THE CIPHER

Walton reexamines core tenets of the Christian faith.

A member of the United Methodist Church, a denomination beset by doctrinal schism over the past decade, the author witnessed first-hand the destructiveness of political and ideological infighting among Christians. In this book, the middle work in a three-volume series that reevaluates the mainstream priorities and interpretations of his faith, Walton explores what he believes are overlooked symbols and “Hints of hidden and secret meaning” found in the Bible. Through this mystic lens, the author argues that there is a “cipher” of Christ’s teachings that “unlocks mysteries for humanity.” This reexamination of Christianity explores topics that range from Earth’s creation and the role of secrecy in biblical texts to the doctrines of sin and forgiveness. Central to the book’s argument is the idea that, despite the best efforts of conservative Christians (a group to which the author admits he used to belong), the Bible is “wonderfully inclusive.” While discussions of fallen angels or mystical symbology may not appeal to more cynical readers, the book’s multi-chapter study of sexuality and marriage is remarkably nuanced in its research into historical contexts, literary analysis, and study of Hebrew texts, addressing issues like transgender identity with particular sensitivity. On gay marriage, Walton notes, the Bible is silent and never prohibits it (in contrast to certain forms of heterosexual marriage that are prohibited). An entrepreneur hailing from Texas, the author writes to fellow lay readers as a layman who avoids “regurgitating tired, old interpretations held by uninspired academic studies.” Consistently engaging, the book’s esoteric takes, particularly those that lean heavily into symbology and quirky interpretations of the Bible, may not always convince (though Walton is the first to admit that he is “okay with sounding crazy”). While overly preoccupied with its quest to “unlock hidden details” from ancient texts, the book contains a welcome underlying message that emphasizes the universality of God’s love.

An iconoclastic reading of the Bible with surprising moments of insight.