Changes

==PAPER 153: THE CRISIS AT CAPERNAUM==

==PAPER 153: THE CRISIS AT CAPERNAUM==

153:0.1 On Friday evening, the day of their arrival at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], and on [[Sabbath]] morning, [[the apostles]] noticed that [[Jesus]] was seriously occupied with some momentous [[problem]]; they were cognizant that [[the Master]] was giving unusual [[thought]] to some important matter. He ate no breakfast and but little at noontide. All of [[Sabbath]] morning and the evening before, [[the twelve]] and their [[associates]] were gathered [[together]] in small [[groups]] about the house, in the [[garden]], and along the seashore. There was a [[tension]] of [[uncertainty]] and a [[suspense]] of [[apprehension]] resting upon all of them. [[Jesus]] had said little to them since they left [[Jerusalem]].

153:0.1 On Friday evening, the day of their arrival at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], and on [[Sabbath]] morning, [[the apostles]] noticed that [[Jesus]] was seriously occupied with some momentous [[problem]]; they were cognizant that [[the Master]] was giving unusual [[thought]] to some important matter. He ate no breakfast and but little at noontide. All of [[Sabbath]] morning and the evening before, [[the twelve]] and their [[associates]] were gathered [[together]] in small [[groups]] about the house, in the [[garden]], and along the seashore. There was a [[tension]] of [[uncertainty]] and a [[suspense]] of [[apprehension]] resting upon all of them. [[Jesus]] had said little to them since they left [[Jerusalem]].

153:0.2 Not in months had they seen [[the Master]] so preoccupied and uncommunicative. Even [[Simon Peter]] was [[depressed]], if not downcast. [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] was at a loss to know what to do for his dejected associates. [[Nathaniel]] said they were in the midst of the " lull before the storm. " [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] [[expressed]] the [[opinion]] that " something out of the ordinary is about to happen. " [[Philip, the Apostle|Philip]] advised [[David Zebedee]] to " forget about [[plans]] for feeding and lodging [[the multitude]] until we know what [[the Master]] is [[thinking]] about. " [[Matthew, the Apostle|Matthew]] was putting forth renewed [[efforts]] to replenish the [[treasury]]. [[James, the Apostle|James]] and [[John, the Apostle|John]] talked over the forthcoming [[sermon]] in the [[synagogue]] and [[speculated]] much as to its probable [[nature]] and scope. [[Simon Zelotes]] [[expressed]] the [[belief]], in [[reality]] a [[hope]], that " [[the Father]] in heaven may be about to [[intervene]] in some unexpected [[manner]] for the [[vindication]] and [[support]] of [[Creator Son|his Son]], " while [[Judas Iscariot]] [[dared]] to indulge the thought that possibly [[Jesus]] was oppressed with [[regret]]s that " he did not have the [[courage]] and daring to [[permit]] the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:3._THE_KING-MAKING_EPISODE five thousand] to [[proclaim]] him [[king]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]. "

153:0.2 Not in months had they seen [[the Master]] so preoccupied and uncommunicative. Even [[Simon Peter]] was [[depressed]], if not downcast. [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] was at a loss to know what to do for his dejected associates. [[Nathaniel]] said they were in the midst of the " lull before the storm. " [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] [[expressed]] the [[opinion]] that " something out of the ordinary is about to happen. " [[Philip, the Apostle|Philip]] advised [[David Zebedee]] to " forget about [[plans]] for feeding and lodging [[the multitude]] until we know what [[the Master]] is [[thinking]] about. " [[Matthew, the Apostle|Matthew]] was putting forth renewed [[efforts]] to replenish the [[treasury]]. [[James, the Apostle|James]] and [[John, the Apostle|John]] talked over the forthcoming [[sermon]] in the [[synagogue]] and [[speculated]] much as to its probable [[nature]] and scope. [[Simon Zelotes]] [[expressed]] the [[belief]], in [[reality]] a [[hope]], that " [[the Father]] in heaven may be about to [[intervene]] in some unexpected [[manner]] for the [[vindication]] and [[support]] of [[Creator Son|his Son]], " while [[Judas Iscariot]] [[dared]] to indulge the thought that possibly [[Jesus]] was oppressed with [[regret]]s that " he did not have the [[courage]] and daring to [[permit]] the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:3._THE_KING-MAKING_EPISODE five thousand] to [[proclaim]] him [[king]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]. "

153:0.3 It was from among such a [[group]] of [[depressed]] and disconsolate followers that [[Jesus]] went forth on this [[beautiful]] [[Sabbath]] afternoon to [[preach]] his [[epoch]]-making [[sermon]] in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]]. The only [[word]] of [[cheerful]] greeting or well-wishing from any of his [[immediate]] followers came from one of the unsuspecting [[Alpheus twins]], who, as [[Jesus]] left the house on his way to the [[synagogue]], [[salute]]d him [[cheer]]ily and said: " We [[pray]] [[the Father]] will help you, and that we may have bigger multitudes than ever. "

153:0.3 It was from among such a [[group]] of [[depressed]] and disconsolate followers that [[Jesus]] went forth on this [[beautiful]] [[Sabbath]] afternoon to [[preach]] his [[epoch]]-making [[sermon]] in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]]. The only [[word]] of [[cheerful]] greeting or well-wishing from any of his [[immediate]] followers came from one of the unsuspecting [[Alpheus twins]], who, as [[Jesus]] left the house on his way to the [[synagogue]], [[salute]]d him [[cheer]]ily and said: " We [[pray]] [[the Father]] will help you, and that we may have bigger multitudes than ever. "

==153:1. THE SETTING OF THE STAGE==

==153:1. THE SETTING OF THE STAGE==

153:1.1 A distinguished congregation greeted [[Jesus]] at three o'clock on this exquisite [[Sabbath]] afternoon in the new [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]]. Jairus presided and handed [[Jesus]] the [[Scriptures]] to [[read]]. The day before, fifty-three [[Pharisees]] and [[Sadducees]] had arrived from [[Jerusalem]]; more than thirty of the [[leaders]] and rulers of the [[neighbor]]ing [[synagogues]] were also present. These Jewish [[religious]] [[leaders]] were [[acting]] directly under orders from the [[Sanhedrin]] at [[Jerusalem]], and they constituted the [[orthodox]] vanguard which had come to [[inaugurate]] open [[warfare]] on [[Jesus]] and his [[disciples]]. Sitting by the side of these Jewish [[leaders]], in the [[synagogue]] seats of [[honor]], were the official [[Spies|observers]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod Antipas], who had been directed to ascertain the [[truth]] concerning the disturbing reports that an attempt had been made by the [[Public|populace]] to [[proclaim]] [[Jesus]] the [[king]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews], over in the [[domains]] of his brother [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_the_Tetrarch Philip].

153:1.1 A distinguished congregation greeted [[Jesus]] at three o'clock on this exquisite [[Sabbath]] afternoon in the new [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]]. Jairus presided and handed [[Jesus]] the [[Scriptures]] to [[read]]. The day before, fifty-three [[Pharisees]] and [[Sadducees]] had arrived from [[Jerusalem]]; more than thirty of the [[leaders]] and rulers of the [[neighbor]]ing [[synagogues]] were also present. These Jewish [[religious]] [[leaders]] were [[acting]] directly under orders from the [[Sanhedrin]] at [[Jerusalem]], and they constituted the [[orthodox]] vanguard which had come to [[inaugurate]] open [[warfare]] on [[Jesus]] and his [[disciples]]. Sitting by the side of these Jewish [[leaders]], in the [[synagogue]] seats of [[honor]], were the official [[Spies|observers]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod Antipas], who had been directed to ascertain the [[truth]] concerning the disturbing reports that an attempt had been made by the [[Public|populace]] to [[proclaim]] [[Jesus]] the [[king]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews], over in the [[domains]] of his brother [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_the_Tetrarch Philip].

153:1.2 [[Jesus]] [[comprehended]] that he faced the [[immediate]] [[declaration]] of avowed and open [[warfare]] by his increasing [[enemies]], and he elected boldly to [[assume]] the offensive. At the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand] he had [[challenged]] their [[ideas]] of the [[material]] [[Messiah]]; now he chose again openly to [[attack]] their [[concept]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism Jewish deliverer]. This [[crisis]], which began with the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand], and which terminated with this [[Sabbath]] afternoon [[sermon]], was the outward turning of the [[tide]] of [[popular]] [[fame]] and acclaim. Henceforth, the [[work]] of [[the kingdom]] was to be increasingly concerned with the more important task of winning lasting [[spiritual]] [[converts]] for the truly [[religious]] brotherhood of mankind. This [[sermon]] marks the [[crisis]] in the [[transition]] from the period of [[discussion]], [[controversy]], and [[decision]] to that of open [[warfare]] and final [[acceptance]] or final [[rejection]].

153:1.2 [[Jesus]] [[comprehended]] that he faced the [[immediate]] [[declaration]] of avowed and open [[warfare]] by his increasing [[enemies]], and he elected boldly to [[assume]] the offensive. At the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand] he had [[challenged]] their [[ideas]] of the [[material]] [[Messiah]]; now he chose again openly to [[attack]] their [[concept]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism Jewish deliverer]. This [[crisis]], which began with the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand], and which terminated with this [[Sabbath]] afternoon [[sermon]], was the outward turning of the [[tide]] of [[popular]] [[fame]] and acclaim. Henceforth, the [[work]] of [[the kingdom]] was to be increasingly concerned with the more important task of winning lasting [[spiritual]] [[converts]] for the truly [[religious]] brotherhood of mankind. This [[sermon]] marks the [[crisis]] in the [[transition]] from the period of [[discussion]], [[controversy]], and [[decision]] to that of open [[warfare]] and final [[acceptance]] or final [[rejection]].

153:1.3 [[The Master]] well knew that many of his followers were slowly but surely [[preparing]] their [[minds]] finally to [[reject]] him. He likewise knew that many of his [[disciples]] were slowly but certainly passing through that [[training]] of [[mind]] and that [[discipline]] of [[soul]] which would enable them to [[triumph]] over [[doubt]] and [[courageously]] to assert their full-fledged [[faith]] in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Jesus]] fully [[understood]] how men [[prepare]] themselves for the [[decisions]] of a [[crisis]] and the [[performance]] of sudden [[deeds]] of [[courageous]] [[choosing]] by the slow [[process]] of the [[reiterated]] choosing between the recurring situations of [[good]] and [[evil]]. He subjected his [[chosen]] [[messengers]] to repeated [[rehearsal]]s in [[disappointment]] and provided them with frequent and testing [[opportunities]] for [[choosing]] between the [[right]] and the [[wrong]] way of meeting [[spiritual]] [[trials]]. He knew he could depend on his followers, when they met the final test, to make their [[vital]] [[decisions]] in [[accordance]] with prior and [[habitual]] [[mental]] [[attitudes]] and [[spirit]] [[reactions]].

153:1.3 [[The Master]] well knew that many of his followers were slowly but surely [[preparing]] their [[minds]] finally to [[reject]] him. He likewise knew that many of his [[disciples]] were slowly but certainly passing through that [[training]] of [[mind]] and that [[discipline]] of [[soul]] which would enable them to [[triumph]] over [[doubt]] and [[courageously]] to assert their full-fledged [[faith]] in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Jesus]] fully [[understood]] how men [[prepare]] themselves for the [[decisions]] of a [[crisis]] and the [[performance]] of sudden [[deeds]] of [[courageous]] [[choosing]] by the slow [[process]] of the [[reiterated]] choosing between the recurring situations of [[good]] and [[evil]]. He subjected his [[chosen]] [[messengers]] to repeated [[rehearsal]]s in [[disappointment]] and provided them with frequent and testing [[opportunities]] for [[choosing]] between the [[right]] and the [[wrong]] way of meeting [[spiritual]] [[trials]]. He knew he could depend on his followers, when they met the final test, to make their [[vital]] [[decisions]] in [[accordance]] with prior and [[habitual]] [[mental]] [[attitudes]] and [[spirit]] [[reactions]].

153:1.5 As they sat there in the [[synagogue]] that afternoon before [[Jesus]] began to speak, there was just one great [[mystery]], just one [[supreme]] question, in the [[minds]] of all. Both his [[friends]] and his foes [[pondered]] just one [[thought]], and that was: " Why did he himself so [[deliberately]] and [[effectively]] turn back the [[tide]] of [[popular]] [[enthusiasm]]? " And it was [[immediately]] before and immediately after this [[sermon]] that the [[doubts]] and [[disappointments]] of his disgruntled [[adherents]] grew into [[unconscious]] [[opposition]] and [[eventually]] turned into [[actual]] [[hatred]]. It was after this [[sermon]] in the [[synagogue]] that [[Judas Iscariot]] entertained his first [[conscious]] [[thought]] of deserting. But he did, for the [[time]] being, effectively master all such inclinations.

153:1.5 As they sat there in the [[synagogue]] that afternoon before [[Jesus]] began to speak, there was just one great [[mystery]], just one [[supreme]] question, in the [[minds]] of all. Both his [[friends]] and his foes [[pondered]] just one [[thought]], and that was: " Why did he himself so [[deliberately]] and [[effectively]] turn back the [[tide]] of [[popular]] [[enthusiasm]]? " And it was [[immediately]] before and immediately after this [[sermon]] that the [[doubts]] and [[disappointments]] of his disgruntled [[adherents]] grew into [[unconscious]] [[opposition]] and [[eventually]] turned into [[actual]] [[hatred]]. It was after this [[sermon]] in the [[synagogue]] that [[Judas Iscariot]] entertained his first [[conscious]] [[thought]] of deserting. But he did, for the [[time]] being, effectively master all such inclinations.

153:1.6 Everyone was in a [[state]] of [[perplexity]]. [[Jesus]] had left them dumfounded and confounded. He had recently [[engaged]] in the greatest [[demonstration]] of [[supernatural]] [[power]] to characterize his whole [[career]]. The [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand] was the one [[event]] of his [[earth]] life which made the greatest [[appeal]] to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism Jewish concept of the expected Messiah]. But this extraordinary [[advantage]] was [[immediately]] and unexplainedly offset by his prompt and unequivocal refusal to be made [[king]].

153:1.6 Everyone was in a [[state]] of [[perplexity]]. [[Jesus]] had left them dumfounded and confounded. He had recently [[engaged]] in the greatest [[demonstration]] of [[supernatural]] [[power]] to characterize his whole [[career]]. The [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feeding of the five thousand] was the one [[event]] of his [[earth]] life which made the greatest [[appeal]] to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism Jewish concept of the expected Messiah]. But this extraordinary [[advantage]] was [[immediately]] and unexplainedly offset by his prompt and unequivocal refusal to be made [[king]].

