man continually shows his lack of comprehension for what Jesus stood for. He also apparently has no understanding of Ghandi or Dr. King.

Ah well, if there's a protest going on somewhere, you bet Jesse will show up to get his picture taken. The man is a disgrace.

  • 53 votes
#1.4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:27 PM EST

Jesse needs to keep up the BS - it's how he makes a living, and a pretty nice one at that. i never really got on board with the occupiers, but i really like the last line in the article.

"I have mixed feelings – someone told me he's quite a wealthy person," said John, 34, who declined to give a last name. "You don't know his agenda."

  • 22 votes
#1.5 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:30 PM EST

he says that as Mega-Churchs spring up everyone touting multi-million dollar entertainment equipment, recreational hardware, and lavish furnishings. Yep, sounds like Christians are following in his footsteps.

  • 6 votes
#1.6 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:49 PM EST

Notice the guy in the picture at the bottom. This person does not look respectable. They look like a thug or a terrorist. If their cause is so noble, why the facemask? Sorry, but I don't buy the whole "it's to remain anonymous" bs.

Only cowards, criminals and undesireables hide their faces.

  • 12 votes
#1.7 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:59 PM EST

The man continually shows his lack of comprehension for what Jesus stood for. He also apparently has no understanding of Ghandi or Dr. King.

How has Jackson misinterpreted Gandhi? Gandhi saw his people being oppressed, impoverished, demeaned, and enslaved by white colonialists who were there to exploit India for profitable gain. MLK was all about economic and social injustice, the subjugation of the many by a measly white few. South Africa? Please. Govts oppress people to provide financial opportunities for their investor partners. I mean why do you think we really went into Iraq? Do you think we would have done so if oil had not been a factor? You didn't see this country running to Rwanda where crimes against humanity were taking place and could have been stopped.

I doubt Jesus would be supporting the power of the money lenders and a govt that's now funded by them through bribes. You are the one who doesn't understand Jesus.

  • 19 votes
#1.8 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:07 PM EST

Why does the MSNBC forum attract so many racists and Nazis? This isn't Faux News--they like those kinds of comments over there.

  • 9 votes
#1.9 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:09 PM EST

Jesus brought blessings to the poor, true, but he also taught that hatred was murder (gee, do any of these people hate?), that greed was the root of evil (anyone there greedy?), and that lust was adultery (what was that about sex abuse and rampant STDs?).

Ghandi taught peace and civil disobedience (as opposed to violent rioting and destroying stores).

Dr. King taught peace and civil disobedience (likewise). Any of these three men would be insulted by being associated with the Occupy movement. Malcolm X has more in common with them.

  • 21 votes
#1.10 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:11 PM EST

Pjam09, you need to spend more time reading your Bible. Jesus was not a carpenter, after He started His ministry. He was an itinerant preacher. He was homeless. He was dreadfully poor. He was hungry and probably dirty. He destroyed the private property of the money changers and took a whip to them. He spent time with the poor and the criminals. He fed the poor, asking for nothing in return. He said that it was almost impossible for a rich person to go to heaven. He condemned violence, greed, and worldly power. However, it is wrong for the left to conscript Jesus to their cause ( almost as wrong as it is for the right to lie about being Christian ). Jesus preached a revolution of the soul, which is much more transformative than political change.

  • 14 votes
#1.11 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:31 PM EST

Blue--whatever, Please site ONE racist commentary by Fox News.--------I did'nt think so.

  • 12 votes
#1.12 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:58 PM EST

Still trying to ride the I'm a poor victim train. That thing left the station 25 years ago for Jackson.

He's not poor, spiritual, or anything besides self-motivated. A booming preacher's voice does very little to quell the stench of pure excrement which follows this poor excuse for a human being around where ever he treads.

  • 12 votes
#1.13 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:22 PM EST

more than half of Americans live in poverty

Cry me a river , the poor in America have phones and TV and more importantly AC/heat if i had to be poor anywhere i would want to be poor here in the land of dead beats and food stamps.

As for JJ racism must be down so now he needs to get started on class warfare some people just need fame.

  • 12 votes
#1.14 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:35 PM EST

delete

    #1.15 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:35 PM EST

    Why doesn't Jesse give his many millions to the poor? After all, charity starts at home. Give away 95% of your money Jesse and then maybe we would believe that you actually support the poor and are not just interested in getting your face on the cover of some newspapers.

    • 11 votes
    #1.16 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:38 PM EST

    "Sorry, but I don't buy the whole "it's to remain anonymous" bs.

    Only cowards, criminals and undesireables hide their faces."

    ...says Wizard, whose face is conveniently hidden behind his computer screen.

    • 11 votes
    #1.17 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:45 PM EST

    "Further proof that Jesse Jackson is no 'reverend'. The man continually shows his lack of comprehension for what Jesus stood for. He also apparently has no understanding of Ghandi or Dr. King."


    @Wizard of Wisdom,

    Jackson actually worked alongside Dr. King in his protests. He was actually at the motel on the same balcony when King was assassinated. I think Jackson has way, way, waaaaay more understanding of MLK than you could possibly have!


