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These are some of the most amazing stories about what a great job our Universal Life Church ministers are doing. These are stories of why they became ordained, the courses they've taken, and the great things they are doing with their ministries.

Wednesday, December 28, 2005

Comparative Religion

Comparative ReligionThe main reason I took this Comparative Religion course was due to the description found at the ULC web site: "This is one of the most informative courses we offer. It is packed full of information about different religions with an emphasis on interfaith studies." This is very true. This course is loaded with information. Not only does it provide the history and background information on all of the worlds big religions, it also includes information on some of the more obscure belief systems. The presentation format makes it easy to compare the similarities of the worlds religions. This is exactly what I wanted and this course delivered.

Since North America is predominantly Christian, it is understandable that a course of this nature would include a lot of Christian information and comparisons. Personally, I would prefer more information on the North American Indian's belief systems and a little less emphasis on Christianity. This being said, it's only my preference and I'm sure most students prefer the Christian comparisons as it makes it easier for them to relate to the information as presented.

At the end of the course, Rev. Kythera Ann indicates that future parts of this course will focus on individual religions, their unique beliefs and practices. This course does include quite a bit of detail already. I would recommend that you revise this course to include a little less detail and call it "Introduction to Comparative Religion." Then, future courses could have more descriptive names to reflect what they are to focus on rather than Part 1, Part 2, etc. Some names could be: "Religions of the world - A detailed Analysis" or "Comparative Religion - From a
Christian Perspective" and "Religions of the World - Their Unique Beliefs and Practices."

This course is presented in a much more academic format that other courses I have taken from the ULC. An "introduction" type of course can be presented in a more entertaining format that would keep the interest of those who prefer not to return to a formal study format after being away from it for several years. Those of us who are not academics require a more entertaining format to enable us to better retain the information. It should also be noted that not all students of the ULC Seminary intend on pursuing a career as a minister. Some of us are pusuing a path of personal enlightenment only.

The Rev. Kythera Ann is obviously well versed in the religions of the world. For those who were raised Christian and would like to have an in-depth study of religion and comparisons of the worlds religions from a Christian point of view, I would recommend this course and the Rev. Kythera Ann. Also, anyone who is or intends on pursuing a career as a minister whether it be full time or part time, must have this information with this kind of detail. It is your responsibility to possess all the knowledge available to enable you to do the best job you can when fulfilling your duties as a Minister. Do that which is right.

As always, the course was delivered to my e-mail address, on time and in a format that was easy to use. It remains a pleasure to interact with Rev. Amy Long and the ULC Seminary.

Best Regards

Robert Pelot

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.


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Tuesday, December 27, 2005

Master of Metaphysics

Metaphysics Course
Although my Reiki training gave me much insight to my inner self, I had many more questions. Your lessons have taken me further than I could have ever imagined.

Some of your lessons such as creating and destroying roses proved to be a lot of fun and got me thru some stressful situations, for this I will be eternally thankful.

One of my biggest problems was the loss of energy. Several of your lessons such as the protection rose, bringing in the golden sun, especially in returning my energies from all places I had been each day, the grounding cord, and of course amusement have proven to me to be in my best interest. I walk now and see so much more beauty in all things which give me energy and keeps a smile on my face and in my heart. The other evening I saw an owl dip down in my yard to investigate a meal.

What beauty I saw. Why did I see this? Because I am much more alert of my surroundings. I do have much work to do in speaking in the positive. Although I think I am and have many positive thoughts, Things just didn't come out in the positive. Your Discourse # 16 finally explained to me why. My belief system. My parents were always wanting me to fit in with the statement, "What will the neighbors think?" or " We are the parents, we know best." I have come a long ways but I am not there yet. I seem to be caught between a present and a future state so there is work to be done here.

I have always been quick to help others, which seemed to be what made me feel good, but then I felt very let down. I couldn't figure out why. I now know why. I forgot to do things for my self.

It really is simple, love yourself and then love others, Heal yourself and then heal others. And above all else, Be Yourself

Thank You Rev Amy.

Love and Light

Rev Diane L. Orr


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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Comparative Religion

Comparative Religion CourseFinal Exam Essay
Rev. Elizabeth King

This has been a most interesting and informative course. I have learned a great deal about so many of the world's religions, their background, their leaders, and their tenets of beliefs. When I first began the course, since I have already taken a course in the World's Religions while attending college, I didn't think I would actually learn much more than what I already thought I knew. How delightful to find out I was wrong and that Kythera Ann is very knowledgeable about a subject that would be beneficial for all people to take at some time in their lives. Her presentation of the material has a spirit and a love that I found missing from the course that I took at CCSN so many years ago.

By helping us to understand the basics of these various religions, the one thing that stands out is how much more similarities than dissimilarities are to be found in the world's religions. True, they have different rituals, approaches, and cultural ideation than we in the west have, but in the areas that are most important, they basically are teaching the same things and love, acceptance, decency of behavior, and respect for the Gods and for all people as well as our home world, which shows that the Deity Creators, by whatever name we choose to call them, are of one mind, and the teachings are universal to all.

While there are some rituals that are perhaps very foreign to western minds and beliefs, such as Goddess worship or in gender related differences in religious dogma, yet we have to admit that there are certain elements that ring true for all of us. It is when man begins to exert his/her influence over the religious and spiritual tenets of the founders and the deities that inspire them that trouble rears its head in religious dogma, and this presents us with the lessons of what can happen when the beginning ideals are neglected or cast aside in favor of man-made rules and regulations.

I so enjoyed learning about all these different religious beliefs, and with that comes a new appreciation and understanding of the human species as we all strive to return to our Makers, by whatever name we call them, and to find spiritual dignity and beauty within ourselves and others. It also shows us the depths of the struggle that all people go through as they deal with figuring out their place in the scheme of the Universe and what their spiritual missions truly are. This kind of course can only help people to understand and thus to gain an appreciation and an open-mindedness to the beautiful diversity that is inherent in the human race.

