But about then I began to get into different trouble and…
““But about then I began to get into different trouble and more serious. You might call it doctrinal trouble. The trouble started because I began to doubt the main rock of the faith, which was that the Bible was true in every word . . . They had staked their immortal souls on the infallible truth of every pen scratch from "In the beginning" to "Amen." But I had read all of it by then, and I could see that it changed. And if it changed, how could all of it be true? For instance, there is a big difference between the old tribespeople's coldhearted ferocity against their enemies and Jesus' preaching of forgiveness and of love for your enemies.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author describes how questioning literal biblical in leads to a crisis of faith, contrasting violent ancient customs with Jesus' teachings of forgiveness.
In simple terms: Doubting scripture creates inner conflict between old harshness and new love.
Key Takeaway
Examine your beliefs critically.
Themes
faith
doubt
scripture
morality
conflict
Mood
reflective
conflicted
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- religious study
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
theology
interpretation
historical context
Questions to Reflect On
- What parts of belief do you accept without question?
- How can you reconcile ancient texts with modern values?
A Different Perspective
Faith may evolve; literalism can cause alienation.