Subject: Are we all descendants of Adam and Eve? |
Bible Note: Greetings Just Read Mark! Thanks for your response my friend! I would have to respectfully disagree though! ;-) The 'days' of creation are about the only point where one could possibly make the case that the language was mythic or poetic. But, even that doesn't mean that it can't also be historical as well. However, everything else in Genesis is presented in the same manner. Adam and Eve, their children, Noah, Abraham, and on down. Each section uses exactly the same introductory forumla and structure. I simply can't buy that Gen. 1-2 is 'make believe' but the rest is history. There simply isn't anything in the text to back that view up. It is based upon assumptions outside of the text - i.e. - that evolution is true and creation must not be. Finally, notice that you have actually demonstrated why I believe this view is problematic by your response to the NT passages. You have turned them into myths as well, including the genealogies, even though there is no reason to do so. Rom. 5, in particular is a major problem. Rom. 5 doesn't teach, as you put it: "I do believe that rebellion against God is a key part of being human (as Adam and Eve show us) and that Jesus reconciles us to God -- so Romans 5 is a concise and powerful explication of this." Rather, it teaches that just as we all became sinners because of the sin of one man (Adam), so also, the actions of one man (Jesus) brings justification. The entire passage absolutely hinges upon the reality of a man named Adam who sinned against God and who was the father of us all. The doctrine of original sin only makes sense in terms of the creation account. The doctrine of depravity only makes sense in terms of the creation account. Once we make creation mythical, we have to start turning major doctrines on their heads as well. My approach to Scripture is quite simple. If the text identifies itself as a parable, then it is a parable. If the text identifies itself as history, then it is history. I would never take a passage which is presented as history and make it into a myth. Well, I have to run! I'll chat with you later my friend. God Bless! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |