The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

A forum to discuss the Urantia Book.
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:hithere Interestingly, the UB and the Bible well agree about Jesus' divinity, with the UB revealing even more about his divinity!
And Christianity does not have to be the only religion/institution/group that supports this concept. Significant loss of belief
in Jesus' divinity may be cause for a Magisterial visitation sooner than later, especially if current religions/institutions/groups
fail to maintain Jesus' divinity. ;)

"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man goes to the Father except through me. All who find the Father,
first find me. If you know me, you know the way to the Father." (180:3.7)

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/


Q: Is less belief in Jesus' divinity a problem for Christianity?

"The declining belief in Jesus' divinity is indeed a significant problem for Christianity. Many Christian theologians and leaders
consider the deity of Christ to be a foundational doctrine of the faith.

A survey found that 53% of self-identified Christians and 43% of evangelical Christians view Jesus as just a great teacher rather than God.
This trend is concerning for several reasons:

- Theological implications: The divinity of Jesus is central to core Christian beliefs about salvation, worship, and the nature of God. Without it, key doctrines like the incarnation and atonement lose their meaning.

- Christian identity: Belief in Jesus' deity is seen as crucial for authentic Christian faith. Some argue that denying this doctrine essentially removes one from orthodox Christianity.

- Salvation theology: Traditional Christian soteriology (doctrine of salvation) relies on Jesus being both fully human and fully divine. A purely human Jesus could not offer the divine redemption Christians believe is necessary.

- Biblical authority: Rejecting Jesus' divinity requires dismissing or reinterpreting numerous Bible passages that affirm it, potentially undermining scriptural authority for believers.

Worship practices: Christian worship is directed at Jesus as God. Viewing him as only human fundamentally alters the nature of Christian devotion and prayer.

- Evangelism and mission: The unique claim of Jesus' divinity distinguishes Christianity from other religions. Losing this distinctiveness could impact the church's sense of mission.

- While some argue for a more inclusive Christianity that doesn't require belief in Jesus' divinity, many Christian leaders see this as a dangerous dilution of the faith. They argue that churches need to be more assertive in teaching and defending this doctrine to maintain Christianity's core identity and message."


(Q: What are the theological implications if Jesus is not considered divine?

"The theological implications of Jesus not being considered divine are profound and far-reaching for Christianity. These implications touch on several core aspects of Christian doctrine and practice:

Soteriology (Doctrine of Salvation)

Traditional Christian soteriology relies heavily on Jesus' divinity:

If Jesus is not divine, his sacrifice on the cross may lose its infinite value and efficacy in atoning for human sin.

The concept of substitutionary atonement becomes problematic, as a mere human sacrifice would be insufficient to bear the full weight of God's wrath against sin. The ability of Jesus to provide eternal life and righteousness to believers is called into question.

Christology (Nature of Christ)

Denying Jesus' divinity fundamentally alters Christian understanding of his nature:

- The hypostatic union (the union of divine and human natures in Christ) is negated.
- It challenges the doctrine of the Incarnation, which posits that Jesus was fully God and fully man.
- Jesus' role as mediator between God and humanity is compromised, as he would lack the divine nature necessary to fully represent God.

Worship and Devotion

Christian worship practices are significantly impacted:

If Jesus is not God, directing worship and prayer to him could be considered idolatry.
The concept of the Trinity, a cornerstone of many Christian denominations, becomes untenable.

Biblical Authority

Rejecting Jesus' divinity has implications for how Christians view Scripture:

Many passages in the New Testament that affirm Jesus' deity would need to be reinterpreted or dismissed. The reliability and inspiration of Scripture may be called into question if such a fundamental doctrine is considered erroneous.

Christian Identity and Mission

The uniqueness of Christianity among world religions is challenged:

Without the claim of Jesus' divinity, Christianity's distinctiveness from other monotheistic religions is diminished. The basis for Christian evangelism and mission work may be weakened, as the message of a divine Savior is central to many outreach efforts.

Ethical and Practical Implications

The view of Jesus as a mere human, albeit an exemplary one, alters how Christians relate to him:

His teachings and example may still be valued, but his ability to provide supernatural aid or intercession would be limited. The concept of having a personal relationship with Jesus as God incarnate would need to be reconsidered.

In conclusion, denying the divinity of Jesus would require a fundamental reimagining of Christian theology, potentially altering the religion at its very core. It would affect not only abstract doctrines but also the daily faith practices and spiritual experiences of believers."


Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:study: The challenges to and conflicts within Christianity persuade that the world needs more information
about the Spirit of Truth, since the Mother Spirit and Spirit of Truth are not distinct personalities in the Bible:

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: What does the Bible say about the Spirit of Truth?

"The Bible refers to the "Spirit of Truth" as the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role in guiding believers into truth,
revealing divine wisdom, and glorifying Jesus Christ.

Key Biblical References and Teachings:

Identity of the Spirit of Truth:

The Spirit of Truth is identified as the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Trinity. Jesus introduces Him in John 14:17 as the Helper (Greek: Paráklētos), who will dwell with and within believers after Jesus' departure (John 14:16-17). The Holy Spirit is described as continuing Jesus' ministry by bearing witness to His truth and guiding His followers.

Role in Guiding Believers:

In John 16:13-15, Jesus explains that the Spirit of Truth will guide believers into all truth, not speaking on His own authority but conveying what He hears from the Father and Son. He will also reveal future events and glorify Jesus by disclosing divine truths to believers. The Spirit helps believers discern between truth and error, enabling them to understand God's Word and apply it to their lives (1 Corinthians 2:10; 1 John 4:6).

Contrast with the World:

The unbelieving world cannot receive or recognize the Spirit of Truth because it is ensnared by falsehoods (John 14:17, 1 Corinthians 2:14).
This highlights the Spirit's unique relationship with those who believe in Christ.

Empowerment for Ministry:

Before ascending, Jesus instructed His disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit's empowerment (Acts 1:4-5).
Once received, they were equipped to proclaim the gospel boldly (Acts 1:8).

Significance for Believers:

The Spirit of Truth is essential for understanding Scripture, living a life aligned with God's will, and discerning spiritual truths.
He provides guidance, conviction, and assurance of God’s promises while glorifying Christ in all He reveals."


Q: What does the Urantia Book say about the Spirit of Truth?

The Urantia Book describes the Spirit of Truth as a divine endowment promised by Jesus to be sent into the hearts of believers.
It is characterized as:

- A new helper and teacher, not the letter or law of truth, but the conviction and consciousness of true meanings on real spirit levels.
- A living, growing, expanding, and adaptative truth that cannot be imprisoned in formulas or creeds.
- A spirit that works in conjunction with the Holy Spirit to teach truth and spiritually enlighten minds.
- A force that bears witness to the indwelling presence of the Father in all men.
- The spirit of idealistic beauty, as well as truth.

The Spirit of Truth was poured out upon all flesh after Jesus' resurrection and ascension.
Its functions include:

- Fostering and personalizing truth.
- Destroying the believer's feeling of orphanhood.
- Preparing minds for the universal bestowal of the Father's spirit (the Thought Adjuster).
- Helping individuals know they are sons of God.
- Guiding humanity towards truth and light.

The Urantia Book teaches that the Spirit of Truth, along with other spiritual endowments,
contributes to the development of a person's spiritual personality and potential destiny."


Q: In the Urantia Book, is the Mother Spirit a different personality than the Spirit of Truth?

"Yes, in the Urantia Book, the Mother Spirit and the Spirit of Truth are distinct personalities with different roles and origins. The Mother Spirit, also known as the Universe Mother Spirit or Creative Spirit, is a divine being who co-creates and co-rules a local universe alongside the Creator Son. She is described as an omnipresent spiritual entity who pervades her entire local universe, providing life, mind, and spirit power to all creatures within it.

The Spirit of Truth, on the other hand, is a joint creation of the Creator Son and the Mother Spirit, poured out upon all flesh after the Creator Son's bestowal mission. It functions as a spiritual helper and teacher, guiding believers towards truth and spiritual enlightenment.

Key differences include:

- Origin: Mother Spirit is direct manifestation of the Infinite Spirit, while Spirit of Truth is created by both Creator Son and Mother Spirit.
[ Infinite Spirit is third person of the Trinity with Mother Spirit a local universe presence ]
- Scope: Mother Spirit is omnipresent throughout her local universe, while Spirit of Truth is bestowed upon a world after a bestowal mission.
- Function: Mother Spirit is involved in universe creation and administration, whereas Spirit of Truth primarily serves as a spiritual guide
and comforter for individuals. [ Spirit of Truth is personal guide to all truth; "Holy Spirit" refers to Mother Spirit and Spirit of Truth,
depending on the Bible verse ]"


Q: In the Bible is the Mother Spirit a different personality than the Spirit of Truth?

"The Bible does not explicitly mention a "Mother Spirit" as a distinct personality from the Spirit of Truth. The Spirit of Truth, as described in the Bible, is another name for the Holy Spirit. The concept of the Holy Spirit as having feminine attributes or being described in motherly terms is not a mainstream biblical interpretation, but rather a perspective found in some theological discussions and historical Christian writings.

In the Bible, the Holy Spirit (also called the Spirit of Truth) is consistently referred to using masculine pronouns and is presented as the third person of the Trinity. The Spirit of Truth is described as a guide, teacher, and revealer of future events. Some early Christian texts and church fathers did use feminine imagery to describe the Holy Spirit, but this was not to establish a separate "Mother Spirit" entity.

Rather, these were attempts to express certain attributes or roles of the Holy Spirit using feminine metaphors. It's important to note that in biblical theology, the Holy Spirit (Spirit of Truth) is not typically characterized as having a gender in the human sense, despite the use of masculine pronouns in scripture."


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Sandy »

Thanks Rod,
I found the AI comparison very helpful.
xxSandy
“We measure and evaluate your Spiritual Progress on the Wall of Eternity." – Guardian of Destiny, Alverana.
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:study: About the Holy Spirit in the Bible ...

(Perplexity) "The apostles and early Christians experienced the Holy Spirit's presence and power directly, especially after Pentecost.
This firsthand encounter deepened their understanding of the Spirit as a distinct person within the Godhead."

:idea: Good indication that "Holy Spirit" in the Bible either refers to the Spirit of Truth (as taught by Jesus) or to the Infinite Spirit of the Trinity
(as conceived over several centuries by the human authors of the Bible). This Q&A explains how "Holy Spirit" became associated with the Trinity:

(Perplexity) "The concept of Jesus as the "only Son of God" evolved into a reference to the Trinity through a gradual process of theological development and interpretation of Scripture. This evolution occurred over several centuries as early Christian thinkers and church councils sought to articulate the nature of God and Christ's relationship to the Father. Initially, the phrase "only Son of God" was used to emphasize Jesus' unique relationship with God the Father. As theological understanding deepened, this concept became integrated into Trinitarian doctrine:

Early Christian writers, like Justin Martyr, interpreted Old Testament passages such as Genesis 18-19 as evidence of multiple divine persons, identifying Jesus as the God who visited Abraham. The Gospel of John played a crucial role, describing Jesus as the eternal Word (Logos) who was both God and with God, introducing the concept of distinct persons within the Godhead.

Church fathers like Augustine developed analogies to explain the Trinity, comparing the three persons to human faculties of being, knowing, and willing. The Council of Nicaea (325 AD) and subsequent councils formalized the doctrine of the Trinity, affirming that the Son is "begotten, not made" and of the same substance as the Father. Theologians like Jonathan Edwards further refined the concept, describing the Son as the perfect, eternal "idea" or self-understanding of God the Father.

The phrase "only Son of God" thus came to be understood within the framework of the Trinity as referring to the unique, eternal relationship between the First and Second Persons of the Godhead, while maintaining the unity of the divine essence. This theological development sought to reconcile the biblical affirmations of God's oneness with the distinct personhood of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, ultimately leading to the formulation of the Trinity doctrine."


:study: Surprisingly clear explanation of the Holy Spirit during this Q&A about the Spirit of Truth :!:
And that it promotes the teachings of Jesus has essence of new revelation, IMO. ;)

(Perplexity) "According to the Urantia Book, the Spirit of Truth does indeed help reveal truth, including in revelation:

- The Spirit of Truth is described as a divine endowment that fosters and personalizes truth, enabling believers to comprehend and experience spiritual realities. It functions as a living, growing, and adaptive force that expands and unfolds truth rather than presenting it as fixed formulas or codes.

- This spirit works to lead believers "into all truth" by enhancing their spiritual consciousness and understanding. It helps individuals grasp the reality of spiritual values and comprehend the philosophy of universe meanings.

- The Spirit of Truth collaborates with other divine presences, such as the indwelling fragment of God (Thought Adjuster) and the Holy Spirit*, to enable humans to spiritually appropriate truth that contributes to personal religious experience and God-consciousness.

- Importantly, the Spirit of Truth does not create awareness of itself, but rather fosters consciousness of the teachings and character of Jesus (referred to as Michael in the Urantia Book). It aids believers in witnessing to the realities of Jesus' teachings and life.

- While the Spirit of Truth assists in revealing and comprehending truth, it's emphasized that truth is best known through living experience rather than intellectual formulation alone. The spirit directs the "living interpretation" of truth meanings through loving contact with one's fellows.


* The Holy Spirit and the Mother Spirit of the local universe are closely related but not exactly the same entity:

The Mother Spirit, also known as the Creative Spirit or Divine Minister, is a unique representation of the Infinite Spirit in each local universe. The Holy Spirit is a spiritual circuit that emanates from the Mother Spirit and is confined to the spiritual realm of the local universe.

The Mother Spirit is the source and focus of the Holy Spirit in the local universe. The Mother Spirit is a personalized presence of the Infinite Spirit, while the Holy Spirit is one of her functional aspects. The Mother Spirit never leaves the local universe headquarters, and her presence there enables the functioning of the Holy Spirit throughout the universe.

In essence, the Holy Spirit is an emanation or function of the Mother Spirit, rather than being identical to her. The Mother Spirit is the broader, personalized entity from which the Holy Spirit circuit originates and operates within the local universe."


:study: Good example of AI assistance (question was simplified) ...

Q: Is this Urantia Book statement reflected in Bible verses?

"Man is subject to the teaching and guidance of a threefold spirit endowment:
spirit of the Father (Thought Adjuster), spirit of the Son (Spirit of Truth), spirit of the Spirit* (Holy Spirit)."


"The Urantia Book statement about a threefold spirit endowment is partially reflected in Bible verses, but with some differences:

The concept of the Holy Spirit is clearly present in the Bible. The Spirit of Truth is mentioned in the Bible:

John 16:13: "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth".

The concept of the "spirit of the Father" or "Thought Adjuster" as described in the Urantia Book is not explicitly found
in the Bible in those terms. However, the Bible does mention the spirit of God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit:

Ezekiel 36:26-27: "And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws".
Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you".

While the Bible doesn't use the exact terminology or threefold structure described in the Urantia Book,
it does emphasize the guidance and indwelling of God's Spirit in believers' lives."

* Spirit of the Infinite Spirit and the Universe Mother Spirit


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:scratch: Considering Michael's bestowal career
which elevated him to Master Son,

Would he again incarnate as
a Melchizedek?
a Lananondek?
a Material Son?
a Seraphim Supreme?
an Ascending Son?
a Morontia mortal?
Jesus of Nazareth?

Or return to those places as Master Son :?:

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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Excellent UB Study Aid (copyright 2024):

Re: https://ubannotated.com/main-menu/anima ... rminology/
"Etymology of Coined Terminology"

See also Home Page: https://ubannotated.com/
A personal project of Halbert Katzen.


:idea: This same 2024 Study Aid is referenced by Perplexity in this Q&A,
proving that this AI has access to very recent online information: 8)

Q: Does "world of the cross" appear in human writings before the Urantia Book (published 1955)?

"The phrase "world of the cross" does not appear to have been used in human writings
before the publication of The Urantia Book in 1955 ..."


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:farao: Morning musings ...

Compared to the Bible, the Urantia Book is just a revelatory footnote
about the still unfolding story of God, his grand universe, and the
innumerable beings, divine and ascending. 8)

Jesus' physical characteristics and emotional traits from his parents
are good indication that his birth was not "virgin" as we understand.
But his birth of divinity within humanity was universe-level "virgin". ;)

Considering that other "local universes" exist, teeming with life,
the Flat Earth perspective is so 'last century" :!: Apparently,
Flat Universe perspective is now this reality complement
with the insistence that only one universe exists. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:hithere "As I have lived with you in person, then shall I live in you via the Spirit of Truth." (180:4.2)

Jesus' Teachings, Methods, and Commentary
(listed in order of Paper:Section.paragraph)

