San Diego, California, United States - Sunday School Class "Heart of Christianity" at First United Methodist Church for Sunday, 4 May 2014

San Diego, California, United States - Sunday School Class "Heart of Christianity" at First United Methodist Church for Sunday, 4 May 2014
Hi to All:
I'm back and ready to go.  We'll discuss Chapters 25 and 26. Here are some issues and questions to ponder for the discussion.
Chap. 25:  At the Cross...
1. P. 247.  In reference to the crucifixion, Spong writes: "Is this the end of Jesus' life or is this now the door, the way, through which a new meaning of life itself is destined to be revealed? That is the question John's portrait of Jesus is being painted to answer."  What impact did the story of the crucifixion have on the followers of Jesus?  And, on you, personally, after 2,000 years since that event?  (See last sentence of the full parag. on this page.)
2. P. 248.  What do you think of Spong's conclusion that the mother of Jesus is only a symbol and not an historical person? (See main, full parag. on this page and continuing on p. 249.)
3. P. 249.  Another nameless figure that John has placed at the foot of the cross is what John calls the "beloved disciple."  Are you convinced, as Spong is, that this figure is symbolic and represents every person who has a deep commitment to be a follower of Jesus?  Your thoughts?  (See also pp. 250-251, especially the bottom half of p. 251, and finally, the last parag. on p. 252).
Chap. 26: It Is Finished...
4. Pp. 256-257.  Do you believe, as Spong does, that the intent of the author of the Fourth Gospel was to write a text that showed the way to transcendence over the faith and religious culture of Jews, who lived at the end of the first century, (CE)?  Explain.
5. In this connection, choose one concept among some that Spong writes about in the first 3 pages (pp. 255-257) of this chapter, which stands out in your mind as an essential concept in which to believe that Spong is on the right track.  [Whew! That was a long sentence, but hey...]
6. On many occasions in Spong's book, he uses the phrase, "to give oneself away."  There are several iterations of this phrase: "He gave himself away," "giving themselves away," etc.  What, in your estimation, are the meaning and purpose of this basic phrase?  (See the complete parag. on p. 258)
7. P. 259.  How has Spong demonstrated in this chapter that John accomplished his intentions about Jesus and the fulfillment of ancient scriptures?
8. P. 262.  Spong writes, "Jesus opens the door to mystical oneness."  Can you comment on this statement?  Explain.
I look forward to Sunday and toward a fruitful discussion. It'll be good to see all of you again.  Best wishes and hasta domingo,   Ben
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