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 »

:sunflower: Lest we doubt this UB Tutor AI creates impressive responses, has any human ever written
such profound commentary about this longest UB sentence*, writing this in mere seconds? :o
* 232 words

Q: What is significant about this longest sentence (111.7.5) in the Urantia Book?
(sentence shared with UBT but not included here)

(UB Tutor) "This sentence is remarkable not only for its length but for its profound encapsulation of the human condition as understood within the teachings of the text. It vividly portrays the inherent duality and tension within human existence, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the narrative. The sentence is structured as a series of contrasts, each pairing a higher, spiritual, or progressive aspiration with a lower, material, or regressive tendency. This duality reflects the ongoing struggle between the higher and lower natures of human beings - a central concept in the exploration of personal growth, spiritual evolution, and the challenges of mortal life.

The significance of this sentence lies in its ability to articulate the complexity of the human experience. It acknowledges the grandeur of human potential - the "ideals of a superior people," the "high purposes of a great mind," the "flashes of universe intelligence," and the "progressive plans of an ascending being." At the same time, it does not shy away from the sobering realities of mortal limitations - the "animal indolence," "primitive inheritance," "chemical-energy mandates," and the "poisons of fear." This juxtaposition serves to highlight the unique position of human beings as creatures caught between the material and the spiritual, the finite and the infinite.

Moreover, the sentence underscores the inherent nobility of the struggle itself. The very fact that such tensions exist is a testament to the dual origin of human nature: the material, evolutionary origins of the body and mind, and the spiritual, divine potential of the soul. This ongoing conflict is not presented as a flaw but as an essential aspect of the human journey. It is through this struggle that individuals grow, learn, and ultimately ascend toward their higher destiny.

The sentence also reflects the broader cosmological and philosophical framework of the text, which emphasizes the evolutionary nature of the universe and the role of free will in personal and collective progress. The "Monitor" mentioned refers to the divine presence within, often described as a guiding force or fragment of the divine that seeks to lead individuals toward their ultimate spiritual fulfillment. The "urges of angels" and the "progressive plans of an ascending being" point to the supportive roles of celestial beings and the overarching purpose of existence, which is to grow in alignment with divine will.

In its poetic rhythm and layered meaning, this sentence invites deep reflection on the nature of human life. It challenges readers to consider their own struggles and aspirations in the context of this grander vision. How do we reconcile these opposing forces within ourselves? How do we rise above the inertia of mediocrity and the poisons of fear to embrace the ideals of faith, joy, and beauty? The sentence does not offer easy answers but instead serves as a mirror, reflecting the profound dignity and challenge of the human journey. It is a call to perseverance, to embrace the struggle as a path to growth, and to recognize the divine potential inherent in every human being."


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

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Who knew? (the human brain prefers segmented information ;- )

“Much of my difficulty was due to the unending conflict between the two natures of my subject:

the urge of ambition opposed by animal indolence;

the ideals of a superior people crossed by the instincts of an inferior race;

the high purposes of a great mind antagonized by the urge of a primitive inheritance;

the long-distance view of a far-seeing Monitor counteracted by the nearsightedness of a creature of time;

the progressive plans of an ascending being modified by the desires and longings of a material nature;

the flashes of universe intelligence cancelled by the chemical-energy mandates of the evolving race;

the urge of angels opposed by the emotions of an animal;

the training of an intellect annulled by the tendencies of instinct;

the experience of the individual opposed by the accumulated propensities of the race;

the aims of the best overshadowed by the drift of the worst;

the flight of genius neutralized by the gravity of mediocrity;

the progress of the good retarded by the inertia of the bad;

the art of the beautiful besmirched by the presence of evil;

the buoyancy of health neutralized by the debility of disease;

the fountain of faith polluted by the poisons of fear;

the spring of joy embittered by the waters of sorrow;

the gladness of anticipation disillusioned by the bitterness of realization;

the joys of living ever threatened by the sorrows of death."

