This website is not meant to be taken seriously. I’m no authority. No philosophical matters pertaining to theism or atheism should ever be taken seriously by anyone for any reason. They are, by definition, non-starters, and there are no authorities over matters of the supernatural because, by definition, supernaturalism cannot be observed. Without observation, there is no study to form authorities. But shortly after I started this website an associate professor of physics and noted bible critic linked this website to his bible criticism page as a legitimate resource in the debate. I was flattered, but I don’t think that’s a fair evaluation of my website. Despite this, it got me thinking: Well, at least my website is more intellectually honest than the bible.

First, I turn your attention to the Pauline epistles. These are thirteen canonical books in the bible, allegedly written by Paul. But these aren’t biblical books at all; they are merely the personal correspondence of one or several evangelical Christians to spread Christianity. Let me reiterate this. These are claimed to be the inspired words of god, but in reality they are little more than primitive letters to the editor. But for reasons unexplained, early Christians decided personal opinionated correspondence was of equal legitimacy as the pentateuch. That would be like me saying my personal e-mails are just as valid in science as my thesis. This is not intellectually honest.

On the Atheist Papers, I would never say, “My friend sent me an e-mail agreeing with me, and that proves my hypothesis!”

Second, the bible is chock full of leading-question-type statements that force you to come to a single conclusion — no room for discussion or debate. On the Atheist Papers — and indeed everywhere in my daily life — I go out of my way to use phrases such as “this might suggest…” blah blah. In other words, I never claim a monopoly on absolute knowledge. Anyone who does, including the bible, is being dishonest. Besides, the bible was wrong at the very beginning. The bible can’t claim to be 100% correct if it’s also wrong.

Where the bible does open itself for interpretation, it does so in a way that causes everyone to fight over what exactly is meant. Parables are useful at very specific points where there is no chance for misinterpretation. For example, the bible’s Prophesy of Tyre, which I’ve covered a few times, is sometimes argued to be a parable, but no one can agree on what it’s supposed to mean. If I use metaphors, I attempt to use them precisely. If they are weak, I’ll usually acknowledge that in the comments.

If you have to choose between this website and the bible for objective knowledge, you’re going to have a difficult time finding it. But at least my website is honest about its shortcomings. So I’d choose this website. Besides, I leave my comments open. The bible says god will “rebuke you” if you attempt to have a discussion about the bible.