But What If the Bible Doesn’t Say That? (Dan McClellan, PhD)
May 1, 2025
auto_awesome
Dan McClellan, a Bible scholar and TikTok influencer, challenges traditional interpretations to reveal the nuanced history behind biblical texts. He discusses his faith journey as a Mormon and the importance of critical engagement with scripture, particularly regarding controversial topics like abortion and sexuality. McClellan emphasizes that historical contexts shape our understanding of laws and beliefs, urging for a compassionate approach that moves beyond dogma. His insights serve as a guiding map for navigating complex societal issues and personal identities.
A nuanced approach to the Bible reveals complexity and rich narratives often overlooked in traditional interpretations.
Balancing faith with critical analysis allows individuals to explore biblical texts without fear of challenging established beliefs.
Historical contexts of biblical laws indicate that many reflect ideological constructs rather than actual ancient practices, reshaping our understanding of modern legal frameworks.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Biblical Interpretation
Exploring the Bible requires a nuanced approach that moves beyond rigid dogmas. By critically examining the texts, scholars reveal that the stories within hold more intrigue than traditionally understood. For instance, discussions about God's representation, including the historical significance of a divine consort, uncover layers of meaning lost to contemporary interpretations. Embracing this complexity makes the exploration of faith more engaging and highlights the richness of biblical narratives.
Navigating Faith and Scholarship
The journey from academia to engaging with the public on platforms like TikTok highlights the need for accessible discussions about the Bible. Many scholars, like Dan McClellan, seek to address misinformation while reconciling their faith with critical analysis. He identifies that faith and critical thinking can coexist, arguing that understanding the Bible doesn't necessitate taking every truth claim at face value. This perspective encourages others to explore their beliefs without fear of contradiction.
Historical Context and Modern Interpretation
An understanding of the Bible's laws reveals that many are not necessarily reflective of actual practices in ancient times but rather serve as ideological constructs. The comparison of biblical laws to contemporary legal frameworks illustrates how authority can shape interpretations to fit political agendas. This crucial distinction prompts a discussion about the implications of viewing these texts as timeless truths versus historical artifacts. The historical evolution of such laws informs how we navigate current societal issues.
The Power Dynamics in Sexual Ethics
Historical understandings of sexuality reveal profound insights into ancient power structures that shape modern moral discourses. Ancient societies typically viewed sex through the lens of dominance, rather than mutual consent, complicating contemporary interpretations of sexual ethics. This power hierarchy influences debates around homosexuality, revealing that many prohibitions stem from concerns about societal order rather than moral imperatives. A more comprehensive approach to these discussions clarifies that consent and equality should be at the forefront of current sexual ethics.
Misinformation and the Role of Relationships
The persistence of misinformation surrounding biblical texts often reflects deeply ingrained identity politics that deflect critical examination. Close personal relationships appear to be vital in challenging entrenched beliefs, as they foster an environment where dialogue can thrive. Personal experiences, particularly those that highlight injustice, can also shift perspectives and promote understanding. While the battle against misinformation may feel daunting, small victories through dialogue and shared experiences contribute to a more informed discourse.
“It’s a shame that we lose so much of that history and we silence so many of those voices when we just try to flatten the whole Bible,” says scholar, TikTok hero, and author Dan McClellan. Today we talk about why McClellan has chosen to attend to questions about the Bible, and challenge people who want to translate it, or negotiate with it, to the benefit of their own dogma. We also talk about how he squares this with his own faith (McClellan became a Mormon at the age of 20). And we explore past and present understandings of God, sex, and the law. McClellan’s perspective is an antidote to so much that is unnecessarily harsh about our current culture—and his work serves as a map for how we can approach many of life’s bigger questions and debates.
