what are the strengths and weaknesses of using the literal interpretation of the bible?

what are the advantages of using the non-literal interpretation of the bible?

3 answers

http://www.google.com/search?q=literal+interpretation+of+bible+pros+cons&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&client=firefox-a&rlz=1R1GGLL_en___US379

Read widely. Take good notes. Let us know what you decide.
I found some good ones for the Catholic Church.
Strengths: It allows flexibilty eg, it says pro-life which could mean anti-death penalty unless there is no other way.
They keep to their traditional views.

Weaknesses:
They discourage individual interpretation as only the Church can interpret the meaning of the passages.
They sometimes create new interpreations of the scriptures.
In your two sections, be sure to clarify who/what "it" and "they" are.