_ Immanuel requested that he function in the role of teacher (120:2.5)
_ J.' life and teachings became heritage of all religions, all peoples (120:3.6)
_ refused to write out his teachings when on earth (121:8.3)
_ Mary thought her son was destined to become a great teacher (122:3.3)
_ inherited his gift as a great teacher from his mother (122:5.3)
_ original thinker and skillful teacher, even in his youth (124:1.13)
_ a born teacher, could not refrain from teaching when at play (124:2.8 )
_ final choice to become a religious teacher of a new order (124:2.10)
_ taught the home school for his brothers and sisters (124:4.5)
_ conveyed his teaching by the questions he would ask (125:5.8 )
_ never derived authority to teach truth from human sources (126:2.3)
_ first formulated "The Lord’s Prayer" which he taught to his apostles (126:3.3)
_ ready to begin as teacher of truth, revealer of heavenly Father (127:1.7)
_ employed positive form of exhortation: "You shall do this." (127:4.2)
_ baptism by John marked beginning of public ministry and teaching (128:1.8 )
_ did not want generations to venerate him instead of obeying truth he lived and taught (128:4.6)
_ wanted hearts to respond to spiritual realities in his teachings (128:4.7)
_ taught evening school at home three times a week (128:5.9)
_ J. never taught that God creates both good and evil (130:1.5)
_ believed true teacher maintains integrity by remaining a learner (130:3.7)
_ taught by questions and answers (130:6.1-2), (132:4.2), (138:8.10), (161:2.7), (171.7.7)
_ "Become interested in your fellows, learn to love them, watch for opportunity." (130:7.2)
_ selected the truth of religious leaders then embellished and illuminated it (132:0.4)
_ did not attack errors of religous leaders or mention flaws in their teachings (132:0.4)
_ lower and material standards of true values are transient, partial, and inferior (132:1.2)
_ taught about truth and faith: "Truth is more than knowledge." (132:3)
_ technique was to draw people out and into talking with him by asking questions (132:4.2)
_ J. taught most when he said the least (132:4.2)
_ told speaker "Your eloquence pleasing, logic admirable, but teaching untrue." (132:4.7)
_ taught that the religions of men grow up over long periods of time (132:7.6)
_ never elicited resentment or antagonism (132:7.8 )
_ tried to avoid fights because he was exemplification of Father’s love (133:1.3)
_ not so much what J. said as his kindly look (133:2.1)
_ was known as the "Jewish tutor of the son of an Indian merchant." (133:3.3)
_ "Give the milk of truth to those who are babes in spiritual perception." (133:4.2)
_ emphasized realization of knowing God whose spirit lives within you (133:4.5)
_ taught that man experiences higher form of self-consciousness than animals (133:7.5)
_ J.' most formal lectures were on "Kingdom of God" and "Kingdoms of Men" (134:3.5)
_ decided not to teach contemporaneously with John the Baptist (136:4.1)
_ taught men only what they could assimilate; did not overteach them (137:7.14)
_ none of the apostles could encompass the whole of his early teaching (138:5.2)
_ warned his apostles to proclaim the gospel - not teach about him (138:6.3)
_ just one motive in Jesus’ life on Urantia: truer revelation of his Paradise Father (138:6.4)
_ taught his apostles that faith was only requisite to entering the Father’s kingdom (138:8.8 )
_ was master and teacher, but also friend and neighbor (138:8.9)
_ public teaching consisted of parables and short discourses (138:8.10)
_ Jesus invariably taught his apostles by questions and answers (138:8.10)
_ Andrew’s notes were early source of J.' sayings and doings (139:1.9)
_ James came nearest to grasping import and significance of J.’ teaching (139:3.4)
_ counseled that teachings reflected his ideals of living on all worlds (140:3.1)
_ taught followers to manifest Fatherly love rather than brotherly love (140:5.1)
_ instructed that children can easily be taught to function as peacemakers (140:5.19)
_ did not live to reform kingdoms of world, but to establish kingdom of heaven (140:6.6)
_ two viewpoints of mortal conduct: human and divine; ways of the flesh and of the spirit (140:6.7)
_ did not teach passive tolerance of wrongdoing (140:8.4)
_ in public teachings, J. ignored civic, social, and economic realms (140:8.9)
_ Jesus is a mercy-dominated Son; compassion is his very nature (140:8.11)
_ taught "Judge not, that you be not judged." (140:8.12)
_ for social situations, J. taught patience, tolerance, and forgiveness (140:8.13)
_ taught that indiscriminate kindness may be blamed for many social evils (140:8.13)
_ based his teachings about God on the family (140:8.14)
_ taught the new and larger brotherhood of man - the sons of God (140:8.14)
_ Jesus never taught his followers to avoid earthly possessions (140:8.16)
_ believed that each age must evolve its own remedies for troubles (140:8.17)
_ his life, not lessons or sermons, reveal the Father’s loving personality (140:8.19)
_ came to teach voluntary conformity of man’s will to God’s will (140:8.20)
_ sensual urges of mankind are not suppressed by religious rebuke or legal prohibitions (140:8.21)
_ his few denunciations were against pride, cruelty, oppression, and hypocrisy (140:8.21)
_ valued the whole life of man, not just a few virtues (140:8.22)
_ sought to allow each soul to develop in its own way; perfecting individual before God (140:8.26)
_ Jesus never taught character building; he taught character growth (140:8.27)
_ taught faith permits entry into the kingdom, but cost of remaining is progress (140:8.28)
_ his daily religion was not crystallized into creeds and theological laws (140:8.29)
_ did not teach apostles that religion is man’s only earthly pursuit (140:8.30)
_ concerned himself exclusively with underlying and permanent spiritual needs (140:8.31)
_ his salvation to the world was to be had only by believing (140:10.1)
_ the apostles slowly assimilated J.' teaching because he was all that he taught (140:10.2)
_ always emphasized the child-father relationship (140:10.4)
_ taught morality, not from man's nature, but from relation of man to God (140:10.8 )
_ intellectual attractiveness and spiritual drawing power in his teaching (141:3.4)
_ teaching was dynamic; he meant well but also went about doing good (141:3.6)
_ taught them much about the whole man - the union of body, mind, and spirit (141:4.4)
_ "God is your Father; my gospel is believing that you are his son." (141:4.2)
_ did not grow weary in teaching; restated his message and employed parables (141:4.3)
_ taught that spiritual unity is derived from Father's presence within the mind (141:5.1)
_ advised disciples to live such that others notice and become kingdom conscious (141:7.3)
_ only business of gospel tachers is to reveal God to man as his Father (141:7.4)
_ bold and emphatic in his announcements (141.7.8 )
_ came to function as teacher from heaven sent to present spiritual truth (141:7.10)
_ "the true father not only loves his family but also loves each individual member." (142:2.2)
_ duty of man is sincere worship of Paradise Father, loving service to one’s fellows (142:4.2)
_ taught that brotherly affection manifests in unselfish, loving social service (142:7.4)
_ said his mission was to do the will of his Father, reveal his loving character (143:1.4)
_ taught that he who rules his own self is greater than he who captures a city (143:2.3)
_ employed "water of life" to refer to the gift of the indwelling spirit (143:5.10)
_ taught that love is the greatest relationship in the world and universe (143:6.4)
_ taught true religion is the act of an individual soul in relation with its Creator (143:7.2)
_ "Prayer is a personal and spontaneous expression of the soul toward the spirit." (144:2.2)
_ taught the apostles to always pray in secret; to go off by themselves (144:3.14)
_ never taught a formal personal prayer, only group, family, or social petitions (144:3.16)
_ effective prayer must be unselfish, believing, sincere, intelligent, and trustful (144:3.17)
_ with prayer, soul’s receptivity determines heavenly blessings to be realized (144:4.4)
_ did not resort to logic, legal quibbles, or clever sayings (145:3.3)
_ pray first for knowledge of the Father’s will, then for divine guidance (146:2.14)
_ prayer enlarges one’s capacity to receive the presence of the divine spirit (146:2.14)
_ remain silent after prayer to allow indwelling spirit to speak to the listening soul (146:2.17)
_ religion reveals spiritual realities to man’s soul which mind alone cannot discover (146:3.1)
_ the Spirit of Truth helps you know that you are the sons of God (146:3.6)
_ "The Father in heaven does not willingly afflict the children of men." (148:6.11)
_ catastrophes of nature and accidents of time are not visitations of divine judgments (149:2.10)
_ Jesus taught as the occasion served; he was not a systematic teacher (149:3.1),
_ little of well-planned or premeditated; J. taught from life (149:3.1), (159:5.17), (171:7.9)
_ "Let your hearts be so dominated by love that you respond not with animal anger." (149:4.2)
_ that J.' life was such exemplification of his teaching impressed his associates (149:4.5)
_ never took unfair advantage; no ignoble tactics (149:4.5), (173:2.7)
_ "In the kingdom of heaven, all are equally the sons and daughters of God." (150:1.3)
_ Jesus had long taught the apostles that a soft answer turns away wrath (150:9.3)
_ was custom to sit (often on elevated seat in boat) when teaching along the shore (151:1.1)
_ taught that men have varying abilities to comprehend truth, respond to spiritual teachings (151:2.3)
_ taught apostles to employ true stories, not fables, when teaching (151:2.5)
_ taught apostles to teach according to ability of listeners to comprehend (151:3.1)
_ advised not to use fables or allegories in teaching truths of the gospel (151:3.3)
_ explained how parables are effective in teaching truth (151:3.2)
_ the parable appeals to different levels of mind and spirit (151:3.6)
_ parable stimulates memory of truth taught when familiar scenes encountered later (151:3.11)
_ used parables to refute that his work was of the prince of devils (151:3.14)
_ after delivering parable in public, J. later expounded to apostles and evangelists (151:4.7)
_ taught people by day while instructing apostles and evangelists at night (152:2.1)
_ after feeding 5,000, teaching elevated to divine sonship, spiritual liberty, salvation (152:5.6)
_ after an appeal to the emotions, the mind is aroused and becomes gateway to the soul (152:6.4)
_ came to proclaim spiritual liberty, teach eternal truth, and foster living faith (153:2.6)
_ "My life in the flesh is a bestowal of the bread of heaven." (153:3.2)
_ spoke against traditions regarded as more sacred and binding than the Scriptures (153:3.7)
_ a much better civilization will some day be built upon his teachings (154:4.6)
_ when truth crystallized into creed, it becomes boundary line of self-righteousness (155:3.3)
_ many souls can be led to love God by being first taught to love their brethren (155:3.4)
_ taught his apostles that no civilization could long survive loss of best in its religion (155:3.8 )
_ some people will continue to prefer religion of authority instead of religion of the spirit (155:5.8 )
_ systems of intellectual beliefs (religions of authority) appeal largely to the mind (155:5.12)
_ "This world is only a bridge - think not to build a dwelling place upon it." (156:2.1)
