This sounds as though it will be an interesting series that I hope will not descend into the constant political wailing that seems to now pass for recommended writing by Substack. I am not a great student of the Bible (willing to learn) but extensively self-read on church history. It occurs to me that the misogyny, rascism, etc., you describe were widely promoted and practiced by the churches, particularly the Catholic church which dominated politics and religion for centuries. Of course, the Bible and church/religion are two verryy different things.
Thank you, Jean. I plan to focus on the text itself (with the caveats mentioned in the post itself). I hope my comments will be thoughtful, honest, and relevant. Thanks for being willing to give it a whirl.
You asked, "How do we apply these stories and the principles behind them to modern life without falling into the trap of making them mean whatever we want them to mean?" I believe the simplest way to avoid relativistic interpretations is to infuse all our thoughts, words, and actions with love. Where love is lacking, so is Jesus.
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment, John. When it comes to interpretation of Scripture, though, I find there is very little that is actually simple. That's one reason why I am undertaking this series. Hope you enjoy it!
This sounds as though it will be an interesting series that I hope will not descend into the constant political wailing that seems to now pass for recommended writing by Substack. I am not a great student of the Bible (willing to learn) but extensively self-read on church history. It occurs to me that the misogyny, rascism, etc., you describe were widely promoted and practiced by the churches, particularly the Catholic church which dominated politics and religion for centuries. Of course, the Bible and church/religion are two verryy different things.
Thank you, Jean. I plan to focus on the text itself (with the caveats mentioned in the post itself). I hope my comments will be thoughtful, honest, and relevant. Thanks for being willing to give it a whirl.
I am here for it with an open and inquiring mind. ;>)
You asked, "How do we apply these stories and the principles behind them to modern life without falling into the trap of making them mean whatever we want them to mean?" I believe the simplest way to avoid relativistic interpretations is to infuse all our thoughts, words, and actions with love. Where love is lacking, so is Jesus.
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment, John. When it comes to interpretation of Scripture, though, I find there is very little that is actually simple. That's one reason why I am undertaking this series. Hope you enjoy it!
Thanks, Beth. Looking forward to future installments!
Hello