Renowned writer criticized for calling the Bible a "work of fiction" and a "breeding ground for hypocrisy."

This week, Joyce Carol Oates, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and renowned author, faced criticism from social media users after stating that the Bible is a "work of fiction."

Oates argued that Scripture is often used as a tool for hypocrisy by Christians, who selectively interpret verses to support their personal beliefs.

On Thursday, the author of "Black Water" responded to a religious comment made by Matthew Sitman, who was replying to a news story about the alleged mistreatment of an Alabama inmate.

Our treatment of incarcerated people in our prisons is an abomination, as we cage, torture, and exploit many, claiming it to be justice, but in reality, it is a sin that deserves God's wrath upon us.

Oates was drawn to his next post, which stated, "Christians cannot fulfill their obligations to widows, orphans, and prisoners without committing great violence to Scripture."

She questioned, "Although seemingly different, widows, orphans, and prisoners share a commonality."

Oates was prompted to deride Christianity after Sam Adler-Bell replied to her with the curt response, "Read a book (the bible)."

Oates stated that the Bible, often referred to as a work of fiction, is actually an anthology of fictions. It is not the Bible for many people in the world, and those who claim it as their own select the verses that resonate with them while disregarding others. This creates fertile ground for hypocrisy.

A flood of responses from Christians and conservatives was triggered by the author's attack on Christianity on X.

Adler-Bell replied with a touch of humor, saying, "I am owned by Joyce Carol Oates for being a theist... the things I endure for @MatthewSitman."

Damin Toell, a lawyer and influencer, questioned Oates, saying, "Do you have a special name for the Bible that you use, Joyce?"

Philip Bunn, a political theorist and author, responded to the author by saying, "Being a renowned author, one of the most productive of your generation, 85 years old, American Philosophical Society member, National Book Award winner, and you spend your time tweeting about dunking on widows and orphans. All because of a decision made today."

He also expressed regret for her legacy, saying, "Twenty years from now, literature students will be studying Nobel winners and sifting through these tweets."

Rev. Ben Johnson, an Orthodox Christian and Senior Editor at The Family Research Council, criticized Oates, saying, "Consider the impact of a book that has sold more than all the books you've written combined."

Kale Zeldin, a podcast host and author, criticized Oates, stating, "It's impressive to observe renowned public intellectuals reveal themselves as uninformed and shallow."

Taylor Patrick O'Neill, a Christian author, pointed out that Oates' perspective was not as compelling as she believed. He penned, "In 2024, we're still performing the 'I bet you didn't know that Christianity isn't the only religion' routine. Surprise! There are other sacred texts. Wow. The Bible remains the ultimate authority."