The Savage Text: The Use and Abuse of the Bible

by Adrian Thatcher

Misuse of the Bible has made hatred holy. In this provocative book, Adrian Thatcher argues that debates on sexuality currently raging through the churches are the latest outbreak in a long line of savage interpretations of the Bible. Fascinating reading for anyone concerned about the future of Christianity. A provocative book claiming that debates on sexuality currently raging through the churches are the latest outbreak in a long line of savage interpretations of the Bible Argues that the Bible has been abused to convert the “good news” which it brings to the world, into one which has been used to discriminate against many groups, including children, women, Jews, people of color, slaves, heretics, and homosexuals Asks how Christians have been able to conduct, in public and on a global scale, an argument that has exposed so much prejudice, fear and hatred Offers an alternative, faithful and peaceable reading of the Bible, drawing on numerous examples throughout Breaks new ground in debates about sexual ethics and biblical interpretation

Genres: Religion, Christianity

234 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first heard about this from an amazing radio segment on Nebraska Public Radio. I say "amazing" because it's had two old, retired ministers talking about books. I have to confess I wouldn't expect two codgers from the midwest to be so theologically inquisitive and progressive, but that only shows my own prejudice and limitations. In fact, they've given me MUCH to think about. Even after one of them passed away, the other kept going and still brings in guest reviewers on occasion.

This book was the recommendation of one of those guests, yet another progressive Christian minister. It's written by a British theologian, and I think the distance from American Protestantism helps his broader Christian perspective.

I finally found some liberal Christian teaching that may be too much even for me! But that's ok--it made me think, and continues to do so.