    • 12 votes
    #1.18 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:57 PM EST

    This is neither pro Jesse nor con Jesse, but for all of those criticizing him, why don't YOU do something. Don't like him, don't contribute to his organization. But, he has the right to speak on any issues that he wants to speak on.

    The reality is that Jesse is a human being with all of the vulnerabilities of human beings. He has made some bad decisions, and he has also illuminated some situations that needed to be illuminated. I suspect that his life, like most, is a mixed bag of good and bad.

    • 6 votes
    #1.19 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:03 PM EST

    I always thought Dr. King had a way of bringing the people together - black and white.

    It seems to me that JJ has always divided people. Black vs white.

    • 11 votes
    #1.20 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:04 PM EST

    Jesse Jackson got his secretary pregnant behind his wife's back while providing counsel to Bill Clinton during Bill's affair with Monica Lewinsky. Gotta love that guy.

    • 5 votes
    #1.21 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:04 PM EST

    Jessie Jackson is a shakedown artist whom is just pandering to another group to keep himself "relevent". He figures that if he can get some popularity now, then he'll be able to shake down a few corporations later.

    BTW- To the best of my knowledge, Jesus was interested in loving/helping others but not entitlements.

    • 10 votes
    #1.22 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:06 PM EST

    Jesus called out hypocrisy and injustice. There is hypocrisy and injustice in the actions of Wall Street and CEOs that care more about profit than people. There is hypocrisy and injustice in the actions of union leaders and teachers that care more about money and benefits than they do about children.

    Jesus called the rich to care for widows and orphans. Jesus did not call for 50% of the population to support the other 50%.

    Jesus loved a cheerful giver. The widow that gave a mite ( something like a penny) was more revered in his eyes than the wealthy that made a great show of giving in the temple.

    Jesus said "render unto Ceasar that which is Ceasar's, render unto God that which is God's." Translation: cheating on your taxes is wrong. The biblical command for giving is a tithe or 10% to God.

    Jesus only gave two commands and these supersede the 10 commandments and all the laws of the Old Testament: 1) Love God above all else; 2) Love your neighbor as yourself.

    Loving my neighbor means lending a helping hand. Being a good neighbor also means pulling my weight.

    Difficult stuff. I fall short every day in many respects.

    I don't claim to know if Jesus is Republican and Democrat. I am sure he would call out many of our leaders of both parties for hypocrisy and injustice.

    Jesse, don't use my Lord and Savior to make political points and advance your career. It's ok , I forgive you.

    Merry Christmas everyone.

    • 9 votes
    #1.23 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:24 PM EST

    More like Jesse is occupying Christianity instead of truly living it.

    • 7 votes
    #1.24 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:31 PM EST

    Jesse, STFU . . .

    • 5 votes
    #1.25 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:32 PM EST

    He destroyed the private property of the money changers and took a whip to them...

    ...He condemned violence.

    No hypocrisy there, right?

    • 1 vote
    #1.26 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:45 PM EST

    Blue Burner,

    I understand Jesus far better than you do apparently. I apparently understand Ghandi and MLK far better than you do too. I'll explain it to you and I'll use small words so you can understand. Oh, I'm sorry, did that sound insulting? Perhaps you shouldn't insult others as they may respond in kind. Something to think about.

    Jesus would not condone many of the things OWS has done and is doing. Jesus would not condone the shutting down of the ports. Why? Because Jesus would've understood that the people who are the most hurt by this kind of action are the poor, working people who WORK THERE!! You think this hurts the rich? How? They already have more money than they can spend. The loss of a few K isn't even going to make them bat an eye. Fools.

    Jesus would not condone anything that would harm the innocent. It doesn't matter if the cause is just if your actions harm people who have nothing to do with it. Jesus would also not condone people like Jesse Jackson, who use issues for their own personal agendas. You think Jesse Jackson really gives a rat's behind for these protestors?? Hah, right. Jesse Jackson cares about Jesse Jackson. The man isn't fit to even remotely be compared to Ghandi or MLK.

    But I guess it takes more critical thinking than you have to understand that.

    By the way...feel free to call me a Nazi and a racist. It'll only make you look more ridiculous.

    • 6 votes
    #1.27 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:57 PM EST

    I don't recall reading that Jesus went around protesting taxes. He did say we are to care for one another on a personal level. As another poster pointed out he did say to give to Cesar what is Cesar's. He never said it was wrong to pay taxes. He did say that tax collectors shouldn't collect more than they are due but he didn't say they shouldn't collect them at all. At one point he even had Peter go pay the temple tax for both of them.

    He doesn't sound like much of an Occupier to me. Maybe he had more important things to do.

    • 5 votes
    #1.28 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 6:03 PM EST

    I find it ironic that the occupy movement would give Jackson the time of day. I mean how much money does he have? Isn't he the type of person they are protesting against? This movement is a joke.

    • 9 votes
    #1.29 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 6:59 PM EST

    He was homeless. He was dreadfully poor. He was hungry and probably dirty. He spent time with the poor and the criminals.

