Three Questions for Christians to Think and Pray About Regarding God's Possible Judgment on the U.S!

Introduction: The following is posted every few days on my Facebook page. It is my prayer that fellow followers of Jesus will seriously give thought and prayer to the very real possibility of God bringing judgment upon the United States, and much sooner than we would want to think!

NOTICE > The following message, especially in light of the recent Grammy Awards which featured a character dressed as Satan singing a song titled "Unholy" with a transgender singer while surrounded by dancers wearing devil horns, Biden's inconsistent SoTU Address (Feb 7), his urging use of Medicaid for abortion access, his classified documents mess, his brief photo op stop over at sanitized El Paso on his way to Mexico, his signing of the Respect for Marriage Act with drag queens and LGBTQ persons invited to be present, which is nothing less than a total surrender to the rolling sodomite/lesbian juggernaut, his zealous support of the killing of unborn children, the debacle of the prisoner exchange in which former Marine Paul Whelan is left to rot in a Russian prison, and the mid-term election mess, is going to be posted on a regular basis as we move through 2023. Our republic is in the worst crisis ever in its history, including times of war! If some of you are willing, please repost this on your page.

Now >THREE very serious questions for a Christian to think and pray about as we move through 2023 >

First, is the time near when God will reveal to us that it will no longer do any good to pray for the nation because He will not hear? He did the same in a revelation to Jeremiah -- read in Jeremiah 7, 11, and 14! It was now too late, for judgment was scheduled for the kingdom of Judah which happened in 586 BC and it wasn't pretty!

Second, is it possible that the judgment of Almighty God might come upon our nation before Biden's term ends in January of 2025? There are solid reasons why it could happen. The negative fallout from the SCOTUS decision on Roe v. Wade is one of the reasons why we might experience the undiluted wrath of God! The President is doing all he can in a massive campaign to ensure that a pregnant female can have her unborn child murdered if she makes that deadly choice! In addition, we are plagued with the massive demonstrations along with major mainstream media (or is it slipstream?) support, plus a flood of comments of the first magnitude declaring that a pregnant female should have the "right" to kill her unborn child if she so chooses. His support of same-sex marriage is another reason since God has clearly revealed this to be abomination and a violation of His established standard for marriage which consists of one man and one woman living in a holy covenant!

Third, will China, which recently sent a huge spy balloon over our nation, be God's instrument of judgment on our republic? China is buying up huge amounts of farmland, is the source of the majority of our consumer goods, has been "invading" us through technology for some time, and China is manufacturing the very deadly drug, fentanyl, which is coming into our country through the Mexican border and killing tens of thousands each year. And China released a virus that has killed millions all over the world. Therefore, a military invasion is not really necessary in order to bring us down! Remember, God has used heathen nations in the past as His instruments of judgment. He used Babylon to bring down the kingdom of Judah in 586 BC. Details are revealed in the book of Jeremiah!

Face it folks -- are we at that stage where we are ripe for judgment? Take a look at "Ripe for Judgment?" which is located at https://www.crrange.com/reflect11.html

Letter to PA Governor Josh Shapiro on February 18, 2023

February 18, 2023

Governor Josh Shapiro
Harrisburg PA

Dear Governor Shapiro:

You just recently went on public record that no prisoner on death row will be executed while you are governor in Pennsylvania. AP reported you as saying, “Today, I am respectfully calling on the General Assembly to work with me to abolish the death penalty once and for all here in Pennsylvania.” You further were quoted as saying that Pennsylvania “should not be in the business of putting people to death.”

On June 24th last year you made this statement, “To the doctors and patients in Pennsylvania who are worried about how this decision will impact them, know that the full force of my office is dedicated to protecting legal access to abortion in our Commonwealth.” I assume you still hold this position as governor of our Commonwealth.

Now then, how do you reconcile your support of abortion with your statement that our state “should not be in the business of putting people to death?” The unborn are persons identified by Almighty God even before conception as revealed in Jeremiah 1:3,4. Also Psalm 139 reveals plainly that God has plans for each conceived child. To terminate the life of an unborn child is an act of shedding innocent blood which God declares to be an act He hates (Proverbs 6).

We are a nation of fools of the first magnitude if we believe Almighty God is not going to make a major response to this abominable practice of killing tens of millions of unborn children for which He had a marvelous plan, and when it happens none of us will want to be around when it takes place!

Still contending (Jude 3,4) at www.crrange.com
Clayton D Harriger, Ordained Elder
The United Methodist Church @ 814-xxx-xxxx

If you dare look at https://www.crrange.com/reflect11.html
And also this one at https://www.crrange.com/comment112.html

Letter Sent to Editors of Newspapers on February 9, 2023

Editor:

President Biden’s State of the Union Address had at least one very glaring inconsistency that stood out like a sore thumb! He mentioned the issue of gun violence, loss of life, and the need to ban assault weapons. At another moment he adamantly expressed his support of the abominable practice of abortion and vowed to veto any legislation that attempts to restrict abortion, which now has resulted in over 64.5 million unborn victims of intentional violent mutilation and murder since 1973! What this man along with millions of others fails to realize is that Almighty God, Who had a special purpose for those whom He was forming in the womb (Note Jeremiah 1:3,4 and Psalm 139), will make a response to this massive shedding of innocent blood and it will not be pleasant. None of us will want to be within the borders of this republic when that happens, and it may be sooner than we would want to think! “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” As stated in Galatians 6:7,8.

Still contending (Jude 3,4) at www.crrange.com
Clayton D Harriger, Retired Elder
Western PA Annual Conference
The United Methodist Church

Letter to a Number of Newspapers > August 2022

NOTE The following was sent out recently to a number of newspapers including the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat and the Indiana Gazette. The Johnstown Tribune-Democrat published it on August 27th.

