Expert: Rev Philip Dacre - 11/27/2007

Question
I found it quite interesting that in one of your responses you mentioned that you agreed that there are mistranslations in the Bible. You made mention that the Jesus has basically made it simple for us to enter "Paradise" and also that "the bible is a spiritual book and not a factual one...not even geographical or historically correct version of the facts." I have yet to ever see a reverend say this in a public domain so I figured I would ask you a couple of questions.

1. If you agree that there are certain mistranslations, as you say, why are they not corrected? It would seem that it would only make sense to do so in order to avoid confusion and chaos.

2. If you believe that the bible is "not even [a] geographical or historically correct version of the facts," what part exactly do you believe is true in the Bible?

I ask because it seems to me that the less confusion, the better chances of someone understanding the lesson in it's entirety. Also, most people whom I know to believe in the Bible believe that is a factual book, both spiritually and physically. You are the first person I have seen to just say it's a spiritual book, thus I would like to know what exactly is your idea of truth in the Bible. Thankx for your time and attention.

Kuwn

Answer
Dear Kuwn,

Some people say that there were different happenings like there being 2 angels at the tomb in one version and only one in the next.

I am told that there are at least 100 factual mistakes in new testament alone and I believe this.

Its the essence of the scripture that is correct not the facts. One gospel says 70 disciples went out in twos another says 72 disciples went out...etc. you can se the easy fault and how easily it can happen.


Its the spiritual side that is true... like "God is love"... true.

Jesus said, "Love one another"... true and simple.

The early disciples did not have a bible. But they still followed the living Christ. Because the bible points us to this living Christ. We take scriptures as truth but this truth directs us to the living Christ that speaks and hears and directs His church today.

We are not meant to follow the book but follow the Christ. The book tells us of him and what His nature is like so we can recognize Him and not get mistaken. Whether he lived in Jerusalem or Jericho is not relevant.

Hope this helps?

God bless