The Bible is a collection of writings by a variety of authors over hundreds of years.
The Old Testament is made up of the Jewish scrolls of the Law, the Histories, and the Prophets.
It was never one document.
When reading the Old Testament we must take into account the worldview and understanding that was current at the time of writing.
Primitive understandings of God led many Old Testament writers to endorse pracitices like: polygamy, incest, scapegoating, and genocide.
They also created an image of God that was harsh, judgemental, vengeful, and violent.
Jesus challenged many of these misconceptions.
"'You have heard that it was said.... But I say.....'" Matthew 5 (NRSV)
So we can legitimately say that humankind's image of God evolves over time.
But even the New Testament cannot be taken literally.
Many of the miracle stories and post-crucifixion sightings are symbolic stories that represent a spiritual truth rather than an historical event.
Some later theological developments have been written back into the texts.
And do not get too hooked on the literal words.
The spirit of the Bible is good news for the poor, the outcast, and the sick.
It is inclusive and compassionate.
Its God is merciful, forgiving, and tolerant.
A Father to humanity.
Whose predominant characteristic is:
Love.
[Scripture quotations (marked NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved]
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