So much to respond to...but, it's getting late and I need to sleep....to get up early tomorrow....here's my quick response, and I'll check back tomorrow....
I've read the Old and New Testament stories; more than once.....and I don't agree that they represent the same God. Now, in fairness, maybe you have read them more prayerfully and thoughtfully than I (I mean that---no sarcasm intended.) So maybe I just need to RE-read them, I guess. However, the OT and NT Gods....to my way of thinking are like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
FWIW, I do agree that perhaps it's the church that has wavered, rather than God...but, then, I struggle with what a benevolent God would think of/do with that...given the complexities of modern life and the reasonable "misinterpretation" of believers in such circumstances. Would He simply say, "they should know better and do better?" or would he be more forgiving?
As for the changes you have conceded....I still haven't found NT basis for some of those....only that they make sense, really (no sacrifice, forbidden foods now okay, etc.)
As for common misunderstandings.....I guess I'd ask what do you think of the conscientious and diligent and scholarly types who would disagree with your interpretation? Are they just not earnestly seeking enlightenment, or are they just not yet enlightened? I'm not implying you are casting aspersions or making a judgement....but somebody is right, and somebody is wrong.
Finally, male physical superiority? Maybe it has something to do with the hunting and gathering function of males in earlier Western societies....because, frankly, women have strengths in other areas over men....which, in the long run, prove more important.