    Sounds an awful lot like the social welfare recipients in the U.S.

    He destroyed the private property of the money changers and took a whip to them.

    Close parallel to the occupiers of today.

    He said that it was almost impossible for a rich person to go to heaven.

    Now I'm beginning to understand the occupiers - trying to help those that have worked for what they have get passed the pearly gates by sharing in the rich peoples' wealth.

    He fed the poor, asking for nothing in return.

    With what, if he was so poor.

    He condemned violence

    He...took a whip to them.

    You would make a great lawyer if you can convince others that whipping another person is not a form of violence. "It is for your own good that I am going to beat you."

    • 1 vote
    #1.30 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 7:57 PM EST

    If Occupy Wall Street really wants to make a difference they should register Republican and start voting for Ron Paul in the primaries. Shake things up for real instead of seeking headlines. Helping Ron Paul win the nomination would absolutely tip the establishment apple cart. Besides, your party affiliation means nothing once the curtain closes at the voting booth. You can still vote as you wish.

    • 2 votes
    #1.31 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:22 PM EST

    Seriously, "Thinker"? Want to rethink a couple of those questions? Yes, he fed the poor nd he was poor himself. How? Remember the miracle of the loaves and fishes? Let me remind you, he two a couple fish and a couple loaves of bread and fed a large crowd. Read the bible much? Guess not. And then there was that turning water into wine thing. Ring a bell? Yes, he condemned violence but when he saw the Republic.... Um, when he saw the money changers of his time had taken over the temple for their business he did get mad. Of course his dad has a reputation for things like that as well. There's that thing about the plagues adn locusts and stuff in Egypt. Oh, and the flood thingy. But I guess you gotta read the book to understand all that.

    • 2 votes
    #1.32 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:43 PM EST

    You people do not have a clue. It was not corporations that ran this and other countries into the ground, but people that demanded more then was coming in, unions promising more payments then cash was available, and governments who stupidly went along with it.

    Now the people that you are yelling about are the ones who give jobs, cause growth, and help our economy along. But now comes a anti government socilistic government that rather then have people look at them and truely see how badly they f#$ked this country up would rather point people at the very people that are needed to get it going.

    The unions (which only 7% of the private sector works for) have driven you bunch of sheep into a frenzy because they want to turn us into a socialistic government. Well take a look at England, they did this during the 1800's and when people lost faith in their government they lost faith in their sterling and turned to the dollar, and they went into a depression that completely changed everything. Look at Russia, Greece, France, Spain, and you will see where this movement is going to bring us to, the brink of financial collapse and anarchy as the government looses the ability to maintain control and stability within legal means.

    So what do we do. First lets give the president and the military the right to arrest Americans and detain us without any due process if they determine that someone is a terrorist. How long before they start labeling anyone who does not agree with their socialistic agenda as terrorist and start arresting them. Do not think it can happen? Take a look at the Jews in the 1930's, they also thought that a civilized government could never resort to such barbaric acts like what happened in the 1940's. Do you history can not repeat itself? Well the same thing has happened to them hundreds of times. And not only the Jews, but the Gypsies, any group in Arab lands that will not convert to Islam. Look at the white Russians and what happened to them.

    So pull the blinders off your eyes and understand that any government will never act for the good of the people but rather for the growth of its own power, it is up to us the people to fight against the growth of taking away of our civil liberties (not by corporations but by the government). So, now go out and protest against the people you should be, the liberals trying to take our freedom while our attention is turned elsewhere!

    • 2 votes
    #1.33 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:44 PM EST

    Jesse Jackson obviously knows nothing about Jesus. Jesus was the son of God, but at the same time God on earth. God has a kingdom we call Heaven. So if anything, Jesus (God on earth), was actually the tip top of the 1%, and just felt like slumming it for some 32 years before we nailed him to a cross.

    Sure, I'm probably going to hell for what I just said, but Jesus basically said he was the path to so many great things. He was the path to the greatest riches one could imagine. Jesus could grant everlasting life in his kingdom. No way does that sound like somebody of the 99%.

    Anyway, I gotta run to a confession booth. Wish me luck in making it there before I die.

      #1.34 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 9:39 PM EST

      @Wizard of Wisdom

      The OWS shutting down a few ports for a day pales in comparison to what the GOP and Wall St has done to this country over the years. Gandhi promoted non-cooperation with the economic agendas of England even when that meant that many Indians would become even more destitute and go hungrier. But he pointed out the outcome of the long game, that an ephemeral sacrifice would ultimately result in a long term gain.

      I suppose you criticize MLK because he boycotted the Montgomery bus system, causing hostility from whites who fired their black servants. Again, the concept was to keep your eyes on the prize. A temporary loss results in a long term accomplishment. If blacks or Indians just went along with the system and asked for their rights not wishing to suffer any personal discomfort, India would still be a part of the British Empire and black people would still be under Jim Crow.

