Of all the things about the Bible that are troubling, and there are many, perhaps the greatest thing is the amount of violence. We are not talking about records of wars that were fought at some point in ancient history – but violence commanded and endorsed by God. Even violence done by God. Is this what God is like? Angry, vindictive and violent? And if this is an accurate picture of God, then what about Jesus, who seemed to be pretty even keel and forgiving and seemed to point away from violence? The questions around this conversation have been in and around the Church since the days just after Jesus; and now we will join the conversation reflecting on the questions that have long been asked, seeking to ask new questions so that we might understand the evolution of people and the heart of God just a little bit better.
TEACHING
He’s Really Nice, But. . . – Michael Hidalgo
Does God’s Blood Boil? – Amanda Lum
Set Apart for No Mercy – Michael Hidalgo
What the Hell? – Nick Elio
Drunk, Naked and Passed Out – Michael Hidalgo
On Not Becoming a Monster to Defeat a Monster – Bekah Stewart