I honestly cannot think how Kythera Ann could improve the course as it covers all the basics and then much more. She is thorough, and very knowledgeable of her subject. Her writing style is fascinating and contains an 'aliveness' that is very often missing from the majority of textbooks that deal with what should be a fascinating and enjoyable experience as it educates.

I would be interested in taking other courses in the future from Kythera, and I hope to see another course by her in the Seminary soon. Thanks to her, I've gained a deeper appreciation of the religious and spiritual searching that mankind has been engaged in from the very inception of the human race on this earth, and I will be able to take this information and use it to assist the many different religious beliefs I come into contact with through my own ministry, which is non-sectarian. The one area that she has helped me to gain the most compassion and sympathy with are the religions of the Near East, religious teachings that I have always had a difficult time even beginning to understand. I am thankful to her for expertise in explaining their teachings in such a easy to understand format.

I would recommend this course to all ULC ministers and ministerial students as an important part of our training as spiritual leaders, regardless of our religious preferences. It is in gaining understanding of all religious teachings that we become more compassionate and understanding of others, and thus more capable of functioning as a true embassador not so much of religious dogma, but of spiritual growth and development.

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers handfasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Thursday, December 22, 2005

Comparative Religion

Comparative Religion Studies
My Name is Rev. Beverly F. H. Brown. I am a middle aged divorced woman with no children. Taking the Comparative Religion course was the stepping stone that helped me achieve the peace in my life I desperately needed!

I grew up in a very abusive family situation that left me confused about the rights and wrongs of life. In my dysfunctional family's view; right was wrong, and wrong was praised. This made me turn away from the church, but never, did I turn from God.

Still, I needed answers to why I was so angry all the time. I carried hatred, distrust, contempt and violent thoughts with me everywhere I went. At the same time, I was compelled to help people stuck in similar situations (abusive, hateful, ect). On top of the anger I felt from my childhood, I fought Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for 4 years. Going in and out of the hospital sometimes for months at a time.

Before I started this course, I had low self worth and battled constantly with my feelings of isolation (even in the middle of a crowd). To be openly honest, I was so angry, tired, hopeless, lost and in need of an outlet ... hurting someone else seemed like the right thing to do. Making others feel the pain that I myself was suffering from, seemed like fair play. This course showed me how wrong I was to feel that way. Rev. Kythera Ann's Comparative religion course taught me that I alone was responsible for my life. She showed me; that we are all on the same path even if we don't know it.

There is suffering and martyrdom everywhere on earth. It's what we do amidst that suffering that matters. If we reach out to help our brother in need, we too will be helped.

This course gave me the tools I needed to see clearly. I now understand that we are all "truly one." The way the course is broken-down allowed me to cross-reference several religions at once which made it easy to see the similarities. Once I saw the common goals and beliefs of so many religions from every part of the world, I knew what I had to do to find peace within myself.

I learned that most religions teach "Forgiveness" similar to the way Jesus taught it. If God forgives our sins, who are we not to forgive others? Next I learned about Karma in each religion and the similarity in religious stories, ceremonies, scriptures, and principles. Then at the end she ties it altogether with a Religion Family Tree! That was great! That topped it off with the reality that we are all truly one. Coming from one Mother (God) and branching off to have children of our own (sub-religions) yet the fruit never falls far from the tree (God).

Now I am living my life as a spiritual being instead of a physical being. Physical beings are subject to ego, greed, lust, deceit and selfishness. Buddha taught, that which we give to others is returned to us tenfold, so if I wanted positive things in my life I had to first, give that which I desired to others.

Thanks to Rev. Kythera Ann I have gained a new awareness of life on this planet as a whole. I now understand my purpose in this life is the same as every person of every religion...To do Gods work. To be his eyes and ears. To learn and to teach his principles. Then, little by little, one soul at a time, we become closer to Him/Her (God)by understanding his ways.

I thoroughly enjoyed this course! Especially the unbiased way in which it was presented. The recommended reading and additional links were a plethora of information. My mind is now open to endless possibilities.

I only wish it went deeper into each religion with more detail and information. I guess that's in part 2 of the Comparative Religion course :)

I think that more information should be added on primary cults of today. Cults like Scientology, Seven day Adventist, Satan Worshippers, and even more on Wicca. I would like to understand these religions too.

I thank you for your knowledge and unselfishness. My life is richer because of you!

Sincerely,

Rev. Beverly F. H. Brown


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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Wednesday, December 07, 2005

Spirit-Quest Course

Universal Life Church Seminary Metaphysics Course
This has been a fantastic course. Not only the material but the way it was put together. It’s as if this course was written to me instead of for me. I was very fortunate to have a mother and grandmother. That taught me love and respect. I had a father that taught me how to work. In his teachings he taught against negativity. The word “can’t” at least in construction meant you didn’t have the tools or the knowledge. Find out how to do the job and get the tools and you will succeed.

Strangely enough this course is designed the same way. To clear ourselves to gain full potential we must remove as much negativity as possible. All would be nice but not always possible. We are given the tools and the knowledge. The grounding cord and the various methods of using it. This is one of the most exciting things in the course. To actually feel it work and my body felt free. The golden suns collecting energy, sending messages or bringing thoughts. The protective rose grounded to the center of the planet. Creating and destroying roses to remove things from your space. These are tools. You can visualize a rose or a sun or a grounding cord. But you can’t visualize your subconscious. However if you visualize something like creating a rose a sun or a grounding cord. You create a link to you subconscious or spirit. This action causes the event to happen. When you concentrate on a grounding cord. You communicate to your spirit to release negative energy. With the power of the universe that is what it does.

These tools simplify the contact with your spirit. You create a rose. Okay you have a rose. Now you emphasize to bring something or destroy something (remove it from you) Your spirit responds. Your spirit really wants to do everything to please you. You think I can’t do that. Your spirit says okay and puts all the negative block in your way. See I told you I couldn’t do that. If you say with a positive attitude. I’m going to do this. I’m going to make it work. Your spirit gets in touch with other spirits and your golden sun brings you information. I knew that DNA was living chemistry. I never read it in a book and I have hundreds of science books. In meditation I thought how does life start? A fertile cell. Two half sets of chromosomes inner mingle to make a DNA strip. It builds a whole body from this. No brain, no heart. Just a strand of DNA chemistry. How does it work? They (Scientist) call it homeostatic feedback mechanism. We call it your spirit. It takes this zygote. Divides that first cell into 43 cells. These become layers that become the different parts of the body and produce that lovely child we love and care for. Of course the spirit stimulates genetic _expression and the genetic traits tell things where to go. As this child grows up it’s spirit talks with other spirits. We talk to our spirit but not very good. The tools in this course simplify our communication with our spirit and we have unlimited resources in anything we do. This course gives us these tools and this nice lady tells us how to use them.

Ronald M. Owens Sr.

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Four Gospels

Universal Life Church
The first four Books of the New Testament are like newspaper accounts of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ from four men who loved Him and followed Him. The arrival of Jesus signaled the beginning of the New Testament. God entered history in a personal way. God makes it clear that He is on our side and is doing everything possible to save us. It was worked out in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Salvation is the main business of Jesus.

Matthew opens the New Testament by setting the local story of Jesus in a historical context. He makes sure that as we read his account of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He is writing especially to Jewish readers. His main purpose is to convince them that Jesus is the promised Messiah, the Savior. He does this by showing how Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies.

Mark wastes no time in getting down to business. An event has taken place that radically changes the way we look at and experience the world. And he can’t wait to tell us about it. The sooner we get the message, the better off we will be. The message is good. God is here and He’s on our side. Mark was not one of the twelve apostles and he presents the person and work of Jesus Christ to a primarily non-Jewish audience. His attitude may have been, just give us the facts.

Luke is the champion of the outsider. He is the only Gentile in an all Jewish cast of New Testament writers. He shows how Jesus includes those who typically were treated as outsiders by the religious establishment. As he tells the story, all of us who have found ourselves on the outside looking in on life with no hope find the doors wide open in Jesus.

John’s Gospel is different from the other Gospel’s about Jesus. John dwells upon the spiritual meaning of what Jesus said and did. John emphasizes the signs and miracles that prove Jesus is the Son of God. He presents God as speaking salvation into existence. This time God’s word takes on the human form as Jesus. Jesus speaks the word and it happens.

After reading all four Gospels I understand why there are four. Each Gospel is reaching out to different people. The story of Jesus is the same. The people that are hearing it are different. We are from all walks of life. God wants to reach all with His Good News.

One thing I question is the genealogies in both Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. They trace the descendant of Jesus not through Mary His mother but through Joseph, His stepfather. I was always taught that Jesus is the Son of God.


F. James Barker

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Friday, December 02, 2005

Four Gospels

Judas:  Sinner?  Or follower of God's will?

Having just recently completed the course portion of the "four gospels" course I took a few days to actually sit and ponder on what to write my essay or thesis on. After a few weeks of thought I decided rather then pontificate on my likes or dislikes of the text book, or trying to write something that would cover everything I would choose one area within the text and expound my thought on it.

Oddly, one might say my theory of Judas Iscariot was a good Christian is bogus but before judging it and my virtue of him, let us think things through. Did Judas betrayal his Master Jesus to the Pharisees? On the more obvious surface layer, yes of course he did. Yet that does not take in to consideration several important factors. First and foremost, Jesus was aware that he HAD to die in that manner and it was God's plan on the why, whom, and how it would happen.

Something to really analyze is this…Is doing the will of God a Sin? Most would say no. We are all aware that as humans we have freedom of choice to follow God's will and to not follow it is a Sin. Using that simple logic is following God's will a Sin if the act is a Sin? This question is a bit of a sticky point of thought. While traditionally the act would be a Sin, but it being God's will would make it NOT a Sin since you can not say God's will is a Sin, since it is God's will. A simple yet easily seen example of this is the making of war, while we are commanded to not kill, yet commends and even helps the Israelites commit the act of war, as it was God’s divine will that they so do.

Now on to poor Judas, was the betrayal a Sin under normal circumstances, yes of course. Was his betrayal of Jesus a Sin in this context, I would say no its not. Let me explain, God's will being perfect and never a Sin, is what is the root cause of Judas' betrayal. He had free will to betray or not betray Jesus. To NOT betray him would be Against God's will and divine plan as the betrayal was a necessary part of his offering of Christ for all of us. Why do I say Poor Judas, put yourself in the position of Judas, You can not betray your friend and Master, and commit the Sin of not doing God's will, or commit was is seen as a sin and do God's will. Either way he feels like he is committing a Sin. Fortunately for all of us, did follow God's will, betrayed Jesus, who was then crucified and became our Lord and Savoir.

Using the biblical text, not much is said of Judas’ calling to be an Apostle, his ministry or part in any miracles. Based on that, we can assume one of two things, either he was removed by the writers to vilify him or that is calling was that of being the betrayer. While writers do say the “Devil” entered him, that does not make sense given that God wanted Jesus to be betrayed and crucified, and it would not have been advantageous for Satan to help create the Savior of Man if we are to take Satan’s traditional role as basis of our thoughts on his actions.

Yet even in doing God’s will, Judas still felt guilty of a Sin, giving back the silver and then later committing suicide. This shows that Judas obvious had repented for his “transgressions” against Jesus regardless of the divine will of God, a trait often admired by Christians of all denominations and flavors. Based on all of this, I would have to disagree with Dante that Judas is in the inner circle of hell, but in heaven still serving his earthly and heavenly Masters. This theory is similar in overall effect, but not specific thoughts to an early Gnostic sect known as the Cainites.



Joshua D. Copeland

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Wednesday, November 30, 2005

Master of Religion

Universal Life church Christian StudiesI enjoyed this degree path: “Master of Religion”. It covered a lot of material from basic to advanced, and was done in a clear and logical way. The instructor is clearly knowledgeable and sincere.

