[UntoHim]

In order to present an "alternative view", one must at least give a fair representation of the the view(s) they seek to give an alternative to. I think Timotheist has done this, for the most part. Although I totally disagree with his conclusions, at least he has made a reasonable attempt to represent the "views" of most orthodox, evangelical Christians. (in the West, at least)

As far as I have observed over many years, no orthodox, evangelical church, church group, denomination or association has made belief in the virgin birth a significant, much less major, "item of the faith". Maybe Timotheist can point me to any such church group or denomination. This is not to say that the virgin birth of Jesus Christ is of no significant theological importance. In my opinion, it bears greatly upon the very person and work of Christ himself, but this is probably a subject to explore over on the "implications" thread.