I do not think that the book of Genesis was never intended to be a literal account of creation and the patriarchs. Those who interpret Genesis literally have a terribly hard time trying to explain everything and must ignore science to do it. The creation story is much more meaningful to me if it is taken figuratively.
The ancient Hebrews themselves didn't use the literal, linear thinking that we use today. They used stories that didn't necessarily have to be factual.
Jesus did quote the Old Testament, but I think he was trying to convey ideas rather than give historical facts. Some of the most meaningful teachings of Jesus are contained in His parables. They were never meant to be taken literally, but that doesn't lessen their value.
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For I am convinced that neither life nor death...neither the present nor the future nor anything in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
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