I was intrigued by the two “versions” of Ten Commandments as given in Exodus and Deuteronomy.

And especially insightful was how the first few verses of the Protestant, Catholic and Hebrew versions of the 10 Commandments in Exodus differ (The Protestant and Catholic versions leaving out the context of who G-d was speaking to).

Also, the instructor said that the Jew and Gentile are saved the same way. 

However, some denominations teach the Jew was saved by keeping the law before the time of Christ (BCE, before Common Era), but NOW (CE, Common Era) the Law is done away and everyone is saved by faith.
However:

1. The Dead Sea Scrolls have shed light that the Jews of BCE did not believe in salvation by works. They believed they were saved through the Covenant of Abraham, the covenant of faith. And the Law was simply the lifestyle of an already redeemed community. The giving of the Law (Torah), the covenant of Mt. Sinai, does not negate the covenant of Abraham. All of G-d’s covenants are eternal. As an Israelite they were born into the covenant of Abraham. And had a part in the Olam Haba (the World to Come) by virtue of this covenant of faith unless they did something heinous to lose this status. According to Jewish understanding gentiles could also be assured a place in the World to Come by obedience to the covenant they received from G-d through Noah. In which one was considered a Noachide Chassid, a Righteous of the Nations. It too is a faith covenant with the Noachide laws as the halachah, or lifestyle, of a righteous non-Jew.

“Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and [from] fornication, and [from] things strangled, and [from] blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath day.” Acts 15:19-21

The Jewish Encyclopedia states that the Acts 15 reference is the first written example of the Noachide laws (outside of the Torah itself).

2. The denominations who claim the Law/Torah is done away cannot even agree on what parts of it are done away. In addition the Torah itself states that it is to endure as long as heaven and earth remains (which were the two witnesses G-d called on to witness the giving of the Torah in the first place). Jesus agreed saying “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach [them], the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17
Also, the Jews that believed in Christ (who constituted the first congregation) continued to keep the Torah/Law:
“And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:” Acts 21:20.
Paul is twisted by many to be interpreted that the Law is done away in Christ. I do not believe he taught that. If he in fact did, it would invalidate Paul since he would be contradicting the Torah itself as well as Jesus. Peter warned regarding misinterpreting Paul’s writings by those unlearned in Torah: “As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Pet 3:16

Also in the course Constantine is mentioned.
True he did stop persecution of the Christians. However, he was no sweetheart. He was the head of the Emperor Cult of his time being worshiped as God (Sol Invictus, the Unconquerable Sun). He merged the prominent state religion of Mithraism with the faith in Christ, creating a new religion. He was a Sun worshiper and murdered some of his family for fear that they might seek his throne. He outlawed the Biblical holy days of Sabbath (the 7th day) for SUNday (in honor of the Sun God), Passover for Easter (1st SUNday after the first full moon after the Vernal Equinox, the feast of Ishtar). The church then exterminated those who would not go along with it by abusing the power of the state.

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

Four Gospels Course

Universal Life Church Four Gospels Course Before I get to the main content of this essay for the Four Gospels Course, I would like to comment on a few points that I took note of, that arose during my study of the text provided, "The Unvarnished Gospels", translated by Andy Gaus, Shambhala Press. In the past three years, I have been blessed by being afforded the means and time to devote my waking hours, in their entirety, to the study of the entire Bible's central focus, New and Old Testament, specifically the life, purpose and works of the greatest man to ever walk the earth, Jesus.

During this time and in many courses, classes, seminars, private study,etc., I have read and compared many different translations of the same stories in each Bible and text. Although translated from the original Greek, to me, The Unvarnished Gospels reads like a novel you would read a few chapters before retiring for the night, with no landmarks such as chapters and verse numbering for easier comparisons and cross references with other published works. But more importantly, it seems to focus it's attention on a critiquing of Jesus with several views I feel are out right insulting to the name of Jesus, rather than being a text for educational purposes. Even with my limited education, with the opinion of several others I've shared this with agree, it falls short of being anywhere close to be an accurate description of Jesus, as we've come to picture Him today. Some of the points I will elaborate on as I progress. That being said I'll continue on the writing presented to us. I find it very difficult to believe that speech in the time frame when Jesus walked among us, people used slang so common today, e.g. "Hey, Buddy!".

Another quick example is His sermon on the mount with statements like "The weak are in luck!". Enough said on this topic.

The Gospels as a whole, I believe should be read as a single work, one book, to aid in the work of the Breath of GOD indwelling in each of HIS believers. To improve our senses of understanding, reading combined, to yield the true meaning intended, this combination approach of the four books and the Breath of GOD, motivates our gift of discernment to new levels.

Unhindered by petty differences, e.g. 'well Mathew said......but Mark didn't say it......but John was more of a poet, his stories don't match the synopsis.....on and on.....' But in reality to more or less greater degree, much criticism and differences between different camps exists as to content, speech patterns and the various stories in general. As substantiation supporting my theory, I paraphrase a statement made by the scholar and translator, C.I. Scofield, that he wrote in his somewhat debated work entitled "Dividing The Truth", which also includes some very interesting and notable views and covenants between GOD and Man through out man's history, which could be another essay in itself. Mr. Scofield states that "Anything can be proven by the Bible, is both true and false. If the passage is taken out of context (isolated), then the statement is true. But, if on the other hand, the same passage, is used in the context of GOD's divine plan for man, the entire Bible, then the statement is false." (paraphrased; parenthesis are mine). So if I'm to read one book, and not the entire four Gospels, constructing the message GOD intended for me to learn in my mind and heart, will be inaccurate by ignoring the other three books,(that would give me GOD's panoramic view for man, the entire picture), with no quibbling. Just the interpreted message that was intended for us to write in our hearts, as heavenly food.

