One pastor-friend wrote:

1. Why bother debating anything with Bishop Spong?

Nathan wisely responded:

Personally, I thought Rowan Williams answered that question very well and very graciously in his second paragraph. Surely being unconvinced about the integrity of someone's Christian identity doesn't render their ideas unworthy of being engaged with. Isn't Christian apologietics all about engaging with ideas that differ from ours?

I thank God that the Anglican communion has seen fit to appoint to their highest office a man who is able to so brilliantly, succinctly and graciously expose the bankrupcy of Spong's attempt to remake the Christian faith in his own image.

At the same time, I thank God that Spong is still out there doing such a good job of clearly articulating the questions which many are unable to find words for, but which we need to keep hearing and understanding if we are to preach the gospel in ways which will be heard.

Peace and hope,

Nathan

_____________________________________ Nathan Nettleton Pastor, South Yarra Community Baptist Church