A bishop has stirred reactions after stating that certain texts in the Bible should be removed, describing parts of both the Old and New Testaments as problematic.
Yvette Flunder, the senior pastor of the City of Refuge United Church of Christ and Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, made the remarks during a recent message for the Center for Public Theology & Public Policy.
Flunder argued that some biblical passages have become difficult to reconcile in modern times, noting that certain scriptures present challenges in how they are interpreted and applied.
She explained that these concerns have led her to believe that there is a need for what she described as a “Third Testament,” suggesting that existing texts do not fully represent the word of God.
According to her, the New Testament should be viewed as words about God rather than the direct word of God, a position she acknowledged may be controversial.
The bishop expressed frustration over specific passages which she believes portray a version of God that is difficult to align with contemporary values and understanding.
She cited examples of scriptural instructions that address issues such as slavery and the role of women in the church, noting that such texts continue to generate debate among believers.
Flunder maintained that reliance on the argument that such passages are “in the book” should not prevent critical examination, adding that some sections may need to be reconsidered.
She further insisted that questioning these texts does not negate her faith, emphasising that she maintains a strong personal relationship with God despite her concerns.
The cleric concluded by reiterating her position that the New Testament, in her view, should not be regarded as the literal word of God, but rather as human interpretations and expressions about God.
She said: “This a very dangerous thing that I’m about to say now… a bit dangerous. I’m of the opinion that we need a Third Testament. Because the Bible has become problematic. ‘Slaves obey your masters as you do the Lord’- It’s a text. ‘Let the women keep silent in the churches and if they have any questions let them ask their husbands at home.’
“Now I’m a believer. My whole heart, I trust God with my whole heart. I wake up in the morning talking to God and God talking to me.
“But I am completely frustrated with the ways in which the text speaks to the kind of vitriolic God that makes those kinds of things.
“And people will say, ‘well, it’s in the book.’ And I said, then we need to pull that page out.
“And they said, well, you can’t do it. It’s the Word of God. I said, no, it’s words about God. Come on now. But is it the Word of God? No. It is not the Word of God.
“The New Testament is NOT the word of God”
