transient theological thoughts (2)

Call me slow, naive, conservative, dismissive or even cynical (I don’t really care which); but I’m finally able to articulate a question, the substance of which has been bothering me for quite some time.  I’ll let you decide the merits and value of the question.  Simply stated (ha-ha):

In the midst of critical studies of the Bible, has the focus of such studies caused us to wrestle with the (assumed) problems about the Bible to the extent that we have lost sight of the (known) problem–and its solution–as described within the Bible?  Or to state it differently: have we prioritised the flaws about the biblical text over the greatest flaw about ourselves (i.e. sinfulness), which that text records, and by extension marginalised the greatest solution (i.e. forgiveness and salvation), which that same text proclaims?

nearly perfect

The always entertaining and insightful Scotteriology mentioned this ‘ultimate Bible quiz,’ which is really a bit of a misnomer.  Oh well.  The test was a bit on the easy side and, as Scott points out, rather generous with its praise–even for those who are not perfect:

You know the Bible 98%!

Wow! You are awesome! You are a true Biblical scholar, not just a hearer but a personal reader! The books, the characters, the events, the verses – you know it all! You are fantastic!

Well, technically not ‘all’ because I got 98% out of a possible 100%, which is two less than ‘all’.  I bet it was an OT question that got me.  Guess that means I should go back and read it again.  Feel free to take it, brag about it, rub in my face that you got 100% and I didn’t; whatever strikes your fancy. 

 

quote of the day

From a scholar, professor, friend and all around good guy:

Christianity is not as dumb as some of its adherents make it appear, and as many of its opponents wish it to be.

Give the rest a read to see the context, although I think this quote could very well stand on its own.