There are many streams of biblical interpretation where we are asked to believe things that if we are honest, are hard to believe. This, as far as I can tell, is a form of deception. We are told to disregard one’s rational thought and critical thinking in order to accept as truth someone else’s preconceived conclusion. If we start our pursuit of truth with indifference for personal experience, reason, or reflection, how are we expected to relate to the stories provided by the writers? Disengagement of the mind seems to be contrary to the New Testament's understanding of repentance, which itself requires us to change the way we are thinking in order to renew our minds.

For a transcription of this podcast and a list of all sources quoted in this episode go to...http://jpshafer.com/2019/01/12/the-bible-pt-4/