Should the Bible be taken literally?

Here is a subject that surely would draw some controversy in some circles. Should the Bible be taken literally? Let's start by saying that there are some parts of the Bible, however the minority, that are obviously not literal. Examples are the book of Revelation and parts of Ezekiel. These are recognized by all as figurative language written in an apocalyptic style that was common in the first century, but not so much understood today. But there are many places, times, people and instructions given in the Bible that are entirely literal and should be taken as factual and true. Here are a few examples of this, many of which are not generally accepted in today's world: Genesis 1: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...." He did just that. We are to take this as fact. We could discuss all day the timing of this and the correlation with scientific studies, but what the Bible says is true. Sin: This is not a relative or subjective term, where we bend the rules to suit ourselves. Note Galatians 5:19: "Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambition, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." I doubt this is intended to be a complete list, but it seems complete enough for now. We surely don't want to be guilty of these things. Remember that God always provides a way of escape from temptation..... and a way of redemption from our past sins for the truly repentant, i.e.,the blood of Jesus! Time and length will limit this list. But other matters that are clearly taught in the New Testament but are not being followed by many "Christians" are taking of the Lord's Supper regularly, baptism for the remission of our sins, church organization; these are all matters that are clearly and forcefully taught in the Bible that are not being taken literally by many Christians and churches. We must follow what God teaches on these and other matters. And the Bible is understandable. We must study it.....and follow it. Thanks for reading! (please pardon the lack of paragraphs; for some reason the computer will not allow such at this time--aren't computers great?)