That's true of Augustine but not so much of Calvin. However, Calvin had an understanding of the form of literature of different texts, and this meant he didn't read those texts literalistically.

Wow thank you for inspiring this new quote of mine and it is VERY true, I can say this from personal experince and over 25 years of study. " Fundamentalism is not a return to tradition in any case, it is always a new philosophy."

Can you recommend books that elucidate this specific point? Thanks.

Within the Christian tradition have been mystics who, through lives of meditation have arrived at deep insights similar to those of ancient yogis. It is the perennial philosophy, as described by Aldous Huxley.

All religious traditions are involved in such things as mythical or symbolic beings, rituals, ceremonies, creeds and doctrines. Viewed strictly from the intellect, those things make no sense, but if they are considered to be expressions of art there is the option of simply looking, and if you are not moved on an emotional level, just turning away without judgment.

There are many who preach literal belief, but maybe that’s all they are capable of at present. It’s OK.

I never really understood metaphysics, because what we think is true based on our own internal biases may turn out to be wildly inaccurate or simply not productive. Which isn't to say that there are not things beyond our senses, just that those things should be firmly grounded in what we know and agree exists via our senses. On top of this, you can read any book in a metaphysical context and come to whatever conclusions you like. Maybe 42 is the answer to life the universe and everything else.

Many people think they can trace their church back to Jesus Christ. I have met those who claim they can trace their's back to John the Baptist.