I’ve been reading John Shelby Spong’s latest book, Eternal Life: A New Vision
He writes: “’God’ is not an external being apart from us, to which we must relate as powerless ones to the all-powerful one.” It is not necessary to woo and flatter God to gain divine protection and a stake in eternity. Humanity is not in need of rescue.
For years, religious leaders have taught that God is the supernatural parent in the sky who takes care of us. They have encouraged us to see ourselves as ‘children’ and if we are good boys and girls, God will reward us. That reward is generally considered to be eternal life in “heaven.”
By the same token, if we are naughty, we will be punished. In fact, there are biblical narratives that suggest that disobedience will bring immediate punishment. Even death.
It is clear the primary tools of religion have been (and are) reward and punishment, with fear at the core.
But is this a true representation of God? Is God an external being that we must look to for help and the guarantee of immortality? Must we present ourselves as helpless children before God will meet our needs? Can we only please God when we ‘follow the rules?’
I think not. And in a future post, I will explain why.