I try and leave room for intent, that is why I included a wink. But I must say that I would have never figured out Dr. Who being part of that statement. lol As far as 461, I think she had not met too many people who could out-debate her and had to give you an evil character in order for it to make sense to her...plus paranoia didn't help much.
I don't have any problem understanding the christian principles within the prophecies. I would have never come to Christ and recognized who He was without this understanding. However, the bible is so great how it can tell so much, to so many different people, so His will is done.
I just believe that even though the scripture has the deeper meaning for christians to follow, it still is read by unbelievers, who will read it literally. I think it is in God's wisdom that the literal view will be played out before their eyes to see as well as guideposts for us to watch as the time approaches for the return of Christ. It is for our benefit that satan plays this out as literally read, so unbelievers will watch and see as these things unfold and will start to search the scriptures for their understanding...and hopefully to their salvation.
That is as good as I can explain what I believe. I understand the importance of what your view holds, but I just think there is more to it than that.