ebooks Why Christianity Must Change or Die: A Bishop Speaks to Believers In Exile by John Shelby Spong in History

Review

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Finally; a sensible view of religionBy DaveBishop John Shelby Spong's book will undoubtedly change the reader's perspective on religion in the 21st century. Whether you are a devout Christian; a confirmed Atheist; or somewhere in the middle; you'll find that this book casts a new light on religion. It certainly provides food for thought and and is an interesting read.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A wonderful re-examination of religion and Christianity for the postmodern world.By L. M. HibbardIt was a wonderful read that took a scholarly look at religion. It opened new pathways to experience religion and most especially Christian religion. For me it was support for a view that I have held for quite some time and perhaps will point me toward a future view that I am exploring.7 of 8 people found the following review helpful. This book is guiding me on my journey into believer's exileBy NanvanI had read probably a half dozen or so of Bishop Spong’s books by the time I got to this one; including a later related book; “A New Christianity for a New World.” Maybe it’s because I had previously been introduced to God as Ground of All Being (which confused the heck out of me at first) and have since had some time to try to understand that mystical concept; but the explanations in this book finally made sense and brought it closer to home for me. I can understand the concept more clearly; although I am still trying to relate to this new kind of “God.”As I’ve turned away from the external theistic Being “up there” (or “out there”); I really had a hard time figuring out the place of prayer. I had struggled for so long in trying to be a traditionally prayerful person to no avail. Of course there was a reason; as the good Bishop points out in his chapter on Prayer; if I no longer believe in this external Being; then of course I wouldn’t have any idea how to pray or to what or whom!! Spong’s chapter on Prayer drew a hallelujah from me. He’s been there; done that. Now prayer for me isn’t just a bunch of words; but prayer is action: to be there for others; to serve; and in Spong’s words; to love “wastefully.”This is my favorite book of all-time having ANYTHING to do with Christianity; God; Jesus or religion of any kind. I will read it over and over again. I always read with a highlighter – in this book; many pages are totally highlighted. The explanations for why Bishop Spong can no longer accept the traditional dogmas and creeds of the Church “filled in the blanks” for me and gave a new impetus to my journey as a Believer in Exile. Like Bishop Spong; I am an Episcopalian who can no longer accept the traditional Christian doctrines of the virgin birth; incarnation; atonement; an Easter “resuscitation” or a bodily ascension beyond the clouds (all of which are masterfully dealt with in this book). I have long since given up believing in a God who is the Master Puppeteer in the Sky. But; again like Bishop Spong; I can’t give up Jesus – I’m not talking about the Jesus of miracles and magic; nor the Jesus of the creeds and the Trinity – but the Jesus whom I have experienced; who in his holiness has touched God.There I was in my confusion and unbelief; not knowing where to turn. And then there was this book – it was as if it was written for me personally! I applaud Spong for being courageous and honest in addressing the irrelevancy of age-old doctrines and creeds dealing with biblical inerrancy; creationism; rewards; punishments and Judgment Day; while so-called “religious” people often ignore human rights; whether they be for women; homosexuals or minorities. (In fact; neither the Church nor the Scriptures have always stood for equal rights for people in these three categories!)I’ve read similar material by other writers; but none of them – unlike Spong – appear to want to lead the present-day Church into the 21st century. I have resisted throwing out the proverbial baby with the bath water; and now thanks to Bishop Spong; I don’t have to! I’ll just change the bath water...If I were even a partially traditional Christian and not a “believer in exile;” this would have been a very disturbing book. Although I am 80 years old; I am a 21st-century woman; and this 21st-century “believer in exile” thinks this book is TERRIFIC! It is well-written; easy to read and understand; and has been a “Godsend” for me! Before all is said and done; I will have read all of Spong’s books; and some of them I will read several times. I wish I could tell him how much his books; this one in particular; have meant to me; in helping to guide my journey into exile....