NOT the word of God. Just a clever work of fiction that Christian cults take literally.
Smarter people ignor the bible because most of it is clearly not true.
However, who would disagree with the 10 Commandments? Just because God didn't send them down from heaven doesn't mean its OK to kill, steal, ect.
The smartest people of all
understand that and learn to look at the bible symbolically. For example, "hell" is every bit of guilt, depression, rejection, and pain felt in life, while "heaven" is all comfort, happiness, love, and peace.
I, being
one of these brilliant people, don't live a good life because I'm afraid of appearing in a fiery pit after I die, it just feels right. One of
the greatest people that ever walked the Earth had an
understanding similar to this- here is John Lennon's view on God:
"I believe in God, but not as one thing, not as an old man in the sky. I believe that what people call God is something in all of us. I believe that what Jesus and Mohammed and Buddha and all the rest said was right. It's just that the translations have gone wrong." Well said, John. Well said.
christian: I talk to God every day.
atheist: Does he talk back?
christian: Yes, through the bible.
atheist: Dumbass. The bible was written by humans. Its not God's word, its a moral guide to life. Do you want to be like Jesus?
christian: Yes
atheist: Then stop telling Him to help people and start helping people!!!