_ taught that God is no respecter of persons, races, or nations (there is no favoritism) (156:2.4)
_ "Mortal man can, by faith, raise his spiritual nature and bear the fruits of the spirit." (156:5.1)
_ the jointly created soul grows from the mind and morals of the individual (156:5.2)
_ of his authority to teach, J. said "To those who would know the truth, a sign been given." (157:2.1)
_ upon the union of his human and divine natures Jesus built the kingdom of heaven (157:5.1)
_ He came that we all might have life and have it more abundantly. (157:6.2)
_ exemplified in his life what he taught: living progress is best for spiritual growth (157:6.4)
_ after Caesarea-Philippi, he was both teacher and divine representative of the Father (157:6.5)
_ elected to meet his believers part way, openly to assume role of bestowal Son of God (157:6.6)
_ invested legislative and judicial authority in the group, not in the individual (159:1.6)
_ within the brotherhood, legislate regarding conduct of the group - not indivdual (159:1.3)
_ "When cup of cold water is given to a thirsty soul, the Father notes such service of love." (159:2.1)
_ taught to respect the personality of man; never promote a righteous cause by force (159:3.2)
_ make appeal directly to divine spirit within - do not appeal to fear, pity, or sentiment (159:3.2)
_ "Do not wound the self-respect of timid and fearful souls. Do not indulge in sarcasm." (159:3.4)
_ "In preaching the gospel of the kingdom, you are simply teaching friendship with God." (159:3.9)
_ taught apostles to live his teachings while avoiding the making of records (159:4.7)
_ revelations of divine truth not sealed except by ignorance, bigotry, intolerance (159:4.9)
_ sacred writings contain moral wisdom, religious inspiration, and spiritual teachings (159:4.10)
_ worship of God and service of man became the sum and substance of his religion (159:5.7)
_ J.’ religion consisted of both believing and doing things required by the gospel (159:5.8 )
_ be wise and alert, quick and positive in order to overcome evil with good (159:5.10)
_ worshipful meditation in isolation is best to obtain wisdom and energy (160:1.10)
_ emotional excitement is not ideal spiritual stimulus; exhausts powers of mind and body (160:3.1)
_ mind of man is the mediator between material things and spiritual realities (160:4.9)
_ teachings in Jerusalem were the formal announcement of the divinity of Jesus (162:1.9)
_ "Be you therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect." (161:1.10)
_ bestowal of the spirit becomes the true teacher of the way to life everlasting (162:6.3)
_ serving in co-operation with others mutually refreshes one's soul (162:8.3)
_ apostles of John the Baptist were influenced by J.' courage when teaching in Jerusalem (162:9.3)
_ required only that the twelve and seventy share worldly possessions for the common cause (163:2.11)
_ "While ministering to the sick, refrain from teaching the expectation of miracles." (163:4.3)
_ "Love the Lord your God with all your mind and soul, and your neighbor as yourself." (163:4.8 )
_ "Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (163:6.7)
_ found it difficult to make men believe that their souls had not had previous existences (164:3.4)
_ "My sheep hear my voice and I know them and they follow me." (164:5.2)
_ did not teach idleness and indifference to providing physical necessities for one’s family (165:4.7)
_ "Dedicate your lives to the work of the kingdom and all your real needs shall be supplied." (165:5.3)
_ salvation is a matter of personal choosing - the door admits all who seek to enter (166:3.3)
_ "Health is not the smile of heaven, neither is affliction the frown of God." (166:4.10)
_ J. reiterated his message and repeated it often (166:4.12), (169:1.16)
_ exalted marriage as the most ideal and highest of all human relationships (167:5.3)
_ countenanced only those teachings which accorded women equality with men (167:5.4)
_ constantly appealed to the written Scriptures (167:5.5)
_ the advancing children of God must continue their growth on the celestial mansions (167:6.3)
_ impressed his apostles that beauty influences urge to worship, especially for children (167:6.5)
_ taught that Angels are a direct creation; they do not reproduce themselves (167:7.2)
_ the angels serve the government of the Father, universes of the Sons, and human races (167:7.4)
_ "While you are seeking to find God, God is likewise seeking to find you." (169:1.2)
_ Father accepts you even before you have repented and sends the Son to bring you back (169:1.3)
_ the kingdom of heaven is the brotherhood of man, the Father in heaven its spirit head (169:4.1)
_ declared that he and the Father are one: "He who has seen the Son, has seen the Father." (169:4.2)
_ learn about God from Jesus by observing the divinity of his life, not by his teachings (169:4.3)
_ God can be known only by experience; never by the mere teaching of the mind (169:4.4)
_ you can know God, not by what Jesus said but by knowing Jesus, a revelation of God (169:4.4)
_ Jesus revealed God as the Father of all; "Whoso had seen him had seen the Father" (169:4.9)
_ as regards the other persons of the Paradise Trinity, they are like the Father (169:4.10)
_ sought to clarify the teaching about the kingdom of heaven (170:1), (170:4-5)
_ concerning the kingdom, his last word always was "The kingdom is within you." (170:1.13)
_ taught the pre-eminence of the spiritual compared with the material (170:2.5)
_ did not connect the establishment of the kingdom with his return to this world (170:2.10)
_ taught that, by faith, the believer enters the kingdom now (170:2.20)
_ sin is not caused by defective nature but by a mind with unsubmissive will (170:2.23)
_ having entered the kingdom, there are progressive steps to ascend in order to grow (170:3.2)
_ righteousness of any act is measured by motive; highest forms of good are unconscious (170:3.9)
_ truth-loving soul who hungers and thirsts for God, enters spiritual kingdom by faith (170:5.13)
_ kingdom became idea of J.' future visitation, not spirit’s domination in hearts of men (170:5.15)
_ J.' teachings will survive this material age and into a more spiritual dispensation (170:5.21)
_ you are not responsible for accomplishing that which is beyond your abilities (171:8.10)
_ J.' kingdom is not of this world; it is a purely spiritual matter (172:3.6)
_ repeatedly asserted that his teaching, works were by power and authority of his Father (173:2.7)
_ J.' religion of the spirit replaces religion of ceremony, tradition, and authority (173:3.3)
_ affirmed survival of the mortal soul (not body) by the technique of resurrection (174:3.4)
_ "He who believes this gospel, believes not merely in me but in Him who sent me." (174:5.7)
_ "Call no man Father in the spiritual sense, for there is but one who is your Father." (175:1.10)
_ "He who would be greatest among you should become the server of all." (175:1.10)
_ cruel and unreasoning to make innocent children suffer for the sins of their progenitors (175:2.3)
_ "Be patient! this gospel of the kingdom will eventually be proclaimed to all nations." (176:1.1)
_ "If any man says ‘here is the Deliverer,’ believe it not, for many false teachers will arise." (176:1.4)
_ downfall of nations, crash of empires have naught to do with one who believes the gospel (176:3.2)
_ in the next world you will be asked to give account of your endowments and stewardships (176:3.8 )
_ of all J.' teachings, none has been so misunderstood as his promise to come back in person (176:4.1)
_ when J. returns, all the world will know, for he must come as the supreme ruler of a universe (176:4.5)
_ gospel of J.' teaching requires modern home life to embrace more of love and wisdom (177:2.6)
_ do not promulgate truth nor establish righteousness by civil governments or secular laws (178:1.12)
_ sought to prevent later generations from crystallizing his teaching with tradition, dogma (179:5.4)
_ of all J.’ teachings, none more tradition-standardized than his sacrament of remembrance (179:5.5)
_ "For greater love can no man have than that he will lay down his life for his friends." (180:1.3)
_ duty signifies that you are servant-minded, missing the thrill of doing service as a friend (180:1.6)
_ "If you abide in me and my words live in you, you will be able to commune freely with me." (180:2.1)
_ "You shall have with you one who will take my place, teach you the way of truth, comfort you." (180:3.3)
_ "When I have gone to the Father, I will pour out the Spirit of Truth upon all." (180:4.1)
_ "It is better for me to go away, that I more fully be with you in the spirit." (180:4.1)
_ "As I have lived with you in person, then shall I live in you via the Spirit of Truth." (180:4.2)
_ the essence of true religion is that you love your neighbor as yourself (180:5.7)
_ the old religion taught self-sacrifice, the new religion self-forgetfulness and social service (180:5.12)
_ gospel of the kingdom will not bring peace on earth until man practices the Father’s will (180:6.1)
_ with the Spirit of Truth, there is no conflict between citizenship on earth and sonship (181:2.10)
_ "Live long on earth that your life may be fruitful in souls won for the heavenly kingdom." (181:2.15)
_ "Be patient and have courage; you have ages to become perfect, even as your Paradise Father." (181:2.25)
_ believed it was the will of the Father that he submit himself to the course of human events (186:2.3)
_ ransom and atonement is incompatible with concept of God as taught and exemplified by Jesus (188:4.8 )
_ salvation should be taken for granted by those who believe in the fatherhood of God (188:4.9)
_ cross shows attitude of Jesus as neither condemnation nor condonation, but loving salvation (188:5.2)
_ divine love, once admitted to the human heart, forever destroys charm of sin and power of evil (188:5.3)
_ J. made cross the eternal symbol of triumph of love over hate, victory of truth over evil (188:5.6)
_ "Go into all the world proclaiming the gospel of fatherhood of God and brotherhood of men." (191:4.4)
_ "When, by living faith, you become divinely God-conscious, you are born of the spirit." (193:0.3)
_ "I have lived the God-revealing bestowal that you might experience the God-knowing career." (193:0.3)
_ "The gospel of the kingdom has taught you that all men are the sons of God." (193:1.2)
_ "My love overshadows you, my spirit dwells with you, and my peace abides upon you." (193:5.2)
_ the truths of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of men will transform civilization (194:2.8 )
_ the new teachers go into the world with unfailing forgiveness, good will, and abounding love (194:3.11)
_ religion is not passive; be active and positive in mercy ministry and manifestation of love (194:3.11)
_ man is now taught and guided by his Thought Adjuster, Spirit of Truth, and the Holy Spirit (194:2.11)
_ Spirit of Truth never creates consciousness of himself, only consciousness of the Son (194:2.4)
_ "The kingdom of God is within you" was probably the greatest pronouncement Jesus ever made (195:10.3)
_ few followers of Jesus who live and love as he taught his disciples to live, love, and serve (195:10.5)
_ never prayed as religious duty; prayer was his sincere expression of spiritual attitude ... (196:0.10)
_ no matter the status of men and women, they were all God’s children and his brethren (196:2.9)

Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.yahoo.com/news/archaeologis ... 00632.html
"Archaeologists Found 115,000-Year-Old Human Footprints Where They Shouldn’t Be"

"Many fossil and artifact windfalls have come from situations like this special lakebed in northern Saudi Arabia."


:study: From the UB, 64:7.1-3 ...

"This glacier was so extensive in Asia that for thousands of years migration to eastern Asia was cut off.
And not until the later retreat of the Mediterranean Sea, consequent upon the elevation of Arabia, was it possible
for them to reach Africa ... Thus it was that for almost one hundred thousand years these Sangik peoples spread out
around the foothills and mingled together more or less ... Between the times of the Planetary Prince and Adam,
India became the home of the most cosmopolitan population ever to be found on the face of the earth ...
These secondary Sangik peoples found existence more easy and agreeable in the southlands,
and many of them subsequently migrated to Africa."


:idea: Even ancient races were so blended that science cannot discover their unique origins (why science now claims
that races do not exist). The UB's revelation of races will remain information supported only by belief and faith
(or until Magisterial enlightenment persuades otherwise). :roll:

"There are six basic types or races of primitive men, and these early peoples successively appear in the order
of the spectrum colors, beginning with the red. The length of time consumed in this early life evolution varies greatly
on the different worlds, ranging from one hundred and fifty thousand years to over one million years of Urantia time." (52:1.1)

"The evolutionary races of color - red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and indigo - begin to appear about the time
that primitive man is developing a simple language and is beginning to exercise the creative imagination.
By this time man is well accustomed to standing erect." (52:1.2)


Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Lest we doubt that Michael would intervene in prompt, creative, and free will respecting ways
(not likely revealed in our fifth epochal revelation ;) ) should his home planet ("one in ten million") risk
serious depopulation and unrecoverable damage ...

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: According to the Urantia Book, what is the significance of Michael's (Jesus') elevation to Master Son after his bestowals
in the likeness of these selected groups of spiritually advancing beings in his self-created universe?


"According to the Urantia Book, Michael's elevation to Master Son after completing his 7 bestowals
holds profound significance for both his local universe and the broader cosmic order:

Sovereignty and Authority

Michael's bestowals allowed him to achieve complete sovereignty over his local universe, Nebadon.
By experiencing life as various orders of his created beings, he gained the required understanding to rule
as the supreme representative of the Paradise Trinity. This process enabled him to:

- Exercise "all power in heaven and on earth" within his domain.
- Acquire full authority in the direct and personal administration of his local universe.
- Settle uncertainties and terminate periodic isolation for the Divine Minister
(the local universe representation of the Infinite Spirit).

Divine Understanding and Mercy

Through his bestowals, Michael developed:
- A deeper sense of justice tempered with mercy.
- Wisdom, sympathy, and understanding as a sovereign.
- New and additional ways of being merciful to his creations.

Cosmic Significance

Michael's bestowal career had implications beyond his local universe:
- It embraced the seven qualities of grand universe creation.
- Contributed to the realization and actualization of the Supreme Being.
- Held relevance for the master universe, potentially relating to the actualization
of Michael's absonite potentials in the outer space zones.

Universal Acknowledgment

Upon Michael's return from his final bestowal on Urantia (Earth), a significant event occurred:
- The Universe Spirit publicly acknowledged subordination to Michael.
- This marked the first time the Spirit pledged fidelity and obedience to the Universe Son.
- It allowed for the proclamation that all power in heaven and earth was committed to Michael's hand.

In essence, Michael's 7 bestowals, culminating in his life as Jesus on Earth, were the final steps in his cosmic education.
They prepared him for the sublime task of ruling his local universe with divine righteousness, just judgment,
and profound understanding of his diverse creations."

:scratch: Is such a Master Son not "more than a prophet"? ;)


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Since the Urantia Book claims that many inhabited planets exist in this universe and that this earth is known as "world of the cross",
a cross should be a recognized symbol when transmitted with an Arecibo type communication.

For example, a cross in a circle representing this planet in its solar system. This might also be human-made crop circle communication
to whom- or whatever that views it. If the Urantia Book is what it claims ("epochal revelation"), not communciating this symbol
is significant loss of opportunity! ;)

(Perplexity) "It’s great to hear that others are engaging on social media about the potential for interstellar communication
and the ideas presented in the Urantia Book! The exploration of how we might communicate with extraterrestrial civilizations
is a fascinating topic that captures the imagination of many, including astronomers, scientists, and enthusiasts alike."

Note: The cross symbol in the Angel Pi design* occurred when part of that large square
was removed because its color was bleeding into the circumference of that circle. 8)

* https://board.1111angels.com/viewtopic. ... 56#p223056

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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:study: "For many thousands of years, so the records of Jerusem show, in each generation there have lived fewer and fewer beings
who could function safely with self-acting Adjusters. This is an alarming picture, and the supervising personalities of Satania
look with favor upon the proposals of some of your more immediate planetary supervisors who advocate the inauguration
of measures designed to foster and conserve the higher spiritual types of the Urantia races." (110:4.6)

:idea: Now, such measures may explain greater interest in a better diet ...

(Perplexity) "Yes, better nutrition is associated with greater spirituality ...

Better nutrition directly impacts our physical and mental state, which in turn affects our spiritual well-being.
Consuming whole, unprocessed foods rich in vitamins and minerals not only nourishes the body but also supports
clearer thinking, improved mood, and increased energy levels. These factors contribute to a more robust
spiritual life by enhancing one's ability to engage in practices such as meditation, prayer, and mindfulness."

So, "Junk Food Spirituality" is also a thing? :roll:

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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Once Upon a Race (long story short) ...

Biological race was reality after humans appeared in evolution and "suddenly" differentiated into the various races
(as intended by this planet's Life Carriers!):

"There are many good and sufficient reasons for the plan of evolving either three or six colored races on the worlds of space:

1. Variety is indispensable to opportunity for the wide functioning of natural selection, differential survival of superior strains.
2. Stronger and better races are to be had from the interbreeding of diverse peoples when these different races
are carriers of superior inheritance factors.
3. Competition is healthfully stimulated by diversification of races.
4. Differences in status of the races and of groups within each race are essential to the development
of human tolerance and altruism." (UB, 64:6.30-34)


This planned amalgamation of the races is "suddenly" ;) being advanced (at least by recent terminology that is more focused
on observable race amalgamation in human DNA). And this is motivated by "race" being more inclusive (in the past millennium)
of non-biological categorization (e.g., social constructs). The final sentence of this Q&A is good summary:

Q: Not so long ago (and for centuries), "Neanderthal" referred to a race of primates.
Since '"race" is now an outdated term, how are Neanderthals now categorized?


(P) "Neanderthals are now categorized as a distinct species within the genus Homo, typically classified as Homo neanderthalensis.

This classification reflects the current scientific understanding of Neanderthals as a separate lineage from modern humans
(Homo sapiens), despite evidence of interbreeding between the two groups.

Key Points in Neanderthal Classification

- Separate Species: Many researchers argue that Neanderthals should be considered a separate species from Homo sapiens
due to significant morphological, ecological, genetic, and temporal differences.
- Taxonomic Debate: Some scientists classify Neanderthals as a subspecies of Homo sapiens (Homo sapiens neanderthalensis),
while others consider them a distinct species.
- Evolutionary Timeline: Neanderthals emerged at least 200,000 years ago and existed until about 35,000 to 24,000 years ago.
- Genetic Evidence: DNA studies have shown that Neanderthals and modern humans interbred, complicating the species classification
but not negating it.
- Geographical Distribution: Neanderthals inhabited Eurasia, from Western Europe to Central Asia.

This current classification represents a significant shift from the outdated racial categorization, emphasizing the complex
evolutionary relationships within the genus Homo and the importance of scientific evidence in understanding human origins."


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Prequel to the beginning of the human races ...

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... nkind.html

"Archaeologists have discovered some of the first-ever tools used on Earth at a site in Africa
dubbed 'the cradle of humankind.' Found in Kenya's Homa Peninsula, this region has produced
clues about humanity's early beginnings such as other ancient tools and the remains of 'Lucy'
- a pre-human relative that lived more than three million years ago ..."

:study: Re: https://www.lemurconservationnetwork.or ... hy-lemurs/

"Lemurs are part of a group of primates referred to as Strepsirrhini (wet-nosed primates),
which include the species most similar to ancestral primates. Makes lemurs a fascinating link
to the ancestral evolution of other primates, including humans!
"

Note: Millions of years ago, Madagasgar (later island home to lemurs, off the African coast)
was once attached to India, suggesting these lemurs originated in Asia after migrating across
the Bering land bridge from North America, as revealed in the Urantia Papers:

"While these early lemurs evolved in the Western Hemisphere, the establishment of the direct mammalian ancestry
of mankind took place in southwestern Asia, in the original area of the central life implantation but on the borders
of the eastern regions. Several million years ago the North American type lemurs had migrated westward over the
Bering land bridge and had slowly made their way southwestward along the Asiatic coast.

These migrating tribes finally reached the salubrious region lying between the then expanded Mediterranean Sea
and the elevating mountainous regions of the Indian peninsula. In these lands to the west of India they united
with other and favorable strains, thus establishing the ancestry of the human race." (62:1.2)

:farao: UB's "the human race" emphasizes that early differentiation into skin colors, etc.,
produced sub-categories of the human race (suggests why DNA focus is better). ;)


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://metro.co.uk/2025/01/08/soon-fre ... -22320089/
"How we could all soon freeze our bodies and outlive an apocalyptic disaster" :o


(Perplexity) "During cryopreservation, cellular activity ceases, heart stops beating, and brain signals cease."

Q: From the religion perspective, "cellular activity ceases, heart stops beating, and brain signals cease" is when
the soul departs the body. And once departed, it does not return to that body.


(Perplexity) "You raise an important point about the religious perspective on death and the soul. Indeed, many religions
view the cessation of vital functions as the moment when the soul departs the body. This perspective adds another layer
of complexity to the ethical and philosophical debates surrounding cryonics. Here's a brief overview:

Religious views:

Many religions believe the soul leaves the body at the moment of death, defined by cessation of brain activity and heartbeat.
The idea of the soul returning to a preserved body conflicts with these traditional beliefs.

Scientific perspective:

Science doesn't have a way to measure or detect a "soul" in the traditional religious sense. Cryonics focuses on preserving
the physical structure of the brain, which is believed to contain a person's memories and personality.

Philosophical questions:

If a person is revived from cryopreservation, would they be the same person? Would they have a soul?
These questions touch on complex issues of identity, consciousness, and the nature of self.

Ethical considerations:

Religious beliefs about the afterlife and the soul's journey may conflict with the goals of cryonics, raising ethical questions
about the appropriateness of cryopreservation for individuals with certain religious beliefs.

Diverse perspectives:

Views on this topic vary widely among different religions and even within religious communities. Some argue
that if revival were possible, it would be akin to a miraculous resurrection*, which some religions do accept.

While cryonics is based on a materialist view of consciousness and identity, it's important to acknowledge that this view
isn't universally accepted, especially from religious perspectives. The intersection of cryonics with religious and philosophical
beliefs about the soul remains a complex and contentious area of debate."

* "Lazarus ... ultimately died, when 67 years old, of the same sickness
that carried him off when he was a younger man at Bethany." (168:5.3)


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: AI in the pulpit :?:

Evidence that this AI knows whereof it speaks beyond UB text?
(it generated this question as "Related" and then the response):

https://board.1111angels.com/viewtopic. ... 61#p223161

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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Sandy »

As I was reading the above post, Rod, I too immediately thought of Lazarus. I wish I could remember, but isn't there a being responsible for our soul when we die until it is reunited with our Morontia bodies? I am going to be really embarrassed if the answer is as easy as our TA. I'll look it up later.
It seems that if what we do...freeze ourselves ...has the blessings of our Creator, our Creator Son, and the hierarchy of Celestial administrators then we would probably be okay. Yet, death is the doorway to all that is before us. For me, at my age, I see no point in freezing myself at this point...Though I can see if the whole human race is dependent on the survival of some of us to perpetuate humanity on this planet then there could be the possibility it would be ordained from above and successfully orchestrated by the scientists and doctors involved.
But that is for greater minds than mine, thankfully.
Now, I am remembering the movie, 'Demolition Man' with Sylvester Stallon and Sandra Bullock. LOL
xxSandy
“We measure and evaluate your Spiritual Progress on the Wall of Eternity." – Guardian of Destiny, Alverana.
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

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Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... ution.html

"Scientists reveal face of 'completely unknown' human ancestor that rewrites history of our evolution" :o

"The species, named 'Denisovans' after a cave some of their remains were found in, lived between 200,000 and 25,000 years ago. Their fossil and DNA records show that they lived on the Tibetan plateau, but traveled far and wide, with traces of their presence found in Southeast Asia, Siberia and Oceania."

"Though this new look at the Denisovan face marks a major leap forward in scientists' understanding of this extinct human species, unraveling exactly how they were able to travel thousands of miles across the world, and why they disappeared, will require more fossils."


:idea: Perhaps they only traveled to the northeast from India (not from Africa;
this also reveals the origin of the evolutionary races of color): 8)

"500,000 years ago the Badonan tribes of the northwestern highlands of India became involved in another great racial struggle." (64:5.1)

"And now, among these highland Badonites there was a new and strange occurrence. A man and woman living in the northeastern part of the then inhabited highland region began suddenly to produce a family of unusually intelligent children. This was the Sangik family, the ancestors of all of the six colored races of Urantia." (64:5.2)

"These Sangik children, nineteen in number, were not only intelligent above their fellows, but their skins manifested a unique tendency to turn various colors upon exposure to sunlight. Among these nineteen children were five red, two orange, four yellow, two green, four blue, and two indigo." (64:5.3)

"These secondary Sangik peoples found existence more easy and agreeable in the southlands, and many of them subsequently migrated to Africa. The primary Sangik peoples, the superior races, avoided the tropics, the red man going northeast to Asia, closely followed by the yellow man, while the blue race moved northwest into Europe." (64:7.3)

"The red men early began to migrate to the northeast, on the heels of the retreating ice, passing around the highlands of India and occupying all of northeastern Asia." (64:7.4)


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Sandy »

Thanks for that, Rod! :sunflower:
I caught something in your UB quote that I have missed all these years...
"These Sangik children, nineteen in number, were not only intelligent above their fellows, but their skins manifested a unique tendency to turn various colors upon exposure to sunlight. Among these nineteen children were five red, two orange, four yellow, two green, four blue, and two indigo." (64:5.3)
8)
xxSandy
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: About the significance of adjuster fusion ...
morontia metamorphosis: mortal > demortal > immortal

UB explains adjuster fusion transforms the once-mortal into an immortal ascending son of God,
marking the beginning of their journey to Paradise and the embrace of the Universal Father.
(suggests adjuster fusion qualifies advancing humans to begin the Paradise journey). 8)

:idea: While Paradise arrival seems typical human urgency,
one's unique post-Paradise perfection will require
many stops along the way "to smell the roses".

Both destination and journey are important. ;)

Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:study: Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... -name.html
"Scientists reveal Jesus' REAL name"

"In Hebrew, his name is usually written as 'Yeshu' which is closer to the English name 'Joshua'."

