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Originally Posted by Poppinjay
That's an interesting take. I studied OT and Christian theology (classes, not as a major) at a Methodist university and the approach was much more philosophical than absolute. As far as reading, I prefer the new standard revisions, and I think it makes a fine story, although some books are much more instructive, interesting, etc. Job is my favorite.
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Jay, for a time I studied to be a pastor in the United Methodist Church. This was before I was born again. I'm sure there are some Bible Christians in the UMC, but my own experience was that education not salvation was stressed, and I never heard the Gospel as I understand it today proclaimed. I did meet some very nice people, and in fact many of the folks who attended the church I did when I first went to college demonstrated a very kind love towards me in many things.
However, I'd agree that by and large the Bible is not taken literally by many in the UMC, and in fact, by many mainline denominations. Not raising a criticism, just a point of observation and agreement.
Whether you accept it literally or not will go a long way towards what impact it has on you and you allow it to have. I suppose it also comes into a decision about what translation you trust as God's Word kept intact for your native tongue.
I'd be interested to know what you appreciate about Job?
My favorite portion of Scripture is the Sermon on the Mount, as found in Matthew chapters 5 - 7.
Blessings.