Beginnings of Christianity

The account of the beginnings of Christianity, the more miraculous the details have become. For example, in the writings of Paul (50-64) there are no miracles, no virgin birth and the resurrection is not understood as physical resuscitation. The miracles are added by Mark when the first gospel is written somewhere after 70 and probably before 72. The virgin birth is introduced by the second gospel to be written, Matthew between 82 and 85. The resurrection, understood as physical resuscitation is introduced, or at least strongly emphasized by Luke (88-93) and by John (95-100). These facts are elementary in reputable Christian learning centers, but for a variety of reasons this knowledge has not filtered down to those who sit in the pews of our churches Sunday after Sunday. Bishop Spong

I quote Bishop Spong often since I get the complementary email. It is so easy to cut and paste and I find his summaries to be clear and concise. As a lifelong church member, I have a good foundational knowledge and the ability to incorporate the modern understanding into my faith. But I feel immersed among those in the "pew" and I have to constantly review the concepts since I am not otherwise exposed to them.