      I find it laughable that you can critique the OWS, an impressively non-violent group committed to civil disobedience, but you have no words about the malfeasance of Wall St that has caused this global economic damage which has resulted in such widespread income disparity. You do know that this country invaded Iraq at the cost of now trillions due to war on credit to kill one man and in the process bankrupt the USA, killed Americans and hundreds of thousands of Iraqui people? Where does your idea of Jesus stand with that? Where does your Jesus stand with banks defrauding the pension companies of millions of people by selling them worthless investments that they touted as A+++. What about people who clap and cheer the death of the uninsured at a GOP debate? Would your Jesus, as you perceive him, join in with that?

      There are a lot of disgusting crimes to condemn but I hardly think the OWS or Jesse Jackson is one of them.

      • 1 vote
      #1.35 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 9:57 PM EST

      " ... Further proof that Jesse Jackson is no 'reverend'. The man continually shows his lack of comprehension for what Jesus stood for. He also apparently has no understanding of Ghandi or Dr. King. ... "

      What an F'ing idiot. Look at the last pictures of Dr. King in the days just before he was shot. Guess who is in many of those pictures. The Rev. Jackson.

      You ignorance, stupidity, hate, fear and total lack of understanding on any subject it staggering. Even of the man you worship and the book you hold Holy.

      Wow.

        #1.36 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 10:31 PM EST

        " ... Jesus was a carpenter, ... "

        Correction.

        Jesus was an UNEMPLOYED carpenter.

          #1.37 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 10:44 PM EST

          So, lemme get this straight.

          When a Liberal like Jesse Jackson uses Jesus to espouse his socio-political propaganda, he's an advocate for the little guy.

          When a Republican or Conservative uses Jesus to espouse ANYTHING, they're a bible-waving, gun-toting, neo-con nutjob.

          Hypocrites!

          Maybe Jesse should go and help Al Sharpton rather than the Occupiers. I understand Al has missed a few hundred thousand dollars in taxes.

          • 4 votes
          #1.38 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 10:51 PM EST
          Reply
          advertisement

          *facepalm*

          • 9 votes
          Reply#2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:51 PM EST

          A man who became a millionaire by screaming "I am the victim" is talking again. Wish this chump would just go away. He may of walked with Dr. King but he never knew and apparently, Jesus either, for that matter.

          Having read the Scriptures I cannot recall coming across any passage talking about Jesus or his deciples defecating on police cars, vandalizing buildings, terrorizing innocent people or masturbating in public. Maybe Jackson worships the same time of "Jesus" as obama's former pastor Wright.

          • 23 votes
          Reply#3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:56 PM EST

          I doubt that's what he's referring to. I think he's referring to the Jesus that believed in equality and helping the poor.

          But judging by most American Christians I'd say charity and good deeds were such a small part of the Scriptures that it's not worth mentioning.

          • 10 votes
          #3.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:05 PM EST

          The poor of the Roman Empire didn't have countless government handouts paid for by the taxpayers, they starved.

          I'm tired of people asserting what Jesus "would be" in today's society. It's been the crux of countless ongoing manipulations by religious hypocrites.

          • 11 votes
          #3.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:11 PM EST

          Actually, roman senators would routinely payoff supporters.

          • 4 votes
          #3.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:26 PM EST

          Ruken,

          Isn't that basically the same thing that's happening here? The last article I read was saying 1 in 3 Americans are poor. The problem resides in the income disparity. When this country gets to the point of a fair wage for a fair days work then nothing will change. The government is only promoting this mess by catering to the rich. And you don't have to be affiliated with any party to see that...

          • 8 votes
          #3.4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:29 PM EST

          If you want to know what Jesus would do, read the Scriptures:

          "Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's, and render unto God that which is God's...."

          "Blessed are the Meek, for they shall inherit the Earth. Blessed are those that hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled...."

          "Judge not, lest thou be judged...."

          I could go on, but I'm sure you get the point. And I believe Jesse Jackson has a point; it's a pretty fair analogy. As for some of the screw-ups in OWS, well every group has them. Remember that people said the same thing about the Tea Party, judging the whole group by the actions of a few ignorant racists. Sure, Jesse Jackson isn't Jesus, but then again who is?

          • 7 votes
          #3.5 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:33 PM EST

          Yeah?,

          I feel sorry for people like you. Your ignorance makes me wonder why we even bother with public education anymore.

          But judging by most American Christians I'd say charity and good deeds were such a small part of the Scriptures that it's not worth mentioning.

          Your comment is beyond ignorant. Ever hear of the Salvation Army? Where does it get most of its funding? Oh, that's right. The majority of their funding comes through religious charities. Where do most of the homeless shelters and soup kitchens get their money? Oh yeah, it comes from those darned Christians again that don't believe in charity and good deeds. Those uncharitable Christians are also responsible for donating massive amounts of money, food, clothing and assistance to the poor, the impoverished and the needy around the world everyday.

          Let me give you a little advice. Actually have a clue about what you're saying before you open your mouth. It will keep people like me from pointing out how ignorant and clueless you are in the future.

          • 14 votes
          #3.6 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:42 PM EST

          ProudAmericanVeteran - You must have been reading my mind. I missed the Gospel where they talked about a stoned Jesus fornicating under a blue tarp with strange women. Wait....that didn't happen, did it? Maybe I was thinking about Jessie Jackson.

