[stars & stripes forever]

It is also a gift that can be destroyed through a lot of what passes for Seminary or religious education nowadays.

Pastors should read the Scriptures with an open mind and not rely on their 'religious training.' They would be surprised what the Bible actually says.

[melsec]

I understand and agree with what you say. I think the Bible should be read in 4 ways

1) As a plain and simple reading of any text with an open heart and mind.
2) Comparatively i.e comparing Old Test to New or Book to Book so that you come to a reasonable understanding of the whole sweep of Scripture.
3) An informed, but not prejudiced, reading with some understanding of what others have gleaned from the Scriptures.
4) In prayer to understand what God might be saying to you through them.

Blessings

Mel