11 notable Christian figures who died in 2021

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Monday, December 27, 2021

John Shelby Spong – Sept. 12, 2021

Episcopal Church Bishop John Shelby Spong, a notable progressive theologian and author who garnered controversy for his denial of certain Bible teachings, gives a lecture at the University of Oregon in 2008. | Screengrab: YouTube/University of Oregon

Theologically liberal Episcopal Church Bishop John Shelby Spong, an outspoken advocate of progressive views on LGBT issues and biblical interpretation, died in his sleep at age 90.

Although he originally identified as a fundamentalist growing up in North Carolina, Spong came to reject theologically conservatives and advocated for many controversial ideas.

During the 1980s, Spong advocated for the Church to bless same-sex unions as well as sex outside of marriage, and denied the historical existence of biblical figures like Judas Iscariot.

The Westar Institute, which was supported by Spong and hosted a critical biblical scholarship gathering known as the Jesus Seminar, honored the late Episcopal bishop.

“His work and witness have inspired and freed many Westar members and a generation of thoughtful people. May his memory be a blessing,” tweeted the Institute in September.