In response to the letter to the editor by Eric Novotny regarding the illegitimacy of the Bible:

Mr. Novotny brings up several valid objections to Christianity, and while addressing them all would be a major theological work, I can say that the Bible, when properly read, will indeed convince people of its truth. You see, what Eric fails to mention is that in Daniel 2, the Bible accurately predicts the course of Mediterranean history for the next 1,500 years, or that in Isaiah 53, it foretells the events of the death of Jesus to impossible accuracy. Jesus himself foretold the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 (Matthew. 24:2), and no one has ever provided a satisfactory naturalistic explanation for His resurrection from the dead. When considered in its entirety, the Bible is not lacking in evidence.

Neither can the Bible be accused of being immoral. Jesus taught the world that it was better to love your enemy and turn the other cheek, than to respond with hate (Matthew 5). It was Moses who first taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Leviticus 19:18) and even contains provisions for feeding the poor and animal rights (Leviticus 19:9-10, Duet. 25:4). Because of this, a correct reading of the Bible leads to a much more progressive view of the world than is required by other religions of the time or atheism.

As for atheism, it is not my place to criticize your beliefs, I cannot judge others because I know that I myself have plenty of faults (Matthew 7:1-5).

I’m also glad Mr. Novotny won’t disapprove of my behavior on the weekends after all, Jesus’ first miracle was to bring wine to a party. In fact, I think this could be a good starting point of agreement. Perhaps we should discuss this over a couple of beers?

Bob VaselaarSenior Physics MajorBrookings, 57006