153:1.7 On Friday evening, and again on [[Sabbath]] morning, the [[Jerusalem]] [[leaders]] had labored long and [[earnestly]] with Jairus to [[prevent]] [[Jesus]]' [[speaking]] in the [[synagogue]], but it was of no avail. Jairus' only reply to all this pleading was: " I have granted this request, and I will not [[violate]] my [[word]]. "

153:1.7 On Friday evening, and again on [[Sabbath]] morning, the [[Jerusalem]] [[leaders]] had labored long and [[earnestly]] with Jairus to [[prevent]] [[Jesus]]' [[speaking]] in the [[synagogue]], but it was of no avail. Jairus' only reply to all this pleading was: " I have granted this request, and I will not [[violate]] my [[word]]. "

==153:2. THE EPOCHAL SERMON==

==153:2. THE EPOCHAL SERMON==

153:2.1 [[Jesus]] introduced this [[sermon]] by [[reading]] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] as found in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deuteronomy Deuteronomy]: " But it shall come to pass, if this people will not hearken to the [[voice]] of [[God]], that the [[curses]] of [[transgression]] shall surely overtake them. The Lord shall [[cause]] you to be smitten by your [[enemies]]; you shall be removed into all the kingdoms of the [[earth]]. And the Lord shall bring you and the [[king]] you have set up over you into the hands of a strange [[nation]]. You shall become an astonishment, a [[proverb]], and a byword among all nations. Your sons and your daughters shall go into [[captivity]]. The strangers among you shall rise high in [[authority]] while you are brought very low. And these things shall be upon you and your [[seed]] forever because you would not hearken to the [[word]] of the Lord. Therefore shall you serve your [[enemies]] who shall come against you. You shall [[endure]] [[hunger]] and [[thirst]] and wear this [[alien]] yoke of iron. The Lord shall bring against you a [[nation]] from afar, from the end of the [[earth]], a nation whose tongue you shall not [[understand]], a nation of fierce [[countenance]], a nation which will have little regard for you. And they shall [[besiege]] you in all your towns until the high [[fortified]] walls wherein you have [[trusted]] come down; and all the land shall fall into their hands. And it shall come to pass that you will be driven to eat the fruit of your own bodies, the [[flesh]] of your sons and daughters, during this time of [[siege]], because of the straitness wherewith your enemies shall press you. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deuteronomy#Chapter_.28]

153:2.1 [[Jesus]] introduced this [[sermon]] by [[reading]] from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] as found in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deuteronomy Deuteronomy]: " But it shall come to pass, if this people will not hearken to the [[voice]] of [[God]], that the [[curses]] of [[transgression]] shall surely overtake them. The Lord shall [[cause]] you to be smitten by your [[enemies]]; you shall be removed into all the kingdoms of the [[earth]]. And the Lord shall bring you and the [[king]] you have set up over you into the hands of a strange [[nation]]. You shall become an astonishment, a [[proverb]], and a byword among all nations. Your sons and your daughters shall go into [[captivity]]. The strangers among you shall rise high in [[authority]] while you are brought very low. And these things shall be upon you and your [[seed]] forever because you would not hearken to the [[word]] of the Lord. Therefore shall you serve your [[enemies]] who shall come against you. You shall [[endure]] [[hunger]] and [[thirst]] and wear this [[alien]] yoke of iron. The Lord shall bring against you a [[nation]] from afar, from the end of the [[earth]], a nation whose tongue you shall not [[understand]], a nation of fierce [[countenance]], a nation which will have little regard for you. And they shall [[besiege]] you in all your towns until the high [[fortified]] walls wherein you have [[trusted]] come down; and all the land shall fall into their hands. And it shall come to pass that you will be driven to eat the fruit of your own bodies, the [[flesh]] of your sons and daughters, during this time of [[siege]], because of the straitness wherewith your enemies shall press you. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deuteronomy#Chapter_.28]

153:2.2 And when [[Jesus]] had finished this [[reading]], he turned to [[Hebrew Prophets|the Prophets]] and [[read]] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah]: " `If you will not [[Listen|hearken]] to the [[words]] of my servants the [[prophets]] whom I have sent you, then will I make this house like [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiloh Shiloh], and I will make this [[city]] a [[curse]] to all the [[nations]] of the [[earth]].' And the [[priests]] and the [[teachers]] heard [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] speak these [[words]] in the house of the Lord. And it came to pass that, when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] had made an end of speaking all that the Lord had commanded him to [[speak]] to all the people, the [[priests]] and [[teachers]] laid hold of him, saying, `You shall surely [[die]].' And all the people crowded around [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] in the house of the Lord. And when the princes of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judah Judah] heard these things, they sat in [[judgment]] on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah]. Then spoke the [[priests]] and the [[teachers]] to the princes and to all the people, saying: `This man is worthy to [[die]], for he has [[prophesied]] against our [[city]], and you have heard him with your own ears.' Then spoke [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] to all the princes and to all the people: `The Lord sent me to [[prophesy]] against this house and against this [[city]] all the [[words]] which you have heard. Now, therefore, amend your ways and [[reform]] your [[doings]] and [[obey]] the [[voice]] of the Lord your [[God]] that you may [[escape]] the [[evil]] which has been pronounced against you. As for me, behold I am in your hands. Do with me as seems [[good]] and [[right]] in your eyes. But [[know]] you for certain that, if you put me to [[death]], you shall bring [[innocent]] [[blood]] upon yourselves and upon this people, for of a [[truth]] the Lord has sent me to speak all these [[words]] in your ears.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Jeremiah#Chapter_.26]

153:2.2 And when [[Jesus]] had finished this [[reading]], he turned to [[Hebrew Prophets|the Prophets]] and [[read]] from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah]: " `If you will not [[Listen|hearken]] to the [[words]] of my servants the [[prophets]] whom I have sent you, then will I make this house like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiloh Shiloh], and I will make this [[city]] a [[curse]] to all the [[nations]] of the [[earth]].' And the [[priests]] and the [[teachers]] heard [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] speak these [[words]] in the house of the Lord. And it came to pass that, when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] had made an end of speaking all that the Lord had commanded him to [[speak]] to all the people, the [[priests]] and [[teachers]] laid hold of him, saying, `You shall surely [[die]].' And all the people crowded around [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] in the house of the Lord. And when the princes of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judah Judah] heard these things, they sat in [[judgment]] on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah]. Then spoke the [[priests]] and the [[teachers]] to the princes and to all the people, saying: `This man is worthy to [[die]], for he has [[prophesied]] against our [[city]], and you have heard him with your own ears.' Then spoke [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah] to all the princes and to all the people: `The Lord sent me to [[prophesy]] against this house and against this [[city]] all the [[words]] which you have heard. Now, therefore, amend your ways and [[reform]] your [[doings]] and [[obey]] the [[voice]] of the Lord your [[God]] that you may [[escape]] the [[evil]] which has been pronounced against you. As for me, behold I am in your hands. Do with me as seems [[good]] and [[right]] in your eyes. But [[know]] you for certain that, if you put me to [[death]], you shall bring [[innocent]] [[blood]] upon yourselves and upon this people, for of a [[truth]] the Lord has sent me to speak all these [[words]] in your ears.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Jeremiah#Chapter_.26]

153:2.3 " The [[priests]] and [[teachers]] of that day sought to [[kill]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah], but the [[judges]] would not [[consent]], albeit, for his [[words]] of [[warning]], they did let him down by cords in a filthy [[dungeon]] until he sank in mire up to his armpits. That is what this people did to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Prophet Jeremiah] when he [[obeyed]] the Lord's command to warn his brethren of their impending [[political]] downfall. Today, I [[desire]] to ask you: What will the chief [[priests]] and religious [[leaders]] of this people do with the man who dares to warn them of the day of their [[spiritual]] [[doom]]? Will you also seek to put to [[death]] the [[teacher]] who [[dares]] to [[proclaim]] the [[word]] of the Lord, and who [[fears]] not to point out wherein you refuse to walk in the [[way]] of [[light]] which [[leads]] to the entrance to [[the kingdom]] of heaven?

153:2.3 " The [[priests]] and [[teachers]] of that day sought to [[kill]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Jeremiah], but the [[judges]] would not [[consent]], albeit, for his [[words]] of [[warning]], they did let him down by cords in a filthy [[dungeon]] until he sank in mire up to his armpits. That is what this people did to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah Prophet Jeremiah] when he [[obeyed]] the Lord's command to warn his brethren of their impending [[political]] downfall. Today, I [[desire]] to ask you: What will the chief [[priests]] and religious [[leaders]] of this people do with the man who dares to warn them of the day of their [[spiritual]] [[doom]]? Will you also seek to put to [[death]] the [[teacher]] who [[dares]] to [[proclaim]] the [[word]] of the Lord, and who [[fears]] not to point out wherein you refuse to walk in the [[way]] of [[light]] which [[leads]] to the entrance to [[the kingdom]] of heaven?

153:2.4 " What is it you seek as [[evidence]] of my [[mission]] on [[earth]]? We have left you undisturbed in your positions of [[influence]] and [[power]] while we [[preached]] glad tidings to the [[poor]] and the outcast. We have made no [[hostile]] [[attack]] upon that which you hold in [[reverence]] but have rather [[proclaimed]] new [[liberty]] for man's [[fear]]-ridden [[soul]]. I came into the world to [[reveal]] [[Universal Father|my Father]] and to [[establish]] on [[earth]] the [[spiritual]] brotherhood of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD sons of God], [[the kingdom]] of heaven. And notwithstanding that I have so many times reminded you that [[The Kingdom|my kingdom]] is not of this world, still has my [[Universal Father|Father]] granted you many [[manifestations]] of [[material]] [[wonders]] in addition to more [[evidential]] [[spiritual]] [[transformations]] and [[regenerations]].

153:2.4 " What is it you seek as [[evidence]] of my [[mission]] on [[earth]]? We have left you undisturbed in your positions of [[influence]] and [[power]] while we [[preached]] glad tidings to the [[poor]] and the outcast. We have made no [[hostile]] [[attack]] upon that which you hold in [[reverence]] but have rather [[proclaimed]] new [[liberty]] for man's [[fear]]-ridden [[soul]]. I came into the world to [[reveal]] [[Universal Father|my Father]] and to [[establish]] on [[earth]] the [[spiritual]] brotherhood of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD sons of God], [[the kingdom]] of heaven. And notwithstanding that I have so many times reminded you that [[The Kingdom|my kingdom]] is not of this world, still has my [[Universal Father|Father]] granted you many [[manifestations]] of [[material]] [[wonders]] in addition to more [[evidential]] [[spiritual]] [[transformations]] and [[regenerations]].

153:2.5 " What new [[sign]] is it that you seek at my hands? I [[declare]] that you already have sufficient [[evidence]] to enable you to make your [[decision]]. Verily, verily, I say to many who sit before me this day, you are [[confronted]] with the [[necessity]] of [[choosing]] which way you will go; and I say to you, as [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua Joshua] said to your [[forefathers]], `choose you this day whom you will serve.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Joshua#Chapter__.24] Today, many of you stand at the [[parting of the ways]].

153:2.5 " What new [[sign]] is it that you seek at my hands? I [[declare]] that you already have sufficient [[evidence]] to enable you to make your [[decision]]. Verily, verily, I say to many who sit before me this day, you are [[confronted]] with the [[necessity]] of [[choosing]] which way you will go; and I say to you, as [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua Joshua] said to your [[forefathers]], `choose you this day whom you will serve.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Joshua#Chapter__.24] Today, many of you stand at the [[parting of the ways]].

153:2.6 " Some of you, when you could not find me after the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feasting of the multitude] on the other side, hired the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiberias Tiberias] fishing fleet, which a week before had taken [[shelter]] near by during a storm, to go in pursuit of me, and what for? Not for [[truth]] and [[righteousness]] or that you might the better know how to serve and minister to your fellow men! No, but rather that you might have more bread for which you had not [[labored]]. It was not to fill your [[souls]] with the [[word]] of life, but only that you might fill the belly with the bread of [[ease]]. And long have you been taught that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism the Messiah], when he should come, would [[work]] those [[wonders]] which would make life [[pleasant]] and easy for all the [[chosen people]]. It is not strange, then, that you who have been thus taught should long for the loaves and the fishes. But I [[declare]] to you that such is not the [[mission]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]. I have come to [[proclaim]] [[spiritual]] [[liberty]], teach [[eternal]] [[truth]], and foster living [[faith]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:2.6 " Some of you, when you could not find me after the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_152#152:2._FEEDING_THE_FIVE_THOUSAND feasting of the multitude] on the other side, hired the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiberias Tiberias] fishing fleet, which a week before had taken [[shelter]] near by during a storm, to go in pursuit of me, and what for? Not for [[truth]] and [[righteousness]] or that you might the better know how to serve and minister to your fellow men! No, but rather that you might have more bread for which you had not [[labored]]. It was not to fill your [[souls]] with the [[word]] of life, but only that you might fill the belly with the bread of [[ease]]. And long have you been taught that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism the Messiah], when he should come, would [[work]] those [[wonders]] which would make life [[pleasant]] and easy for all the [[chosen people]]. It is not strange, then, that you who have been thus taught should long for the loaves and the fishes. But I [[declare]] to you that such is not the [[mission]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]. I have come to [[proclaim]] [[spiritual]] [[liberty]], teach [[eternal]] [[truth]], and foster living [[faith]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:2.7 " My brethren, hanker not after the meat which perishes but rather seek for the [[spiritual]] [[food]] that nourishes even to [[eternal]] life; and this is the bread of life which [[Creator Son|the Son]] gives to all who will take it and eat, for [[the Father]] has given [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD the Son] this life without [[measure]]. And when you asked me, `What must we do to [[perform]] the [[works]] of [[God]]?' I plainly told you: `This is the work of God, that you [[believe]] him whom he has sent.' "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:2.7 " My brethren, hanker not after the meat which perishes but rather seek for the [[spiritual]] [[food]] that nourishes even to [[eternal]] life; and this is the bread of life which [[Creator Son|the Son]] gives to all who will take it and eat, for [[the Father]] has given [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD the Son] this life without [[measure]]. And when you asked me, `What must we do to [[perform]] the [[works]] of [[God]]?' I plainly told you: `This is the work of God, that you [[believe]] him whom he has sent.' "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:2.8 And then said [[Jesus]], pointing up to the device of a pot of [[manna]] which decorated the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lintel lintel] of this new [[synagogue]], and which was embellished with grape clusters: " You have thought that your [[forefathers]] in the [[wilderness]] ate [[manna]]—the bread of [[heaven]]—but I say to you that this was the bread of [[earth]]. While [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] did not give your [[fathers]] bread from heaven, [[Universal Father|my Father]] now stands ready to give you the true bread of life. The bread of heaven is that which comes down from [[God]] and gives [[eternal]] life to the men of the world. And when you say to me, Give us this living bread, I will answer: I am this bread of life. He who comes to me shall not [[hunger]], while he who [[believes]] me shall never thirst. You have seen me, lived with me, and beheld my [[works]], yet you believe not that I came forth from [[the Father]]. But to those who do [[believe]]—[[fear]] not. All those [[led]] of [[the Father]] shall come to me, and he who comes to me shall in nowise be cast out.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:2.8 And then said [[Jesus]], pointing up to the device of a pot of [[manna]] which decorated the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lintel lintel] of this new [[synagogue]], and which was embellished with grape clusters: " You have thought that your [[forefathers]] in the [[wilderness]] ate [[manna]]—the bread of [[heaven]]—but I say to you that this was the bread of [[earth]]. While [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] did not give your [[fathers]] bread from heaven, [[Universal Father|my Father]] now stands ready to give you the true bread of life. The bread of heaven is that which comes down from [[God]] and gives [[eternal]] life to the men of the world. And when you say to me, Give us this living bread, I will answer: I am this bread of life. He who comes to me shall not [[hunger]], while he who [[believes]] me shall never thirst. You have seen me, lived with me, and beheld my [[works]], yet you believe not that I came forth from [[the Father]]. But to those who do [[believe]]—[[fear]] not. All those [[led]] of [[the Father]] shall come to me, and he who comes to me shall in nowise be cast out.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:2.9 " And now let me [[declare]] to you, once and for all time, that I have come down upon the [[earth]], not to do my own will, but the will of [[Universal Father|Him]] who sent me. And this is the final will of Him who sent me, that of all those he has given me I should not lose one. And this is the will of [[the Father]]: That every one who beholds [[Creator Son|the Son]] and who [[believes]] him shall have [[eternal]] life. Only yesterday did I feed you with bread for your [[bodies]]; today I offer you the bread of life for your [[hungry]] [[souls]]. Will you now take the bread of the [[spirit]] as you then so willingly ate the bread of this world? "

153:2.9 " And now let me [[declare]] to you, once and for all time, that I have come down upon the [[earth]], not to do my own will, but the will of [[Universal Father|Him]] who sent me. And this is the final will of Him who sent me, that of all those he has given me I should not lose one. And this is the will of [[the Father]]: That every one who beholds [[Creator Son|the Son]] and who [[believes]] him shall have [[eternal]] life. Only yesterday did I feed you with bread for your [[bodies]]; today I offer you the bread of life for your [[hungry]] [[souls]]. Will you now take the bread of the [[spirit]] as you then so willingly ate the bread of this world? "

153:2.10 As [[Jesus]] paused for a [[moment]] to look over the congregation, one of the [[teachers]] from [[Jerusalem]] (a member of the [[Sanhedrin]]) rose up and asked: " Do I [[understand]] you to say that you are the bread which comes down from [[heaven]], and that the [[manna]] which [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] gave to our [[fathers]] in the [[wilderness]] did not? " And [[Jesus]] answered the [[Pharisee]], " You [[understood]] aright. " Then said the Pharisee: " But are you not Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph, the carpenter? Are not your father and mother, as well as your brothers and sisters, well known to many of us? How then is it that you appear here in God's house and declare that you have come down from heaven? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:2.10 As [[Jesus]] paused for a [[moment]] to look over the congregation, one of the [[teachers]] from [[Jerusalem]] (a member of the [[Sanhedrin]]) rose up and asked: " Do I [[understand]] you to say that you are the bread which comes down from [[heaven]], and that the [[manna]] which [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] gave to our [[fathers]] in the [[wilderness]] did not? " And [[Jesus]] answered the [[Pharisee]], " You [[understood]] aright. " Then said the Pharisee: " But are you not Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph, the carpenter? Are not your father and mother, as well as your brothers and sisters, well known to many of us? How then is it that you appear here in God's house and declare that you have come down from heaven? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:2.11 By this time there was much murmuring in the [[synagogue]], and such a [[tumult]] was threatened that [[Jesus]] stood up and said: " Let us be [[patient]]; the [[truth]] never [[suffers]] from [[honest]] [[examination]]. I am all that you say but more. [[The Father]] and I are one; [[Creator Son|the Son]] does only that which [[the Father]] teaches him, while all those who are given to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21 the Son] by [[the Father]], [[Creator Son|the Son]] will [[receive]] to himself. You have [[read]] where it is [[written]] in [[Hebrew Prophets|the Prophets]], `You shall all be taught by [[God]],'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.54] and that `Those whom [[the Father]] teaches will hear also [[Creator Son|his Son]].' Every one who yields to the teaching of [[the Father]]'s [[indwelling spirit]] will [[eventually]] come to me. Not that any man has seen [[the Father]], but the [[Thought Adjuster|Father's spirit]] does live within man. And [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD the Son] who came down from [[heaven]], he has surely seen [[the Father]]. And those who truly [[believe]] [[Creator Son|this Son]] already have [[eternal]] life.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:2.11 By this time there was much murmuring in the [[synagogue]], and such a [[tumult]] was threatened that [[Jesus]] stood up and said: " Let us be [[patient]]; the [[truth]] never [[suffers]] from [[honest]] [[examination]]. I am all that you say but more. [[The Father]] and I are one; [[Creator Son|the Son]] does only that which [[the Father]] teaches him, while all those who are given to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21 the Son] by [[the Father]], [[Creator Son|the Son]] will [[receive]] to himself. You have [[read]] where it is [[written]] in [[Hebrew Prophets|the Prophets]], `You shall all be taught by [[God]],'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.54] and that `Those whom [[the Father]] teaches will hear also [[Creator Son|his Son]].' Every one who yields to the teaching of [[the Father]]'s [[indwelling spirit]] will [[eventually]] come to me. Not that any man has seen [[the Father]], but the [[Thought Adjuster|Father's spirit]] does live within man. And [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD the Son] who came down from [[heaven]], he has surely seen [[the Father]]. And those who truly [[believe]] [[Creator Son|this Son]] already have [[eternal]] life.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_John#Chapter_6]

153:3.1 Many were the questions asked [[Jesus]] during this after [[meeting]]. Some were asked by his [[perplexed]] [[disciples]], but more were asked by caviling unbelievers who sought only to [[embarrass]] and entrap him.

153:3.1 Many were the questions asked [[Jesus]] during this after [[meeting]]. Some were asked by his [[perplexed]] [[disciples]], but more were asked by caviling unbelievers who sought only to [[embarrass]] and entrap him.

153:3.2 One of the [[visiting]] [[Pharisees]], mounting a lampstand, shouted out this question: " You tell us that you are the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life]. How can you give us your [[flesh]] to eat or your [[blood]] to drink? What avail is your teaching if it cannot be carried out? " And [[Jesus]] answered this question, saying: " I did not teach you that my [[flesh]] is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life] nor that my [[blood]] is the [[water]] thereof. But I did say that my life in the flesh is a [[bestowal]] of the bread of heaven. The [[fact]] of the [[Word of God]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD bestowed in the flesh] and the [[phenomenon]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] subject to the will of [[God]], constitute a [[reality]] of [[experience]] which is [[equivalent]] to the [[divine]] sustenance. You cannot eat my [[flesh]] nor can you drink my [[blood]], but you can become [[one]] in [[spirit]] with me even as I am one in spirit with [[the Father]]. You can be nourished by the [[eternal]] [[word]] of God, which is indeed the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life], and which has been [[bestowed]] in the likeness of [[mortal]] flesh; and you can be watered in [[soul]] by the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]], which is truly the [[water]] of life. [[The Father]] has sent me into the world to show how he [[desires]] to indwell and direct all men; and I have so lived this life in the [[flesh]] as to [[inspire]] all men likewise ever to seek to [[know]] and [[Doing the will of God|do the will of the indwelling heavenly Father]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:3.2 One of the [[visiting]] [[Pharisees]], mounting a lampstand, shouted out this question: " You tell us that you are the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life]. How can you give us your [[flesh]] to eat or your [[blood]] to drink? What avail is your teaching if it cannot be carried out? " And [[Jesus]] answered this question, saying: " I did not teach you that my [[flesh]] is the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life] nor that my [[blood]] is the [[water]] thereof. But I did say that my life in the flesh is a [[bestowal]] of the bread of heaven. The [[fact]] of the [[Word of God]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD bestowed in the flesh] and the [[phenomenon]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] subject to the will of [[God]], constitute a [[reality]] of [[experience]] which is [[equivalent]] to the [[divine]] sustenance. You cannot eat my [[flesh]] nor can you drink my [[blood]], but you can become [[one]] in [[spirit]] with me even as I am one in spirit with [[the Father]]. You can be nourished by the [[eternal]] [[word]] of God, which is indeed the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life], and which has been [[bestowed]] in the likeness of [[mortal]] flesh; and you can be watered in [[soul]] by the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]], which is truly the [[water]] of life. [[The Father]] has sent me into the world to show how he [[desires]] to indwell and direct all men; and I have so lived this life in the [[flesh]] as to [[inspire]] all men likewise ever to seek to [[know]] and [[Doing the will of God|do the will of the indwelling heavenly Father]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_6]

153:3.3 Then one of the [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] who had been [[observing]] [[Jesus]] and his [[apostles]], said: " We notice that neither you nor your [[apostles]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritual_washing_in_Judaism wash your hands] properly before you eat bread. You must well know that such a [[practice]] as eating with defiled and unwashed hands is a [[transgression]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] of the [[elders]]. Neither do you properly wash your drinking cups and eating vessels. Why is it that you show such disrespect for the [[traditions]] of the [[Ancestors|fathers]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law the laws] of our [[elders]]? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_mark#Chapter_7]] And when [[Jesus]] heard him speak, he answered: " Why is it that you [[transgress]] the commandments of God by the laws of your [[tradition]]? The commandment says, `Honor your [[father]] and your [[mother]],' and directs that you [[share]] with them your substance if [[necessary]]; but you enact a law of tradition which [[permit]]s undutiful children to say that the [[money]] wherewith the [[parents]] might have been assisted has been `given to [[God]].' The [[law]] of the [[elders]] thus relieves such crafty [[children]] of their [[responsibility]], notwithstanding that the [[children]] subsequently use all such monies for their own [[comfort]]. Why is it that you in this way make void the commandment by your own [[tradition]]? Well did [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah] [[prophesy]] of you [[hypocrites]], saying: `This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. In vain do they worship me, teaching as their doctrines the precepts of men.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.29]  

153:3.3 Then one of the [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] who had been [[observing]] [[Jesus]] and his [[apostles]], said: " We notice that neither you nor your [[apostles]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritual_washing_in_Judaism wash your hands] properly before you eat bread. You must well know that such a [[practice]] as eating with defiled and unwashed hands is a [[transgression]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] of the [[elders]]. Neither do you properly wash your drinking cups and eating vessels. Why is it that you show such disrespect for the [[traditions]] of the [[Ancestors|fathers]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law the laws] of our [[elders]]? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_mark#Chapter_7]] And when [[Jesus]] heard him speak, he answered: " Why is it that you [[transgress]] the commandments of God by the laws of your [[tradition]]? The commandment says, `Honor your [[father]] and your [[mother]],' and directs that you [[share]] with them your substance if [[necessary]]; but you enact a law of tradition which [[permit]]s undutiful children to say that the [[money]] wherewith the [[parents]] might have been assisted has been `given to [[God]].' The [[law]] of the [[elders]] thus relieves such crafty [[children]] of their [[responsibility]], notwithstanding that the [[children]] subsequently use all such monies for their own [[comfort]]. Why is it that you in this way make void the commandment by your own [[tradition]]? Well did [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah] [[prophesy]] of you [[hypocrites]], saying: `This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. In vain do they worship me, teaching as their doctrines the precepts of men.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.29]  

153:3.4 " You can see how it is that you desert [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Commandments the commandment] while you hold fast to the [[tradition]] of men. Altogether willing are you to [[reject]] the [[word]] of [[God]] while you maintain your own [[traditions]]. And in many other ways do you [[dare]] to set up your own teachings above [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] and [[Hebrew Prophets|the prophets]. "

153:3.4 " You can see how it is that you desert [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Commandments the commandment] while you hold fast to the [[tradition]] of men. Altogether willing are you to [[reject]] the [[word]] of [[God]] while you maintain your own [[traditions]]. And in many other ways do you [[dare]] to set up your own teachings above [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] and [[Hebrew Prophets|the prophets]. "

153:3.5 [[Jesus]] then directed his remarks to all present. He said: " But hearken to me all of you. It is not that which enters into the mouth that [[spiritually]] defiles the man, but rather that which proceeds out of the mouth and from the [[heart]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Mark#Chapter_7] But even [[the apostles]] failed fully to grasp the [[meaning]] of his [[words]], for [[Simon Peter]] also asked him: " Lest some of your hearers be unnecessarily [[offended]], would you [[explain]] to us the [[meaning]] of these [[words]]? " And then said [[Jesus]] to Peter: " Are you also hard of [[understanding]]? Know you not that every plant which my heavenly Father has not planted shall be rooted up? Turn now your [[attention]] to those who would [[know]] the [[truth]]. You cannot [[compel]] men to [[love]] the [[truth]]. Many of these teachers are blind guides. And you know that, if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the pit.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6] But hearken while I tell you the [[truth]] concerning those [[things]] which [[morally]] defile and [[spiritually]] contaminate men. I [[declare]] it is not that which enters the [[body]] by the mouth or gains [[access]] to the [[mind]] through the eyes and ears, that defiles the man. Man is only defiled by that [[evil]] which may originate within the [[heart]], and which finds [[expression]] in the [[words]] and [[deeds]] of such unholy [[persons]]. Do you not know it is from the [[heart]] that there come forth [[evil]] [[thoughts]], wicked projects of [[murder]], [[theft]], and [[adulteries]], together with [[jealousy]], [[pride]], [[anger]], [[revenge]], railings, and [[false]] [[witness]]? And it is just such [[things]] that defile men, and not that they eat bread with [[ceremonially]] unclean hands. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_15]

153:3.5 [[Jesus]] then directed his remarks to all present. He said: " But hearken to me all of you. It is not that which enters into the mouth that [[spiritually]] defiles the man, but rather that which proceeds out of the mouth and from the [[heart]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Mark#Chapter_7] But even [[the apostles]] failed fully to grasp the [[meaning]] of his [[words]], for [[Simon Peter]] also asked him: " Lest some of your hearers be unnecessarily [[offended]], would you [[explain]] to us the [[meaning]] of these [[words]]? " And then said [[Jesus]] to Peter: " Are you also hard of [[understanding]]? Know you not that every plant which my heavenly Father has not planted shall be rooted up? Turn now your [[attention]] to those who would [[know]] the [[truth]]. You cannot [[compel]] men to [[love]] the [[truth]]. Many of these teachers are blind guides. And you know that, if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the pit.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6] But hearken while I tell you the [[truth]] concerning those [[things]] which [[morally]] defile and [[spiritually]] contaminate men. I [[declare]] it is not that which enters the [[body]] by the mouth or gains [[access]] to the [[mind]] through the eyes and ears, that defiles the man. Man is only defiled by that [[evil]] which may originate within the [[heart]], and which finds [[expression]] in the [[words]] and [[deeds]] of such unholy [[persons]]. Do you not know it is from the [[heart]] that there come forth [[evil]] [[thoughts]], wicked projects of [[murder]], [[theft]], and [[adulteries]], together with [[jealousy]], [[pride]], [[anger]], [[revenge]], railings, and [[false]] [[witness]]? And it is just such [[things]] that defile men, and not that they eat bread with [[ceremonially]] unclean hands. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_15]

153:3.6 The [[Pharisees|Pharisaic]] commissioners of the [[Jerusalem]] [[Sanhedrin]] were now almost [[convinced]] that [[Jesus]] must be [[Arrest|apprehended]] on a charge of [[blasphemy]] or on one of flouting the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law sacred law] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]; wherefore their efforts to involve him in the discussion of, and possible attack upon, some of the traditions of the elders, or so-called oral laws of the nation. No matter how scarce [[water]] might be, these [[traditionally]] [[enslaved]] Jews would never fail to go through with the required [[ceremonial]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritual_washing_in_Judaism washing of the hands] before every meal. It was their [[belief]] that " it is better to die than to [[transgress]] the commandments of the [[elders]]. " The [[spies]] asked this question because it had been reported that [[Jesus]] had said, " [[Salvation]] is a matter of clean [[hearts]] rather than of clean hands. " But such [[beliefs]], when they once become a part of one's [[religion]], are hard to get away from. Even many years after this day the [[Apostle Peter]] was still held in the [[bondage]] of [[fear]] to many of these [[traditions]] about things clean and unclean, only being finally delivered by [[experiencing]] an [[extraordinary]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucid_dream vivid] [[dream]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.10] All of this can the better be [[understood]] when it is recalled that these Jews looked upon eating with unwashed hands in the same light as [[Prostitution|commerce with a harlot]], and both were equally punishable by [[excommunication]].