          • 1 vote
          #3.7 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 6:01 PM EST

          Recently learned that Mr. Jessie is gay......he11 if I want him trying to speak for me or in any manner try to represent me....ever...!!!! Just another Weenie boy (not to knock Mr. Weiner) that the Democratic Party is so full of...including ol' Woebama...of the ZChicaago ZGay ZBath ZClub......

            #3.8 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 6:12 PM EST

            T Bourlon - Of course the people who wrote the bible are going to say that people should pay taxes. Taxes to the government and tithing to a magical, mystical, imaginary being - sounds reasonable.

            How many times has the bible been written, re-written, translated, paraphrased, edited and repeated?

              #3.9 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:04 PM EST

              The Bible has a lot to say about rich and poor. It does say if a person does not work, he does not eat. The Occupyers are not working. Jesus was a carpenter, and in biblical times, was a low paid blue collar type job. The Occupyers are jealous of the rich, but are not willing to accept lower paying or manual labor jobs until they can find something better. The Bible is clear also concerning those that have wealth. Those that have more than they need should consider the poor and be generous. Most large corporations do have foundations set up for charitable causes. Also, anyone that is working and paying taxes is contributing to the poor by providing welfare, food stamps and section 8 housing. Everyone should be taking responsibility for their own lives and working to better themselves instead of following someone that has no vested interest in them other than trying to promote their own agenda.

              • 1 vote
              #3.10 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:54 PM EST
              Reply
              advertisement

              Just what we need, let's bring religion into it. That has never caused any problems...

              • 11 votes
              Reply#4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:56 PM EST

              is he STILL milking that 15 minute fame clock....

              • 6 votes
              Reply#5 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:59 PM EST

              Rev. JJ is SO useless -- he seems to pop up whenever there's a photo op. He fills his pockets by lying to people of color.

              • 14 votes
              #5.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:24 PM EST

              It is strange that someone so long out of the limelight always seems to get TV coverage when he appears. He must bribe all the TV news networks and paparazzi because otherwise why would they cover such an unimportant insignificant person especially when they could be covering someone like Sarah Palin or Newt Gingrich or even David Duke.

              While you are merely posting hate messages on internet sites, he's at least going out of his house to continue working on matters dealing with social and economic injustice.

              • 2 votes
              #5.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:17 PM EST

              For a fee.

              • 3 votes
              #5.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:01 PM EST

              Ok, stanboy. Provide a link for your evidence that Jesse Jackson charges OWS to address them. I think you've mixed up Herman Cain's or Newt Gingrich's SOP with that of Jesse Jackson.

              The point is you want to believe that because you hate Jesse Jackson and you subscribe to this right wing tactic of making @!$%# up about people you dislike. Jesse Jackson is an elderly man who has put himself in harm's way about as much as you have hidden behind a computer screen. Speaking to ows gets him nothing in fees, unlike Newt Gingrich or Herman Cain or Sarah Palin who run for President just to boost their speaker fees and book sales.

              Unlike you, Jackson is content with his life and has the freedom to do whatever he wants regardless of what the petty think of him.

                #5.4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 10:08 PM EST
                Reply

                Just the Democrats trying to fire up their base.

                • 7 votes
                Reply#6 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 1:59 PM EST

                Just a Republican stating his ignorance.

                • 13 votes
                #6.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:35 PM EST

                But he is trying to fire up his base. It's not ignorant, it's true. I'm sure he's not speaking to CEO's and rebulicans in the crowd, SOOOO he's firing up his left wing, democrat base.

                • 3 votes
                #6.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:15 PM EST

                Just the Democrats trying to fire up their base.

                Right, the democrats trying to fire up their base in LONDON. Can't you idiots read? How many britts vote in US elections? I'll give you a clue, it's 1 less than 1. Sorry, math may be too much for you right wing morons, so I'll help you out; ZERO britts vote in US elections.

                • 2 votes
                #6.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 6:47 PM EST
                Reply

                The wealthy never want to bring religion into anything, except on a "look at me" scale, they most certainly don't want to bring Jesus into it, after all the very Son of God was born into a working middle class family, man that has got to be a big problem for folks like johnnie bonner (yep, incorrectly spelled on purpose!) and his teabagger minions. It is something that is very near and dear to my heart and that fact alone would be enough for me to do my best to follow Jesus, not to mention, the final retirement benefits are out of this world!

                • 4 votes
                Reply#7 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:02 PM EST

                What are you talking about? Religious values are all over the republican / tea party candidates these days.

                • 5 votes
                #7.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:03 PM EST

                Those wealthy people (the religious ones) thank god for what they have and are gracious for it. They also give back to the communities through donations. You can't lump all wealthy people as being greedy and bathing in their money planning ways to step on their minions just like I can't lump all poor people as being lazy and not looking for jobs. The hypocrisy in this country is just amazing.

                • 4 votes
                #7.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:18 PM EST

                They're not any religious values I'd ever subscribe to, not ones that espouse hatred of gays and that tell the poor that if they can't get a job then they should starve to death.

