Posted by Joshua on August 27, 19102 at 00:45:14:
In Reply to: Re: symbolic/literal posted by ant on August 18, 19102 at 14:56:19:
I think the correct interpretation of any form of communication (including this message I'm typing) is that which uncovers the intended meaning of the communicator. And I'm not aware of any compelling evidence that things in the Bible such as sin, punishment and corruption of nature were intended to be taken symbolically. In fact, I think it's very clear they were not.
Now, a correct interpretation might result in terrible consequences - but it would still be a correct interpretation. However, I think that abusing nature and unjustifiably wiping out people is at odds with Christianity. And while people might justify their abuses by using Christian Scriptures, they are incorrect to do so. In reality, the Scriptures seem to encourage Christians to be at peace with their fellow humans as much as possible and to be characterized by love.
-Josh