*chuckle* I have heard all the rhetoric from unbelievers also about the inconsistancies in the Word. They didn't hold water when put to the test. The problem is faulty research techniques. Instead of researching with an unbiased opinion, they look for things to back up their pre-determined hypothesis...leaving out what doesn't "fit" with what they want the outcome to be.
I wouldn't be so sure about that. There are direct and obvious contradictions, in addition to acts that most of us would consider barbarous(no need for major research, the sanctioning of collective punishment is evil, that judgment stands on its own. It also contradicts the "sins of the father shall not be visited upon the son" idea.)
However, I respectfully back away as this will not be resolved by us. Besides, more than likely if I were to ever take up arms, I'd be fighting alongside you, so certain things have a way of being of less importance down the line:)