The 80th Faulkner Bible Lectureship marked another remarkable year, coinciding seamlessly with Homecoming Week and culminating in its second annual high-profile debate. Together, these events drew historic numbers of attendees to campus, fostering both physical and spiritual connections.
On October 19, hundreds gathered for the Military Appreciation Homecoming football game, featuring an exciting F-35 flyover and a patriotic halftime performance. This event was followed by the 2nd Annual Zorn/L2L Faulkner University Invitational, where over $2 million in scholarships was awarded to 42 Lads 2 Leaders participants, kicking off the Faulkner Bible Lectureship.
Kirkley Bramlett was named the National Oratorical Scholarship Winner for the female competition, while Christian Otey won the men’s invitational and Colby Johnson secured second place, all earning scholarships. Additionally, each eligible participant received a $16,000 annual scholarship to attend Faulkner University.
Throughout the rest of the week, guests participated in daily speaker sessions and chapel events centered around the theme of “Grace.” The lectureship concluded with a thought-provoking debate on the morality of gambling. This engaging exchange featured Faulkner Biblical Studies professor David W. Hester arguing against the resolution, while lobbyist Bill J. Pascrell III, representing the Princeton Public Affairs Group, affirmed it. The discussion highlighted the Lectureship’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue on contemporary issues.
Both debaters acknowledged that the Bible does not explicitly condemn gambling. However, Hester presented a compelling case that Scripture implies gambling is morally wrong, framing it as an abuse of stewardship that “wages a war against the soul,” referencing 1 Peter 2:11. He emphasized that gambling seeks to acquire wealth by risking money or other stakes, which he linked to the sins of greed and covetousness. Citing Luke 10:7, Hester questioned whether a gambler is truly “worthy of his wages,” suggesting that gambling falls outside the realm of acceptable entertainment due to its detrimental impact on finances and the harm it does to others.
“God is not pleased with our devotion to covetousness, and that is what gambling is all about. It is an overwhelming desire to obtain wealth,” Hester asserted. “Gambling is more than a simple competition or a thrill-seeking venture, because there is an added element of gaining money – not based on skill or investment, but at the cost to others.”
On the opposing side, Pascrell argued that gambling, when done responsibly and in moderation, can be a safe form of entertainment. However, he acknowledged the potential dangers, not refuting that excessive and irresponsible gambling can lead to addiction, bankruptcy, marital problems and mental health issues.
“I want to you understand, I am not here to promote gambling,” Pascrell said. “I am a man of faith. A good person and I believe that when handled properly, without greed or covetousness, gambling is a fine practice and can be moral.”
The vigorous, but civil debate not only illuminated differing viewpoints but also provided attendees with a thoughtful exploration of one of the state’s most hotly-contested topics, encouraging deeper reflection on the moral implications of gambling in today’s society.
