@FBM,
FBM wrote:
The first does seem unscholarly and the second somewhat fallacious. It seems to suggest that secular moral principles are inferior.
Anyway, speculating about his motives for teaching the way he did is just that: speculation. Not all the faithful are believers in biblical inerrancy or literally divine inspiration.
I agree but to add in another level to the issue. I have seen some scientists when pressed to explain why they have faith when they know many scientific discoveries contradict their religious beliefs they tend to go back to their families and friends as the reason.
To leave a faith is not just based on you as an individual, there are often social pressures that prevent you from admitting that you really don't believe but just claim to believe to avoid the backlash by piers, family and your small community who may turn against you.
