La Leçon de catéchisme (Catechism Lesson), 1890, by Jules-Alexis Muenier (1863-1942), oil on canvas, Musée des beaux-arts et d’archéologie de Besançon

Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but do so with gentleness and reverence.”

cf. 1 Peter 3:15-16

catechesis

A daily morsel of Catholic education and faith formation.

The Bible

Myths

QUESTION OR COMMON OBJECTION:

I heard a scholar talk about “myths” in the Bible. If the Bible has myths, why should I believe it?

CATHOLIC ANSWER:

The word “myth” usually means a story that is untrue. But “myth” can also refer to different styles used in the ancient world to tell a story.

For the fact is that truth is differently presented and expressed in the various types of historical writing, in prophetical and poetical texts, and in other forms of literary expression.”

Vatican II, Dei Verbum, n. 12

A novelist, a reporter, and a songwriter may all tell the same story. But they will each use different styles. In the Bible, the human authors used different literary styles to tell God’s truth.

Other References: Mt 13:3-11; Mk 12:1-12; Lk 10:29-37, 15:11-32; CCC 107, 109-119

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catholic answers

word on fire | bishop barron

catechism of the Catholic Church

For information about what the Catholic Church believes, answers to FAQs, and an encompassing resource addressing common objections and misconceptions non-Catholics and Catholics alike may have about the Church and what it teaches, we invite you to visit the online version of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

PRAYER

Let us pray.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.

Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.

May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.