"Such a life on such a planet!"
(111:7.5)

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

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Good reference for study of religions (found at Half Price Books today):

"Experiencing the World's Religions - Tradition, Challenge and Change" by Michael Molloy, 2010

See also: https://www.amazon.com/Experiencing-Wor ... 007340750X

"With an engaging narrative and powerful photographs from around the globe, the text conveys the vitality and richness
of the world's religions. It views religion as a living cultural wellspring that not only concerns systems of belief but how
those beliefs are expressed in ceremonies, food, clothing, art, architecture, pilgrimage, scripture, and music."

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

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: UB Tutor

Q: While the Urantia Book is not a new religion, how is it becoming the foundation of a new faith?


"The teachings within the Urantia text are not intended to establish a new religion but rather to inspire a transformative spiritual awakening that transcends traditional religious boundaries. This transformation is rooted in the shift from a religion of authority, which relies on inherited doctrines and rituals, to a religion of personal spiritual experience.

Such a faith is characterized by the individual's direct and living relationship with the divine, unmediated by institutional structures or dogmatic constraints. This approach fosters a universal spiritual unity, emphasizing the shared indwelling of the divine spirit within all humanity, which serves as the foundation for a new, more inclusive faith experience.

The text envisions a spiritual evolution where individuals move beyond the limitations of traditional religious systems, which often tie them to the past, and embrace a progressive revelation of truth. This revelation is not confined to any one epoch or culture but is a continuous unfolding of divine reality that calls for personal discovery and growth. It encourages believers to become "living prophets" of spiritual truth, embodying the ideals of the divine kingdom within their own lives.

This kingdom, as Jesus taught, is not a distant or institutionalized reality but a present and personal experience of God's fatherhood
and the universal brotherhood of humanity.

As this spiritual awakening takes root, it naturally becomes the foundation of a new faith - not in the sense of a formalized religion but as a living, dynamic relationship with God that transcends cultural and doctrinal divides. This new faith is marked by a profound personal commitment to the ideals of love, service, and truth, which are the hallmarks of the divine kingdom. It is a faith that unites rather than divides, fostering a sense of global and cosmic brotherhood that aligns with the universal truths of the divine plan."

Q: Observation: In this millennium, Jesus' "kingdom" is now unfolding as a new realm of faith
whose sovereign is the Master Son of this local universe of Nebadon.


"Your observation touches on a profound and transformative theme. The teachings emphasize that the "kingdom of heaven" is not a material or political entity but a spiritual reality that unfolds within the hearts and minds of individuals. It is a realm of faith, a dynamic and living relationship with the divine, centered on the recognition of the sovereignty of the Master Son, who is indeed the Creator and ruler of this local universe of Nebadon.

This kingdom is not confined to any specific religious institution or dogma but transcends such boundaries, inviting all individuals to partake in the universal brotherhood of spirit-led beings. In this new millennium, the unfolding of this kingdom as a realm of faith signifies a collective awakening to the deeper truths of spiritual unity and divine purpose. It reflects the growing recognition of the Master Son's role as the spiritual sovereign, whose life and teachings on this world exemplify the ideal of living in harmony with divine will.

This kingdom is characterized by the fruits of the spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and selfless service - which manifest in the lives of those who embrace this higher reality. The emergence of this new faith, rooted in the eternal truths of the universe, aligns with the idea that spiritual progress is an evolutionary process.

As individuals and societies grow in their understanding of truth, beauty, and goodness, they naturally gravitate toward a more profound realization of their relationship with the divine and their place within the cosmic family. This unfolding kingdom is not about creating a new religion but about fostering a deeper, more personal connection with the divine source and a greater commitment to living out the principles of love and service in everyday life."


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

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Three AI opine on the Universe Mother Spirit called "Nebadonia" ...


ChatGPT

Q: Given that I asked that your response be based on the text and teachings of the Urantia Book,
why are you asserting "Divine Mother Spirit known as Nebadonia​"? That information seems to be based
upon secondary sources and not explicitly on the text and teachings of the book.


"The term "Nebadonia" as a name for the Universe Mother Spirit is not found in The Urantia Book itself. This name appears to be a later addition or interpretation that has been adopted by some Urantia Book readers and communities. The Urantia Book consistently refers to this being as the "Universe Mother Spirit," "Creative Spirit," "Divine Minister," or "local universe Mother Spirit". These are the official terms used in the original text to describe the feminine co-creator of the local universe. The origin of the name "Nebadonia" is unclear from the provided search results. It seems to be used in some secondary literature and discussions about The Urantia Book, but it is not part of the original revelation.

The use of this name may have developed within Urantia study groups or related spiritual communities as a way to personalize the concept of the Universe Mother Spirit. It's important to note that while The Urantia Book does describe a feminine aspect of Deity at the local universe level, it does not provide a personal name like "Nebadonia" for this being. The book focuses on describing her functions, attributes, and relationship to the Creator Son rather than assigning her a specific name.

The Urantia Book is a richly detailed and complex work, and in summarizing its teachings one must sometimes choose between a literal quotation and a summarizing or interpretative formulation that helps communicate the overall meaning. In my previous answer, I used the term “Divine Mother Spirit known as Nebadonia” as a shorthand to refer to the local universe’s creative partner - a role that, according to the text, accompanies the Creator Son (Michael) in the administration of the local universe (Nebadon). I’d like to explain in detail what that means and how it relates to the text, and also clarify where interpretative language has entered the summary.

On the “Divine Mother Spirit known as Nebadonia”

The Text’s Presentation:

The Urantia Book explains that every local universe is the joint creation of a Creator Son (always designated “Michael” in each universe) and a corresponding creative partner - a Creative Mother Spirit. The text describes this role in several passages (for example, in the sections dealing with the creation and administration of Nebadon). However, while the book emphasizes the essential complementary nature of the Mother Spirit’s functions, it does not consistently use a personal name such as “Nebadonia.” Instead, the text typically refers to her function or title (for example, “the creative mother spirit” or “the universe mother spirit”).

Interpretative Usage:

Over the years, some long-time readers and secondary commentaries have used the name “Nebadonia” as a convenient label for the Mother Spirit of the local universe Nebadon. This designation appears in certain secondary sources and discussions among students of The Urantia Book, helping to distinguish her identity in Nebadon from the Creator Son (Michael) whose name is explicitly used in the text. My use of “Divine Mother Spirit known as Nebadonia” was intended as an interpretative aid - a way of identifying that particular role within Nebadon - rather than as a direct quotation from the text.


UB Tutor

Q: In the Urantia Book, "Nebadonia" is not a term for the Universe Mother Spirit. What are the sources for this term?

"The term "Nebadonia" is not explicitly used in the text to refer to the Universe Mother Spirit, though the concept of the Divine Minister, the Creative Mother Spirit of the local universe of Nebadon, is extensively described. The use of "Nebadonia" as a name for the Universe Mother Spirit appears to be an interpretative or devotional term adopted by readers and students of the text to personalize or poetically refer to her role within Nebadon. This name combines "Nebadon," the name of the local universe, with a suffix that evokes a sense of maternal or divine presence, aligning with her nurturing and co-creative functions alongside Michael of Nebadon.

The Universe Mother Spirit is described as the Divine Minister, a manifestation of the Infinite Spirit localized in Nebadon. She collaborates with the Creator Son, Michael, in all aspects of universe creation, administration, and spiritual ministry. Her role is profoundly maternal, providing life energy, spiritual sustenance, and the adjutant mind-spirits that foster intellectual and spiritual growth among the creatures of Nebadon. She remains ever-present at the universe headquarters, Salvington, ensuring her spiritual influence pervades the entire domain.

The affectionate term "Nebadonia" likely reflects the devotional language of those who seek a more intimate connection with the Divine Minister, emphasizing her nurturing and maternal qualities. While not found in the text itself, such a term aligns with the spirit of reverence and personal relationship encouraged in the teachings.

If you are curious about how this term might have originated in secondary literature or community practices, it might be worth exploring devotional writings or interpretations by readers of the text. Would you like to delve deeper into her described roles and functions in Nebadon?"


Perplexity

Q: In the Urantia Book, "Nebadonia" is not a term for the Universe Mother Spirit. What are the sources for this term?