153:3.6 The [[Pharisees|Pharisaic]] commissioners of the [[Jerusalem]] [[Sanhedrin]] were now almost [[convinced]] that [[Jesus]] must be [[Arrest|apprehended]] on a charge of [[blasphemy]] or on one of flouting the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law sacred law] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews]; wherefore their efforts to involve him in the discussion of, and possible attack upon, some of the traditions of the elders, or so-called oral laws of the nation. No matter how scarce [[water]] might be, these [[traditionally]] [[enslaved]] Jews would never fail to go through with the required [[ceremonial]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritual_washing_in_Judaism washing of the hands] before every meal. It was their [[belief]] that " it is better to die than to [[transgress]] the commandments of the [[elders]]. " The [[spies]] asked this question because it had been reported that [[Jesus]] had said, " [[Salvation]] is a matter of clean [[hearts]] rather than of clean hands. " But such [[beliefs]], when they once become a part of one's [[religion]], are hard to get away from. Even many years after this day the [[Apostle Peter]] was still held in the [[bondage]] of [[fear]] to many of these [[traditions]] about things clean and unclean, only being finally delivered by [[experiencing]] an [[extraordinary]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucid_dream vivid] [[dream]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.10] All of this can the better be [[understood]] when it is recalled that these Jews looked upon eating with unwashed hands in the same light as [[Prostitution|commerce with a harlot]], and both were equally punishable by [[excommunication]].

153:3.7 Thus did [[the Master]] elect to [[discuss]] and [[expose]] the [[folly]] of the whole [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbinic_Judaism rabbinic system of rules and regulations] which was represented by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mishnah oral law]—the [[traditions]] of the [[elders]], all of which were regarded as more [[sacred]] and more binding upon the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] than even the teachings of the [[Scriptures]]. And [[Jesus]] [[spoke]] out with less reserve because he knew the hour had come when he could do nothing more to prevent an open rupture of [[relations]] with these [[religious]] [[leaders]].

153:3.7 Thus did [[the Master]] elect to [[discuss]] and [[expose]] the [[folly]] of the whole [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbinic_Judaism rabbinic system of rules and regulations] which was represented by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mishnah oral law]—the [[traditions]] of the [[elders]], all of which were regarded as more [[sacred]] and more binding upon the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] than even the teachings of the [[Scriptures]]. And [[Jesus]] [[spoke]] out with less reserve because he knew the hour had come when he could do nothing more to prevent an open rupture of [[relations]] with these [[religious]] [[leaders]].

==153:4. LAST WORDS IN THE SYNAGOGUE==

==153:4. LAST WORDS IN THE SYNAGOGUE==

153:4.1 In the midst of the [[discussions]] of this after [[meeting]], one of the [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]] brought to [[Jesus]] a distraught [[youth]] who was [[possessed]] of an unruly and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS rebellious spirit]. [[Leading]] this demented lad up to [[Jesus]], he said: " What can you do for such [[affliction]] as this? Can you cast out [[devils]]? " And when [[the Master]] looked upon the [[youth]], he was moved with [[compassion]] and, beckoning for the lad to come to him, took him by the hand and said: " You know who I am; come out of him; and I charge one of your [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:8._THE_UNITED_MIDWAYERS loyal fellows] to see that you do not return. " And [[immediately]] the lad was [[normal]] and in his right [[mind]]. And this is the first case where [[Jesus]] really cast an " [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS evil spirit] " out of a [[human being]]. All of the previous cases were only supposed possession of the [[devil]]; but this was a genuine case of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism demoniac possession], even such as sometimes occurred in those days and right up to the day of [[Pentecost]], when [[the Master]]'s spirit was poured out upon all [[flesh]], making it forever impossible for these few [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS celestial rebels] to take such [[advantage]] of certain unstable [[types]] of [[human beings]].

153:4.1 In the midst of the [[discussions]] of this after [[meeting]], one of the [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]] brought to [[Jesus]] a distraught [[youth]] who was [[possessed]] of an unruly and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS rebellious spirit]. [[Leading]] this demented lad up to [[Jesus]], he said: " What can you do for such [[affliction]] as this? Can you cast out [[devils]]? " And when [[the Master]] looked upon the [[youth]], he was moved with [[compassion]] and, beckoning for the lad to come to him, took him by the hand and said: " You know who I am; come out of him; and I charge one of your [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:8._THE_UNITED_MIDWAYERS loyal fellows] to see that you do not return. " And [[immediately]] the lad was [[normal]] and in his right [[mind]]. And this is the first case where [[Jesus]] really cast an " [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS evil spirit] " out of a [[human being]]. All of the previous cases were only supposed possession of the [[devil]]; but this was a genuine case of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism demoniac possession], even such as sometimes occurred in those days and right up to the day of [[Pentecost]], when [[the Master]]'s spirit was poured out upon all [[flesh]], making it forever impossible for these few [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:7._THE_REBEL_MIDWAYERS celestial rebels] to take such [[advantage]] of certain unstable [[types]] of [[human beings]].

153:4.2 When the people [[marveled]], one of the [[Pharisees]] stood up and charged that [[Jesus]] could do these things because he was in league with [[devils]]; that he admitted in the [[language]] which he employed in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism casting out this devil] that they were known to each other; and he went on to [[Statement|state]] that the [[religious]] [[teachers]] and [[leaders]] at [[Jerusalem]] had [[decided]] that [[Jesus]] did all his so-called [[miracles]] by the [[power]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beelzebub Beelzebub], the prince of [[devils]]. Said the [[Pharisee]]: " Have nothing to do with this man; he is in [[partnership]] with [[Satan]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_11]

153:4.2 When the people [[marveled]], one of the [[Pharisees]] stood up and charged that [[Jesus]] could do these things because he was in league with [[devils]]; that he admitted in the [[language]] which he employed in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism casting out this devil] that they were known to each other; and he went on to [[Statement|state]] that the [[religious]] [[teachers]] and [[leaders]] at [[Jerusalem]] had [[decided]] that [[Jesus]] did all his so-called [[miracles]] by the [[power]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beelzebub Beelzebub], the prince of [[devils]]. Said the [[Pharisee]]: " Have nothing to do with this man; he is in [[partnership]] with [[Satan]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_11]

153:4.3 Then said [[Jesus]]: " How can [[Satan]] cast out Satan? A kingdom [[divided]] against itself cannot stand; if a house be divided against itself, it is soon brought to [[Death|desolation]]. Can a [[city]] withstand a [[siege]] if it is not [[united]]? If [[Satan]] casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then shall his kingdom stand? But you should know that no one can enter into the house of a [[strong]] man and despoil his goods except he first overpower and bind that strong man. And so, if I by the [[power]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beelzebub Beelzebub] cast out [[devils]], by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore shall they be your [[judges]]. But if I, by the [[spirit]] of [[God]], cast out [[devils]], then has [[the kingdom]] of [[God]] truly come upon you. If you were not blinded by [[prejudice]] and misled by [[fear]] and [[pride]], you would easily [[perceive]] that one who is greater than [[devils]] stands in your midst. You [[compel]] me to [[declare]] that he who is not with me is against me, while he who gathers not with me scatters abroad.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_12] Let me utter a [[solemn]] [[warning]] to you who would presume, with your eyes open and with [[Intention|premeditated]] [[malice]], knowingly to ascribe the works of [[God]] to the doings of [[devils]]! Verily, verily, I say to you, all your [[sins]] shall be forgiven, even all of your [[blasphemies]], but whosoever shall blaspheme against [[God]] with [[deliberation]] and [[wicked]] [[intention]] shall never obtain [[forgiveness]]. Since such [[persistent]] workers of [[iniquity]] will never seek nor [[receive]] [[forgiveness]], they are [[guilty]] of the [[sin]] of [[eternally]] [[rejecting]] [[divine]] [[forgiveness]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_11]

