My go-to way of deciphering things and what others say is to remind myself, "Whatever the Bible says is the ultimate Truth." People twist the Bible to hate. People twist the Bible to justify their sins. The Bible is constantly being edited by those around us which is warned about in Deuteronomy and Revelations.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever."--Hebrews 13:8

He isn't going to change. So, there's no reason for anyone else to pretend like He will.

You made some great points. Thanks for sharing, Matt. (: