The read

From my mid-week column in the Athens Banner-Herald ...

Part of the problem, obviously, is this is a contemporary movement lacking the necessary understanding of the historical origins and roots of the Bible. Its aim is a political one, not a theological one. As a result, this group has the audacity to suggest it has deeper knowledge and better perspective than the early church leaders who established the Bible's New Testament canon and the Christian traditions shared by so many from all walks of life.

In effect, the Conservative Bible Project would strip the values, hopes and, yes, struggles from Scripture.

The Solomon of the Bible who ruled with wisdom is the same one who ascended to the throne by killing his political rivals.

The Christ of the Bible who said he was the way and the truth is the same one who said to give everything you have to the poor, not just whatever change you happen to have in your pocket when the offering plate hits your pew.

The point is that the Bible is supposed to challenge you. It's supposed to make you rethink your worldview, your positions, your perceptions and your values. Seeking to remake it as a neutered book that adheres to your predetermined worldview by omitting verses you disagree with and inserting new, more consumer-friendly language, for lack of a better term, completely misses the point.

Jesus is neither liberal nor conservative. Jesus is Christ, so why don't we leave it at that?