Why do so many people rather argue religious beliefs than study the Bible?

The Word of God is death to those who are perishing. Life only through His Spirit.

I found the bible to be a dry read. Though I tried reading it at a young age, maybe I could handle it better now.

I am also a bit confused as to what parts of the bible I am supposed to take literally and what points are simply an allegory. And when I ask people, I get different answers. There should be a bible where they color code the pages so it is easier to know.

Yes, because the human race has certainly reached a milestone by reading and interpreting the Bible. Crusades, ethnic cleansing, oppressive governments, erased & fabricated history, ignorance -- it's certainly enlightened us.

I have read the Bible, and the only lesson I've learned is how laughably pathetic this species is.

because according to christian beliefs only a very small number of people are specially picked by god to study and understand the bible,

so it would be a waste of time for everyone to study it because they wouldnt understand it anyway, right?

I read the entire thing and concluded that it was utter nonsense.

I've read it, I've concluded that it's nonsense (as anyone with half a brain who read it cover to cover would), and I argue because there are still people who claim it's the inerrant word of the creator of the universe.

Oh, and there are other religious texts and religious groups out there than yours. The world is bigger than Christianity.

Because arguing about religious beliefs is infinitely more entertaining, informative, and relevant than reading a lame holy book written by bronze age misogynists.

not every religion is based on the bible. Why don't you go and read the Vedas?

In addition, how much do you trust the translators of your bible?

This may shock you but not everyone agrees about what is being said in the bible.

it is easy to argue. Study takes work many are too ignorant or lazy to do so,

this book helped me alot\

http://www.watchtower.org/e/bh/article_12.htm

If one truly ready the Bible in its entirety, they would be an atheist. So please, keep reading the Bible.