As a Christian and a Scientist, the idea that the bible isn't a document to be taken literally like a textbook isn't exactly a new concept for me. I value the bible strongly for its historical, cultural and literary significance and I do believe that you can learn right ways of living from the stories and teachings within. However, I also acknowledge that the bible was written down, compiled, editted, translated and even interpreted by human men with their own very human experiences, views and motivations. For that matter, the majority of the Old Testament is letters from Paul to various communities of early Christians and Paul's own words and prejudices are often given the same weight as the words of Jesus. (Oh hello, Soap Box...I missed you!) Anyway...not the post of this post, though if someone wants to discuss it...I'm game!
So...I was reading one of the web comics that I follow, Least I Could Do, and at the bottom of the page was the most recent news/forum post from one of the artists about a current news event featuring a public battle between a lesbian couple and the catholic school that won't let their daughter re-enroll. Religion, Education, Sexuality, Morality and Equal Rights are all topics that interest me in discussions so I checked out the discussion thread even though I need another forum like I need a hole in my head. One of the posts (Top of Page 4) brought up an interesting concept, that even though the post was poorly written and a bit incoherent, stuck with me: The idea that the Bible has become a Golden Calf. Not necessarily as something to believe but certainly something to give a bit of thought to. Especially since the whole blind unquestioning faith thing? Not exactly my gig. I like questions like "why" and "how" and the phrase "but that doesn't make sense".
Things to think about:
- What made the Golden Calf so appealing to the people of the bible?
- Do some or all of those same conditions exist in the modern world?
- Does modern society lend itself more to a preference for instant concrete answers from the bible over delayed and uncertain gratification via prayer and conversation with God?
- Where does the trend towards legalistic Christianity come from?
- Why is it easier as Christians to focus on following (and enforcing in others) the morality of the Old Testament than it is to follow Jesus' simple command to Love?
Would love to discuss this since I'm still turning over thoughts in my head. Let me know what you think on any part of this.