"The term "Nebadonia" as a name for the Universe Mother Spirit is not found in The Urantia Book itself. This name appears to be a later addition or interpretation that has been adopted by some Urantia Book readers and communities. The Urantia Book consistently refers to this being as the "Universe Mother Spirit," "Creative Spirit," "Divine Minister," or "local universe Mother Spirit". These are the official terms used in the original text to describe the feminine co-creator of the local universe.

The origin of the name "Nebadonia" is unclear from the provided search results. It seems to be used in some secondary literature and discussions about The Urantia Book, but it is not part of the original revelation. The use of this name may have developed within Urantia study groups or related spiritual communities as a way to personalize the concept of the Universe Mother Spirit.

It's important to note that while The Urantia Book does describe a feminine aspect of Deity at the local universe level, it does not provide a personal name like "Nebadonia" for this being. The book focuses on describing her functions, attributes, and relationship to the Creator Son rather than assigning her a specific name."


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

Post by Sandy »

Divine Mother Spirit certainly does not mind being called Nebadonia. ;) :D
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 »

:sunflower: These "astronauts who carried the seeds of life to earth" were probably the Life Carriers who would have then initiated
the biological precursors to life. Nevertheless, this asteroid is helping earth's scientists believe life exists elsewhere in the universe
(preceding earth's life) since they theorize how life develops automatically from foundational chemicals in ideal environments.


Re: https://weather.com/science/space/video ... life-earth
"Asteroid Holds The Key Building Blocks To Life"

"astronauts carried the seeds of life to earth billions of years ago ...
biological foundation including amino acids, nitrogen, parts of genetic code"


(Perplexity) "If biological precursors were not introduced to Earth by comets and asteroids, they could have been synthesized through abiotic processes on the early Earth itself. Several mechanisms have been proposed for the formation of these essential molecules:

- Atmospheric synthesis: The Miller-Urey experiment demonstrated that amino acids, key building blocks of life, could be synthesized from simple inorganic compounds under conditions thought to simulate the early Earth's atmosphere. This process involved exposing a mixture of gases to energy sources like electrical discharges, simulating lightning.

- Hydrothermal vent synthesis: Submarine alkaline hydrothermal vents have been proposed as potential sites for prebiotic chemistry. These environments could have provided the necessary conditions and energy for the formation of organic molecules.

- Surface catalysis: Mineral surfaces, particularly those containing iron and sulfur, may have catalyzed the formation of complex organic molecules from simpler precursors.

- Photochemical reactions: UV radiation from the young Sun, which was more intense in the early Earth, could have driven the synthesis of organic compounds in shallow waters or on exposed surfaces.

- Impact-induced synthesis: The energy released during meteorite impacts could have triggered the formation of organic molecules from simpler atmospheric or surface compounds.

- RNA world hypothesis: This theory suggests that RNA molecules, capable of both storing genetic information and catalyzing chemical reactions, could have formed spontaneously and played a crucial role in the origin of life.

These abiotic processes could have occurred in various environments on the early Earth, including the atmosphere, oceans, and mineral surfaces, gradually building up a reservoir of organic molecules necessary for the emergence of life."


(Perplexity) "The Big Bang* is the precursor to all subsequent developments in the universe, including the emergence of life. It created the fundamental physical laws and materials that allowed stars, planets, and eventually living organisms to form over billions of years. While life's origins are tied to specific chemical and environmental processes on Earth, they are ultimately rooted in cosmic events set into motion by the Big Bang itself."


From the Urantia Book ...

