Temple Ministries

The Bible has a book of wisdom, there are many passages particularly within proverbs which puts the attainment of wisdom above all else.

I would have thought the Bible would been an atheists favourite book

😀

I honestly don’t understand how some atheists can say that the Bible is absolute rubbish.

I think we have to go back to the times the books of the Bible were written for, how people of those times would have possibly obsessed over material things . Perhaps to gain a social footing in society, but the Bible comes along as a socially popular narrative which proclaims the importance of wisdom above anything else.

Right now I’m reading the books of Ezra and Nehemiah and how the stories back then reflect our lives right now, how an easier way of living is actually stopping people from following faith and perhaps making people dumber.

“The Atheist Critique of the Bible: A Response to the ‘Rubbish’ Claim”
The Bible has been the subject of intense scrutiny and criticism from atheists, with some dismissing it as “rubbish.” However, is this critique justified? This article examines the atheist perspective on the Bible, exploring the arguments for and against the notion that the Bible is rubbish.

The Atheist Perspective
Atheists often argue that the Bible is a collection of myths, legends, and superstitions, with no historical or scientific basis (Dawkins, 2006). They point to the Bible’s alleged contradictions, inaccuracies, and immoral teachings as evidence of its lack of credibility (Hitchens, 2007). However, is this perspective entirely fair?

The Bible’s Historical and Literary Significance
Despite the atheist critique, the Bible remains one of the most influential and significant texts in human history. Its impact on literature, art, music, and culture is immeasurable (Barton, 2019). Moreover, archaeological discoveries have consistently confirmed the Bible’s historical accuracy, demonstrating that many of its accounts are rooted in factual events (Kitchen, 2003).

The Bible’s Moral and Ethical Teachings
Atheists often criticize the Bible’s moral and ethical teachings, citing its alleged promotion of slavery, misogyny, and violence (Hitchens, 2007). However, this critique neglects the Bible’s broader moral framework, which emphasizes love, compassion, and justice (Wright, 2013). Moreover, the Bible’s teachings on morality and ethics have had a profound impact on Western civilization, shaping our understanding of human rights and dignity.

Conclusion
While atheists may dismiss the Bible as “rubbish,” this critique is not entirely justified. The Bible remains a significant and influential text, with a rich historical, literary, and moral heritage. Rather than dismissing the Bible out of hand, atheists and believers alike should engage with its complexities and nuances, seeking to understand its meaning and significance.

References:

• Barton, J. (2019). A History of the Bible: The Story of the World’s Most Influential Book. New York: Viking.
• Dawkins, R. (2006). The God Delusion. London: Penguin Books.
• Hitchens, C. (2007). God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. New York: Twelve.
• Kitchen, K. A. (2003). On the Reliability of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.
• Wright, N. T. (2013). The Case for the Psalms: Why They Are Essential for the Life of the Church. New York: HarperOne.

Recommended Reading:

• by John Barton
• by N.T. Wright
• by K.A. Kitchen

Share Your Thoughts!
What are your thoughts on the atheist critique of the Bible? Do you think the Bible is “rubbish,” or do you see value in its teachings and historical significance? Share your insights and reflections in the comments below!

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• atheism
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• morality
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• John Barton
• Richard Dawkins
• Christopher Hitchens
• N.T. Wright
• K.A. Kitchen