Editor:

The dominant issue of gun violence and gun control as prattled on by talking heads in the mass media and numerous politicians in the swamp known as Washington, D.C., has now taken second place to the furor over the SCOTUS decision on Roe v. Wade.

Protests, property destruction and threats have erupted with the prevailing message being, “It is a constitutional right for a pregnant female to conspire and have her unborn child mutilated and murdered if that is her choice.”

The greatest tragedy in all this is the failure to recognize God’s view of human life. He identifies us as per- sons before conception in our mother’s wombs and has a marvelous plan for our lives.

Consequently, because of our defiance and lack of respect for human life, we are now on the fast track to experiencing God’s wrath in judgment.

It is simply a matter of how soon, possibly before Biden leaves office, since he is an ardent supporter of killing unborn children by the thousands every week.

Clayton D. Harriger
Pastor Retired
Belsano PA

C. D. Harriger's Reply to President Biden's Reply!

NOTE: After sending at least three letters to President Biden, I finally got a reply allegedly from him. So, I have made a reply to his reply and as you will see, this is the last letter I will be sending to him. He has been told that God is calling him and the nation he claims to lead, to repent. He clearly indicates that he has no intention of doing so. I have done what God wanted me to do. He has been warned and will have no excuse when it comes to his moment of accountability by claiming he did not know!

June 14, 2022

President Joe Biden
Washington DC

I am replying to your letter which you sent in response to my letters in which I stated that Almighty God is calling upon you and the members of your Administration to repent and cease immediately your support of the killing of unborn children by the tens of thousands each month. The grand total of unborn victims of planned intentional homicide is now nearly 74 million since the destructive and deadly Roe v. Wade decision of 1973!

In your reply, you adamantly made it very clear that you will continue to support a woman’s “right to choose” and oppose all efforts to restrict abortion. By continuing in this position, you have placed this nation on the fast track to experiencing the well-deserved judgment of God for our massive shedding of innocent blood! That is a Biblical term – check it out if you dare.

The ruins of empires of the past are visible which took a low view of human life, even to the point of sacrifice. We are a nation of fools of the first magnitude if we believe we can murder tens of millions of unborn children for whom God had a purpose and that He will not make a very unpleasant response to this U. S. version of holocaust!

This will be the last letter I will be writing to you. I have done what God wanted me to do. You have been warned. When you stand before God, you cannot claim you did not know!

Still contending (Jude 3,4)

Clayton D. Harriger, Pastor

Reply from President Joe Biden

THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 11, 2022
Mr. Clayton D. Harriger
Belsano, Pennsylvania

Dear Clayton,

Thank you for writing about this deeply personal issue. I want to be clear – I believe that a woman’s right to choose is fundamental, not only as a matter of health and well-being but of dignity and autonomy as well. Roe v. Wade has been the law of the land for almost fifty years, and basic fairness and the stability of our law demands that it not be overturned.

At this pivotal moment, as the Supreme Court is poised to rule on a case with serious implications for reproductive rights, Vice President Harris and I recommit to defending women’s constitutional rights to privacy and protecting the freedom of all people to build their own future. My Administration will continue to use all available tools to respond to the continued attack on abortion and reproductive rights.

If the Court does overturn Roe, it will fall on our Nation’s elected officials at all levels of government to protect a woman’s right to choose, and we will need Congress to pass legislation that codifies Roe, which I will work to pass and sign into law.

The constitutional rights of women are essential to the health, safety, and progress of our Nation. Our daughters and granddaughters deserve the same rights that their mothers and grandmothers fought for and won, which a clear majority of the American people support. We will not allow this country to go backwards on women’s equality.

Sincerely,
Joe Biden

NOTE > The signature actually looked like a first grader was given a blunted toothpick and some black ink and then told to write something! You think a doctor’s signature is something on a prescription? Very tame compared to how Joe tries to sign his name. By CDH.

Letter to Tom Wolf, Governor of Pennsylvania

NOTE: The letters sent to the Governor, the President, and the Vice President were sent by certified mail with a requested receipt. Yes, I know -- I've been reminded that the letters will never get into their hands and never be read by them! That may be so, but some staff member will open them and just maybe that will make an eternal difference in that person's life! At least I can stand before God and say, "I tried."

April 25, 2022

Governor Tom Wolf:

Enclosed is a copy of a letter being sent to President Biden and Vice President Harris. You will notice that the focus of the letter is on a very critical moral issue. It calls for these two to repent of their support of the killing of unborn children which is viewed by the Creator of the heavens and the earth and all who dwell within as an abomination (Proverbs 6)!

You also are a part of this repulsive activity and need to repent as do those who claim to be leaders in this republic but are leading us down the fast track to judgment at the hands of Almighty God!

Still contending (Jude 3,4)

Clayton D. Harriger

Galatians 6:7,8 Psalm 9:17

How to Become a Christian at https://crrange.com/comment25.html

It Is Time at https://crrange.com/itistime.html

Ripe for Judgment? at https://crrange.com/reflect11.html

Good News! The Day Coming in Which All Politicians Will Be Removed from Office! at https://crrange.com/comment69.html

Letter to President Biden and VP Harris on April 26, 2022

April 26, 2022

President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris:

I wrote earlier to the both of you. The issue I raised in my previous letters was the issue of repentance. Both of you need to repent of your support of the killing of unborn children as well as urging the entire nation to repent of all sin and seek God. If there is a refusal to do this, then it is certain that the wrath of God will be poured out upon us in a well-deserved judgment! We have already murdered nearly 64 million unborn children since 1973 and over 283.3 thousand have been mutilated and violently murdered so far this year!

We are a nation of fools of the first magnitude if we believe God will not make a response to this abomination at some point in the future!

