20th century Quote by John Shelby Spong
“The 20th century was a turning point; it freed and emancipated women, broke the back of segregation, and began the struggle to give justice to gay and lesbian people. But the Christian church, in both Catholic and Protestant forms, resisted every one of those humanizing developments. The church was on the wrong side of all three of those fights.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New Testament and the People of God, 1995
The 20th century advanced rights for women, minorities, and LGBTQ+; the Christian church opposed these reforms.
In simple terms: Progress for marginalized groups faced religious resistance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge institutional opposition.
Themes
equality
civil rights
religion
social justice
Mood
critical
empathetic
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy advocacy
- interfaith dialogue
- education reform
Key Concepts
institutional resistance
theology
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can allies within religious institutions promote inclusion?
- What strategies overcome doctrinal resistance?
A Different Perspective
Religious opposition can also inspire reform movements.