"Given that we know that Jesus was called 'Yeshu' or 'Yeshua', the obvious question is why we now call him 'Jesus'.
The answer has to do with the practice of 'transliteration'."


:idea: This correlates with the article's explanation of how "Jesus" was derived
from his actual name by translation, then transliteration:

(Perplexity) "Jesus" is the Greek form of both "Yeshua" and "Joshua".

The Hebrew name "Yeshua" (יֵשׁוּעַ) is a shortened form of "Yehoshua" (יְהוֹשׁוּעַ), translated as "Joshua" in English.
In Greek, both names are rendered as "Iēsous" (Ἰησοῦς), which is then transliterated into English as "Jesus"


"The Life and Teachings of Joshua" now comes to mind. ;)

Note: Use of "Joshua" instead of "Jesus" might help attract those truth seekers who disbelieve
historical inaccuracies about Jesus' life and teachings, for example:

"What a travesty upon the infinite character of God! this teaching that his fatherly heart in all its austere coldness
and hardness was so untouched by the misfortunes and sorrows of his creatures that his tender mercies were not
forthcoming until he saw his blameless Son bleeding and dying upon the cross of Calvary!" (4:5.6)


:sunflower: The Urantia Book gives new perspective
on the life and teachings of Jesus:

"Jesus lived for us (and his universe)
... and he still lives!" :roll


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:hithere About the significance of "Joshua ben Joseph" in the UB ...

The Urantia Papers stop referring to "Joshua ben Joseph" after Paper 136, indicating a momentous event :!:
"... the indwelling Adjuster took final leave of the perfected human soul of Joshua ben Joseph." (136:2.3)

:idea: Thus, the Papers associate "Joshua" with Jesus' humanity prior to his soul perfection ...
after which "Jesus" is used, anticipating his bestowal's successful completion:


"It is most unfortunate that those who have come to venerate the divine and risen Christ should have overlooked the man -
the valiant and courageous hero — Joshua ben Joseph." (92:7.12)

"The historic fact of the human life of Joshua ben Joseph, the reality of Jesus of Nazareth as the glorified Christ, the Son of God." (98:7.8 )

"The activities of Adjusters in your local universe are directed by the Personalized Adjuster of Michael of Nebadon,
that very Monitor who guided him step by step when he lived his human life in the flesh of Joshua ben Joseph." (109:6.4)

"This same Adjuster now reflects in the inscrutable nature of his mighty personality the prebaptismal humanity of Joshua ben Joseph ..." (109:6.6)

"Your Creator Son can actually be such a living channel from humanity to divinity since he has personally experienced the fullness of the traversal of this universe path of progression, from the true humanity of Joshua ben Joseph, the Son of Man, to the Paradise divinity of Michael of Nebadon, the Son of the infinite God." (117:3.4)

"Joshua ben Joseph, the Jewish baby, was conceived and was born into the world just as all other babies before and since except that this particular baby was the incarnation of Michael of Nebadon, a divine Son of Paradise and the creator of all this local universe of things and beings." (119:7.5)

"Joseph, the human father of Jesus (Joshua ben Joseph), was a Hebrew of the Hebrews ..." (122:1.1)

"To you, Mary, I bring glad tidings when I announce that the conception within you is ordained by heaven, and that in due time you will become the mother of a son; you shall call him Joshua, and he shall inaugurate the kingdom of heaven on earth and among men." (122:3.1)

"In just the same manner as all babies before that day and since have come into the world, the promised child was born;
and on the eighth day, according to the Jewish practice, he was circumcised and formally named Joshua (Jesus)." (122:8.2)

"That evening Joseph, Mary, and Jesus walked a mile and a half to the site of the ancient Jericho,
where Joshua, for whom Jesus was named ..." (124:6.7)

"Joshua ben Joseph knew full well that he was a man, a mortal man, born of woman." (128:1.2)

"When they tired of their play, the more intrepid ones would peek into the shop, and if its keeper were not busy,
they would make bold to go in and say, 'Uncle Joshua, come out and tell us a big story.' " (128:6.11)

"Then they would lead him out by tugging at his hands until he was seated on the favorite rock by the corner of the shop,
with the children on the ground in a semicircle before him. And how the little folks did enjoy their Uncle Joshua." (128:6.11)

"Day by day Jesus interpreted the lectures to Ganid; one day during the second week the young man exclaimed:
“Teacher Joshua, you know more than these professors ..." (130:3.7)

"He talked a long time with his father and finally said, 'You know, father, I sometimes think Joshua is a prophet.' " (132:7.7)

"Ganid was becoming imbued with the spirit of personal ministry. He began work on the steward of the ship, but on the second day,
when he got into deep religious water, he called on Joshua to help him out." (133:2.4)

"Thus the Master left his friends from India at Charax, never to see them again in this world; nor were they, in this world, ever to know
that the man who later appeared as Jesus of Nazareth was this same friend they had just taken leave of - Joshua their teacher." (133:9.4)

"Thus ended that chapter in the life of the Son of Man which might be termed: The mission of Joshua the teacher." (133:9.6)

"Near the end of the mountain sojourn Jesus asked his Father if he might be permitted to hold conference with his Satania enemies
as the Son of Man, as Joshua ben Joseph." (134:8.6)

"Something new and even greater occurred. As John laid his hands upon Jesus to baptize him, the indwelling Adjuster
took final leave of the perfected human soul of Joshua ben Joseph." (136:2.3)


:idea: The UB presents both Joshua ben Joseph (the human) and Jesus (the perfected human)
as "religious teachers of a new order" ... then and even now:

"(Immanuel ) As concerns the planet of your bestowal and the immediate generation of men living thereon
at the time of your mortal sojourn, I counsel you to function largely in the role of a teacher." (120:2.5)

"Jesus had just about made up his mind to become a fisherman ... while still later a combination of influences
led him to the final choice of becoming a religious teacher of a new order." (124:2.10)


Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Comparing two different AI ...

Re: https://www.urantiabooktutor.com/login (UBT)
Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Both AI agree (UBT is conversational; Perplexity's bullets support perspective).
And both AI emphasize that "religion of the spirit" should be the greater goal.


Q: In the Urantia Book, what did Jesus' teach about religion?

UB Tutor

"Jesus' teachings on religion, as illuminated in the text, emphasize a profound shift from external rituals and dogmatic traditions to a deeply personal and transformative spiritual experience. He redefined religion as the realization of one's relationship with God, portraying it as a dynamic and living faith rooted in the understanding of God as a loving Father and humanity as His children. This perspective moved beyond the collective or nationalistic views of religion prevalent in his time, advocating instead for an intimate, individual connection with the divine.

Central to Jesus' message was the idea that true religion is not about adhering to rigid ceremonies or theological constructs but about cultivating a compassionate character and aligning one's will with that of the Father. He taught that the essence of religion lies in spiritual growth rather than self-conscious introspection or ritualistic self-examination. This approach encouraged his followers to live as though they were already citizens of a heavenly kingdom, emphasizing the transformative power of faith and the pursuit of divine values such as love, truth, and service.

Jesus also distinguished between the "religion of the mind," upheld by ecclesiastical authority and tradition, and the "religion of the spirit," which is based entirely on personal experience and revelation. He championed the latter, describing it as a glimpse into eternal realities and the infinite character of God. This religion of the spirit is not confined by cultural or racial boundaries but is universal in its appeal, fostering inclusivity and spiritual unity among all people.

Moreover, Jesus' teachings underscored the importance of spiritual freedom, denouncing the superstitions and materialistic worship of his era. He replaced the emphasis on external purity, such as "clean hands," with the inner purity of a "clean heart," advocating for a religion that is authentic, progressive, and centered on the realities of divine love and human brotherhood. His life and teachings remain a beacon for spiritual renewal, offering a religion that is adaptable and eternally relevant, inspiring individuals to seek truth, beauty, and goodness in their journey toward divine realization.

How do these teachings resonate with your understanding of religion? Would you like to explore how these principles can be applied in contemporary spiritual practice?"

Perplexity

According to The Urantia Book, Jesus taught a religion based on a personal spiritual relationship with God, emphasizing love, faith, and service. He encouraged people to develop a direct connection with God rather than adhering to rigid religious traditions or creeds1. Key aspects of Jesus' teachings on religion in The Urantia Book include:

- God's love: Jesus taught that God loves every human being infinitely and that we are all children of a loving God.

- Personal experience: He emphasized the importance of personally knowing God through faith and spiritual experience, rather than simply following inherited beliefs.

- Spiritual freedom: Jesus sought to liberate people from stifling religious beliefs and set them free spiritually.

- Service to others: He taught that love is the most powerful force in the universe and encouraged selfless service to fellow human beings.

- Faith: Jesus demonstrated a strong, unwavering faith that overcame all doubts, and he challenged his followers to believe as he believed.

- Doing God's will: He dedicated himself to doing the will of his Father Creator and encouraged others to do the same.

- Living religion: Jesus taught not just through words but through his life, demonstrating how to live a spiritual life in the midst of a realistic world.

