Ask NT Wright Anything: S2E14 “Sin, Sex, and Salvation? NT Wright on Contraception, the Cross, and the Church”

In the fourteenth episode of the second season of Ask NT Wright Anything, host Mike Bird and co-host Tom Wright delve into profound theological discussions surrounding contraception, the historicity of the Gospels, political idolatry, and the nature of salvation. Released on April 13, 2025, this episode addresses listeners' pressing questions with depth and clarity, aiming to bridge faith and contemporary societal issues.

1. Contraception: Ethical and Theological Perspectives

Listener's Question: A listener from Abadur inquires about the ethical implications of contraception, expressing difficulty in finding theological support for its use. He states:

"I find the view that using contraception is a sin more compelling. [...] It is like saying God did a poor job in making humans."
[02:30] - Listener from Abadur

Tom Wright’s Response: Tom Wright provides a historical and cultural context to the debate on contraception, emphasizing the shift in societal norms due to advancements in modern medicine. He explains that historically, large families were commonplace due to high infant mortality rates, making contraception both impractical and morally contentious.

"With the rise of modern medicine, many couples found it sensible to limit family size, which was previously seen as unnatural."
[03:45] - Tom Wright

Wright challenges the notion that using contraception undermines God's creation, arguing instead that responsible family planning aligns with stewardship and the well-being of families.

"Christians should take up real options that modern possibilities provide, using discernment to foster flourishing families."
[09:15] - Tom Wright

2. Historicity of the Gospels: Balancing Faith and History

Listener's Question: Richard Hindley from Barnsley questions the historical accuracy of certain Gospel narratives, such as the birth of Jesus and the visit of the Wise Men. He wonders whether embellishments in the Gospels impact their theological significance.

"Does it matter whether everything in the Gospels happened like the writers said or that they might have embellished some of it?"
[13:00] - Richard Hindley

Tom Wright’s Response: Wright addresses the nature of ancient historical writing, noting that single accounts are common and not necessarily indicative of fabrication. He emphasizes the difference between modern expectations of historical documentation and ancient storytelling methods.

"In ancient history, many events are reported by a single source, and historians assess their likelihood based on available evidence."
[14:50] - Tom Wright

He further asserts that the core message of the Gospels—the reality of Jesus's existence, crucifixion, and resurrection—remains central, regardless of minor narrative differences.

"We should focus on the central message of Jesus’s life and resurrection rather than getting sidetracked by minor discrepancies."
[19:00] - Tom Wright

3. Political Idolatry: Navigating Faith in Polarized Times

Listener's Question: Phil Cross from Edmond, Oklahoma, raises concerns about the intertwining of politics and Christianity, specifically questioning the alignment of MAGAism with biblical principles.

"As an American Christian, I see this as political idolatry and it is everywhere in the American church. Have I been reading the Bible wrong?"
[26:30] - Phil Cross

Tom Wright’s Response: Wright acknowledges the complexity of modern political landscapes and the dangers of oversimplification inherent in a two-party system. He highlights the polarization in American society and urges Christians to seek unity and understanding amid differing political views.

"The church should exemplify how to live together with differences and discuss them wisely."
[29:00] - Tom Wright

He recommends James Davison Hunter’s work to better understand the cultural roots of political divisions and emphasizes the importance of fostering a harmonious society through collective effort.

"We need stability in the world order and to work together globally and within our communities."
[31:10] - Tom Wright

4. Judgment of God and Salvation: Understanding Atonement

Listener's Question: Peter Charlo from Winnipeg questions the necessity of Jesus’s death for the forgiveness of sins, drawing parallels to familial forgiveness and demanding a merciful rationale behind the suffering endured by Jesus.

"If we are sincerely sorry for our sins, why cannot God, who knows our hearts, simply forgive us?"
[34:00] - Peter Charlo

Tom Wright’s Response: Wright critiques the traditional Western theological approach that moralizes anthropology, arguing for a deeper understanding of salvation beyond mere guilt and punishment. He contrasts this with Eastern theological perspectives that emphasize the defeat of corruption and death through Jesus's resurrection.

"Salvation is about defeating rebellion, corruption, and death, not just addressing individual guilt."
[41:50] - Tom Wright

He explains that Jesus’s death was a victory over dark powers, aligning with New Testament teachings that portray salvation as a comprehensive triumph over evil rather than a simple transactional forgiveness.

"God, through Jesus, defeats the powers of darkness, enabling a renewed fellowship between humanity and the divine."
[35:50] - Tom Wright

Conclusion

In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Mike Bird and Tom Wright engage listeners with thoughtful and nuanced responses to challenging questions. From the ethics of contraception to the complexities of political faith alignment and the profound mysteries of salvation, the hosts provide insights that encourage deeper reflection and understanding. By addressing both historical contexts and contemporary issues, they bridge the gap between ancient theology and modern-day dilemmas, offering guidance for believers navigating a rapidly changing world.

Listeners are encouraged to submit their questions for future episodes and engage with the podcast's community through Premier Unbelievable’s digital platforms.

Notable Quotes:

• "Christians should take up real options that modern possibilities provide, using discernment to foster flourishing families."
  — Tom Wright [09:15]

• "We should focus on the central message of Jesus’s life and resurrection rather than getting sidetracked by minor discrepancies."
  — Tom Wright [19:00]

• "The church should exemplify how to live together with differences and discuss them wisely."
  — Tom Wright [29:00]

• "Salvation is about defeating rebellion, corruption, and death, not just addressing individual guilt."
  — Tom Wright [41:50]

This episode underscores the significance of thoughtful theology in addressing real-world issues, encouraging listeners to explore faith with both intellect and heart.