Let me get this straight. You are saying that what God instructed some of the writers of scripture to write was unimportant? Are you saying that parts of scripture are irrelevant to us today?
CynicalBear: “Are you saying that parts of scripture are irrelevant to us today?”
No. I’m saying Bible-believing Christians can (respectfully) disagree over the meaning of certain passages, like the creation story in Genesis, without affecting their fellowship with each other. Real truth exists, but our understanding of scripture as mere mortals is not perfect. Otherwise, how can one account for differences of opinion among believers?
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness...
Once saved always saved, pre- or post tribulation, full immersion versus sprinkling, young Earth or old Earth, etc. I’ve heard reasonable, scripture-based arguments for various conflicting opinions. I read, study and reach my own conclusions. I try not to let non-salvation doctrinal issues interfere with my relationship with other Christians.
Let me tell a quick story. I’m a Christian (neither Catholic or protestant), but I was raised protestant. I always heard about how bad Catholics were, that they believed a lot of things not supported by scripture. While doing some charity, I got to work with and have many discussions with nuns. Suffice it to say I don’t like all the Catholic ritual, but I’m certain the Catholic church contains real Christians. That may seem a funny thing to say, but there are protestants AND Catholics who are not Christian.
I see Christ’s church as one—undivided and pure. He knows his own, and they know Him. Members of His church aren’t separated by doctrine or different opinions about Bible verses. I think some Christians forget we’re all on the same team here.