This is an old video, but I hadn’t ever come across it. Bishop John Shelby Spong explains how Hell is completely fictional. He adds that the church has a vested interest in not letting people grow up — “you can’t control grown-ups” — which is why they use the term “born-again.” You’re still a “child” then.
If you haven’t seen him speak before, you’re in for a surprise:
Spong shouldn’t be let off the hook for his other beliefs, though. He still believes in life after death and (presumably) Heaven, neither of which are based on any credible evidence. But it’s refreshing to hear this point of view. The only other time I’ve heard it is when I heard about pastor Carlton Pearson.
So, if Spong doesn’t buy into Hell, what does that make him? Can he still be considered a Christian? How much theology can you shun and still be considered one?
Do Spong’s beliefs make you feel any different about Christianity?
Would you want to see more Christians thinking the same way or would it not make any difference to you?
(Thanks to Jeff for the link!)