The Bible as Literature

Not too long ago, Time magazine published this article, and although I don’t necessarily see the validity of all the claims Biema is making, he seems to affirm a current trend in secular education:  students, whether religious or not, should have a basic knowledge of the Bible. 

 To most of my readers, this seems implicitly obvious.  The Bible has been arguably the most influential book in American culture (probably even Western culture).  In order for American citizens, both secular and religious, to function in society they have to have a basic knowledge of the book that served as a foundation for their way of life.

As a result, the GBHS English Dept.has asked to teach an elective class referred to as “The Bible as Literature” in which we will examine the Scripture from a literary standpoint. 

Although I am terribly thrilled to have this opportunity, as a Christian with a literal approach to Biblical interpretation, I find that it will be challenging to present the Bible in an objective, even critical light.  It is important to me that students, both religious and secular, see the Bible for what it is, not what they’d like it to be.  It is also important that they leave the class with the hermeneutic tools necessary to interpret the Bible for themselves.  As such, I expect to ruffle more Christian feathers than secular ones.  I have a feeling that my students of faith will feel very threatened by treating the Bible only as a work of literature, and I anticipate some very tense moments and difficult discussions.

Were you in my shoes, how would you approach this class?  Could you teach this book objectively?Â

Need an Idea

Through no fault of my own, I find myself the leader of a pretty amazing worship band at church.  We are planning a worship concert on Good Friday, and we’re trying to think of a good catchy name for the evening, something we can post on the marquee.  We’re trying to attract a very youthful crowd, and I thought you might have some good ideas.

So…?

Femininity

I realize that my readership consists of some very strong and intelligent women, many of whom are Christian, so I thought I’d throw out another question to get your perspective. 

I’ve thought a lot about traditional Western gender roles, and I am wondering if they are at all Biblically based.  I tend toward a patriarchal view of society as best, but I’m starting to wonder if that’s simply because I’m a man, or if iit’s a significant  moral and Biblical principle.

So, what do you think?  Should a man be the “head of a household”?  Why or why not?

Edit:  For all you strong women out there, I hope that you have noticed Jonalyn Fincher’s (of the Dale fame) new book Ruby Slippers:How a Woman’s Soul Leads her Home. It looks like a great read.  Check it out on Amazon!

Studio 60 and those darned Evangelicals

Recently, I’ve become a huge fan of Aaron Sorkin’s Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, but apparently, I am one of the few evangelical Christians who don’t see the show’s underlying premise as a threat. 

From the outset of this newest NBC hit, Sorkin’s boys and girls have made some very aggressive critical claims about evangelical Christianity in America.  There is indeed a very liberal and secular slant to the show that is only thinly veiled by some of the wittiest humor network television has ever seen. Sorkin doesn’t seem to like Christians very much, or is it that simple?

Sarah Paulson plays Harriet Haynes, the fictional Studio 60’s most talented comedianne.  Haynes just happens to be–you guessed it–a southern Baptist Christian, and through the first episodes of the show, she has sounded off with an uncompromising but rational evangelical viewpoint.  At times, her voice is effectively drowned by the swaggering, hilarious secularism of every other cast member, but–at least for now–Haynes is one of the most endearing cast members on the show. 

Still, evangelicals will feel threatened, and in large numbers will probably opt for Nick at Nite during 60’s 10 pm ET time slot.  I’m just wondering why.  What is it about the modern Christian movement that is so resistant to criticism?  Haven’t the aggreesive political actions of Christians earned them at least some attention–albeit negative–from the talking heads in Washington and entertainers of Hollywood?  For the most part, important people don’t ridicule and criticize nut-case, fringe cults because they don’t make an impact on the national discussion, so isn’t it an honor to be among the openly criticized?

“Blessed are ye, when men revile you…and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my name’s sake.”

“Come on, Fhqwgads,”

I am a huge fan of the Homestarrunner.  Are you?  If not, you probably should be…

 What are your favorite Homestar moments?