Epigraph:

And their saying, ‘We did kill the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah;’ whereas they slew him not, nor crucified him, but he was made to appear to them like one crucified; and those who differ therein are certainly in a state of doubt about it; they have no definite knowledge thereof, but only follow a conjecture; and they could not convert this conjecture into a certainty; On the contrary, Allah exalted him to Himself. And Allah is Mighty, Wise. (Al Quran 4:157-158)

Presented by Zia H Shah MD, the Chief Editor of the Muslim Times

Bishop John Shelby Spong, a prominent and often controversial figure within the Episcopal Church, offered a progressive and non-literal interpretation of the resurrection of Jesus. In his view, traditional accounts of the resurrection as a physical event are not only implausible but also detract from the deeper, symbolic significance of the resurrection narrative.

Non-Literal Interpretation of the Resurrection

Spong contended that the resurrection should not be understood as a literal, bodily event. He argued that such interpretations are rooted in a pre-modern worldview that is incompatible with contemporary understandings of reality. In his book Resurrection: Myth or Reality?, Spong stated:

“If the resurrection of Jesus cannot be believed except by assenting to the fantastic descriptions included in the Gospels, then Christianity is doomed.”

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This perspective challenges the traditional Christian emphasis on the physical resurrection as a historical fact.

Resurrection as a Symbolic Experience

Instead of a physical event, Spong viewed the resurrection as a profound symbolic experience that transformed the consciousness of Jesus’ followers. He suggested that the resurrection narratives emerged from the disciples’ deep realization of Jesus’ enduring spiritual presence, which empowered them to continue his mission. Spong elaborated on this idea, asserting that the resurrection was an event that “opened the disciples’ eyes to the reality of God and the meaning of Jesus of Nazareth.” Cathedral Bookstore

Critique of Traditional Resurrection Narratives

Spong was critical of the supernatural elements often associated with resurrection accounts, such as angelic appearances and empty tombs. He believed that these aspects were later additions to the narrative, intended to convey theological truths rather than historical facts. Spong argued that focusing on these miraculous details distracts from the resurrection’s true significance as a catalyst for personal and communal transformation.

Implications for Contemporary Christianity

By reinterpreting the resurrection as a symbolic and transformative experience, Spong sought to make Christianity more accessible and meaningful in the modern world. He believed that clinging to literal interpretations alienates individuals who find such views untenable. Spong’s approach encourages believers to embrace the resurrection as a metaphor for personal renewal and the ongoing presence of Jesus’ teachings in the world.

Conclusion

Bishop Spong’s reinterpretation of the resurrection challenges traditional Christian doctrines, inviting believers to consider the symbolic and transformative aspects of the resurrection narrative. His perspective encourages a faith that is less about assenting to miraculous events and more about experiencing personal and communal transformation inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus.

For a more in-depth exploration of Bishop Spong’s views on the resurrection, you may find the following discussion insightful:

The Easter Moment: Bishop John Shelby Spong on Jesus and the Resurrection