Introduction
Different interpretations of the Holy Scripture cause disputes and contradictions. The article “The Power of the Bible in the Global South – Liberating Word” discusses how much one should be worried about applying Christian teaching in new and multifaceted interpretations. The essay deals with the Global South, which has adopted more conservative interpretations of the Bible than American denominations (Jenkins, 2006). Reflections on changes in Christian doctrine raise the question of whether Christians should remain conservative in applying the Bible to the events of the modern world, the anti-abortion movement, and racial tensions.
Main Body
Christians worldwide accept different interpretations of the Holy Scripture that suit their cultural and social realities. Different approaches to the definition of Christianity and its role in human life led to the emergence of new Christian norms, which can be radically different. Biblical traditionalism and more flexible interpretations are noticeable and designed to apply to modern events. For some people, the Bible text will be radically out of touch with the modern world. For others, it will be a living teaching of righteous life (Jenkins, 2006). Regardless of the modern or traditional way of reading, the Bible often provides useful answers to life’s problems, so it can be considered a guide to action and a collection of practical advice.
The applicability of material advice from the Bible to modern life depends on individual or collective interpretation. However, there are some questions the Bible does not answer, and differences in interpretations lead to various opinions on critical social issues. One frequently quoted line is: “Then the LORD formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7).
Defenders of the legalization of abortion can use this argument as evidence that life must be considered begun from the moment breathing starts. Opponents of abortion may counter-argument that Adam and Eve should not be compared to embryos. The explanation for such contradictions is that society is inevitably transformed and constantly searching for meanings and explanations. As a single and universal text, the Bible can satisfy this food for thought. There can be no consensus on this issue. Still, one thing is clear: the Christian community can no longer remain unanimously conservative because modern life constantly poses new challenges and questions.
An example of the change in modern life and the need for new Biblical interpretations is racial tension. What was considered socially acceptable for centuries is no longer normal in modern times, and the Bible can provide useful answers applicable to the current reality. Regarding racial tensions, the Bible says, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, nor slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). In a modern reading, this quote can be interpreted as proof of the undeniable equality of all people before the Lord. That is, regardless of gender, social status, and religion, people should be equal, and this can be a Biblical argument in favor of fighters against racial discrimination and gender inequality.
The modern world dictates new rules of life for people based on the rethinking of traditions, views, and personal and social norms. At the same time, the Bible can provide answers to important life questions for both conservatives and liberals. This is the universal unifying power of the Holy Scripture, which can be an engine of social change and revolutionize people’s minds (Jenkins, 2006). Rethinking the Bible is necessary for mankind to form a moral and ethical code that meets the requirements of modern life. There is nothing terrible or reprehensible in the fact that Bible readings are being transformed since this process is inevitable in a rapidly changing world (Jenkins, 2006).
On the contrary, people must find new meanings in times of crisis and uncertainty and are guided by the common Biblical values of righteousness, love for one’s neighbor, and mutual respect. Therefore, modern Christians do not have to remain strictly conservative in forming their own opinions about what is happening in the world. The movement towards liberalization is not a departure from the Biblical precepts but a consequence of developing a more just and equal world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible, throughout the existence of civilization, has been a moral support and a source of practical life advice. Modern readings of the Holy Scriptures are inevitable, as humanity needs to be transformed in its growth and development. Christians do not have to remain conservative on abortion and racial tensions. In the Bible, a person of any view can find instruction and advice, a blessing and a unifying force of Holy Scripture. The Bible can be a reliable source of instruction from which a modern person can draw strength to remain true to themselves and God in today’s challenging world.
References
Galatians 3:28. New International Version. Bible Gateway. Web.
Genesis 2:7. King James Version. King James Bible Online. Web.
Jenkins, P. (2006). Liberating word: The power of the Bible in the global South. The Christian Century. Web.