This discussion is for those
grieving the loss of loved ones, those watching as this pandemic unfolds, and those whose lives have not yet been touched
by HIV and AIDS.
We designed this book to be a Bible study discussion guide. The lessons draw parallels between
leprosy and HIV and AIDS, between a much feared, ancient disease and a modern counterpart. The goal is not to locate right
answers – there are no right or wrong answers for many of the questions – but to study and discuss.
Each of the ten lessons contains opening thoughts, a Scripture story text using the Contemporary English Version, nine or
more questions, and ends with a promise from the traditional King James Bible.
Endorsements
HIV/AIDS has quickly become the greatest humanitarian crisis
of our time! Millions have lost their lives. Millions more have seen their dreams destroyed as they are living with or affected
by the virus [that causes AIDS]. Children are growing up without parents and face huge challenges as they strive to make sense
out of their broken world.
As followers of Jesus, what is our responsibility in the face of such suffering? What
would Jesus do? What does He expect of us? What does it mean to “love thy neighbor” in a world of HIV/AIDS?
Andrea Bakke and Corean Bakke have provided a wonderful tool to explore the Scriptures for insights into these questions.
They don’t provide simple answers which can often be trite and unhelpful, but rather stimulating questions that enable
you to consider your own responses in light of the Scriptural teachings.
I think you’ll find it a wonderfully
stimulating study! The HIV/AIDS pandemic is calling us all to reevaluate our own responsibilities in the face of massive human
suffering. Time to Talk in Church about HIV and AIDS will help you think through the difficult and challenging issues. My
prayer is that it will help awaken the Church to the opportunity in front of us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the midst
of a hurting world!
- Ken Casey HIV/AIDS Hope Initiative World Vision International
Andrea and Corean have done a masterful
job of combining medicine, sociology and Scripture into a thought provoking and potentially life changing discussion guide.
I was pleased to see that the medicine and sociology were accurate, yet understandable for non-professionals. The Scripture
selections are apropos. The questions force each participant to examine his/her prejudices, pet theological positions and
walk before God.
- Daryl R. Erickson, MD, FACS
I believe this study has great potential in helping
Bible believing people discover the urgency of applying the principles of Christ to our current challenges of HIV/AIDS. Some
of us were early victims of a fear created by this new disease and the shame associated with its connection with sexual behavior.
I hope that our number will be greatly diminished by efforts to see this disease in the context of the love of Christ for
the lepers of His day. The “Burden of a Secret” which I titled my description of that ordeal in our family, will
be lifted if people have the opportunity to do this kind of study.
– Jimmy R. Allen Former President
of the Southern Baptist Convention Author of BURDEN OF A SECRET: A STORY OF TRUTH AND MERCY IN A FAMILY FACED WITH AIDS
Indeed, it is time to talk in our churches about HIV and AIDS. This Bible study discussion guide brings the
issue to light in conversation with some of the Bible’s most compelling stories.
– Cheryl J. Sanders Senior Pastor, Third Street Church of God Professor of Christian Ethics Howard University School of Divinity
These timely, well-written and easy to lead lessons guide without preaching. They combine biblical reference
with personal experience and hope.
– Joan Haner Member of a women’s Bible study group