                • 5 votes
                #7.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:19 PM EST
                Reply

                Just like the raciest muther F-cker to bring Jesus into the picture.

                • 1 vote
                Reply#8 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:02 PM EST

                He might be right, though. Jesus wouldn't be standing with the 1% and the obvious wealth and political power gap. He would stand, as he did in the Bible, with the rabble. However, OWS wouldn't look the same either if Jesus were there. So I can see how people would get offended, but you can't just say (like Jackson might have I haven't seen his actual speech) think of OWS now add Jesus. You'd have to picture Jesus as a leader which would change almost everything.

                • 6 votes
                #8.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:10 PM EST
                Reply
                advertisement

                Jackson is such a worthless individual. Remember when he embezzled the money from the rainbow coalition to pay his baby momma. Hey Jesse, your a crook, not a occupier

                • 18 votes
                Reply#9 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:03 PM EST

                Isn't this guy supposed to be a Christian and a minister ? What Bible did he read???? In my Bible Jesus uses the parrable of the tallents (an amount of money) to show that those who use money wisely and mulitply it are to be rewarded, and those that squander it or sit on it will not be rewarded. This is exactly the opposite of the whole "Robin Hood" principle the the occupy movement is based upon. Also throught out the Bible there are examples that show us that God helps those that help themselves, no where does it suggest that we shoudl sit around and expect thigns to be handed to us. No Jesus was not an "occupier" it offends me as an intelligent man and a Christian for someone to suggest such non-sense.

                • 11 votes
                Reply#10 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:05 PM EST

                Jesus also didn't say forsake the poor like you seem to infer.

                Deut. 15:7. If there is a poor man among you, one of your brothers, in any of the towns of the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand to your poor brother; but you shall freely open your hand to him, and generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks.

                Luke 12:33. "Sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves purses which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near, nor moth destroys."

                Mt. 5:42. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.

                Lev. 19:19ff. Now when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very corners of your field, neither shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. Nor shall you glean your vineyard, nor shall you gather the fallen fruit of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the needy and for the stranger. I am the LORD your God.

                It seems like he's saying if you have some give to others. Not like you are saying that if you work hard you can "lord" it over everyone else, look down on everyone else, and above all forsake the poor for they are lazy and worthless.

                And one last:

                Luke 6:24. "But woe to you who are rich, for you are receiving your comfort in full."

                • 7 votes
                #10.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:14 PM EST

                Our society today hardly forsakes the poor.

                • 3 votes
                #10.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:17 PM EST

                The bible has passages that can be twisted into supporting any side of any issue. Any given combination of passages and twisting is called a "denomination."

                • 1 vote
                #10.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:29 PM EST

                Ruken , and it's a good thing because once you cut off that NANNY state handout, then you will have 50 + million ( thats a low estimate) Americans who won't have nothing to lose. But you still will.

                • 2 votes
                #10.4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:48 PM EST

                Yeah? Nice scripture reference. Just a sidenote - Deuteronomy and Leviticus were God's words to the Israelites...not Jesus' words.

                I don't agree with what Jesse Jackson said (but then again, I don't agree with him in general) - Jesus was not an occupier. I think that those that CAN work - SHOULD.....

                Anyway, JMO.....

                • 2 votes
                #10.5 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:48 PM EST

                Whitest cat to ever come outta the Middle East!

                I'll gladly follow those very footsteps when I find where he got his sunscreen.

                  #10.6 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 7:01 PM EST

                  He also said that the first shall be the last and the last shall be the first. He also said place not your treasures on the earth where moth ans rust will destroy them. He also said love thy neighbor as thyself. He also said that my house shall be a house of prayer and not a den of thieves. Jesus is evoked by many who want to justify there own causes. The Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but love, peace and longsuffering and has nothing to do with capitalism at all. If capitalism was the salvation for all, Jesus would not have to come back and reclaim his kingdom would he?

                    #10.7 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 9:01 PM EST
                    Reply

                    The religious and nonreligious alike are affected by the problems brought on by the funding of our elections by multinational corporations and banks.

                    The money these huge institutions give to American candidates who run office, corrupts our government at all levels and in both parties by putting the corporations and banks in charge of the regulatory process that were meant to protect the American public, instead of the banks and corporations.

                    We (the American people as Republicans, Democrats and independents) need to promote a constitutional amendment banning all non governmental financing of elections.

                    That should be something the overwhelming majority of Americans can agree on.

                    This can't be done without the public coming together, put our other differences aside. The effort can't be led by politicians because their political opponents would then be funded by the corporations.

                    OWS and the Tea party started partly as a reaction to the corruption the current corporate election system has wrought . The reason the Banks not only were bailed out, but the reason they needed to be bailed out was because the banks have been able to rewrite the rules they do business under.

                    The reason we can spend trillions on wars, but only millions on cancer research, or education, or infrastructure or anything that would benefit those of us here at home, is because military contractors and oil companies (who don't want to spend their own money on security in risky nations) spend taxpayer money on electing people who will keep certain conflicts going that stand to improve their bottom lines.

