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If the Bible were still being written

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. I’ll post a follow-up later in the week.

Originally posted at Considerations.

David Warkentin

David Warkentin is a Mennonite Brethren pastor in British Columbia. He blogs at Considerations, part of the CCblogs network.

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