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Expert: - 12/18/2009


Question
The old testament is very hard to believe, unless you read it as metaphor, mythology, or spiritually. Literally? no way! What do we do with verses from JOSHUA, DEUTERONOMY? The ones where the bible says that "GOD" says they are to kill men, women, and children young and old? This does not sound like GOD to me, but the ancient Israelites using GOD as justification to conquer. I believe in the teachings of JESUS, but the old testament I'm not so sure of. The problem is is that Jesus is recorded in the bible as saying," they wrote of me" meaning Moses and the prophets. See my dilemma. I believe in Jesus' teachings but I think the old testament is filled with mythology. Thank you and GOD BLESS YOU.

Answer
Your questions are good ones and I always encourage people to challenge what they read.  In fact, the Bereans were noted for it (Acts 17:11).  

The problem with your approach is that you, not God, are choosing what to accept and what to reject.  Jesus accepted the writings of Moses and the prophets and guoted them frequently.  Who are we to reject what Jesus accepted?

It is important to note that God does not conform to our thinking about what is right and wrong; He has His own ways of accounting.  He also promised that He would preserve His people and keep them pure.  There are examples of women from warring peoples who were allowed to survive and intermarry with the nations of Judah, bringing their pagan gods with them.  This led to God's people turning away from Him.  Being a holy and righteous God, there is only one way to retain purity.  I suggest you read the first part of chapter 4 of Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians in this context (rejection is not an option).

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Roy Wallen

Expertise

Using the Bible as my primary source and references in support of it, I am willing to answer questions on subjects from the Old and New Testaments. My faith is based on biblical Christianity and fundamental views from the Bible. I cannot answer questions about specific sects or religious organizations nor can I address religions outside biblical Christianity. As a Christian for nearly 40 years, I have studied many aspects of the Christian faith. My particular interests are in creation and the natural processes of the world around us and how they fit with the biblical record. I believe that all Scripture is inspired by God. I believe that there are no contradictions in the Bible and that the Bible is complete in telling us as individuals how we should relate to God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit; our purpose on earth; and how we should live. Greek lauguage study has helped me gain additional insight into the New Testament but most of my reference work is done in English and, to a lesser degree, German.

Experience

Personal Bible study over the years, lessons delivered in Sunday School settings and messages during organized services, and leading Bible study series have prepared me to be comfortable addressing questions from others.

Education/Credentials
Formal study includes Greek language. I am a layman without a theological degree. Training has come from sitting under the ministry of excellent Bible teachers for my entire adult life, personal study, and selected courses. Secular educaitonal background includes an undergraduate engineering degree, graduate work in engineerign and business, and advanced courses in business and theology.

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