This letter is in response to “Love, not religion, is the answer” (Lima News, 1/22/16). That there are “contradictions” in The Bible is not surprising. The Bible was written over a period of more than 1000 years. The books were written in response to particular and changing historical circumstances. Some books had more than one author, each with their own particular style and purpose in writing. The issue is not whether or not there might be differences in detail, but whether or not those differences touch upon the central message of the Bible. The message in the scriptures of the three great monotheistic religions (Judaism, Islam, Christianity) are clear and consistent: God exists; God created this astounding universe that we all inhabit; God looks upon the work of God’s hands , especially, but not exclusively, we humans, with steadfast love and compassion.
As for love, God has shown the true meaning of love in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In our society, where the word love is sometimes synonymous with various forms of self-seeking, we need the constant reminder that love is not about us; it is about the other. We find our own longed for fulfillment in a love that is generous and self-giving, seeking always the well being of the other.
One more thing: many renowned scientists, from Max Plank, a contemporary of Galileo, to Ahmed Zewail, 1999 Nobel prize winner, were and are believers.
Finally, it is an error in logic to say that the doctrine of creation and hell in scripture originated with Mesopotamian and Greek mythology. Similarity is not geneaology.
I wish the author much peace and happiness.
— Al O’Dell, Columbus Grove