* Technically, the Big Bang was the Big Whirl:

"Only the presence of the force organizer and the liaison staff was required to inaugurate the energy whirl which eventually grew into this vast cyclone of space. Subsequent to the initiation of such nebular revolutions, the living force organizers simply withdraw at right angles to the plane of the revolutionary disk, and from that time forward, the inherent qualities of energy insure the progressive and orderly evolution of such a new physical system." (57:1.6)

"900,000,000 years ago witnessed the arrival on Urantia of the first Satania scouting party sent out from Jerusem to examine the planet and make a report on its adaptation for a life-experiment station. This commission consisted of twenty-four members, embracing Life Carriers, Lanonandek Sons, Melchizedeks, seraphim, and other orders of celestial life having to do with the early days of planetary organization and administration." (57:8.7)

"After making a painstaking survey of the planet, this commission returned to Jerusem and reported favorably to the System Sovereign, recommending that Urantia be placed on the life-experiment registry. Your world was accordingly registered on Jerusem as a decimal planet, and the Life Carriers were notified that they would be granted permission to institute new patterns of mechanical, chemical, and electrical mobilization at the time of their subsequent arrival with life transplantation and implantation mandates." (57:8.8 )


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

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Urantia Book Tutor's vision statement for humanity's continuing religious progress ...


Q: From the perspective of the Urantia Book, new revelation, the world is not ready for a single formal religion,
but individual religions can peacefully coexist within the principle of "Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of Man."
What statement can be created to promote such vision for this new millennium?


"A statement that encapsulates this vision for the new millennium could read as follows:

"In this new millennium of spiritual awakening and global interconnectedness, let us embrace the eternal truth that the Fatherhood of God unites all humanity as one family, and the Brotherhood of Man calls us to honor the unique paths through which individuals seek the Divine. The diversity of our religious traditions is not a barrier but a testament to the manifold ways in which truth, beauty, and goodness are revealed to the human soul.

Our religious traditions have long shared the potential spiritual unity of humanity under a universal Father. And these traditions stand ready to celebrate the continuing diversity of our religious expressions. These maturing traditions encourage peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, rooted in our shared values of love and service, forever central to the spiritual progress of individuals and societies.

As we stand at the threshold of a new millennium, let us commit to fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation among all faiths, recognizing that the ultimate purpose of religion is not uniformity but unity in spirit. By living the ideals of love, service, and compassion, we can now transform our world into a reflection of the divine harmony that dwells within us all."

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

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Quick Q&A, wondering if Process Theology is academic focus that can "trickle down" to most religionists.

Q: Process Theology sounds more academic than how most religionists in the world practice their religion.

(Perplexity) "Process Theology is more academic in nature compared to how most people practice their religion. Process Theology is primarily a philosophical and theological framework developed by scholars and theologians, rather than a grassroots religious movement.

Process Theology emerged from the work of philosophers like Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne, who sought to create a metaphysical system that could integrate modern scientific understanding with religious concepts. As such, it tends to be more abstract and theoretical than the everyday religious practices of most believers. Key aspects that make Process Theology more academic include:

- Philosophical foundations: It's grounded in complex metaphysical ideas about the nature of reality, time, and change.

- Technical language: Process Theology often employs specialized philosophical terminology that may be challenging for non-academics to grasp.

- Scholarly discourse: Much of the development and discussion of Process Theology occurs in academic journals, conferences, and university settings.

- Interdisciplinary approach: It attempts to integrate insights from philosophy, theology, and natural sciences, requiring a broad knowledge base.

- Critical engagement: Process Theology often involves critiquing traditional theological concepts, which requires in-depth knowledge of various theological traditions.

While Process Theology has influenced some religious thinkers and denominations, particularly within liberal Christian circles, it remains primarily an academic pursuit rather than a widely practiced form of religious expression. Most religious practitioners focus on more accessible aspects of their faith, such as scriptures, rituals, and community practices, rather than engaging with the complex philosophical ideas of Process Theology."


:hithere more Q&A, not evaluating Process Theology, but trying to determine how the UB + Process Theology will be received by truth seekers who are attracted to the UB. Considering that what Jesus taught has not needed a formal philosophy label for two millennia, this theology seems more appealing to modern religionist academics.

Q: What do Christian leaders think of Process Theology?

(Perplexity) "Christian leaders and theologians hold diverse views on Process Theology, ranging from cautious openness to strong criticism.
Below is a summary of perspectives:

Supportive Views

- Evangelical Openness: Some evangelicals are drawn to Process Theology because it aligns with their emphasis on free will, relationality, and a science-friendly worldview. It offers an understanding of God as dynamic, relational, and responsive to human experiences, which resonates with those who value love as central to Christian theology. Advocates argue that Process Theology better explains issues like suffering, prayer, and divine love compared to traditional doctrines.

