The Birth of Jesus, Part V. Matthew’s Original Story. The Prologue and Tamar, the Incestuous One

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on December, 13 2012

Matthew is the gospel writer (82-85) who first introduced the story of Jesus’ miraculous or virgin birth into the tradition. He did so with the seventeen most boring verses …

The Gladstone Library – A Final Visit

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on September, 8 2011

In the United Kingdom about ten miles from the ancient Roman city of Chester, inside the northern edge of a country called Wales, is located an institution that calls …

New Dean for the Seminary at Drew University: A Rising Star in Theological Education

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on May, 18 2011

One of the most enriching elements of my life today is the relationship I have with Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. Located about five miles from my home, …

Nebraska: Bright Lights in America’s Heartland

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on May, 11 2011

Mutual of Omaha. Warren Buffet and Nebraska Football! These are the best known icons of the Cornhusker State of Nebraska. In my mind there will always be one more. …

Peter J. Gomes, 1942-2011, Preacher Par Excellence

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on April, 28 2011

Both the United States and world Christianity lost one of its more preeminent voices recently with the death of Peter J. Gomes, the Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at …

Examining the Story of the Cross, Part VI: The Enigma Called Judas

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on April, 14 2011

The anti-hero of the Christian story in general and of the crucifixion story in particular is one who is known as Judas Iscariot. Scorn and ridicule have been heaped …

Examining the Story of the Cross, Part V: Barabbas – Another Interpretive Figure

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on April, 7 2011

In Mark’s original story of the Passion of Jesus, he introduces for the first time in any written Christian record the figure of Barabbas.  In this story we …

My Friend: Richard Lester Shimpfky 1940-2011

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on March, 30 2011

Recently, I preached at the funeral of one who had been a close friend for more than 40 years.  His name was Richard Shimpfky.  Let me tell you something of …

Examining the Story of the Cross, Part III: There Never Were “Seven Last Words” From the Cross

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on March, 17 2011

One of the most dramatic services of Holy Week for me has always been the Good Friday “Three Hour Service.”  It was designed to enable Christian worshipers in some …

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