Still contending (Jude 3,4)

Clayton D. Harriger

Galatians 6:7,8 Psalm 9:17

How to Become a Christian at https://crrange.com/comment25.html

It Is Time at https://crrange.com/itistime.html

Ripe for Judgment? at https://crrange.com/reflect11.html

Good News! The Day Coming in Which All Politicians Will Be Removed from Office! at https://crrange.com/comment69.html

Letter to President Biden and Vice President Harris on April 15, 2021

April 15, 2021

President Biden and Vice President Harris:

I wrote earlier to the both of you. The issue I raised in my first letter was the issue of repentance. Both of you need to repent of your support of the killing of unborn children as well as urging the entire nation to repent of all sin and seek God. If there is a refusal to do this, then it is certain that the wrath of God will be poured out upon us in a well deserved judgment! We are fast approaching nearly a quarter of a million unborn children violently murdered so far this year! We are a nation of fools of the first magnitude if we believe God will not make a response to this abomination at some point in the future!

Still contending (Jude 3,4)
Clayton D. Harriger
Galatians 6:7,8 Psalm 9:17

Letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer on April 15, 2021

April 15 2021

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer

Enclosed is letter being sent to President Biden and Vice President Harris. They are being called on to repent of their support of the killing of unborn children. This is a practice which God regards as an abomination and which He hates – see Proverbs 6! Since you also support this very unholy policy and practice, you also need to repent as well! Time is running out and God will bring judgment if there is a refusal to repent, and very soon!

Still contending (Jude 3,4)
Clayton D. Harriger
Galatians 6:7,8 Psalm 9:17

A Response to a Letter by Bishop Moore-Koikoi Related to the Fall Out of General Conference 2019!

It seems as time moves along I find myself in disagreement with at least some of the bishops of the United Methodist Church, including the present bishop of the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference where I hold my membership as an ordained elder. I responded to one of her letters prior to registration for an annual conference session. I believe I made my position clear to her in the following words >>>

Bishop Moore-Koikoi:

In your recent letter you reiterated concerning persons registering to participate in discussions related to the fallout following GC 2019 held earlier this year. You clearly stated that if any of us were going to try to convince others that we were right, DO NOT register!

In the first place, my calling from God as I entered the pastoral ministry 60 years ago as of June 21 was not to convince anyone that I was right! My calling was and is to preach and teach the truth of God’s inspired Word. The choice people make after being exposed to the Word of God presented is their responsibility.

In the second place, however, I know I am right on several critical issues related to the Christian faith such as:

1. Jesus Christ is exclusively the only way of forgiveness from sin and hope of being a resident in His Kingdom forever. Years ago there was a magazine printed for U.M. pastors titled, Circuit Rider. One issue showed a picture of a statue of Jesus with the question, “The Way, the Truth, the Life?” imprinted over it. The issue was devoted to a debate as to whether Jesus is the only way of salvation and eternal hope or the other religions in the world are on an equal level with Christianity and have valid claims in addressing the issue of eternal destiny! Either the radical “I am” statements of Jesus as stated in the Gospel of John are true and exclusive or He is the biggest liar and fraud to ever walk on two feet and certainly not worthy of 1 second of our time! Further, all that He said and did are true. If not, then throw the Bible into the garbage can, close the churches, and live the rest of our lives always wondering what happens when we die!

2. Jesus placed 4 demands on us humans. Unless we are converted and become as children, unless we repent, unless we draw life from Him by faith, and unless we are born again we will have no part or place in His eternal Kingdom!

3. The miracles as recorded throughout the Scriptures literally happened as reported in all the details, whether it be the Red Sea crossing, an iron axe head floating in water, a man swallowed by a great fish, feeding thousands of people with a few loaves and fish, the virgin birth, or a host of others. In my elective courses at seminary I chose to do one on contemporary U.S. theologians and one on European theologians. One of the wildest among many was one who said that Jesus was likely conceived when Mary was intimate with a mercenary on duty with the Roman army and he was an ancestor of the German people! How is that one for inspiring your faith and to know that Jesus had German blood running through His veins?

4. Jesus is going to return to this sin saturated planet at some point in the future. And yes, I know, it is common to deny this and be skeptical as to whether He really will come back. But He specifically promised He would return with many changes planned as He establishes His Kingdom. Having been personally acquainted with Him now for over 62 years I know I am right when I say that He always keeps His promises!

5. God is not only a God of love and compassion, but He is also a God of wrath and judgment! Starting in the book of Genesis and continuing all the way through the book of Revelation the truth of this is constantly repeated. The ruins of past cultures are mute evidence of the fact that a society of people cannot endlessly defy God and His standards for a sane, sensible, serene, stable, and secure nation and expect to survive. The once mighty Babylonian and Roman empires are prime examples!

6. God has clearly drawn the boundaries on human sexuality making clear to all who with open heart and mind take an honest look at those boundaries. He has spelled out explicitly what is sexually acceptable and what is not, even to the point that some immorality is not merely a sin, but an abomination!

Still contending at Circuit Rider's Range and blogging at Musings of a Maverick

Clayton D. Harriger, Retired Elder
Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference
The United Methodist Church
cc: Members of the Cabinet 44 5 Comments Like Comment Share

How to Become a Christian!

The most critical decision a person will ever make in his or her lifetime is the place and prominence that Jesus Christ will have in one’s everyday life with all its challenges and responsibilities! Will He be one Who is personal Savior and Lord as well as a faithful Friend always present on a 24/7 basis? OR is He one Who has been rejected and the choice has been to concentrate on self and the desperate pursuit of money, this world’s material goods, and pursuit of worldly pleasures with the deadly belief that if one just gets enough of these things one will be incredibly happy and satisfied! And there are those who become aware of the fact that there is a need to get right with God but choose to put that critical decision on the back burner until some “convenient” time in the future. See how one man ended up with all his wealth which he had zealously pursued in Luke 12:16-21.

God never speaks in terms of a convenient time but always in the present – the here and right now! NOTE > For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. [2 Corinthians 6:2 KJV].

