Book Description

Is the Bible still an authoritative guide? Television documentaries regularly explore the "mysteries of the Bible" and question whether its stories can be supported by historical facts. A multitude of people claim the Bible's authority for their own, often competing, agendas. And for many, the church has lost credibility in light of various scandals and failures. Is it any wonder, then, that a growing number of folks doubt whether the Bible is a legitimate source of religious authority, much less the word of God? In A Doubter's Guide to the Bible, Terry Giles asks the hard questions that skeptics have about the Bible. Affirming the legitimacy of doubt in light of such questions, Giles invites us to walk with him as he explores issues such as the Bible's origins, violence in the Bible and in the modern world, and the degree to which the Bible has been used as propaganda to justify particular ends. Never ignoring the doubts that may still remain, Giles suggests that the Bible's power arises from its ability to open up a space where we can meet God, who confronts us amidst all the messiness of our humanity. Whether we've never considered these questions before--and especially if we have--A Doubter's Guide to the Bible is an essential companion on our spiritual journey.