I’m always intrigued when I’m reminded of some of the background stories (context) behind the actual words of the Bible. John’s famous line “God is love” was born of out of a messy leadership conflict (1 John 4:8). Paul’s unifying dictum “you are all one in Christ” addressed social and racial tensions (Gal. 3:28). The book of Revelation wasn’t written to inspire a whole industry of apocalyptic ‘art’ (I use that term very loosely!), but addressed those first Christians who literally faced death for their decision to place Jesus as Lord. I could go on and on.
And really, we shouldn’t be surprised when we we’re confronted by such messiness. History, and our own lives for that matter, tells a story full of conflict and struggle. I take comfort knowing the themes of scripture arise from a world not unlike our own.
From this idea, a hypothetical question recently came to mind:
If the bible was still being written, which issues or stories would be addressed?
I’m not asking this to delve into issues of the closed biblical canon. I have a pretty strong confidence in the decisions made by the early church fathers in the first 300+ years of church history. No, I just think it’s an intriguing question. The Bible addressed specific places, people, and situations. I can relate to that. So, which people, places, and situations would be addressed today?
I’d love to hear your responses.
CLICK HERE FOR MY RESPONSE
6 comments:
If the Bible was still being written, "Letter from a Birmingham Jail", Martin Luther King, Jr.
Yes, MLK Jr. is a good call - thanks!
If the Bible was still being written, I think Mother Theresa would be mentioned in it. She would perhaps be included in the Minor Prophets section.
Mother Theresa - definitely! Why minor prophets? (which I think would be a good fit).
Throughout the Minor Prophets, you see God's call for His people to social justice. I think Mother Theresa most certainly embodied that call. =)
"embodied" - very true!
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