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  <title><![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]></title>
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  <description><![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]></description>
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        <name><![CDATA[John Shelby Spong]]></name>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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    <body><![CDATA[the title intrigues me greatly!]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/36959932]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/36959932]]></link>
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      <review>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Thu Dec 18 00:00:00 -0800 2008</read_at>
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  <date_updated>Sun Feb 01 14:33:59 -0800 2009</date_updated>
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    <body><![CDATA[A fantastic book. Spong is a great writer and has a great understanding of what Christianity should be. He carefully discusses the uses and abuses to which the Bible has been used for centuries. Anyone who wants to see Christianity mature and shed its discriminating past should read this book. I wou...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/44890168">more...</a>]]></body>
    
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      <review>
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    <name><![CDATA[Jeremy]]></name>
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  <text_reviews_count type="integer">31</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Mon Oct 01 00:00:00 -0700 2007</read_at>
  <date_added>Fri Oct 19 11:16:28 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sat Oct 27 20:37:41 -0700 2007</date_updated>
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    <body><![CDATA[The author offers his analysis and thoughts on some of what he calls the Bible's &quot;terrible texts&quot; which have been used by too many Christians as justification for judgmental/hateful attitudes and actions. As a Christian who is in a personal battle to separate the essence of beauty in Chrit...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7942477">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7942477]]></url>
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      <review>
  <id>38590032</id>
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    <name><![CDATA[Tvshi]]></name>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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    <body><![CDATA[This is not particularly well-written from a gripping or grammar perspective, but his deconstruction of the Bible's supposed support for degrading women, gays, children, the environment and more are MUST READ material. I'm going to be a WAY better debater now.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/38590032]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/38590032]]></link>
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      <review>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Wed Jun 04 16:48:16 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Jun 04 16:53:34 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[This book was a difficult start for me, but I found it to be one of the best books I've read in the last couple of years.  This book examines some of the passages from the Bible that have been used to justify certain positions and attitudes that are hurtful towards particular groups of people.  I th...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/23719340">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/23719340]]></url>
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    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Sat May 30 07:25:33 -0700 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sat May 30 07:27:08 -0700 2009</date_updated>
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    <body><![CDATA[For all Christians and non-Christians.  This measure the human duality towards a Jesus ethos of Matthew 5 and the Bronze-Age barbarism of the OT (the stolen Jewish Torah which provides Christianity an epistemology).]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/57845069]]></url>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Sun May 01 00:00:00 -0700 2005</read_at>
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    <body><![CDATA[Evaluates traditional reading of biblical passages that have lead to racism, misogyny, homophobia, war, overpopulation, destruction of the environment, and suggests alternative interpretations.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/62197215]]></url>
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      <review>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Sun Dec 09 10:43:40 -0800 2007</date_added>
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    <body><![CDATA[this book got me going to church again (as an episcopalian).  a long time ago i went to church as a southern baptist and it was just bad (except for one time when my friend jessica and i had a laughing fit over a sermon about dorcas, cause we were immature and her name was dorcas) so i stopped going...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/10177618">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/10177618]]></url>
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      <review>
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    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Sat Jan 01 00:00:00 -0800 2005</read_at>
  <date_added>Fri Dec 28 19:15:57 -0800 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Fri Dec 28 19:20:35 -0800 2007</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[This is one of the many progressive Christian books I've read by Spong, Borg, Crossin, Armstrong, et. al. <br/><br/>Spong doesn't pull any punches and flat out points out the hateful and down-right evil parts of Christian scripture out there and how a modern person can reconsile oneself with it.  ...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/11193163">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/11193163]]></url>
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      <review>
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    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Fri Nov 27 15:04:47 -0800 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Fri Nov 27 15:06:01 -0800 2009</date_updated>
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    <body><![CDATA[A neighborhood book club selection that generated good discussion.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/79143941]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/79143941]]></link>
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      <review>
  <id>71636069</id>
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    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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    <body><![CDATA[Beautiful, thoughtful and loving.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/71636069]]></url>
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      <review>
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    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
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    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Mon Sep 08 11:42:43 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Mon Sep 08 11:45:40 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[If you deal with people who like to use the bible to put you in your place, this book is your ammunition for fighting back.  It's not hard to catch a bible-quoter in a contradiction, so that's the easiest part of this book.  What I appreciate is the repeated argument against the bible as the Word of...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32353839">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32353839]]></url>
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</review>
      <review>
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    <name><![CDATA[Joan]]></name>
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  <id type="integer">80211</id>
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  <text_reviews_count type="integer">31</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Mon Oct 06 13:37:42 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Mon Oct 06 13:43:05 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I love this book.  Spong uses he Bible to discount the biblical.  He uses biblical examples to confront sexism, racism, homophobia.  I wondered how he could continue to be Christian with all of that.  Then at the end he turns it around and suggests that the teaching of Jesus had much the same effect...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/34671609">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/34671609]]></url>