The beginning point in becoming a Christian is honestly facing the truth that we have been born into this world with three strikes already against us because of inherited sin. We are sinners who have sinned against God and against our fellow humans. This tragic way of life begins as soon as we are born, expecting everyone to dance to the tune we play on our fiddle as we journey each day in the search for more money, material goods, and a plethora of pleasures. We may even attend and join a church while doing all this and earn the reputation of being an outstanding citizen in the community!

But God has each of us as being labeled a sinner, condemned, and deserving of spending eternity in a Devil’s Hell! Here are some statements from God’s Word that plainly reveal our lost condition > The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. [Jeremiah 17:9,10 KJV]. The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. 3They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one. [Psalm 14:2,3 KJV]. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God … [Romans 3:23 KJV].

However, God took the initiative to do something about the destructive problem of sin that had infected the entire human race. Here is how the Bible tells it> And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. [John 3:14-18 KJV]. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. [1 John 4:10 KJV]. The word, propitiation, literally means satisfaction – that is, when Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He made it possible for us to be completely forgiven of our sins and God will never hold them against us ever again! God no longer condemns us but accepts us as though we had never sinned against Him. In this matter God has the ability to forget the offense of sins permanently > I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. [Isaiah 43:25 KJV]. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. [Jeremiah 31:34 KJV].

There is something each of us must do if we are going to become a Christian. Jesus said it these words > I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. [Luke 13:3 KJV]. His message always called for people to repent > And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness. And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him. Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. [Mark 1:12-15 KJV].

Repentance involves three areas in our experience in becoming a Christian:

1. Intellectual – that is, we become mentally aware of the reality of sin, that it is offensive in God’s sight, and we are guilty of committing the same repeatedly.

2. Emotional – that is, we become deeply bothered and troubled about our sin and become very guilty in our conscience! This the Holy Spirit working and speaking to us. Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would come and convict the world of sin. Note what all Jesus revealed about the Holy Spirit in John 14, 15, and 16.

3. Volitional – that is, a clear and deliberate decision to renounce and abandon all known sin presently existing in our lives. We completely forsake it and want nothing more to do with anything we know that offends God!

The result? A miracle of transformation as our lives have been turned around 180 degrees and we begin walking in fellowship with our Lord rather than ignoring Him and concentrating on our self-centered way of life against Him. The apostle Paul described this miracle by saying, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” [2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV].

My friend, if you are reading this and you have never thought about how it is between you and God nor thought about asking Jesus to come into your life as Savior and Lord, I appeal to you to make that decision today. Tell God you are sorry for your sins, ask His forgiveness, and invite Jesus to come into your life as Savior and Lord. If you would like to have some literature to help in getting established in your faith, email me at cdharriger@hotmail.com and provide your full name and mailing address.

For those who have received Jesus as Savior and Lord never forget that God does not whisk us off to Heaven the moment we repent and believe, but allows us us remain in this world for one main purpose and that is to be a witness for the Lord Jesus Christ and to lead others to believe in Him. Therefore it is necessary that we become familiar in explaining to another person what becoming a Christian is all about!

God’s best to you always as Jesus tarries in His coming to this very needy world.

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn 'til setting sun
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care
Then when all of life is over and our work on earth is done
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there!

From the song of faith, When the Roll Is Called up Yonder

Letter to Newly Elected Members of the 117th U.S. Congress

NOTE: After the November 3rd election in 2020, a letter was sent to all newly elected members of the 117th United States Congress. Enclosed was the letter sent to the members of the 116th Congress, which is posted below this one.

To All Newly Elected Members of the 117th United States Congress:

Enclosed please find letter originally written on 9/11 Anniversary of 2020 which was sent to the members of the 116th U. S. Congress. Obviously, it was totally ignored which means we continue on the fast track to judgment at the hands of Almighty God and I expect you will also make the same response, but I have done what God wanted me to do. However, one senator did make a personal response and it was not a form letter but rather detailed as to what he was doing and how he was involved in trying to protect the unborn among other things.

Clayton D. Harriger, Retired Elder PH = 814-749-6960
Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
Box 32, Belsano PA 15922

Letter to All Members of the 116th United States Congress

NOTE: The following letter was written on the anniversary of 9/11 and is being sent to all members of the United States Congress with copies also being sent to the presidential and VP candidates in the November 2020 election. Permission is hereby granted to any who may want to copy and reproduce this for sharing with others. Your prayer support is sincerely requested in this effort. cdh

September 11, 2020

To: Members of the United States Congress
Subject: Election November 3, 2020

Does it really matter who wins the election to be president for the next 4 years and what party is in control of the U.S. Congress? No, if there is not a very drastic change that takes place through our entire culture! That radical change will involve total repentance from the many abominations and transgressions of which we as a nation are guilty against Almighty God! We are perched on the very doorstep of experiencing His wrath being poured out upon us in judgment!

The reasons are many starting with tens of millions of unborn children deliberately murdered since 1973! God had a plan for each of these unborn children, but that was interrupted by an intentional act of homicide!

Further our pandemic immoral sexual practices and our deeply entrenched idolatry in its many forms also invite God’s wrath upon us!

Added to this is the fact that far less than half of our population can find its way into a place of worship to give honor and thanksgiving to the God Who makes our life and existence possible! A further problem related to this is the fact that too many of those churches that are attended are headed up by pastors who do not believe the Bible in its entirety and are spreading a bunch of heresy and apostasy among their congregations due to their unbelief in the Scriptures! This stems back to the fact that these pastors received such false teaching in seminaries they attended.

You can significantly help to bring about this critical change God calls us to make by urging the people you represent to turn to God in a spirit of sincere repentance and forsake all known sin in their lives.

If we do not repent, the result will not be pleasant and none of us will want to be within the borders of this nation when God brings judgment upon our republic. The people of the ancient Israelite kingdom of Judah found out the hard way in about 586 BC that after God had given fair warning time after time that He meant precisely what He had said He would do if they did not repent!

