[Elsie]

So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: 'I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.'"

-Matthew 13:34-35

[Junior]

The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose. [Ecc 1:5]

Literal? Metaphorical? Enquiring minds want to know!

[Quark2005]

since the creation of the world.

And I agree that God is responsible for the creation of the world. I never contested that perspective. I only challenged that the account of Genesis 1 can be read off like a shopping list describing literal history. Sorry, the physical evidence just doesn't lend credence to that interpretation.

Tell me, do you think Jesus literally meant it when he said

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple."

-Luke 14:26-27

Do you think Jesus literally wants you to hate your family? Do you think He literally wants you to nail two planks of wood together and carry them around for Him? Was He speaking of your version of the absolute literal "truth" when He said these things?

I think not. This is obviously a metaphor; to think otherwise would be to believe Jesus was insane. I certainly hope you love your family and don't walk around bearing a literal cross on your shoulder.