                    Conservatives, liberals, and moderates are all being screwed by this problem.

                    • 4 votes
                    Reply#11 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:20 PM EST
                    advertisement

                    jesse is both right and wrong. jesus occupied jewish temples and overthrew their lending tables. but he was also the son of anu - the leader of the annunakis who gene spliced ape with their dna to create humans. that made him the son of god (at least to us humans)...

                    • 1 vote
                    Reply#12 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:20 PM EST

                    Careful, making people think might hurt ther brains. All logically minded people know the truth of ancient aliens and our origins, but the majority have "God" to do the thinking for them, and in their minds, the big bearded white dude in the sky is the ultimate authority on everything. To defy that convention is worthy of execution in their little minds.

                      #12.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 7:02 PM EST
                      Reply

                      Jesse Jackson??? Given his net worth of $10 Million and the fact that he’s a 501(c)(3) garnishing reduced tax rates and violating the law (non-profits aren’t supposed to be involved in politics or prostitution or extortion), he must be talking about himself. But we won’t hear government-controlled media calling him out, will we? Jesus and Jesse are very far apart.

                      • 12 votes
                      Reply#13 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:26 PM EST

                      Who cares what Jesse Jackson says. Besides, who can understand him?

                      • 6 votes
                      Reply#14 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:29 PM EST

                      If there is a Jesus then he is witnessing an unholy alliance between many so called Christians and the powerful of this world.

                      • 4 votes
                      Reply#15 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:34 PM EST

                      Jesse Jackson is a capitalist. He became wealthy feeding off the poor black people and liberals who listen to his preaching, but can't see what he really is. A RICH BLACK MAN LIVING OFF THE BACKS OF OTHERS!

                      • 5 votes
                      Reply#16 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:35 PM EST

                      Jesse Jackson is the true American dream. He has never held a real true 40 hour per week job,and has no formative education and yet he makes millions off the naive and poor by screaming about unequal treatment. ONLY IN AMERICA!!! The londoner who said he did not know Jackson's true agenda is correct. Jackson always has some type of agenda when he enters into the fray and it is not for the good of mankind, only for the good of himself.

                      • 5 votes
                      Reply#17 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:35 PM EST

                      During Bible times, carpenters were members of the artisan class. He was not poor but not rich either. His robe was of such a fine quality that the Roman's cast lots over it. So Jessee Jackson is wrong that Jesus was poor and wrong that he was an occupier. He said to love your neighbors as yourself, give to the poor, and anyone who does something for the least of these does so unto me. The Bible says faith without works is nothing. He suggested individually that we help the poor. In no way did he suggest that the Roman Govt. in charge at the time redistribute wealth. PUUULEASE!!

                      • 6 votes
                      Reply#18 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:36 PM EST

                      pleae keep him over there.....we're tired of him over here....

                      • 5 votes
                      Reply#19 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:43 PM EST

                      What I would like to know is what church is the good Reverend attending. Does he help his flock or is the public his domain. Did he go to college and get a degree in Theology? Why is he called Reverend? Who pays for him going all over and turning up everywhere to say that Jesus was an "Occupier". How does he make his money? Does he have a job? If he is a real Reverend shouldn't he be at his home church helping his flock or does he think the world is his flock. He's getting the money to go all over the world to "preach", but as we know that takes money and supposedly the 99% don't have any according to him. So maybe the evil 1% is paying for him and I'm sure his entourage. Oh but that can't be the case can it?

                      • 3 votes
                      Reply#20 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:47 PM EST

                      Well, Jesse will never know for sure. I seriously doubt his coniving, lying, story making ass will ever make it thru the pearly gates of heaven cause his ass belongs in hell. Worthless piece of human garbage if there ever was one.

                      • 2 votes
                      Reply#21 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:48 PM EST

                      Nice compassion towards your fellow humans, Jesus would be proud.

                      • 4 votes
                      #21.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:50 PM EST
                      Reply

                      Yes, Jesus was a rebel. He threatened the power of the Jewish hierarchy in Jerusalem, and that's why the crowd told Pilate to crucify Jesus instead of Barabbas. Just like the Occupy movement threatens the power of our corporate/political hierarchy, hence everyone hears mudslinging on T.V. directed at the Occupy Movement.

                      • 4 votes
                      Reply#22 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:49 PM EST

                      Tell us, oh enlightened one, how did Jesus threaten the Power of the Jewish Hierarchy. Jesus was himself, a Jew.

                      Always get a kick out of how the atheist left likes to teach me about Jesus.

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:59 PM EST

                      I know my religion, 14 years of Christian schools tried to brainwash me with it. The jewish high priests in Jerusalem were afraid of Jesus and his followers, so now you've been enlightened, what are you gonna do about it? my guess is stick your head back in the sand.

                      • 5 votes
                      #22.2 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:59 PM EST

                      How is scripture not logic if yo are going to teach me about Jesus. Obviouslsy I missed the passage about Jesus and his Disciples masturbating in public, defecating on Roman Chariots, attacking innocent people and smoking weed. Could you please cite those scriptures Holy Leftist?

