Choose one topical issue that has been in news media and current affairs recently (see the following list of possibilities) and explain what you think the Bible says in response. You may bring your Bible into the exam. You should familiarize yourself with the topic and the Bible perspective on your chosen topic in your preparation.
(a) Choose one main verse or a key passage (and quote it) to address the topic
(b) You can back it up with three other Bible quotations that you think are helpful in developing your response to the topic
(c) It is possible that there is more than one approach to the topic (it may be a controversial/contentious issue), therefore you need to explain your interpretation. Authenticity, i.e. your own opinion, backed up with Biblical reasoning, is the highest assessment priority.
(d) Some contemporary (modern) topics are not obviously found in the Bible, however guiding wisdom on a related topic can help you decide how to respond. (For example, you will not read about ‘technology’ specifically in the Bible but you can learn about devotion, idolatry (your highest priority/what receives your attention), about how you spend your time, money, and about wise productivity.
(e) You should be relating your ideas to:
(i) The life and attitudes demonstrated by Jesus, to Christian values you have learned so far, and to your understanding of moral principles; and
(ii) The wisdom learned from Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel of Luke (New Testament).
You will be given specific news stories, or newspaper excerpt. Here are some example topics in contemporary news media and current affairs:
· Climate change
· Providing housing and care for people living in poverty
· Child vaccination and public health
· Inclusiveness for people with disabilities (mental health, learning, or physical)
· Equal pay for women
· Environmental sustainability vs. capitalist profit
· Corrupt political leadership
· Should the responsibility for aged care take place in the family home or in a nursing home?
