Validity & usefulness of the Bible
Hi Markx;
I see that you are being treated well. Nonetheless, as your last posting seems a response to my previous comments directed to you, it seems courteous for me to respond. Sincere interchange is a good thing.
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YOU WROTE; "This is what I meant. Why would a person from an organized religion would like to go ahead and accept christianity, what is that bible offer that other religions don't? When we didn't even know who wrote many chapters of the bible. Do you see my point?? I hope you can answer. Thanks"
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Now about the authors: There are various opinions as regards the authors. However, I tend to lean toward the conclusions, along with the explanations given and defended in the Unabridged Translation of "THEOLOGICO-POLITICO TREATISE, by BENEDICT DE SPINOZA, [R. H. M. Elwes, Translater].
The specific writings to which I refer are covered in, Chapter VIII--Of the authorship of the Pentateuch and the other historical books of the Old Testament. . . . ~ Ch. IX-- Other questions about these books. . . . ~ Ch. X --An Examination of the remaining books of the Old Testament (etc.). . . . ~ Ch. XI-- An Inquiry whether the Apostles wrote their Epistles as Apostles and Prophets or merely as Teachers, and an Explanation of what is meant by an Apostle.
I agree that few become interested in becoming Christians simply by reading the Bible. Following have been my observations:
In evangelical meetings, one may come with friend or family and be encouraged to, nagged into, or practically dragged, (I have seen it all), but mostly they are talked into coming to the altar. Usually, in such a case the person has either already thought about it, is having a very bad time in his/her life at the moment, and would love to find a better way, or is very impressed with the particular pastor, evangelist, congregation . . . (all or any of these).
Emotionalism could also be a reason, (not that this is necessarily bad). To expand on that: Some of us are more sporatic/impulsive, easily influence. Fear is sometimes a motivator, either a fear of not finding any other solution, or fear of God's anger should one die, (or never see loved ones again, etc. or going to 'hell' - as found in "fire and brimestone messages."
Conversely, there is the cut and dried sort of presentation of what is necessary to become a Christian. By this I mean the strategy of simply getting a person to say certain words.
As I have matured I am much more inclined to encourage person to think for themselves, and yet be there for them, to encourage, but not to intimidate.
I have worked with very few (Christians) who came rom "another religion, but I have known some."
More often than not, those who inquire, come forward, or are otherwise approached and convinced to become Christians either have no previous religion, or are/was disenchanted with their previous denomination, or religion, and have very strong feelings about the place from whence they came. Some denominations do not consider others 'Christians' indeed.
I prefer to read and study on my own until I come to a reasonably good understanding, but then, you did not ask about that. Just thought I would mention it, for this reason: People can drive you crazy with all their varied opinions, (which could be more than worthwhile to hear), but--from my own experience, I can assure that one must work out his own understanding, ---bottom line.
It never hurts to doubt. It can, in fact, be the beginning of understanding, and give one an hunger for knowledge, and so forth.
This more than you asked for, but it is very difficult to give an abbreviated answer on such a complicated subject.
It helps to know something about the authors or commentators you whom you choose to hear/read, and especially their opinions on the specific portion(s) of the Bible on which they are commenting and whatever else you can know about them, because there is often an agenda!
I honestly do not believe I have one, (agenda). and I will tell you why. As to who wrote the books of the Bible, though an interesting thing to investigate, I cannot be so sure, with the many knowledge seekers differing in this matter.
I gave you the one in whom I have placed much of my trust. J Dawg, Okinrus and doubtless others, have given you other thoughts to consider. Whatever you conclude or do not conclude is yours! Do not easily cast your gut feelings aside. Man's search for truth has not ended. Please be kind to those who stumble along, as we all do at times, and keep your own heart and mind open. You sound like a sincere individual, and the hunger for knowledge, and for rightness can be so rewarding, and yet it never ends. So, go for it, and I wish you well.
P. M. Thorne