In the past three years as I mentioned previously, I have been blessed, not only for the means and time to study, but also to acquire a meager library of over 70 texts, containing at any given time, 20 to 24 translations and versions of the Bible, all of which I've spent many hours in the study of most. One of the things that immediately caught my attention and I found curious was the variations, not just between the different versions, for instance between a KJV and a NIV version, but the minute but important differences between a KJV and another KJV by a different translator. To some this may give pause. But I have taken the stance that they are all the works of GOD inspired men, who wrote GOD-inspired messages! Why the differences, you ask? No one can know the mind of GOD, but the fact remains, HE knew each of us from the beginning of a time with no beginning. Each one of us has our steps in life, every effort, every work we perform, every action 'ordered' (put in sequence) by GOD who has loved each of HIS children from that same beginning of time in which there is no beginning.

We can quibble about differences and whose version is the correct version, to what end? My belief (since this is my paper) is they are all GOD-inspired for no other reason than to just simple challenge us, as Jesus did with parables and metaphors to the people and only revealed their meanings to HIS students (disciples) in private. I believe GOD still inspires those who write the 'new' versions, the 'new' translations throughout the centuries and HE's still at it today. Just as Mr. Scofield said, we need to view the entire panorama of the entire Bible, the 'true' messages hidden within. HE (GOD) would have us take interest in all versions, in all translations that we have access to, in an even larger overall view.

Life is not easy, so why would we consider the possibility that our 'instruction manual' GOD gives us, should be simple enough to be contained in only 'one' version, or 'one' book. We aren't to get hung up on the variations (which I am guilty of in my critique of 'The Unvarnished Gospels', I still exercise my GOD given gift of free will), but combine like chapters and verses from different versions and translations to reveal the "True Message" we are shown. As Jesus taught, when we have the Light, we should not hide it, but share it with others. In the last book of the New Testament, we are told no one is to add or subtract from the Scriptures. If taken literally, there are a lot of scholars and translators in deep trouble. That isn't what 'my' GOD wants. That's why HE sent HIS Son to walk among us, salvation..... That's what HE wants for us all. The different variations are to be read together as a whole just as one Bible should be read in its' entirety to get the full impact of its' messages. As to the parables and metaphors Jesus quoted, appear to be intended for those who were 1) needy enough i.e. the poor. 2) intellectual enough to grasp their meanings. 3) pre-destined by GOD to receive the messages. We can speculate but in the final Quiz, only GOD knows HIS reasons. Bottom line seems to be: If you don't understand the parable or metaphor, it probably wasn't yours to be had, for whatever reason GOD may have.

Many translators of the New Testament, along with papers by various scholars hold to the opinion stated in this text that John was 'Too poetic'. There again a judgmental stance. That he sounds like a 'traveling story teller. What were Jesus' students(disciples) when they were sent out in twos to spread the "Good News" with no provisions, no texts to read from, everything they needed provided by GOD? They were just that, 'traveling story tellers' with the additional fact being their story was true, and their messages were of a life and death decision for the people., salvation and all that Jesus taught that came to Him from the FATHER, or eternal death, separation from GOD. The lessons being valuable life lessons that were ignored by pagans, gentiles and many jews alike, (e.g. Love: Forgiveness; Good Works (being fruitful); To ignore the treasures of the earth; to focus on the treasures in heaven; Hope and Faith all head the list of what pleases our FATHER in heaven, all desired for HIS creations to possess. GOD is Spirit, to have GOD come into our life and have his indwelling in each of HIS children, we too must be Spiritual creations. It has been said that The Kingdom of GOD is within us, as are the answers to all of our questions, is all we have to do is open our hearts to Jesus, and to love GOD through the LIVING sacrifice of HIS Son..........loving Jesus.........so simple........so loving.........so forgiving.......so simple.

How do these "lessons" from GOD through Jesus affect us today? How does their meanings relate to my life? And where do they penetrate society? Those words spoken by Jesus to the people over 2000 years ago, spoken to Jews and Gentiles alike, still possess their sting, their comfort, their warmth of a loving GOD today, if we heed the lessons and apply them "Love your neighbor as you do yourself". We do have to apply them, not just on Sunday with a profession riddled with 'show' for others, then oggle their neighbors wife the rest of the week. These lessons, many I've practiced without hesitation, others with some difficulty, and shamefully some not as I should, have taught me several important things in life. I've seen the result of prayer, when 'correctly' offered, answered in GOD's own time (even though time is something man has adopted, not GOD, Who can't have any attachments of time in HIS Kingdom). Sometimes the answer to my prayers has been "No", not what I wanted to hear, but I do realize our FATHER in heaven knows what we need and what we're going to ask for before we do, but always it's for our best interest like any doting FATHER. How do these lessons penetrate our society today? A current example is the outpouring of help, aid and rescue operations during 9/11, and more recently the hurricanes that devastatingly came ashore. Our GOD is alive and well and in full action over HIS creations. We have but to pause and listen to our hearts (another good research subject: heart and soul). HE's right there. Unfortunately, I personally see the corruption, the anti-Jew and anti-Minority movements and attitudes spreading like wild fire. Only GOD knows why. My answer to that is...I...don't...know. On the other side of the coin I see many church congregations and out-reach programs working so hard to help the needy in the inner city. We must maintain our faith and pray constantly for a reversal of the negative that thrives in the inner city also.

Jesus, in the text of this course, has been portrayed as being angry, frustrated, fearful, running away like an 8 year old child, I believe was the line......etc. I have great difficulty believing that the Jesus I've fallen in love with, and who is fully GOD and fully man, who existed from the same beginning without a beginning, with the FATHER, and the Breath of GOD (Holy Spirit; Holy Ghost), would have any reason to fear man, as He has told us to not fear the one that destroys the body only, fear the ONE who can kill the body and soul. Are we to fear GOD? I find no difficulty in believing GOD loves me enough to create me, a spirit with a body, and fear HIM (awe) at the same time. My parents who have already passed, loved me and my brother, yet we feared them because of their strict corrections born out of that love.

