Theology Thursday: The Lens of the Bible for Current Issues
The Bible is often viewed by outsiders of the faith as an outdated, mythical artifact, rather than as the living, true, inspired Word of God. Certainly, most Christians would never support this statement with their own lips, but how about in their lifestyles? To say that 2020 has been unexpected, tragic and/or disappointing might be the understatement of the year. However, the same Scriptures that spoke to the Christians in an ancient Greco-Roman society, resonate with mankind across the globe today.
The Necessity of the Bible
Paul writes to Timothy, “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Scriptures are inspired and inerrant, and the Bible acknowledges that God is omniscient (“all-knowing”). If He has complete and perfect knowledge, which He does, then nothing in today’s world surprises Him, and that includes everything in 2020! Scripture tells us that “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). This means that the joys, hardships and struggles that we face in 2020 are the same joys, hardships and struggles that people faced in times past. Sure, the mode may vary, but the heart and core of the issues, whether good or bad, remains the same.
Culture and the Bible
If Scripture is true, profitable and useful for every season of life, then the Christian can find wisdom, encouragement and solace in devoting time to the study and meditation of the Word of God. The human condition has not changed over the centuries. Man is desperately in need of God, who has given us revelation concerning Himself and His relationship with mankind. It is easy to place hopes in politics, social reform, vaccines or the stock markets, and these can be great things; however, our hope must be anchored in God. All other avenues meant to fill a godless void will certainly disappoint. The Gospel “is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). The Gospel is what brings hope, comfort, and purpose to the hurting, abused, needy, fearful, sick, etc.
Dependence on the Bible
As 2020 draws to an end and 2021 approaches, full of uncertainty, let Christians take heart that they can cling to the very words of God. There are no situations or circumstances that will be faced outside of the scope of Scripture. Pray for current events, as this is a great need, but turn to the Scriptures for guidance and understanding. Live by the words of Jesus, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4; Deuteronomy 8:3) Let us live in reliance on the Word of God in the same manner that we depend on food to sustain us.
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.