Still contending at www.crrange.com and blogging at http://cdharriger.blogspot.com

Clayton D. Harriger, Retired Elder
The United Methodist Church
Western PA Annual Conference

Response to Bishop Cythia Moore-Koikoi's Letter on George Floyd's Death and Racism!

Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi sent a letter to those on her email list of the Western PA Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church on the occasion of the tragic death of George Floyd and the issue of racism. I responded on June 1st to the letter and this response is printed below. This will make the 7th letter I have sent to the bishop with copies going to members of the cabinet most times. My first letter to her was shortly after she was appointed to be the episcopal leader of the W. PA Annual Conference in 2016. To this date I never once received a reply from her. I expect this time will be no different than in the case of the previous 6 letters! She will likely be upset with some things said in my response! It is almost an unwritten law in the United Methodist Church -- one is to never question, criticize, or even make suggestions to a bishop!

Bishop:

To inform you a bit as to where I am coming from on this issue I need to give you a bit of background. One of the very best buddies I had when I did my military time was black. Having no vehicle, he rode each day with me from New Bern to our squadron where we worked at Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station. There isn’t a thing he wouldn’t have done for me if it had been within his power to do so, nor I for him. And over the years I have become friends with a number of African Americans for whom I have the greatest appreciation and respect.

I also am greatly disturbed at the tragic death of George Floyd and the circumstances under which it occurred as well as the rioting resulting. And I do agree with the sign often posted that says, “Black lives matter!” As you highly stress in your remarks, it is a crisis of racism. However, you seem to overlook the fact that racism is a two way street! A picture was recently posted of a young black who killed an elderly couple visiting the grave of a relative in a cemetery! Or the killing of a white police officer from Grand Forks by a black recently! No protesting nor riots as a result of this due mainly to the fact that the mainstream media did not give this 24 hour blanket coverage! Obviously the skin colors of the victims and the killers were not considered “politically correct” by the mainstream media – actually, it is more accurate to use the term, slipstream, as applied to that bunch.

You bishops are rather selective when it comes to speaking against violence. You have much to say about the recent incident, but how does that compare to what you have said about the intentional murders and dismemberment of tens of millions of unborn children since 1973? Our national track record at this point is over 61 million victims, each of whom God claimed to be forming in the womb and whom He identifies as persons for whom He has a purpose! As mentioned, silence is common among UMC bishops regarding this violence of the first magnitude! See www.crrange.com/umcbishopsavoidissue.html Further, this is the major factor in bringing the wrath of God down upon this republic just as He brought a devastating judgment upon the kingdom of Judah when it was ruled by king Zedekiah – see summary in 2 Chronicles 36. This policy of the violent killing of thousands of unborn children each week has got to stop >> www.crrange.com/page54.html

However, as we start to recover from the pandemic and eventually move beyond the season of riots, it is obvious that a majority want to get hammers in their hands and start pounding nails again! You ask what that is all about? Take a close and thoughtful look at www.crrange.com/USACoffin.html

Still contending at www.crrange.com and blogging at http://cdharriger.blogspot.com

Clayton D. Harriger, Retired Elder
Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference
The United Methodist Church

CC: Members of the Cabinet

A PS to the above -- since the letter was sent to the bishop and cabinet members I have learned that over 18 1/2 million unborn African American children have been violently dismembered and murdered over the last number of years! I have since raised the issue of this on Facebook and questioned why there are no protests about this happening.

Whom Will You Listen to – Jesus or a U.M. Bishop? It Cannot Be Both at the Same Time!

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! [Isaiah 5:20 (KJV)].

A while back there was a meeting in the Johnstown District of the W. PA Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi who is the presiding officer of the conference was in attendance. During the meeting she made this statement: “We are all children of God!” And then for added emphasis she repeated the statement rather loudly. For sure, that is what may be called a “feel good” statement – it makes the person who states it feel good and obviously it is intended to make all who are in attendance feel good also.

There is just one thing wrong – the statement is false! It is certainly declared many times in churches and many people believe it because pastors and church leaders have said so!

First, it is in direct contradiction as to what Jesus said about being children of God. Yes, He said things that had to do with being children of God but He also clearly stated that there are humans who are children of the Devil! On an occasion Jesus got into a dispute with some of the Jews and eventually said this: “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” [John 8:44-47 (KJV).]

Notice that it is very clear that Jesus is not referring to these people as “children of God.” He identifies them as children of the Devil! Can you be a child of God and a child of the Devil at the same time? Most people who possess at least a touch of common sense would say, “No!” It constitutes a most incompatible mix!

Jesus in another statement indicated the division between those who are children of God and those who are not by saying: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13-14 (KJV)].

Even Paul the apostle had a label he pinned on a person on an occasion: “Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, and said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.” [Acts 13:9-11 (KJV)]. Now if the aforementioned bishop would have been there, would she have said something such as this? “Don’t believe Paul – you are a child of God because we are all children of God!”

One of the greatest indications of the fact that the members of the human race fall into two categories – either children of God or children of the Devil is seen in the book of Revelation. Chapter by chapter you see it revealed and then in chapter 20 we are given a view of a horrible scene known as the White Throne Judgment! This is how it is described: “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” [Revelation 20:11-15 (KJV)].

There are those pastors and church leaders, including a number of United Methodist bishops, who deny that this is for real. They have a very perverted view of what this is all about because for one thing, it shoots the idea that “we are all the children of God” all to pieces! But then, in church circles today it is not all that uncommon to hear it said that there is no Satan, no God of wrath and judgment, and no Hell! After all, we are all the children of God! But I have a strong uncompromising conviction that no person, bishop or otherwise, will change God’s clear revelation on how it is between us humans and Him and how it will all turn out in the end! Those who are indeed His children are those who have truly repented of their sins and have received His Son, Jesus Christ, as Savior and Lord into their lives. Those who have rejected God’s revelation and along with that, His Son, Jesus, experience His judgment and eternal separation from Him!