Through out the entire course, reference after reference alluded to Karma, or what goes around comes around is the common reference, e.g. in the Scripture writings (again paraphrased) 'if you have a problem with your brother, leave the alter, make things right with your brother, then return and make your offering; or the Golden Rule; love your neighbor as yourself. Judge not least ye be judged.' Was Jesus here to judge? He said "I came into the world not to judge (condemn) but to save it" In the end days we will all stand in front of the Great White Throne.

Here is another side note pertaining to the topic that Jesus appeared to only teach to those who were ready to 'hear'. Don't waste your time teaching those that already know or those who don't want to 'hear'. "Don't cast pearls before swine...". Did people understand (hear) Jesus' "Judge not....." as a teaching of forgiveness that is born of love and not intimidation. A case of Karma.

Another thought on Jesus' teaching (lessons) penetrating our society, is the known fact that if our belief system is based on a foundation of truth, love and hope, everything that stems from that will be strong and firm, which it is in every pocket (congregation) or group of believers joined together with one purpose, for the Glory of GOD and united as the Body of Christ.

Jesus' occasions of His ability to heal from Gospel to Gospel has two objectives apparent. 1) to give Glory to the FATHER, and 2) to ensure the sick and dying possessed true faith, which was the ingredient required for the healing to take place. The variances between descriptions of these incidents is of no import, if you understand the point of their presence in the text. All of Jesus' healings required that "Faith" admission be made from the person being healed or by someone closely associated to the sick person if they were unable to speak for themselves.

The comment was made that the people who happened upon this "Rebel" of a Jew, feared Him. This is not so unusual, as it has been throughout man's history and nature to fear what is new, different and unknown. Ignorance feeds fear. This is probably another reason Jesus spoke in metaphors and parables, those that would 'hear' probably were those who were least afraid of change and something or someone new and different.

What are we guaranteed of? The real beauty of Spirit, is there are no lies. If we speak up for Jesus and His teachings on earth, He will speak up for us in heaven before the FATHER. Deny Jesus here and He'll deny us in heaven. Jesus' wants true believers. He wants those who freely and without hesitation will give up their life for Him, and not those who believe as long as it doesn't cost them anything. If we are true believers that recognize the truth......that the Kingdom of GOD (the Light) resides in us, the Light can be seen in our eyes. If it doesn't show there, then all that exists in that person is loneliness and desolation. If the Light does reside in that person, great is their reward on the spiritual level.

Jesus in some gospels tells the person healed not to tell anyone who healed Him, why? Jesus knows the hearts and character of men (as shown repeatedly when He would hear what others were 'thinking). He was counting on the fact probably, that they would tell more people more quickly than if He had told them to tell everyone they knew, a human characteristic that 'occasionally' arises. Motivation? I'm not sure yet, other than in later Gospel passages Jesus says He does the FATHER's work in the open.

I found this next idea in the course text amusing, when the conclusion was drawn from Jesus' metaphor of the farmer sowing seeds, to be able to say "This is the basis of our judicial system. Better to let 1000 criminals go free than to convict one innocent." But not today, personally speaking, convictions are at an all time high and include the poor who can't afford representation, the mentally retarded incarcerated with all others without adequate care, both receiving a guilty conviction with the truth being the farthest thing from the mind of the judicial system. What is the focus of our judicial system today, you ask? It's very obvious not to weed out the good from the bad. It is however Satan’s old standby to steal souls and it works quite well. I'm sorry to say it's money. Bonus' given for convictions (so the poor and helpless who can't afford adequate counsel, are easy marks for plea bargains and that all mighty dollar for convicting not another human but just a body for bucks) and Federal Grants for more prisons justified by facts like local jails operating at 150% of their capacity to receive MONEY for more prisons and jails and jobs. So which is the cause? Either Satan is winning and stealing more souls or Jesus is failing to find ' workers' to harvest the fruit that is in abundance. I'm of the camp that believes Jesus will be the victor. Our so called "Judicial System" is a big money business and it doesn't matter whether you're innocent or guilty, maybe just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Let me be clear on this point. There are many who work in the judicial system who are of the mind they are making a difference in our system. That what they do, is removing Satan's soldiers from the streets, all with no regard for their salaries, which is indicative of Public Defenders Office who are over worked and the only saving grace, besides Jesus, that the poor, retarded or innocent have. To them, thank you.

Jesus was accused, in the course text of being 'spiteful' when he made the fig tree dry up. Is the intent of this passage made to show the person of Jesus, who is fully man and fully Deity, is capable of letting His human side rule over His Dieity side and loose His temper? I have great difficulty in believing Jesus would "loose His temper" particularly over something as insignificant as a fruitless fig tree. The compassionate, loving Jesus I've come to know would display infinite patience with everyone. He came to earth to be the WAY to our FATHER in heaven, our salvation.

We then see mention again the two great commandments always worth mentioning. 1) To love the FATHER with our whole being. 2) To love others as we love ourselves. Again alluding to Karma?

I'm of the opinion of the parable of the old wine skins and the new wine, that Jesus was implying exactly what would happen when the new (New Covenant) is put among the old (Jewish Pharisees), resulting in something giving way. Fulfilling prophesy, Jesus' work overshadowed the Law but didn't abolish it. He celebrated all the Jewish holidays. He did effect a change from a "legalist" approach, to one of "Grace". As spirits in bodies we are equal before Jesus and equal before all people. In light of that fact we shouldn't hesitate to "wash our brothers and sisters feet".

