Bible Discussion Thread

Page 2.

And who is the Tree of Life? None other than Christ.

Yes, there is an element of symbolism, allegory and metaphor in Genesis 1-3. And the 2 Trees were representative of something other than trees. Likewise, the 24 hour a day creation is also misunderstood. Days are Phases, Stages of creation, not literal 24 hours. If all God did was say, let there be light, and poof, everything came into being, what did He do with the rest of the 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds? The element of literal hyperbole is indisputable. But most Christians are afraid to admit it. Read Heb 3-4 for a better understanding of the duration of the 7th Day.

With respect to the 7th Day, Heb 3-4 says God designated a time called 'Today' during which we have the opportunity to enter into God's Rest. And what is God's Rest? On the 7th Day God rested from His creative activity. Now it stands to reason, that if we are able to enter God's rest, He has not resumed His creative activity. But once Christ returns, that will be the end of God's rest. At that time, God will destroy the earth with fire, 1 Peter, and He will create a new heaven and a new earth.

So, if we are still in the 'Today' of the 7th Day, is the 7th Day a 24 hour period? Clearly not if God had resumed work on the 8th Day, since His rest would have been over. But God has designated this 'Today' a long today, so that He can Save as many as are written in the Book of Life. He is not willing that any should perish and for Christ to enter the world to accomplish that Purpose.

But if the 7th Day can be 6,000 years long, is it inconceivable that Day 1 could be 1, 2, 3 Billion years old. And the others? How long did it take for animals to procreate and trees to grow and streams to flow and the dry land to appear? How long between Adam and Eve? How long did they walk in the Garden with God? Symbolism in the Genesis account, doesn't mean Genesis is untrustworthy. It means God told the story using allegory and metaphor.

Very well said Carlos! This unites religion and science which is so much more important rather than placing the two at odds.

Thank you Joe. I think the Bible is clear, but Christians are afraid to accept reality. Back in the 60's and 70's we talked about these things. But we were severely chastised and disciplined for deviating from "Orthodox" doctrine. Churches are set up so you can't question current beliefs. The Pastor goes up to the Podium, tells you what you have to believe and there is no opportunity to challenge anything s/he says. Sunday School isn't much better. And Adult Bible Studies also suppress discussion of some issues. Most people are not even interested or prepared enough to form opinions. And once the Pastor leaves the Pulpit, s/he is not accessible for discussion. In my opinion, churches should give those in the audience an opportunity to raise questions. But of course, time is limited and we are always told we can discuss that at another time. So, everything is left to the academics and whatever they say, is what we must believe.

However, and in spite of that, we must continue to support each other as a testimony to the world of what Christ has done. Perhaps in a perfect world things would be different. Jesus is Lord!

Anyway, thanks for your comment.