Current Events Discussion Group for February

This month's topic is “Poverty” and will meet on February 26th at 7:00pm at the Riverfalls Campus.

Last month’s discussion on “Creation meets Evolution” was peaceful yet spirited and it was exciting to see some new faces as well as the faithful. The meeting went so long we failed to choose the next subject, as is our habit, so after much personal debate (and some help from Tom Elliott), the subject for the CEDG discussion this month will be “What is the Christian’s roll in addressing poverty?” This subject is convicting. We touched on it briefly in our first meeting (about choosing a president) so I feel confident there will be much to discuss.

Mission Statement:
The Current Events Discussion Group (CEDG) exists to explore and evaluate contemporary social, political and cultural issues so that each member may discern and apply their personal faith convictions within their daily lives.The opinions and views expressed at the CEDG reflect those of the person who gave them and not New Life Church.

Discussion Questions:
1) What were Jesus’ commands concerning the poor? Were they directed at the individual or the church?
2) Is it the responsibility of the government to care for impoverished people? And if so is our government adequately fighting poverty? Could churches be doing a better job?
3) In your opinion, what are the root causes of poverty? What are some common opinions of the prominent aid organizations? What does the Bible say about this?
4) How does one balance going the second mile vs. tough love?

Preparation:
The reading will include an article by John Piper entitled “World Hunger and Us” which gives some statistics and background about world poverty as well as his perspective on Christian responsibility.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByDate/1981/317_World_Hunger_and_Us/
I may add a second article in the next few days.
There are so many scriptures on caring for the poor. Here are a few to look up. Likely there will be others that support your answers to the questions above. Please bring the references with you for the discussion.
Matt 25:31-46, Matt 5:40-42, James 2:14-17, Proverbs 14:31
Thank everyone for your continued interest in the discussion group. I hope to see many of you there in a couple of weeks.

Contact Information:
For more information on CEDG procedures or for an Information Packet addressing this month’s topic contact Tiffani Howard.