The Urantia Book portrays Jesus' religion as dynamic, transformative, and focused on personal spiritual growth rather than rigid adherence to religious laws or traditions.


Q: In the Urantia Book, what did Jesus say about institutional religion?

UB Tutor

"Jesus' teachings on institutional religion reveal a profound critique of its limitations and a call for a deeper, more personal spiritual experience. He distinguished between the "religion of the mind," upheld by ecclesiastical authority and tradition, and the "religion of the spirit," which is based on personal experience and progressive faith. Jesus expressed concern that institutional religion often binds individuals to the past, offering a sense of security at the expense of spiritual freedom and growth.

He warned against the dangers of rigid traditions and dogmas that stifle the dynamic and evolving nature of true spiritual life. Jesus emphasized the importance of moving beyond the "bondage of institutional religion" to embrace the adventurous and transformative journey of discovering God personally. He rejected the notion that divine truth is confined to historical traditions or sacred texts, urging his followers to discern truth through their own spiritual experiences.

This approach liberated individuals from the constraints of formalized religion, encouraging them to seek God within themselves and to live out their faith authentically and dynamically. Moreover, Jesus did not establish an institutional church but fostered the idea of a spiritual brotherhood characterized by unity rather than uniformity. He envisioned a living, spiritual organism rather than a rigid, institutionalized structure.

While acknowledging the social utility of organized religion, he cautioned against its tendency to prioritize dogma, ritual, and authority over the transformative power of personal faith and spiritual growth. He also criticized the involvement of institutional religion in worldly matters such as commerce and politics, viewing such entanglements as betrayals of its spiritual mission.

Ultimately, Jesus' teachings call for a religion that transcends institutional boundaries, focusing instead on the inner transformation of individuals and their direct relationship with God. This "religion of the spirit" fosters love, service, and the pursuit of truth, empowering believers to live as active participants in the unfolding of divine realities. His message remains a timeless invitation to embrace a faith that is personal, progressive, and liberating."

Perplexity

"According to The Urantia Book, Jesus had a critical view of institutional religion. He emphasized personal spiritual experience over organized religious structures. Jesus taught that the Kingdom of God is a spiritual relationship with God and other humans that transcends social institutions.

Jesus' Perspective on Institutional Religion

- Emphasis on Personal Faith: Jesus promoted a religion based on personal spiritual relations with the Universal Father, validated by genuine personal experience. He encouraged believers to develop a direct relationship with God rather than relying on religious institutions as intermediaries.

- Critique of Religious Traditions: Jesus shattered tradition and destroyed dogma, calling mankind to achieve higher spiritual ideals. He warned his followers against forming creeds and traditions that could stifle spiritual freedom.

- Focus on Spiritual Values: The faith of Jesus visualized all spirit values as being found in the kingdom of God, rather than in religious institutions. He taught that seeking the kingdom of heaven should be the primary focus of religious life.

Implications for Religious Institutions

- Limitations of Organized Religion: The Urantia Book suggests that institutional religion cannot effectively lead in social reconstruction because it has become part of the established order that needs change. It warns against religious collectivism functioning outside of purely religious activities.

- Need for Transformation: The book implies that religious institutions must reconstruct themselves to remain relevant and helpful in times of social crisis. It suggests that real religion of personal spiritual experience is more capable of addressing societal challenges.

- Balancing Individual and Collective Practice: While critical of institutionalization, the Urantia Book acknowledges the value of group religious activities for dramatizing loyalties, fostering fellowship, and encouraging worship. However, it emphasizes that these should not overshadow personal spiritual growth and direct communion with God."


Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: The UB's explanation of the Angona impact on Andronover correlates with this conjecture
about an ancient interloper warping our solar system: (2025-1955 = 70) ;)


Re: https://www.yahoo.com/news/scientists-t ... 00536.html

"Scientists Think An Ancient Interloper Once Disrupted Our Entire Solar System" (Jan 23, 2025)

"... the disk of our Solar System is warped, and the planets travel around the Sun in slightly eccentric (or oblong) orbits. Scientists now think that a mysterious object massive enough to have gravitational interactions with the Solar System’s disk and planets flew by billions of years ago and permanently altered their orbital patterns."

"Our Sun is thought to have emerged from a nebula - a gargantuan cloud of dust and gas - about 4.6 billion years ago. The Sun most likely began forming when this nebula collapsed in the wake of the shockwave blasted out by a supernova that exploded in close proximity. A protoplanetary disk would have then formed out of the particles of dust and gas left over from that nebula, which in turn eventually condensed into planets that were pulled into their orbits by the gravity of the Sun."


Re: Paper 57 - The Origin of Urantia (long story short) (Oct 12, 1955)

"6,000,000,000 years ago marks the end of the terminal breakup and the birth of your sun,
the fifty-sixth from the last of the Andronover nebula's second solar family." (57:4.8 )

"As the Angona system drew nearer (to Andronover), the solar extrusions grew larger and larger; more and more matter was drawn from the sun to become independent circulating bodies in surrounding space. This situation developed for about five hundred thousand years until Angona made its closest approach to the sun; whereupon the sun, in conjunction with one of its periodic internal convulsions, experienced a partial disruption; from opposite sides and simultaneously, enormous volumes of matter were disgorged ... This great column of solar gases which was thus separated from the sun subsequently evolved into the twelve planets of the solar system." (57:5.6-7)

"The planets do not swing around the sun in the equatorial plane of their solar mother, which they would do if they had been thrown off by solar revolution. Rather, they travel in the plane of the Angona solar extrusion, which existed at a considerable angle to the plane of the sun’s equator." (57:5.12)


:hithere For the record, Perplexity agrees there's interesting similarity of these two accounts:

"The Urantia Book's account of the Angona system's impact on the Andronover nebula and the formation of our solar system does indeed share some similarities with the recent scientific conjecture about an ancient interloper disrupting our solar system. Both narratives describe a massive object interacting gravitationally with our solar system, leading to significant changes in its structure and planetary orbits. Key similarities include:

Timing: Both accounts place the event billions of years ago, with the scientific hypothesis suggesting it occurred during the early stages of solar system formation, approximately 4.6 billion years ago. The Urantia Book dates the event to about 4.5 billion years ago.

Gravitational interaction: Both describe a massive object (Angona in the Urantia Book, an unnamed "interloper" in the scientific hypothesis) exerting significant gravitational influence on our solar system.

Orbital effects: The scientific hypothesis proposes that this interaction led to warped and eccentric planetary orbits. Similarly, the Urantia Book states that the planets travel in the plane of the Angona solar extrusion, at an angle to the sun's equatorial plane.

Matter displacement: Both accounts describe the displacement of matter from the sun or protoplanetary disk, leading to the formation of planets.

However, it's important to note that while these similarities exist, the Urantia Book's account* includes many specific details and a cosmic narrative that goes far beyond current scientific understanding or hypotheses. The scientific community's approach is based on observable evidence and testable hypotheses, while the Urantia Book presents a more elaborate cosmological narrative."

* Of course! The UB is "epochal revelation" ;)

Rod :)
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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: New UB study aid: https://urantiabooktutor.com/
(support at: support@thecenterforunity.org )
Gabriel Rymberg, Project Manager

"Please give it a try, and let us know:
- what doesn’t work, and
- what you wish it could do."


:bana: Today's sample test:

Q: What is the best way for new readers to read the Urantia Book?
In Paper order? Part IV first ("Life and Teachings of Jesus")?
In print or online? However they're inspired?


"The best way for new readers to approach the text depends largely on their personal inclinations and spiritual readiness. The work is vast and intricate, designed to cater to a wide range of intellectual and spiritual appetites. For some, reading in the order of the Papers, starting with the Foreword and progressing through the cosmological, philosophical, and historical sections, provides a structured and comprehensive understanding of the universe's framework and the divine narrative.

This method allows readers to build a foundation of cosmic context before delving into the life and teachings of Jesus in Part IV. Others, however, may find it more engaging and spiritually enriching to begin with Part IV, "The Life and Teachings of Jesus." This section offers a deeply personal and relatable exploration of divine love and human experience, presenting Jesus as the living embodiment of truth and the ideal model for spiritual living.

Starting here can inspire a profound connection to the text, motivating readers to explore the earlier sections with a heart already attuned to the values and principles exemplified by Jesus. The choice between print and online formats is similarly personal. A physical copy can provide a tactile and focused reading experience, free from digital distractions, while online versions often offer search functionalities and accessibility that can enhance study and reflection. Ultimately, the most important factor is the reader's inspiration and openness.

The text itself emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual growth and the unique journey each individual undertakes. Approaching it with a sincere desire to understand and grow spiritually will naturally guide the reader to the sections and methods most suited to their current needs and aspirations.

How do you feel drawn to begin your exploration? Are you seeking a structured understanding of the universe,
or are you more inspired by the personal and transformative teachings of Jesus?"


Note: I separated the response into preferred paragraphs.

Rod :)
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