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      <review>
  <id>6291868</id>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Wed Aug 01 00:00:00 -0700 2007</read_at>
  <date_added>Sun Sep 16 16:09:05 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Sep 16 16:14:11 -0700 2007</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[It was incredibly interesting to read a criticism of Christianity written by a Christian - a bishop, in fact. It was, at times, difficult for me to keep my concentration as I read Spong's very detailed explanations of the Bible, its stories, and its characters. But I enjoyed reading it. The subject ...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6291868">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6291868]]></url>
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</review>
      <review>
  <id>24324521</id>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>114</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Thu Jun 12 09:22:38 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Thu Jun 12 09:24:08 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Jill--you might find this really interesting...I only read a select few chapters (the ones on homosexuality, women in the church, and the church and the environment) and it didn't take me long.  This is by an Episcopal bishop with extremely forward-thinking ideals.  I think you'll like it.  It helpe...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/24324521">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/24324521]]></url>
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</review>
      <review>
  <id>858710</id>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Tue Apr 24 08:26:44 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Dec 16 18:23:27 -0800 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I am just about to finish the last chapter.  This book is giving words to thoughts and idea's I've been struggling with for a year.  I want people to read this so we can talk about it.  It is so good.  Well researched, nicely written, provocative and amazing!  I want to meet John Shelby Spong...]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/858710]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/858710]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
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    <name><![CDATA[Raeven]]></name>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>114</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <date_added>Sun Sep 14 19:59:17 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Sep 14 20:04:25 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Very informative.  Gives you a lot to think about. Rescues the bible from fundamentalism and prefers truth to lies, honesty to hypocrisy and looks beyond ptriarchal attitudes towards creation, women, children, sexual orientation, and so much more.  Read it! ]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32891010]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32891010]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>11737835</id>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <read_at>Fri Dec 01 00:00:00 -0800 2006</read_at>
  <date_added>Sat Jan 05 16:29:43 -0800 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sat Jan 05 16:29:43 -0800 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Goes into many of the aspects of the Bible that the author feels are harmful to accept as true today because they reflect the consciousness of the more primitive societies in which the Biblical texts were written, rather than the divine word of God.  ]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/11737835]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/11737835]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
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    <name><![CDATA[Ronando]]></name>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
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  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
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  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[Everyone who wants to hear about the hate in the bible]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Thu Jun 01 00:00:00 -0700 2006</read_at>
  <date_added>Wed Sep 19 22:10:47 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Sep 19 22:14:28 -0700 2007</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[A great read.  This book is a great eye opener if you would like to hear a criticle perspective from a more than qualified apostate.  <br/><br/>This book truly does a good job in introducing the reader &quot;the bible's texts of hate to reveal the god of love.&quot;]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6477543]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6477543]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>42108051</id>
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    <name><![CDATA[Rhianna]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Houghton, MI]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/560665-rhianna]]></link>
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    <book>
  <id type="integer">80211</id>
  <isbn>0060778407</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780060778408</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">31</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170980243m/80211.jpg</image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80211.The_Sins_of_Scripture_Exposing_the_Bible_s_Texts_of_Hate_to_Reveal_the_God_of_Love</link>
  <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>114</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[In <em>The Sins of Scripture</em>, Bishop John Shelby Spong takes on a thematic exploration of the Bible, carefully analyzing those passages that inform some of our key debates, like the role of women in the church and in society, and homosexuality, to name just two.  Beyond that he also looks at scriptures that have helped shape culture and history -- bringing to light the undercurrent of anti-Semitism he finds in the Gospels, for example.  The journey is particularly compelling because Bishop Spong believes in and values the good the Bible has brought to many through the ages.  His goal is not to define the Bible itself as something to be set aside, but instead to honor and value what he loves about it while still labeling what he dramatically calls &quot;texts of terror&quot; for what they are. <br/><br/>The true joy of the book is found in Spong's vigorous intellect, which he shines bright in an attempt to catch a reflection of the age, culture and circumstances in which the texts he examines were written.  Like an archaeologist working with ideas instead of tools, he removes the rocks, brushes away the sediment and reports on what he finds.  What were the roots and cultural realities behind the Scriptures that define the role of women in the church?  What were the hopes and fears driving the writers who condemned homosexuality in such stark terms?  What is the justification behind scriptures recommending &quot;the rod of correction&quot; (or as Bishop Spong simply labels it: &quot;[t]he physical abuse of children&#8230;&quot;.) <br/><br/>Whether or not you agree with some of his musings along the way, many of his conclusions are hard to argue with.  Putting aside the issue of divine origin of the Bible, no one can deny passages have been used in service of very human ends.  Finally, <em>The Sins of Scriptures</em> can be seen as a careful observer of what those ends have been.  And when taken on those terms, it makes an interesting read, regardless of one's religious background.--<em>Ed Dobeas</em>]]>
  </description>
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    <rating>5</rating>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Wed Jul 01 00:00:00 -0700 2009</read_at>
  <date_added>Tue Jan 06 11:02:05 -0800 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Tue Aug 04 06:24:19 -0700 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Informative and thought provoking.  This book is an interesting read for any practicing Christian or anyone else who interacts with Christians, which is everybody.  This book has the intent to bring positive change to the church and our society.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/42108051]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/42108051]]></link>
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