You are welcome and you're not blabbing! I like it.
What I find fascinating is how so much of Christianity actually isn't based on scripture - at least, not overtly. Take Mary for instance, she has only a smattering of verses attached to her. Yes whole theologies can be unwound from the simple fact that if she is the Mother of God then certain important points follow. (How I love systematics!) Much what has developed over time with in any tradition is how lived experience has influenced the beliefs. Nobody but out right Fundamentalists live exactly by the book. In fact, I don't think any one can live exactly by the book.
When I read the bible for the first time I remember being moved and wowed by Jesus, but completely left cold by Paul. Of course, that was me at 12 and my opinions have changed somewhat (become more nuanced, I'm still no fan of Paul). Do you mind telling me what translation you're reading?
Re: down at the bottom
What I find fascinating is how so much of Christianity actually isn't based on scripture - at least, not overtly. Take Mary for instance, she has only a smattering of verses attached to her. Yes whole theologies can be unwound from the simple fact that if she is the Mother of God then certain important points follow. (How I love systematics!) Much what has developed over time with in any tradition is how lived experience has influenced the beliefs. Nobody but out right Fundamentalists live exactly by the book. In fact, I don't think any one can live exactly by the book.
When I read the bible for the first time I remember being moved and wowed by Jesus, but completely left cold by Paul. Of course, that was me at 12 and my opinions have changed somewhat (become more nuanced, I'm still no fan of Paul). Do you mind telling me what translation you're reading?