Reply #19: good questions...

[melnjones]

The bible is quite important to me, but I do not believe it is word-for-word written by God...it's a document that has to always be read in its historical and literary context, and even then many parts are difficult to understand because we are so amazingly far removed from the time and place it was written. I hold the bible as authoritative in my life but fully admit I do not understand it all and I am forced to give pause when I hear or am taught an interpretation that is contrary to the peaceful loving example of Christ. (By the way, typically those who would largely bash the bible have not studied it in its historical and literary context either...and why should they, if they don't believe the bible to be authoritative? Regardless, they are typically no better experts on the subject than are the ignorant Christians they bash...and often bash with good reason!)

I would love to put more effort into bible reading...but seeing as how i'm a seminary student and the bed on which I am resting while I type this reply is half covered in biblical greek study aids, bible commentaries, and other bible/theological books, including a bible itself, i'm not sure how this seminary student can do a lot more bible reading and not die of sleep deprivation. By the way, I also work at my church...so attending church is kinda important.

I'm sorry you have such a poor view of christians...you probably wouldn't feel this way had you not seen some poor examples of christianity. I've seen those examples too and experienced the damage they can bring...just know we are not ALL like that :-)