John Shelby Spong is a retired Episcopal bishop and prominent theologian known for his progressive interpretations of Christianity. Serving as the Bishop of Newark for twenty-four years until his retirement in 2000, he became a leading voice for liberal Christianity, advocating for a faith grounded in intellectual inquiry and inclusivity. His influential works include "A New Christianity for a New World," "Rescuing the Bible from Fundamentalism," and "Why Christianity Must Change or Die," which challenge traditional doctrines while encouraging theological evolution.
Spong's career extended beyond the pulpit into academia, with teaching roles at Harvard University and the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. His lectures, including the William Belden Noble lectures at Harvard, reached global audiences through universities, churches, and media appearances on programs like "60 Minutes" and "Good Morning America." Combining scholarly rigor with accessible prose, his writings explore themes such as biblical reinterpretation, the historicity of resurrection, and the need for modernized religious frameworks. His autobiography, "Here I Stand," offers a personal reflection on his lifelong commitment to reshaping Christian thought.