Rating:  4 Star Review  

 

Pacific Book Review

        The Bible holds many truths for mankind, but only if understood correctly. Charles Pope believes that his study of the Bible has led him to a unique and invaluable revelations of its teaching.   It is common today to speak of choices – something we all have and by which we can direct our lives. Pope reminds us that though we do have many crucial choices to make in life, we can’t choose to be born. The fact that we have been born now gives us responsibility to make use of our time here, as the author has, to find our purpose. 

         In a lengthy explication of Biblical characters and events, seen both in historical and scientific perspective and in the light of what many Christian religions teach, Why You Were Born challenges us to separate faith-based lore from spiritual fact. Some of our misconceptions may be based on our own flawed reasoning and some on outright deception on the part of people who used the words (translations) of the Bible for their own purposes. However, there is real knowledge to be gleaned from scripture if we are alert to it. One example of how the Bible can steer us to the correct course is encapsulated in the meeting of Jesus with the woman at the well.

         As Pope demonstrates neatly, in this simple encounter Jesus makes it clear that he is the Messiah, that forgiveness of sin and redemption are available to all, that salvation will come by “believing in God’s holy word and Spirit,” and that from henceforth, “God can be worshiped anywhere, anytime” – not just in the mountains or in the synagogue.  

         Pope has a clear sight, based on his personal research, that humans will not be saved by churches, nor can any perceived worldly threat destroy the true unshakable faith of those who have repented and want to live with God throughout eternity. The author has built his case with many details taken from Biblical study. He states, for example, that centuries before science discovered the workings of the pineal gland; Job had identified this spiritual energy source.

         Another example is seen in the establishment of the church: the author shows through certain translations that Jesus built his church based upon himself, not on Peter, refuting the Roman Catholic doctrine of Peter as the first pope. His points, taken separately, are interesting and at times, compelling.   
        Nonetheless, there are many important ways in which Pope’s beliefs are consistent with those of many protestant faiths.  

Based on the author’s personal research and conviction, Why You Were Born presents challenging ideas about Christian doctrine that many spiritual seekers may find thought provoking.Barbara Bamberger Scott