top of page

Contemporary Issues from a Biblical Perspective
October 4, 2023 - Present

Disclaimer

This Bible Study was prepared by Bishop Vincent P. Oliver in his capacity as Senior Pastor of New Calvary Baptist Church. This lesson is an honest expression of the author’s opinion and understanding of the subject matter from a biblical perspective.  As such, it is not intended to defame or make an unjust, or prejudicial distinction of any person, or group of people on the grounds of religious beliefs, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, age, or disability.

Introduction - Lesson 1 - October 4, 2023 

There is no such thing as a perfect society.  We live in a world that is filled with problems and issues that affect  how we live, as well as our future.  Many issues, because of their nature affect how we think, our choices, and even the quality of our lives. These can be called Contemporary Issues.  This is our definition of Contemporary Issues: “Present day subjects that generate concern, controversy or challenge our morality.”   They become issues because of the many converging and conflicting interpretations, beliefs and mindsets.  Issues such as abortion, the environment, equal rights, gun control, gay rights, criminal justice, to name a few, are interpretated differently and for varying reasons.  This Bible study seeks to discuss these and other similar topics from a biblical perspective for the purpose of presenting a good understanding of the issues and how we should respond as Christians.  

Abortion - Lesson 2 - Part 1 - October 11, 2023

Introduction

What is Abortion?  At its most basic level, abortion is the termination of a pregnancy by removal or expulsion of an embryo or fetus.  Abortions can be elective, induced, to terminate the pregnancy, or therapeutic.  A therapeutic abortion seeks to end the pregnancy because the mother’s life is endangered or the fetus has been determined to have serious mental or physical abnormalities, poor chances of survival. 

The issue of abortion is perhaps the most volatile and controversial issue in American society today. The questions of when life begins, the woman’s right, the fetus’ rights and it legalization have been debated for years.  Additionally, this topic has divided the nation, families and even the body of Christ.  Many organizations that spend millions of dollars  promoting and defending the woman’s freedom of choice (pro-choice), and there are just as many organizations opposing abortion and the fetus’ right to life (pro-life).  This debate, which has become a proverbial “political football” continues to rage on.

But what does a correct interpretation of the Scriptures have to say about abortion? The purpose of this discussion is simply to offer what the Bible has to say about abortion.  It will then be up to each believer to make an informed decision on the matter. 

The Bible has a lot to say about abortion and the preborn.   It consistently proclaims the utmost importance of protecting life in the womb.  This portrayal is found in the Old Testament. “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well” (Psalm 139:13-14). “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5). “The Lord called Me before I was born. From the body of My mother He said My name” (Isaiah 49:1b)

The Bible also speaks of the importance and sanctity (sacredness) of life in the New Testament, particularly in the life of Jesus while yet in Mary’s womb.  “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb” (Luke 5:42). 

Abortion - Lesson 2 - Part 2 - October 18, 2023

Introduction

There are three basic positions on abortion, and they all center around the question of the human status of the unborn. 

  1. Those who believe the unborn are not yet human (subhuman), favor abortion by choice; formally called “Abortion on Demand”  

  2. There are those who argue that the unborn is a potential human, and therefore favor abortion in specified circumstances. 

  3. Then there those who believe that the unborn are fully human are against all forms of abortion. 

Last week’s study dealt with position number one, which favors abortion by choice, believing the fetus to not yet human. 

Abortion - Lesson 2 - Part 3 - October 25, 2023

Introduction

There are three basic positions on abortion, and they all center around the question of the human status of the unborn. 

  1. Those who believe the unborn are not yet human (subhuman), favor abortion by choice; formally called “Abortion on Demand”  

  2. There are those who argue that the unborn is a potential human, and therefore favor abortion in specified circumstances. 

  3. Then there those who believe that the unborn are fully human, and therefore are against all forms of abortion. 

 LGBTQ Rights Movement - Lesson 3 - November 1, 2023

Introduction

William Wilberforce, the 18th-century abolitionist (opponent of slavery) wrote these words: “You may choose to look the other way but you can never say again that you did not know.” Just as these words challenged the world to face the injustices of slavery and the slave trade over 200 years ago, they aptly apply to our need to understand and take a stance on the LGBTQ Rights Movement today.  Like those who are a part of this movement have made a choice to openly and honestly express who they are, the Christian community has a responsibility to attempt to understand them, and more importantly what the Scriptures have to say about this important issue.  The LGBTQ movement is a reality of the 21st century that requires prayerful and enlightened consideration by every Christian. The days of verbal “gay bashing” as our only response to the LGBTQ Movement are over.  The Word of God was never intended to be used to attack those whom we believe to be in conflict with the teachings of the Bible. 

The purpose of this study is to understand this movement and what the Bible has to say about those who have chosen this lifestyle.

​

Marriage and Divorce - Lesson 4 - Part 1 - November 8, 2023

Introduction

Marriage is the most basic and important component of society.  It is the foundation of the family structure.  It is difficult to overestimate the importance of marriage, yet each year in the United States there are about half as many divorces as marriages.  This fact alone, demands that we consider the basis of marriage as God intended it.  Likewise, since divorce has become commonplace both inside and outside the church, we also need to examine what the Bible has to say about when, if ever, divorce is justifiable.

​

Marriage and Divorce - Lesson 4 - Part 2 - November 15, 2023

Introduction

Divorce is the act of legally dissolving or ending a marriage.  As has been stated, divorce has become commonplace both inside and outside the church, so we need to examine what the Bible has to say about when, if ever, divorce is justifiable.  Based on our discussion about God’s design for marriage between a man and a woman, it is easy to see that God never intended for divorce to be a part of His plan.  Because God never breaks a covenant that He has established, Christians are cautioned against ending or breaking a covenant.  There is general disagreement among Christians on the issue of divorce.  We want to look at three points of view.

Lesson 5 - November 22, 2023

bottom of page