Ascending Quote by John Shelby Spong
“I do not believe that Jesus, at the end of his earthly sojourn, returned to God by ascending in any literal sense into a heaven located somewhere in the sky. My knowledge of the size of this universe reduces that concept to nonsense.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New Testament: A Contemporary Interpretation, John Shelby Spong, 2005
Spong argues that a literal, physical ascent to heaven is implausible given modern cosmology, rendering traditional doctrine nonsensical.
In simple terms: Literal heaven ascent seems absurd with modern science.
Key Takeaway
Reevaluate faith concepts in light of scientific understanding.
Themes
faith
science
interpretation
theology
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- religious education
- personal belief
- interfaith dialogue
- science education
Key Concepts
literalism
cosmology
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How can faith adapt to scientific knowledge?
- What role does metaphor play in religion?
A Different Perspective
Some may view this as dismissive of spiritual experience.