- Relational Emphasis: Process Theology's focus on God's participation in human suffering and its rejection of classical omnipotence appeals to those seeking a more compassionate and relatable deity. This perspective emphasizes God's persuasive power rather than coercive control, aligning with modern sensibilities about freedom and relationality.

Critical Views

- Theological Concerns: Critics argue that Process Theology fundamentally alters core Christian doctrines. For instance, it denies God's omnipotence, immutability, and the uniqueness of Christ's divinity. These changes are seen as incompatible with historic Christian orthodoxy.

- Biblical Challenges: Many traditionalists contend that Process Theology undermines the Bible's portrayal of a sovereign God who intervenes in history through miracles and revelation. They see it as reducing God to a passive presence rather than an active agent in creation and redemption.

- Practical Implications: Critics also highlight practical concerns, such as the diminished role of petitionary prayer. If God lacks the power to intervene directly in the world, prayer becomes less meaningful in its traditional sense.

Neutral or Mixed Views

Some theologians acknowledge the intellectual appeal of Process Theology while maintaining reservations about its compatibility with Christianity. They see it as a modern attempt to reconcile faith with contemporary philosophy but caution against adopting it uncritically. In summary, while Process Theology attracts Christians seeking a relational and scientifically compatible understanding of God, its divergence from traditional Christian beliefs makes it controversial among many leaders and theologians."


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Re: The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Who knew? The Urantia Book is all about the "brotherhood of man",
a term appearing 50 times with 20 before "The Life and Teachings of Jesus". :roll

Whether or not "He Gets Us" is intended to promote "the brotherhood of man and Fatherhood of God",
such interpretation gives "He Gets Us" literal meaning: Instead of "He comprehends us, etc.",
"He gets us! (literally)" as newly awakened members of his spiritual family. 8)

:scratch: Who knew? https://truthbook.com/quotes-about-life/
Makes a good Home page for a browser! (Daily Quote appears when browser is started)


:bana: Re: https://www.adweek.com/creativity/creat ... bowl-2025/
" 'He Gets Us' Brings a Heartfelt Ad to Super Bowl 2025"

:idea: A positive review of this ad repeat (third Superbowl) that effectively alludes, not to Jesus,
but to the gospel he taught: brotherhood of man and Fatherhood of God:

"The Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man present the paradox of the part and the whole on the level of personality. God loves each individual as an individual child in the heavenly family. Yet God thus loves every individual; he is no respecter of persons, and the universality of his love brings into being a relationship of the whole, the universal brotherhood." (12:7.8 )

"The post-Adamic epoch is the dispensation of internationalism. With the near completion of the task of race blending, nationalism wanes, and the brotherhood of man really begins to materialize." (52:3.10)

"Great ethical advancement characterizes this era; the brotherhood of man is the goal of its society. World-wide peace - the cessation of race conflict and national animosity - is the indicator of planetary ripeness for the advent of the third order of sonship, the Magisterial Son." (52:3.12)

"The brotherhood of man is, after all, predicated on the recognition of the fatherhood of God. The quickest way to realize the brotherhood of man on Urantia is to effect the spiritual transformation of present-day humanity. The only technique for accelerating the natural trend of social evolution is that of applying spiritual pressure from above, thus augmenting moral insight while enhancing the soul capacity of every mortal to understand and love every other mortal. Mutual understanding and fraternal love are transcendent civilizers and mighty factors in the world-wide realization of the brotherhood of man." (52:6.7)

"And this progress in the arts of civilization leads directly to the realization of the highest human and divine goals of mortal endeavor - the social achievement of the brotherhood of man and the personal status of God-consciousness, which becomes revealed in the supreme desire of every individual to do the will of the Father in heaven." (71:4.15)