We read that Jesus cried out asking why the FATHER had forsaken Him on the cross. At this juncture, I accept the premise that the human side of Jesus did in fact overpowered the control and serenity of the Jesus Deity, when taken into account the immense, and unfathomable pain He was being subjected to. (So intense to cover the sins of all mankind that in all probability, as the legions of angels wept, FATHER GOD, in HIS anguish had to turn away-opinion). The question has been raised why He died so quickly when crucifixion of a human took 2-3 days before they died. From my research on this subject, briefly, I'm of the opinion, that by the intensity of the wounds that were inflicted upon Him by His tormentors, as described in Lee Strobel's book, "The Case For Christ", the ferociousness of His attackers and then the subjection to being 'nailed' to the cross (normally those sentenced were tied with ropes), the extreme damage to His frail body, was damage that no ordinary human could have withstood as long as Jesus did. Spiritually, He still new His purpose, and that should not be overlooked, His ultimate destination.......back to the FATHER! HOME! I also believe He suffered just enough to pay all 'mankind's tab' and then there most assuredly was intercession by the FATHER. What Father could refrain from interceding in the intense sufferings of His only Son if within His power to stop it. I would take odds not a single Father would hesitate to intervene. GOD just simply GAVE us our salvation.......HE said "Here's my Son......He's your salvation....it's FREE.............is all I require is that you believe in Him......nothing else, just BELEIVE!" So Jesus expired when the bill was paid and His work completed. On the third day, and forty, He ascended to the FATHER, back home! All of our homes, eventually.

Another note before the main topic of my essay which I've chosen to be the Book of Thomas. At the crucifixion and death of Jesus, simultaneously, the huge curtain in the tabernacle was torn in two from the top to the bottom. In thetabernacle, only the priests were allowed to go behind the curtain that separated the people from GOD. When Jesus died with all of our sins draining His precious blood from His frail body, we were instantly given a High Priest, an advocate to the FATHER, if you will. So the torn separator, the curtain, signified to the people that they were no longer considered to be separated from GOD. Jesus paid the price for our transgressions. He became the open doorway directly to the FATHER and guaranteed salvation just for loving and believing in HIS Son. GOD loves us and wants a loving relationship with us. As I said previously, the Kingdom of GOD now resides in every true believer, of HIS Son, as does the all the answers to all of our questions. We have but to listen......He's there, in our hearts. Faith cannot be hidden. Truth cannot be hidden.

If you don't see yourself and others as spirits in bodies, what we truly are, how can you expect to be one with GOD, Who is SPIRIT also. People don't like change even if it's to their benefit. Change is not safe. It is uncomfortable. They resist it as much as possible. So for a non-believer to truly come to Jesus, is a great leap of faith, but His love and the love of the FATHER, relieve the fear of the experience in a heartbeat.

I can't forget a couple items about the Book of John before I go any farther. In this book we hear of Jesus 'taking some glory for Himself". People who judge those actions with a questionable view are forgetting a very important point. Jesus and the FATHER (and the Breath of GOD) are all existing in an eternal unity. GOD is in Jesus and Jesus is in the FATHER. So it follows that Jesus taking credit for His works for His own glory, is still GLORY for the FATHER.

"What's mine is mine, and what's yours is yours" can't exist if you keep the unity of the Trinity in mind, and again quit quibbling over insignificant details that I believe the FATHER did not intend for us to do. There's also the accusation that Jesus 'ran' away from some tormentors he met in areas where He was not received with open arms. It states He ran away 'like an 8 year old child'. That's not even close to being logical or an accurate description of the characteristic of the Savior. He had nothing to fear. He knew His purpose for being on earth and He knew it wasn't His time yet. So what is the rationale of Him supposedly running away like a child. Personally, I read that sentence and felt a little upset that the thought of Jesus even fearing men for a moment was even possible, much less like a 'child'. The Divine Architect of all creation,(in a more reasonable possibility, if Jesus didn't execute His escape from the angry mobs on His own), facilitated HIS Son's retreat HIMSELF. If we're going to speculate, since no one actually knows, I believe in a more logical light and probability, He walked away from the crowds in a casual walk, no fear. He was safe. His time hadn't come yet, so why would He run?

Referring back to the statement that the author of the Book of John sounded 'too' poetic, casting doubts on the accuracy of John saying he sounded like a traveling storyteller. I would like to reiterate the fact that I hold as truth. All the Disciples(students) Jesus sent out by twos to spread the Good News, relying on GOD alone for all their needs, were essentially just that, traveling storytellers. Entering briefly in the mist of this discussion, re-enters the topic of fear again. That was a very crude, hard and dangerous times that Jesus and His Disciples lived in. They were more possibly concerned with survival, than in making each story they told and retold, matching from town to town. The message was there, but the details varied because they had no written script they could draw from, which fuels the arguments man enters into about the problem of the differences between the Four Gospels, proving or disproving the credibility. Okay, I'm finished.

A point I would also like to cover is the type of people that were drawn to Jesus and His teachings. I would venture to say that besides attracting those who became the true believers, He most likely encountered people who just plain liked the idea of 'living forever'......that's all. These people, in wanting to live forever and that's all, were (are) exhibiting a desire of the body only. Our true nature, spirit, already will live forever, most certainly because of just being 'true believers'. Jesus came to us to provide salvation from eternal separation from the FATHER, an eternal hell. Salvation, the FATHER'S Grace (gift) through Jesus, and forgiveness, with Jesus paying the 'tab'.

The topic of Grace is only briefly inferred in the Four Gospels and really doesn't take it's place in the scriptures until the Book of Acts. The Breath of GOD that is an equal part of the Holy Trinity (Triune Spirit of GOD) sees a lot of action in the Gospels as well as the Epistles and Pauline writings.

The "Comforter", "Breath of GOD" or "Holy Spirit", we're told couldn't come to earth to be with us, to man, until Christ's work was completed, perfected, His crucifixion and three days in hell until His resurrection, His glorification and ascension into heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD. Then and only then, after He ascends to heaven does the Breath of GOD, the Comforter descend to His students (Disciples) on Pentecost, not before.

