Having reviewed material by Professor Richard Dawkins, I didn't want my Blog to have any particular bias. So I thought I'd write a few words regarding British academic theologian, Dr. Robert Beckford. I discovered his work last Christmas when Channel 4 broadcast "The Hidden Story of Jesus". I was intrigued to find a religious academic who was happy to deconstruct his own faith and grapple with what he discovered. As a result I went out of my way to find further examples of his work. I finally chose "Who Wrote The Bible" to review as it addresses and very common question that crosses most peoples mind at some point.

To begin with, here is a potted biography of the man for those who are not familiar with his work:

Beckford was born to Jamaican parents in the Midlands, raised in the Pentecostal church. He states that his "white, middle-class" religious education teacher "turned me on in a big way to RE and sowed the seeds to think about religion and culture", while his Communist maths tutor introduced him to politics and the work of Malcolm X, who is still a hero.

After A levels, Beckford studied religion and sociology at Houghton College, New York. He then studied at the London Bible College, Middlesex. After a year in the community, Beckford studied for his PhD while also working part-time at Queen's College, Birmingham where he became Britain's first tutor in black theology.

Professionally, Beckford has spent his career in academia. Beckford was a lecturer in African Diasporan Religions & Cultures at the University of Birmingham and presented Radio WM's African Caribbean programme. As of December 2007, he presents a show on the same station combining a blend of news, interviews and chat around religious and ethical issues.

Over the last five years, both BBC and Channel 4 have commissioned Dr.Beckford to produce exploratory documentaries on the nature of modern faith and its heritage. What sets him aside from the traditional academics, is his ability to analyse matters that often do not like to be scrutinised. However, the results do not seem to interfere or contradict his faith. This is not due to blind acceptance but because of his flexible and liberal views, which are inclusional and non judgemental. Naturally, this approach has drawn criticism from the more conservative and traditional wings of the church.

"Who Wrote The Bible" takes an in depth view at the origins of the sources texts of the Bible. Beckford, journeys to Jerusalem, Rome and the USA (with a stopover in Walthamstow) consulting scholars and historians on the way. What comes to light is a history of revisions, integration of additional ideology and censorship, driven by an emerging Church with a strong religious and political agenda. There are interviews with pilgrims and preachers and both sides of the argument are examined. But it is the conclusions that are drawn and the way the good Doctor deals with them, which I find the most intriguing. The absolute historical accuracy of the Bible is questioned but it's moral content and powerful message ultimately remain unaltered. I admire a man who can bring such scrutiny to bear on his own faith.

This documentary can still be found on Channel 4 on demand service. Alternatively, copies can be found by searching any of the major torrent sites. I certainly recommend it, as I feel that this approach to faith is far more relevant and accessible in this day and age. Frankly, at a time where fundamentalism in all beliefs seems to be on the increase, it is reassuring to find measured, insightful, moderate views, that do not dilute the "good news".

XoD.