"Regardless of the drawbacks and handicaps, every new revelation of truth has given rise to a new cult, and even the restatement of the religion of Jesus must develop a new and appropriate symbolism. Modern man must find some adequate symbolism for his new and expanding ideas, ideals, and loyalties. This enhanced symbol must arise out of religious living, spiritual experience. And this higher symbolism of a higher civilization must be predicated on the concept of the Fatherhood of God and be pregnant with the mighty ideal of the brotherhood of man." (87:7.6)

"Future religionists must live out their religion, dedicate themselves to the wholehearted service of the brotherhood of man. It is high time that man had a religious experience so personal and so sublime that it could be realized and expressed only by “feelings that lie too deep for words." (99:5.9)

"Love is infectious, and when human devotion is intelligent and wise, love is more catching than hate. But only genuine and unselfish love is truly contagious. If each mortal could only become a focus of dynamic affection, this benign virus of love would soon pervade the sentimental emotion-stream of humanity to such an extent that all civilization would be encompassed by love, and that would be the realization of the brotherhood of man." (100:4.6)

"But revelatory religion is excellent as well as genuine. The new loyalties of enlarged spiritual vision create new levels of love and devotion, of service and fellowship; and all this enhanced social outlook produces an enlarged consciousness of the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man." (100:6.8 )

"Even in Christianity the Lord’s Supper retains this mode of communion. The atmosphere of the communion provides a refreshing and comforting period of truce in the conflict of the self-seeking ego with the altruistic urge of the indwelling spirit Monitor. And this is the prelude to true worship - the practice of the presence of God which eventuates in the emergence of the brotherhood of man." (103:4.1)

"(True religion) lifts man out of himself and beyond himself when he once fully realizes that there lives and strives within him something which is eternal and divine. And so it is that a living faith in the superhuman origin of our ideals validates our belief that we are the sons of God and makes real our altruistic convictions, the feelings of the brotherhood of man." (103:5.9)

"The security of a religious group depends on spiritual unity, not on theological uniformity. A religious group should be able to enjoy the liberty of freethinking without having to become 'freethinkers.' There is great hope for any church that worships the living God, validates the brotherhood of man, and dares to remove all creedal pressure from its members." (103:5.12)

"You can consciously augment Adjuster harmony by:
Loving God and desiring to be like him - genuine recognition of the divine fatherhood and loving worship of the heavenly Parent ... Loving man and sincerely desiring to serve him - wholehearted recognition of the brotherhood of man coupled with an intelligent and wise affection for each of your fellow mortals." (110:3.6-10)

"Jesus said: 'The people of another age will better understand the gospel of the kingdom when it is presented in terms expressive of the family relationship - when man understands religion as the teaching of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man, sonship with God.' " (142:7.4)

(Jesus) "Love is the greatest of all spirit realities. Truth is a liberating revelation, but love is the supreme relationship. And no matter what blunders your fellow men make in their world management of today, in an age to come the gospel which I declare to you will rule this very world. The ultimate goal of human progress is the reverent recognition of the fatherhood of God and the loving materialization of the brotherhood of man." (143:1.4)

(Jesus on the rule of living) "The level of brotherly love. Still higher is discovered the level of unselfish devotion to the welfare of one’s fellows. On this higher plane of wholehearted social service growing out of the consciousness of the fatherhood of God and the consequent recognition of the brotherhood of man, there is discovered a new and far more beautiful interpretation of this basic rule of life." (147:4.7)

"This overemphasis of the personality of Jesus in the theology of Christianity has worked to obscure his teachings ... we would not permit such consideration to eclipse his inspired life or to supplant his saving message: the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man." (149:2.4)

"And thus migrating to the ends of the earth, they carried with them the message of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man - the gospel of the kingdom." (156:4.3)

"Jesus made the care of God for man like the solicitude of a loving father for the welfare of his dependent children and then made this teaching the cornerstone of his religion. And thus did the doctrine of the fatherhood of God make imperative the practice of the brotherhood of man. The worship of God and the service of man became the sum and substance of his religion. Jesus took the best of the Jewish religion and translated it to a worthy setting in the new teachings of the gospel of the kingdom." (159:5.7)