Further, I have a feeling that there are at least a few who agree with that and that God means every word contained in His inspired Word known as the Bible! Amen!

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many… And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. [Matthew 24:4,5,11,12 (KJV)].

Letter #6 Sent to Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi and Members of the Cabinet!

NOTE: A total of 6 letters have been sent to Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi who is bishop of the Western Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church. The first was sent shortly after she took her present position in September of 2016 and other letters were sent in the following months, most of which included copies to the district superintendents as well. Never one time did I ever receive so much as a reply or even an acknowledgement that she had received the letters! A few years ago I sent a personal letter to Queen Elizabeth of England and shortly received a reply via her secretary. In that reply I was informed that the Queen had read my letter and expressed some response to the subject which I had mentioned in the letter. That says something about those two persons, does it not, in regard to not just their position in this world but more importantly to character and integrity regarding response to people who communicate with them about concerns! And so, letter #6 is printed below, a copy of which was sent to each of the 10 district superintendents of the W. PA Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Bishop Moore-Koikoi:

In your recent letter you reiterated concerning persons registering to participate in discussions related to the fallout following GC 2019 held earlier this year. You clearly stated that if any of us were going to try to convince others that we were right, DO NOT register!

In the first place, my calling from God as I entered the pastoral ministry 60 years ago as of June 21 was not to convince anyone that I was right! My calling was and is to preach and teach the truth of God’s inspired Word. The choice people make after being exposed to the Word of God presented is their responsibility.

In the second place, however, I know I am right on several critical issues related to the Christian faith such as:

1. Jesus Christ is exclusively the only way of forgiveness from sin and hope of being a resident in His Kingdom forever. Years ago there was a magazine printed for U.M. pastors titled, Circuit Rider. One issue showed a picture of a statue of Jesus with the question, “The Way, the Truth, the Life?” imprinted over it. The issue was devoted to a debate as to whether Jesus is the only way of salvation and eternal hope or the other religions in the world are on an equal level with Christianity and have valid claims in addressing the issue of eternal destiny! Either the radical “I am” statements of Jesus as stated in the Gospel of John are true and exclusive or He is the biggest liar and fraud to ever walk on two feet and certainly not worthy of 1 second of our time! Further, all that He said and did are true. If not, then throw the Bible into the garbage can, close the churches, and live the rest of our lives always wondering what happens when we die!

2. Jesus placed 4 demands on us humans. Unless we are converted and become as children, unless we repent, unless we draw life from Him by faith, and unless we are born again we will have no part or place in His eternal Kingdom!

3. The miracles as recorded throughout the Scriptures literally happened as reported in all the details, whether it be the Red Sea crossing, an iron axe head floating in water, a man swallowed by a great fish, feeding thousands of people with a few loaves and fish, the virgin birth, or a host of others. In my elective courses at seminary I chose to do one on contemporary U.S. theologians and one on European theologians. One of the wildest among many was one who said that Jesus was likely conceived when Mary was intimate with a mercenary on duty with the Roman army and he was an ancestor of the German people! How is that one for inspiring your faith and to know that Jesus had German blood running through His veins?

4. Jesus is going to return to this sin saturated planet at some point in the future. And yes, I know, it is common to deny this and be skeptical as to whether He really will come back. But He specifically promised He would return with many changes planned as He establishes His Kingdom. Having been personally acquainted with Him now for over 62 years I know I am right when I say that He always keeps His promises!

5. God is not only a God of love and compassion, but He is also a God of wrath and judgment! Starting in the book of Genesis and continuing all the way through the book of Revelation the truth of this is constantly repeated. The ruins of past cultures are mute evidence of the fact that a society of people cannot endlessly defy God and His standards for a sane, sensible, serene, stable, and secure nation and expect to survive. The once mighty Babylonian and Roman empires are prime examples!

6. God has clearly drawn the boundaries on human sexuality making clear to all who with open heart and mind take an honest look at those boundaries. He has spelled out explicitly what is sexually acceptable and what is not, even to the point that some immorality is not merely a sin, but an abomination!

Still contending at Circuit Rider's Range and blogging at Musings of a Maverick

Clayton D. Harriger, Retired Elder
Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference
The United Methodist Church
cc: Members of the Cabinet

You Really Don’t Want Anything to Do with the god of Progressive Christianity, Do You?

Would you want to read an author who wrote a book full of contradictions and told of things that happened but really had not? Further, that this author made claims for himself trying to convince you they were true when they were lies?

That is what has happened within the ranks of something that has invaded churches which profess the Christian faith! The infiltrator is a malicious group of persons identified as “Progressive Christianity!” They are made up of theologians, scholars, seminary professors, denominational leaders, pastors, teachers, and church pew occupiers.

Notice I have used a small “g” when using the word, god, as applied to this group of persons who claim to be “progressives” regarding the Christian faith.

I use the capital “G” when using the word, God, as identifying the true deity Who is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He is also the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. But further, Jesus is literally God revealed in human form. Of equal importance is the fact that God is the Author of that very special volume of information known as the Bible or the holy Scriptures!

But back to the progressive crowd. While they refer to a god and try to relate the Bible to their deity, it a most pathetic endeavor to say the least. According to these people, what is reported in the Bible is to viewed in the following ways:

1. The flood at the time of Noah never really happened.
2. There is no such God Who takes vengeance or brings judgment on people or nations.
3. Jonah was not swallowed by a great fish, etc.
4. There is no Hell or such a thing as eternal punishment.
5. There is no Satan in existence nor are there demon spirits.
6. There was no virgin birth.
7. There was no atonement – actual quote on this is: “Jesus did not die for our sins. Let that be said a thousand times. Jesus did not come from God to rescue fallen, sinful, inadequate, incompetent people like you and me. That is an image of a God who comes to us from outside to rescue this terrible and fallen creation. That is an idea from which we need to escape.” From “Living the Questions – The Wisdom of Progressive Christianity” by David M. Felten and Jeff Procter-Murphy, p. 114 – HarperCollins, publishers.
8. Jesus is not going to return to this world. A chapter in the above-mentioned book is titled, “Debunking the Rapture.”
9. The discussion on original sin is such that no word has yet been invented in the English language to accurately describe it!

