I don't think the countercultural aspect of Jesus's message is subjective or relative to any particular culture. Jesus's message was antithetical to the human project of building civilizations that are run by human laws. Jesus was a radical who thought history was ending soon in an apocalyptic revelation and judgment of our unworthiness to be in God's sight. No pagan, secular, or humanistic culture withstands that radicalism.

I agree that Jesus's message was dualistic in that sense. But you don't think that makes human progress futile? What would be the point of trying to progress by using our natural cognitive powers if Jesus is going to return any minute and usher in God's kingdom?