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.3 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:02 PM EST

                      Not worth a response other than to say: Thank you for your military service, and Merry Christmas!

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.4 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:09 PM EST

                      ROTFLMAO!!!!! You may have spent 14 years in Christian Schools but you didn't learn anything. It was the Pharisees, sort of like the Jewish Democrat Party, that condemn Jesus and brought false witnesses against ( sort of like the modern day AP and MSNBC. The pharisees were not fearful of Jesus power s much as they were afraid of Roman Power and losing their seats of council. Not once did the Romans bring charges against the Christ.

                      OWS is more like the Pharisees than Jesus. They will sell out the whole world because of their self centeredness and personal greed.

                      BTW, Jesus, was of course, a Rabbi. Did he default on his student loans?

                      Sorry to hear you spent 14 years studying and all you got out of was religion. If you had focused on the meaning of the Christ maybe you would have much more. God and Christ are about faith and obedience. Religion is jut a manipulated way to keep you under the Pharisee's control.

                      I pray you someday know the difference.

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.5 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:10 PM EST

                      Um... the Pharisees were Jews. I have no idea what "ROTFLMAO" means. And explain how "OWS has sold out the whole world".

                      • 1 vote
                      #22.6 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:27 PM EST

                      You are comparing OWS to Jesus?

                      ROFLMAO!!!!!! Please!!!

                      Jackson I can understand, he's a grandstanding ass who has been out of the limelight longer than usual and has to muscle back in somehow, no matter how outrageous his stupidity....

                      But I never expected anyone to actually agaree with him!

                      OWS is like Jesus!!!!! ROFLMAO!!!!!

                      • 1 vote
                      #22.7 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:41 PM EST

                      Jesus was sent by the Father to die for our sins so that we might all be saved.

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.8 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:50 PM EST

                      Are you in love with exclamation points? And yes I'm comparing the fact that OWS & Jesus both rebelled against the status quo. But I guess that went over your heads since you use texting acronyms to express yourself and make a so-called argument.

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.9 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 3:50 PM EST

                      Jesus didn't rebell against anyting. He quietly went about teaching and preaching His word and belief system. He did not deliberately seek out government institutions and get in their face to challenge them, try to instigate rebellion against the status quo, or advocate shutting down businesses or services that would impact everyone.

                      To even jokingly suggest that Jesus and OWS are on the same level is outright blashphemy, if you profess to believe in Him.

                      Regardless of your opinion, Jackson is a glory-hound ass.

                      • 2 votes
                      #22.10 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:09 PM EST

                      God and Christ are about faith and obedience. Religion is jut a manipulated way to keep you under the Pharisee's control.

                      Because obedience under the treat of eternal damnation isn't control. Must be "tough love", right?

                        #22.11 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 5:53 PM EST

                        MacDeezy,

                        Your understanding of Jesus life, message and being far exceeds many of those who have been responding to your blogs. So I applaud you for your biblical insight and understanding. You are an honest scholar and seeker of the truth, in a day when people are threatened by the core message of Jesus life and message.

                        Unfortunately, my blog about Jesse Jackson truly understanding the core message of Jesus, namely: his concern for the poor and powerless, got deleted. But, as you know, this was the primary reason the powerful Roman Empire and the good religious folks of his day, the Scribes and Pharisees, killed him.

                        What we see here with responses to your initial blog simply reflects the paucity of biblical literacy not only among bloggers, but also in many of our churches today. Sad, yes! But true! If the church would deal with Jesus core message, and not the distorted message layered over it by the church a few decades after his death and even by many preachers today, our world might be a better place today. And many of these bloggers might be more willing to put their lives on the line for the poor and powerless, rather than link their lives and lifestyles to the rich and powerful of our day. In fact, they might even be more compassionate towards you, as well as the poor and powerless of our day.

                          #22.12 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 8:48 PM EST
                          Reply
                          advertisement

                          Oh how I need to disagree with that statement since I'm sure that Jesus would not break into place, destroy public property, or a number of other things that these idiots do.

                          So this movement now has Rev Al Sharpton and Rev Jesse Jackson ... Wow, now I know that I have to believe in this movement ... NOT!!

                          • 4 votes
                          Reply#23 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:53 PM EST

                          Jesus would not be sitting around in filth, smoking pot and complaining about paying back a student loan that he took out on his own free will. Just another in a long line of asinine statements from Jesse JackA$$.

                          • 9 votes
                          Reply#24 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:56 PM EST

                          Hitler was an Occupier - not Jesus.

                          • 5 votes
                          Reply#25 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 2:56 PM EST

                          good one, TooFunny.

                          and Greg I agree, now that the Rev Jesse is involved I know I'm on the right side of this debate - the non-Occupier side!

                          • 2 votes
                          #25.1 - Thu Dec 15, 2011 4:35 PM EST
                          Reply
                          Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 ... 8
                          You're in Easy Mode. If you prefer, you can use XHTML Mode instead.
                          As a new user, you may notice a few temporary content restrictions. Click here for more info.