"However, there were still any number of his followers who were material-minded, and who failed to grasp the truth that the kingdom of heaven is the spiritual brotherhood of man founded on the eternal fact of the universal fatherhood of God." (163:7.4)

"For these and other reasons, the Master thought best to designate the spiritual brotherhood of man as the kingdom of heaven and the spirit head of this brotherhood as the Father in heaven." (169:4.1)

"In the place of the concept of Yahweh, the racial deity, (Jesus) introduced the idea of the fatherhood of God and the world-wide brotherhood of man." (169:4.8 )

"To Jesus the kingdom was the sum of those individuals who had confessed their faith in the fatherhood of God, thereby declaring their wholehearted dedication to the doing of the will of God, thus becoming members of the spiritual brotherhood of man." (170:5.11)

"Human salvation is real; it is based on two realities which may be grasped by the creature’s faith and thereby become incorporated into individual human experience: the fact of the fatherhood of God and its correlated truth, the brotherhood of man." (188:4.13)

(Jesus) "... while salvation is the free gift of God and is bestowed upon all who accept it by faith, there follows the experience of bearing the fruits of this spirit life as it is lived in the flesh. The acceptance of the doctrine of the fatherhood of God implies that you also freely accept the associated truth of the brotherhood of man." (193:1.2)

"... these men whom Jesus had ordained to go forth preaching the gospel of the kingdom, the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man" (194:4.4)

"The religion of Jesus does, indeed, dominate and transform its believers, demanding that men dedicate their lives to seeking for a knowledge of the will of the Father in heaven and requiring that the energies of living be consecrated to the unselfish service of the brotherhood of man." (195:9.6)

"The hope of modern Christianity is that it should cease to sponsor the social systems and industrial policies of Western civilization while it humbly bows itself before the cross it so valiantly extols, there to learn anew from Jesus of Nazareth the greatest truths mortal man can ever hear - the living gospel of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man." (195:10.21)


:study: Q: Online comment: "While campaigns like Catholics Come Home and He Gets Us have shown short-term engagement,
the broad trends in religious affiliation have declined despite these efforts." What explains this disconnection?
Is "religious affiliation" modern polling perspective that needs redefinition?


(Perplexity) "The disconnection between short-term engagement from campaigns like Catholics Come Home and He Gets Us
and the broader decline in religious affiliation can be attributed to several factors:

Changing Nature of Religious Identity:

- Decoupling of Identity and Experience: There is a growing gap between religious identity and actual religious practice.
Many people identify with a religion but do not regularly attend services or engage in religious activities.

- Cultural Religiosity: Religious identity is increasingly linked to cultural or ethnic aspects rather than specific beliefs or rituals.

Decline in Institutional Trust:

The decline in religious affiliation is part of a broader trend of disengagement from institutions.
This includes not just religion but also civic organizations and community groups.

Trust in institutions, including religious ones, has decreased, leading to a decline in participation.

Generational Shifts:

Younger generations, such as Generation Z, have different religious experiences and values compared to previous generations.
They are less likely to have had robust religious experiences in childhood, which are crucial for maintaining religious beliefs into adulthood.

Disaffiliation often occurs early in life, before deep commitments to religious beliefs are formed.

Short-term vs. Long-Term Engagement:

Campaigns like He Gets Us and Catholics Come Home may generate short-term interest and engagement but may not lead to sustained religious affiliation. These campaigns often focus on emotional or intellectual connections rather than long-term community involvement.

Redefining Religious Affiliation:

The concept of "religious affiliation" might need reevaluation. Traditional measures of affiliation, such as church membership or attendance, may not capture the full spectrum of religious or spiritual experiences in contemporary society. There is a growing segment of people who identify as "nones" or are spiritually engaged outside traditional religious structures, which complicates the measurement of religious affiliation.

Conclusion

The disconnection between short-term engagement from religious campaigns and the broader decline in religious affiliation reflects deeper societal shifts in how people experience and express their religious identities. As religious practices and affiliations evolve, the way we measure and understand religious affiliation may need to adapt to capture these changes accurately."


Rod :)
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