Yeah? We all "prefer" the bible, but the question is who is interpretating it for you? oh wait let me guess, it wouldnt be self interpretation would it?
Don't have to 'interpret' a thing. It means what it says. I'm reading it in a straightforward way and have no trouble with the meaning.
In the meantime, the Bible is quite clear about Mary. It's the Catholic church that has you all muddled up.
You said you 'explained' the word 'brethren'. Great. What about the 'sisters' part?
I believe what the early Christians believed, I believe what the Church has declared truth for over 1,500 years, I believe the reformers on this particular issue, not you or Aieno.
The dates you are choosing are interesting. The Christian church was 500 years old by that time! That's longer than the United States has been around. So let me say this: "I believe what the earliest Christians believed; I believe what the Bible says. I don't care who says differently. As the Bible says, Let God be true and every man a liar...(Romans 3:4)
You are claiming men on your side. That is your choice. I am claiming Bible.