Belief in the Bible

[jacob_101]

I hope this poll isn't out of place, but I saw a poll done by Rasmussen that asked this question and I wanted to see what
people on this forum thought.

Please note if you are not currently a resident of the U.S. to pick option 3 or 4 as I am curious to see if those outside the U.S. believe the Bible is not literally the Word of God.

Rasmussen's results were:
63% of Americans believe the bible is literally true.  And among racial groups: 
59% of white Americans
82% of black Americans
71% other Americans

Both Democrats and Republicans polled over 50% including 77% of Republicans and over 50% of democrats and exactly 50% of independents.

58% of those under age 30 also believe the bible to be true.

Do you think the results of this poll are a good or bad thing for the U.S. politically?  Or does it have no impact on politics?

[jacob_101]

James 42 and President Alcon:

Let's say some of the stories in the Bible are metaphorical.  Do you believe that everything the Bible says is true.  That's the real point.  Or do you believe none of it is from God, but some of it is good advice?

[jacob_101]

James 42 and President Alcon:

Let's say some of the stories in the Bible are metaphorical.  Do you believe that everything the Bible says is true.  That's the real point.  Or do you believe none of it is from God, but some of it is good advice?

I don't believe I have any way of knowing that.

It's not something you can prove, you either believe it or you don't.

[jacob_101]

I believe, like pretty much everything, that it is good.... In moderation. I believe it has some good messages, but I also think that people take it way way way too seriously. If people want to live by those standards then good for them. I don't however think it is appropriate to use the Bible to formulate ones political beliefs however, as this tends to lead to bigotry if taken seriously enough (ala Falwell).

I agree that political beliefs should not be formed by what the bible says.  But religious beliefs and laws are so intertwined that it is impossible for some to separate the two.

[jacob_101]

Why does it have to be? I do not know whether I believe it or not.

fair enough.  I didn't mean to press you on it.  I can see disputing various stories told but what about the 10 commandments and other commandments throughout the Bible?  Why would anyone obey them unless they believe they are from God?  Those are either true or false.
No in-betweens.

[jacob_101]

I am SHOCKED by the results of this poll!  Just kidding of course, I knew this forum was not representative of most of American's beliefs regarding religion and morals, but I didn't think the yes answer would be this low....

[jacob_101]

Thanks all for your contributions as sidetracked as they may be.  I think it's clear now to say this forum is way more liberal than the rest of America, which was what I expected.

Not that that means anything, I was just curious.

I am confused how so many people, who don't believe in the Bible to be totally true, are using Bible verses to make their point.  I am especially confused by those who have an air of judgment about their posts.  

I believe in the Bible 100%.  Much of it I don't understand and much of it I wish I could change but I can't and I accept that.  I don't live in the Bible belt nor do many of Americas bible believers.  We are scattered throughout this great land.  Many of you will think I am ignorant for saying these things, but remember the meek shall inherit the earth.

Thanks again for all the posts!