The issue comes down to this in regard God’s revelation to humans by means of the Scriptures – is this statement true or is it not, and is Almighty God the One responsible for the Bible having come into existence? “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)].

Now do you see why I used a small "g" in the word god as it pertains to progressive Christianity? Their god is in a sense identified with the Bible -- but their god is one that is very contradictory in things he has allegedly revealed in his "book!" And he tells of things that actually did not happen, according to the progressives!

Yes, the god of the progressives does really exist. Avoid him at all costs! Now take a close look at his feet – notice, that they are not human with toes on the end – they are cloven hooves!

And Jesus answered and said unto them, “Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.…. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many…..For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” [Matthew 24:4,5,11,24 (KJV)].

What Purports to Be Progressive Christianity Is Really Unregenerate "Christianity!"

To whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear? behold, their ear is uncircumcised, and they cannot hearken: behold, the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach; they have no delight in it. Jeremiah 6:10 (KJV)

It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. Psalms 119:126-128 (KJV)

A deadly evolution has taken place since the beginning of the 20th Century. No, it is not the alleged “theory of evolution” which is usually associated with a fellow whose last name is Darwin. This is also a very deadly thing which is being forced on our children and youth in the public school systems as well as in colleges and universities. The one to which I refer is that which has infiltrated the ranks of what professes to be Christian in faith! In the latter part of the 19th Century there was an importation of raw theological garbage from Europe, with much coming from Germany. Claiming to be the results of concentrated “scholarship” this stuff literally butchered the Scriptures with brazen unbelief! Miracles as reported in the Scriptures were denied and treated as though they never took place. The first 11 chapters of Genesis were regarded as myth and fairy tale type of material! Pastors buying into this junk and preaching it were regarded as modernists. Over time they became known as liberals within the church. They refused to accept a number of things reported as having actually taken place. This included the literal virgin birth and later resurrection of Jesus Christ – that is, that Jesus actually came back from the dead after His crucifixion!

The evolution continued over decades of time in the 20th Century but eventually the identity of the liberals was changed to something more sophisticated and deceptive! They now want to be known as progressives. The word is also used in the political arena but is just as deceptive as in professing Christianity. With politics it is a disguise worn by those who want to turn our republic into a socialistic nightmare! The battle really boils down to one main issue – is the Bible to be believed and considered the authority in regard to matters of faith, relating in a personal way to God through His Son, Jesus Christ, and accepting responsibility in serving Him as a representative of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ or not?

A couple of progressives authored a book where the following statement was made which effectively spells out the position of these people. They say, “Jesus did not die for your sins, let that be said a thousand times. Jesus did not come from God to rescue fallen, sinful, inadequate, incompetent people like you and me. That is an image of a God who comes to us from outside to rescue this terrible and fallen creation. This is an idea from which we need to escape.” [Source: Living the Questions The Wisdom of Progressive Christianity by David M. Felten and Jeff Procter-Murphy – page 114 – published by HarperCollins Publishers]

Hmmmm! Looks like we have come to a fork in the road regarding the issue of Jesus dying for the sins of the members of the human race! In contrast to the statement made by the “progressives” above, it was predicted about 800 years before Jesus’ birth by Isaiah the prophet: “Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. [Isaiah 53:4-6 (KJV)]. Or how about this statement? "For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." [2 Corinthians 5:21 (KJV)]. Or, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree...." [Galatians 3:13 (KJV)]. Or, "Who (Jesus) His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by Whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. [1 Peter 2:24-25 (KJV)]. Which will you believe? A statement that is heresy in the extreme by one more than qualified to be a theologian as defined in the next paragraph or those which describe God's love in graphic detail to remind us of the horror of human sin and rebellion and the high price paid to make total forgiveness and reconciliation with a holy God possible for each of us? The choice lies with each one of us as to which way we will go when coming to that fork!

Scattered throughout the book are numerous quotes from those considered scholars and theologians. This of course is an attempt to convince the reader that these people are authorities and if you disagree with them, then you are wrong and need to change your views and ways of thinking so that you also will join them and become an enlightened “progressive!” Upon being exposed to this stuff I am often reminded of a definition I heard while in seminary. Here it is: “A theologian is a blind man in a dark room at midnight looking for a black cat that isn’t there!” However, it needs to be noted also that God has used persons who respected the inspiration and authority of His recorded Word to write books that have been encouraging, challenging and helpful to those whose faith is centered in Jesus as Savior and Lord.

It’s that bunch that claims to be “Christian” who deny the truths revealed in the Scriptures that you must be on guard against! Jesus clearly warned against an invasion of false prophets and teachers in the latter days before He returns. He especially stressed this in such chapters as Matthew 24. See also statements in 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; 2 Timothy 3:1-7; 2 Timothy 4:3,4; 2 Peter 2:1,2 and Jude 3,4 on this critical issue. Over the years I have been exposed at times to the writings and teachings of those who are a fulfillment of the statement found in Jeremiah which is quoted at the beginning of these comments. One statement by Jesus which has helped me to weather the storm of unbelief as expressed by those who claim to be “Christian” is this: “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Matthew 18:2-7 (KJV)].

I attempt to approach the Scriptures in the spirit of a small child with assurance that the promise of Jesus regarding the Holy Spirit will be fulfilled. Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would come and teach us all things, guide us into the truth and show us things to come. I fully believe that. I do not claim to fully understand everything that is written in the Bible nor why God did the things the way He did nor why He did them at the time. But whatever is written, no person, living or dead, has ever given me a reason not to believe what God has clearly revealed in His holy Word! For those claiming to be “progressive Christians” it is like a hobo who somehow manages to trade his rags for a tuxedo. He attempts to impress others as he parades about in his new suit. However, he is still a hobo at heart and really as poverty stricken as ever. Those who are sensitive to who and what he is know that the tuxedo does not change a single thing!

