John Shelby Spong is known as a leading spokesperson for an open, scholarly, and progressive Christianity. Through his writing, he challenges traditional dogma and calls for a re-examination of faith. His works delve deeply into core Christian concepts, exploring their relevance in the contemporary world. Spong's approach encourages readers toward intellectual and spiritual growth, prompting a reconsideration of fundamental beliefs.
The author offers a thought-provoking exploration of Jesus by delving into his thoughts, words, and actions through the lens of the Hebrew tradition. This candid and impassioned analysis seeks to illuminate the historical and cultural context of Jesus' life, providing a deeper understanding of his significance. The argument is well-founded, encouraging readers to reconsider familiar narratives and appreciate the complexities of Jesus’ identity within his own cultural framework.
Exploring the intricate process of crafting a sacred text, this book delves into the human experiences, struggles, and triumphs that shaped its creation. It highlights the diverse voices and perspectives involved, revealing the emotional and spiritual journeys that contribute to the formation of a divine narrative. Through personal stories and historical context, readers gain insight into the profound impact of these human dramas on the sacred literature that has influenced countless lives.
"Five hundred years after the Reformation, Christianity is once again in crisis-- clinging to outdated concepts and tenaciously defending dogmas formed before major advances in human thought. The result: many judge the faith 'unbelievable.' In this, his final book, bestselling author and Episcopal bishop John Selby Spong outlines twelve theses to help us discover a Christianity that can serve as a powerful and contemporary resource for living in the twenty-first century."--Back cover
Focusing on the need for a radical reformation, the author presents a vision for a revitalized Christianity that transcends traditional boundaries. He identifies the detrimental influences affecting the Church and proposes an approach centered on justice, love, and the emergence of a new humanity. This transformative perspective aims to inspire Christians to embrace a fresh understanding of the Holy, fostering a powerful and inclusive faith for the modern age.
Rescuing John's Gospel from Its Creedal Captivity John Shelby Spong, bestselling author and popular proponent of a modern, scholarly, and authentic Christianity, argues that this last gospel to be written was misinterpreted by the framers of the fourth-century creeds to be a literal account of the life of Jesus when in fact it is a literacy, interpretive retelling of the events in Jesus' life through the medium of fictional characters, from Nicodemus and Lazarus to the "Beloved Disciple." The result of this intriguing study not only recaptures the original message of this gospel, but also provides us today with a radical new dimension to the claim that in the humanity of Jesus the reality of God has been met and engaged.
The book presents a critical examination of the Fourth Gospel, arguing that its interpretation by early church leaders has led to a misunderstanding of its true nature. John Shelby Spong posits that rather than being a literal biography, it serves as a literary retelling of Jesus' life, incorporating fictional characters to convey deeper meanings. The work emphasizes the importance of Jewish scriptures and worship practices, while also framing Jesus within the context of first-century Jewish mysticism, urging readers to reconsider traditional views of Christianity.
Exploring contrasting depictions of Jesus, the book juxtaposes the ancient traditional view presented by the Pope with a contemporary interpretation by Bishop Spong. The Pope emphasizes historical and doctrinal aspects, while Spong offers a modern perspective aimed at inspiring today's readers. This dialogue invites reflection on faith, relevance, and the evolving understanding of spirituality in a modern context, making it a compelling read for those interested in theology and religious discourse.
Die Bibel vor Irrtümern und Missbrauch schützen • Die dunkle Seite der Bibel wahrnehmen • Die Bibel als Buch des Lebens wiedergewinnen Die Bibel ist das Fundament des christlichen Glaubens und der Wertordnung nicht nur des Abendlands. Sie gilt als 'Heilige Schrift'. In der Bibel finden sich jedoch nicht nur Irrtümer und Widersprüche, sondern auch schreckliche und hasserfüllte Texte. Es gibt sie: die Sünden der 'Heiligen Schrift'. Nicht minder wird die Bibel mit Berufung auf ihre Autorität als 'Wort Gottes' auch heute noch missbraucht. Krieg, Gewalttätigkeit, Unterdrückung von Minderheiten werden bis auf den Tag mit der Bibel gerechtfertigt. Christen, die andere zu Opfern machen, berufen sich auf sie. Wie kann die Bibel über ihre eigene zerstörerische Kraft gehoben werden? Wie ist die Bibel zu lesen, damit sie nicht dazu benutzt werden kann, Böses, Schmerzen und Opfer zu begründen? 'Ich glaube, dass die Bibel als solche bewahrt werden muss, doch nicht als das Buch, das Menschen dazu benutzten, Schmerzen und Böses in der Geschichte zu begründen.' J. S. Spong
Addressing controversial passages in the Bible, John Shelby Spong challenges traditional interpretations that lead to discrimination and oppression. He aims to reshape misconceptions about Christianity, presenting a liberating perspective on scripture. By offering a fresh vision for contemporary Christians, Spong emphasizes a more inclusive understanding of God's love, encouraging readers to reconcile their faith with modern values.
