1. Opening Statements: Why We Read the Bible the Way We Do
Sharon and Mike each explain their foundational belief about how the Bible should be approached—literal truth vs. symbolic wisdom. This includes personal background, faith tradition, and life experiences shaping their views.
2. The Creation Account: Historical Event or Divine Metaphor?
Sharon asserts Genesis describes a literal six-day creation. Mike argues it’s a poetic narrative revealing God’s order and power, not a scientific explanation.
3. The Role of Parables and Jesus’ Teaching Style
Mike points out that Jesus frequently used parables to convey spiritual truths. Sharon agrees parables exist but believes the surrounding historical context is literal and crucial.
4. The Flood of Noah: Global Cataclysm or Regional Lesson?
Sharon defends the flood as a literal worldwide judgment. Mike suggests it was a regional event or literary device used to convey moral and theological points.
5. Prophecy and Revelation: Predictive History or Symbolic Vision?
Sharon treats biblical prophecy as literal foretelling of future events, including Revelation. Mike views apocalyptic language as symbolic and theological rather than predictive.
6. Miracles: Supernatural Facts or Spiritual Symbolism?
Sharon defends the literal reality of biblical miracles. Mike believes miracles may carry metaphorical or theological significance beyond physical impossibility.
7. The Authority of Scripture: Inerrant Word or Inspired Message?
Sharon claims the Bible is inerrant and should be accepted as absolute truth in every detail. Mike believes it is divinely inspired but communicated through human culture and literary form.
8. Context and Culture: Interpreting Scripture Through Time
Mike emphasizes understanding the historical and cultural context in which the Bible was written. Sharon cautions against letting “modern reinterpretation” water down God’s unchanging Word.
9. Moral Teachings: Timeless Law or Cultural Framework?
Sharon sees moral commands in the Bible as universally applicable. Mike argues some rules (dietary laws, women’s roles, etc.) reflected ancient culture and must be interpreted accordingly.
10. Faith and Salvation: Does Interpretation Affect Doctrine?
They discuss whether their differing interpretations impact core Christian doctrines like salvation, resurrection, and the divinity of Christ.
11. Unity in Diversity: Can Both Views Coexist in Christian Fellowship?
Sharon and Mike reflect on whether believers can hold different views on biblical interpretation and still worship and grow together in faith.
12. Closing Thoughts: What We’ve Learned from Each Other
Each summarizes their perspective, acknowledges the other’s sincerity, and reflects on how the conversation has challenged or strengthened their faith.