In closing on my comments centered on the Four Gospels, I would like to point out a statement in the closing text of the course, where it states 'Jesus was grandstanding' at the end of the Book of John! That constitutes an insult and attack on who Jesus is, no matter whether you're a true Christian or a non-believer. Jesus, because of who He is, is the last person that would ever need to 'pump up His ego', for the benefit of Himself or anyone. That statement actually baffles me. Was Jesus 'grandstanding' when He stayed where He was for two extra days before answering the request of the sisters, Martha and Mary, concerning their dying brother, Lazarus, before He went to them? Finding, when He arrived Lazarus, whom Jesus loved (this passage also contains, for those who don't know, the shortest verse in the Bible, John 11:35......"Jesus wept") was already entombed for several days. I'm of the opinion He hesitated on purpose, so He could raise Lazarus from the dead 'to the Glory of The FATHER and HIS edification." Someone asked me why Jesus told Mary and Martha and those in attendance to "remove the stone from the door of the tomb", when He, having all the powers of the FATHER, didn't just move it Himself? I believe this is a great point for discussion. My belief here is, we find a subtle lesson for all mankind, but is most certainly overlooked. Jesus wants us to do what we are capable of ourselves, not relying on the works of others as we stand by and watch. If we can accomplish a deed as a result of our own abilities, why should we pray for favors that we are capable of ourselves.

Now to the topic I chose (finally!), that interested me most, the extra chapters the course I received, The Book of Thomas. In 1945, in a digging in the sands near Nag Hammadi, Egypt, a stone jar was uncovered containing numerous papyrus manuscripts now called the Nag Hammadi Library. They are composed of 13 books containing 52 texts. Most display an esoteric, mystical movement termed Gnosticism. Gnostic Christians challenged the existing authorities, priests and bishops. They believed that a Spiritual Gnostic life devoted to a Spiritual Gnostic Christ allowed them direct access to approach and embrace GOD directly. Four of the most outstanding documents of the Nag Hammadi Library are 1) The Secret Book of James 2) The Gospel of Thomas 3) The Book of Thomas 4) The secret Book of John. The word 'Gnostic' comes from the Greek word gnosis; meaning knowledge. The Book of Thomas is claimed to be a list of sayings from Jesus as told to His reported twin brother Didymus Judas Thomas and recorded by Mathias (Mathew?). (For a vigorous discussion on whether Jesus had any siblings at all, bring the subject up to a Capuchen Catholic Priest). Most if not all, are determined to have been written as late as 140 A.D..

Why is the Book of Thomas considered Gnostic and not another Gospel? The first reason is basically because the Book's rejection by the Church as authentic. The second reason, by the dual definition of Gnostic, questions arise as to what Jesus was implying in the book to His claimed twin brother. First; The Book of Thomas is Gnostic if the origins are of a people who believe, as previously mentioned, that have a divine capacity within themselves that they can believe the Kingdom of GOD is already upon the earth giving them direct access to GOD. It's not considered Gnostic if the assumption is taken that it is in accord with the Gnostic Religion which the Nag Hammadi Library texts are based, a religion that differentiates the GOD of this world (the Jewish GOD) from a higher more abstract GOD. If this is the case then the Book of Thomas is not Gnostic. In any case the Church holds to their belief that it's a 2nd or 3rd century manuscript of heresy, to late in date with very little historical value in regards to Jesus. It will never be accepted into the Bible, because the subject has been closed, due to the biblical canon being formally closed from any debate. The Book of Thomas has sparked a new interest in other "Lost Books of the Bible", as another research topic.

I've discovered the following:
1) "The Secret Teachings of Jesus; Four Gnostic Gospels; translated by Marvin Meyers, which includes a) "The Secret Book of James"; b) "The Gospel of Thomas"; c) "The Book of Thomas"; d) "The Secret Book of John".
2) "The Gospel of Thomas; Hidden Sayings of Jesus"; Translated by Marvin Meyer.
3) "The Nag Hammadi Library"; Translated by James Robinson.
4) "The Gnostic Scriptures"; Translated by Bentley Layton.
5) "The Lost Gospel: The Book of Q; and Christian Origins"; Translated by Burton L. Mack.
The Book of Thomas has sparked a 'life long' interest in me. There is enough written on the subject to hold anyone's interest for quite awhile if so inclined. In contrast, during a conversation with a local pastor, he remarked "I read somewhere the Book of Thomas is heresy and worthless, not worthy of any time spent in it. If you really want to get to know Jesus our Savior, buy yourself a good Bible". Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

Conclusion: "The Unvarnished Gospels" or any Biblical Books are not to be read as a three or four night read, upon retiring to put you to sleep. Any Bible deserves "study" not just read. They are and always will be a living, eternal, instructive entity that shouts out to be read over and over while applying Jesus' (and therefore GOD's) plan for the way we are to treat our brothers, sisters and ourselves while we are temporarily housed on earth (to 'practice' our lessons). We can never
cease to learn from them. Once Jesus has become (is) the Illumination, the Light, within us, we begin to burn for more and more, and to share it with others.

My favorite passage from the course is; "GOD's love doesn't need to be proven. It just is."

--Reverend Kipper T. Rowen

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Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Confusion in Religion

Universal Life Church Seminary

I can certainly echo those sentiments as they relate to confusion in religion.

I believe that like every other religion on Earth, Christianity is flavored and influenced by a multitude of factors:
Region, Culture, Tradition, social standards, interpretation of religious scripture, and individual spiritual focus.

"A pound is a pound the world around", does not necessarily apply to religious consistency. Much like the different types of Buddhism that have been influenced by important people or cultures through the years, so has Christianity. And Christianity also has an amazing range of beliefs for being based on similar scriptures and literature. The beliefs range from peaceful and accepting, to hateful and bigoted. Much like everything else in the world, our success depends upon our own best interpretation of what is right...not what is right in Reality.

Imagine Truth to be a candle in the middle of a room...It is solitary, independent, needing nothing. It stands under it's own weight and on it's own merits. Now, imagine that our interpretation is the precise distance and angle that we see the candle from. How bright or dim, how real or imagined it is will be based on your own cognizance of it. The candle does not change, it is up to us to move around the candle and examine it from all sides, from near and far, to have not a vision of truth...but a scope of it.

Now blow the candle out, and flip on a light switch, you're scaring me.

Good discussion.

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My name is Rev. Amy Long and I've been a minister with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since its inception. I've been a member of ULC for many years and my site has created a terrific ULC Forum. We also have the most extensive catalog of Universal Life Church materials.