This fall, our young adults are embarking on a six-week Sunday school series titled “The Bible and Moral Debate.”
This series is adapted from a class taught at Brown University, in which students read about a contemporary topic through a biblical perspective. Not only do the students learn about these hot topics, they actually read relevant articles from several author’s opposing viewpoints.
Our class met for the first time this past Sunday and discussed “The Bible and the Environment.” We explored voices who believe that the Bible is anti-environment as well as voices that believe it is pro-environment.
Suffice it to say, this fostered great discussion about how different Christian voices approach the creation story, the story of Adam Eve, and several of Jesus’ parables. We learned about the ways in which the book of Revelation and its apocalyptic visions could point to a future exploitation of the earth and its resources or a future reconciliation of human beings to the earth. Don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers now!
The Bible is a big book. It was never meant to be read alone. Now more than ever, it is important to dig into the text, together, and hear how both sides of the aisle interpret its stories. It may be an old book, but it certainly speaks to the contemporary moral issues of our day. Looking forward, our class will examine the following topics throughout the fall: capital punishment, homosexuality, abortion, genocide, and race, slavery and segregation.
For any young adults interested, join us Sundays at 9am in the Fellowship Hall (no class on 9/1 or 9/22)!