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16,17 (KJV)].

“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Jude 1:3-4 (KJV)].

“I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.” [Galatians 1:6-9 (KJV)].

NOTE: for any who may want to wade further into the swamp of progressive “Christianity,” here are some references. Just make sure you have all your armor on when you make the trip!

Progressive Christianity

Eight Points of Progressive Christianity

12 Theses of Progressive Christianity by Bishop John Shelby Spong

Progressing Spirit

Religious Tolerance This one claims no religious identity with any group but attempts to describe different groups, their respective beliefs etc. The basic appeal is to work together for the common good of all no matter what your belief system may be.

"Progressive Christianity" Is After You! Watch Out and Do Not Be Deceived!

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
[2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)].

The word, progressive, is being used frequently now and has been applied for quite some time in the arena of politics and in professing Christian circles. Another word which is like a twin to the word, progressive, would be the word, liberal! A number of church groups have church leaders and clergy who claim to be "progressive" in their professed faith.

One example would be the United Methodist Church which has a considerable number who claim to be progressives as opposed to conservatives, evangelicals, etc. As of this writing (19/07/31) the UMC is in a war over the issue of human sexuality with progressives advocating support for those who live a same-sex lifestyle, including marriage. Conservatives are in opposition to this on basis of God's revelation in the holy Scriptures. Progressives claim cultural change, human reasoning methods, scientific studies, etc to establish their case.

Bishop John Shelby Spong is a retired bishop in the Episcopal Church and some time back put together what he refers to as the 12 Theses of progressive Christianity. He summarizes these in brief statements as given below. You will note that these statements are in direct conflict with God's revelation as given through the holy Scriptures.

The problem began to surface in this country at about the beginning of the 20th Century when some theological garbage was imported from Europe, particularly Germany! It boiled down simply to unbelief in God's activities as reported in Scripture. A bit later the controversy at the beginning of the 20th Century came to be known as the "modernist/fundamentalist" controversy. The modernists were those who did not believe certain portions of the Bible, especially where miracles were reported. Fundamentalists were those who did believe the miracles literally happened as reported. One of the miracles attacked early on was the virgin birth of Jesus and you will see Bishop Spong's reference to that in his theses.

The Twelve Theses

1.God

Understanding God in theistic categories as “a being, supernatural in power, dwelling somewhere external to the world and capable of invading the world with miraculous power” is no longer believable. Most God talk in liturgy and conversation has thus become meaningless.

2.Jesus – the Christ. If God can no longer be thought of in theistic terms, then conceiving of Jesus as “the incarnation of the theistic deity” has also become a bankrupt concept.

3.Original Sin – The Myth of the Fall

The biblical story of the perfect and finished creation from which we human beings have fallen into “Original Sin” is pre-Darwinian mythology and post-Darwinian nonsense.

4.The Virgin Birth

The virgin birth understood as literal biology is impossible. Far from being a bulwark in defense of the divinity of Christ, the virgin birth actually destroys that divinity.

5.Jesus as the Worker of Miracles

In a post-Newtonian world supernatural invasions of the natural order, performed by God or an “incarnate Jesus,” are simply not viable explanations of what actually happened.

6.Atonement Theology

Atonement theology, especially in its most bizarre “substitutionary” form, presents us with a God who is barbaric, a Jesus who is a victim and it turns human beings into little more than guilt-filled creatures. The phrase “Jesus died for my sins” is not just dangerous, it is absurd.

7.The Resurrection

The Easter event transformed the Christian movement, but that does not mean that it was the physical resuscitation of Jesus’ deceased body back into human history. The earliest biblical records state that “God raised him.” Into what, we need to ask. The experience of resurrection must be separated from its later mythological explanations.

8.The Ascension of Jesus

The biblical story of Jesus’ ascension assumes a three-tiered universe, which was dismissed some five hundred years ago. If Jesus’ ascension was a literal event of history, it is beyond the capacity of our 21st century minds to accept it or to believe it.

9.Ethics.

The ability to define and to separate good from evil can no longer be achieved with appeals to ancient codes like the Ten Commandments or even the Sermon on the Mount. Contemporary moral standards must be hammered out in the juxtaposition between life-affirming moral principles and external situations.

10.Prayer

Prayer, understood as a request made to a theistic deity to act in human history, is little more than an hysterical attempt to turn the holy into the servant of the human. Most of our prayer definitions of the past are thus dependent on an understanding of God that has died.

11.Life after Death

The hope for life after death must be separated forever from behavior control. Traditional views of heaven and hell as places of reward and punishment are no longer conceivable. Christianity must, therefore, abandon its dependence on guilt as a motivator of behavior.

12.Judgment and Discrimination

Judgment is not a human responsibility. Discrimination against any human being on the basis of that which is a “given” is always evil and does not serve the Christian goal of giving “abundant life” to all. Any structure either in the secular world or in the institutional church, which diminishes the humanity of any child of God on the basis of race, gender or sexual orientation must be exposed publicly and vigorously. There can be no reason in the church of tomorrow for excusing or even forgiving discriminatory practices. “Sacred Tradition” must never again provide a cover to justify discriminatory evil.

Source for Bishop Spong's theses in his own words are from Bishop Spong - 12 Theses of Progressive Christianity

It is wise to always weigh what is said in this world with what is said in the holy Scriptures, remembering Jesus' promise in the Gospel of John that the Holy Spirit would come -- He would guide us into the truth, teach us all things and show us things to come. (John 16) Jesus also clearly warned of the time coming when there would be many false prophets and teachers who would appear and deceive many! (Matthew 24).

For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
[2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (KJV)].