Catholic view

• The bible is inspired by god but written by humans
• The inspiration relates to the bible as a whole and not individual words or verses
• Individual authors are of a time and culture and that context must be understood
• Genesis 1 was never intended as a factual approach regarding the origins of the universe
• Genesis conveys truths about God as a creator and the nature of humanity
• Guidance in interpreting the bible comes from tradition and the magisterium as well as an individual's informed conscience and reason
• Magisterium- the teaching and authority of the pope and bishops who preserve and interpret bible traditions
• tradition- teachings, customs and practices of the church passed down through centuries and seen to be as important as the bible
• The Apostolic tradition- the teaching of the apostles and their successors, the bishops
• The apostolic succession- the teaching and authority of the church is passed down through the bishops