Poll concerning Creation(ism)

[Thinkingstuff]

I have a question to throw out to the group. Should all of the Bible be interpreted literally? That is should Genesis be interpreted the same way as the four Gospels? What about Revelation or Psalms? Should the parables (e.g. the Sower, the Prodigal Son, the Virgins with the Lamps, etc.) be explained in exactly the same way as the Sermon on the Mount? I believe that there are different types of writings in the Bible. My idea at this point is that Revelation is largely symbolic. Jesus said that the parables required explanation (interpretation) and they were meant to be understood by His followers but not by others.

Other beliefs?

That's the thing about Genesis. It was passed as oral tradition to Moses. I think in some respects it is like the Apocalypse of John. It is explaining real events but not necissarily how we think of them.

 

[Crabtownboy]

That's the thing about Genesis. It was passed as oral tradition to Moses. I think in some respects it is like the Apocalypse of John. It is explaining real events but not necissarily how we think of them.

I agree. The importance of Genesis is that it tell us why God created.

There are two creations stories in Genesis. In the first mankind is created last. In the second Adam and Eve [manking] is created first. But the important truth is that God did it.

 

[HankD]

Always take the literal sense when and where it makes sense.

Clearly there are passages sections and even books which need interpretation beyond the literal sense.

Then Books of Revelation and the Song of Solomon are examples

Revelation 4

7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.
8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.​

HankD