153:4.3 Then said [[Jesus]]: " How can [[Satan]] cast out Satan? A kingdom [[divided]] against itself cannot stand; if a house be divided against itself, it is soon brought to [[Death|desolation]]. Can a [[city]] withstand a [[siege]] if it is not [[united]]? If [[Satan]] casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then shall his kingdom stand? But you should know that no one can enter into the house of a [[strong]] man and despoil his goods except he first overpower and bind that strong man. And so, if I by the [[power]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beelzebub Beelzebub] cast out [[devils]], by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore shall they be your [[judges]]. But if I, by the [[spirit]] of [[God]], cast out [[devils]], then has [[the kingdom]] of [[God]] truly come upon you. If you were not blinded by [[prejudice]] and misled by [[fear]] and [[pride]], you would easily [[perceive]] that one who is greater than [[devils]] stands in your midst. You [[compel]] me to [[declare]] that he who is not with me is against me, while he who gathers not with me scatters abroad.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_12] Let me utter a [[solemn]] [[warning]] to you who would presume, with your eyes open and with [[Intention|premeditated]] [[malice]], knowingly to ascribe the works of [[God]] to the doings of [[devils]]! Verily, verily, I say to you, all your [[sins]] shall be forgiven, even all of your [[blasphemies]], but whosoever shall blaspheme against [[God]] with [[deliberation]] and [[wicked]] [[intention]] shall never obtain [[forgiveness]]. Since such [[persistent]] workers of [[iniquity]] will never seek nor [[receive]] [[forgiveness]], they are [[guilty]] of the [[sin]] of [[eternally]] [[rejecting]] [[divine]] [[forgiveness]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_11]

153:4.4 " Many of you have this day come to the parting of the ways; you have come to a beginning of the making of the [[inevitable]] [[choice]] between [[Doing the will of God|the will of the Father]] and the [[self]]-[[chosen]] ways of [[darkness]]. And as you now [[choose]], so shall you [[eventually]] be. You must either make the tree [[good]] and its fruit good, or else will the tree become [[corrupt]] and its fruit corrupt. I [[declare]] that in [[Universal Father|my Father]]'s [[the kingdom|eternal kingdom]] the tree is known by its fruits. But some of you who are as vipers, how can you, having already [[chosen]] [[evil]], bring forth [[good]] fruits? After all, out of the [[abundance]] of the [[evil]] in your [[hearts]] your mouths [[speak]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_12]

153:4.4 " Many of you have this day come to the parting of the ways; you have come to a beginning of the making of the [[inevitable]] [[choice]] between [[Doing the will of God|the will of the Father]] and the [[self]]-[[chosen]] ways of [[darkness]]. And as you now [[choose]], so shall you [[eventually]] be. You must either make the tree [[good]] and its fruit good, or else will the tree become [[corrupt]] and its fruit corrupt. I [[declare]] that in [[Universal Father|my Father]]'s [[the kingdom|eternal kingdom]] the tree is known by its fruits. But some of you who are as vipers, how can you, having already [[chosen]] [[evil]], bring forth [[good]] fruits? After all, out of the [[abundance]] of the [[evil]] in your [[hearts]] your mouths [[speak]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_12]

153:4.5 Then stood up another [[Pharisee]], who said: " Teacher, we would have you give us a predetermined [[sign]] which we will [[agree]] upon as [[establishing]] your [[authority]] and right to [[teach]]. Will you [[agree]] to such an arrangement? " And when [[Jesus]] heard this, he said: " This faithless and [[sign]]-seeking [[generation]] seeks a token, but no sign shall be given you other than that which you already have, and that which you shall see when the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] departs from among you. "

153:4.5 Then stood up another [[Pharisee]], who said: " Teacher, we would have you give us a predetermined [[sign]] which we will [[agree]] upon as [[establishing]] your [[authority]] and right to [[teach]]. Will you [[agree]] to such an arrangement? " And when [[Jesus]] heard this, he said: " This faithless and [[sign]]-seeking [[generation]] seeks a token, but no sign shall be given you other than that which you already have, and that which you shall see when the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] departs from among you. "

153:4.6 And when he had finished speaking, his [[apostles]] surrounded him and led him from the [[synagogue]]. In [[silence]] they [[journeyed]] [[home]] with him to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida]. They were all [[amazed]] and somewhat [[terror]]-stricken by the sudden [[change]] in [[the Master]]'s teaching [[tactics]]. They were wholly unaccustomed to seeing him [[perform]] in such a [[militant]] [[manner]].

153:4.6 And when he had finished speaking, his [[apostles]] surrounded him and led him from the [[synagogue]]. In [[silence]] they [[journeyed]] [[home]] with him to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida]. They were all [[amazed]] and somewhat [[terror]]-stricken by the sudden [[change]] in [[the Master]]'s teaching [[tactics]]. They were wholly unaccustomed to seeing him [[perform]] in such a [[militant]] [[manner]].

==153:5. THE SATURDAY EVENING==

==153:5. THE SATURDAY EVENING==

153:5.1 Time and again had [[Jesus]] dashed to pieces the [[hopes]] of his [[apostles]], [[repeatedly]] had he crushed their fondest [[expectations]], but no time of [[disappointment]] or [[season]] of [[sorrow]] had ever [[equaled]] that which now overtook them. And, too, there was now admixed with their [[depression]] a real [[fear]] for their [[safety]]. They were all [[surprisingly]] startled by the suddenness and completeness of the [[desertion]] of the [[populace]]. They were also somewhat [[frightened]] and disconcerted by the unexpected [[boldness]] and [[assertive]] [[determination]] exhibited by the [[Pharisees]] who had come down from [[Jerusalem]]. But most of all they were bewildered by [[Jesus]]' sudden [[change]] of [[tactics]]. Under ordinary circumstances they would have [[welcomed]] the [[appearance]] of this more [[militant]] [[attitude]], but coming as it did, along with so much that was unexpected, it startled them.

153:5.1 Time and again had [[Jesus]] dashed to pieces the [[hopes]] of his [[apostles]], [[repeatedly]] had he crushed their fondest [[expectations]], but no time of [[disappointment]] or [[season]] of [[sorrow]] had ever [[equaled]] that which now overtook them. And, too, there was now admixed with their [[depression]] a real [[fear]] for their [[safety]]. They were all [[surprisingly]] startled by the suddenness and completeness of the [[desertion]] of the [[populace]]. They were also somewhat [[frightened]] and disconcerted by the unexpected [[boldness]] and [[assertive]] [[determination]] exhibited by the [[Pharisees]] who had come down from [[Jerusalem]]. But most of all they were bewildered by [[Jesus]]' sudden [[change]] of [[tactics]]. Under ordinary circumstances they would have [[welcomed]] the [[appearance]] of this more [[militant]] [[attitude]], but coming as it did, along with so much that was unexpected, it startled them.

153:5.2 And now, on top of all of these [[worries]], when they reached [[home]], [[Jesus]] refused [[Food|to eat]]. For hours he [[isolated]] himself in one of the upper rooms. It was almost midnight when Joab, the [[leader]] of the [[evangelists]], returned and reported that about one third of his [[associates]] had [[deserted]] the [[cause]]. All through the evening [[loyal]] [[disciples]] had come and gone, reporting that the revulsion of [[feeling]] toward [[the Master]] was general in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum]. The [[leaders]] from [[Jerusalem]] were not slow to feed this [[feeling]] of disaffection and in every way possible to seek to promote the [[movement]] away from [[Jesus]] and his teachings. During these trying hours [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS the twelve women] were in session over at [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s house. They were tremendously upset, but none of them [[deserted]].

153:5.2 And now, on top of all of these [[worries]], when they reached [[home]], [[Jesus]] refused [[Food|to eat]]. For hours he [[isolated]] himself in one of the upper rooms. It was almost midnight when Joab, the [[leader]] of the [[evangelists]], returned and reported that about one third of his [[associates]] had [[deserted]] the [[cause]]. All through the evening [[loyal]] [[disciples]] had come and gone, reporting that the revulsion of [[feeling]] toward [[the Master]] was general in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum]. The [[leaders]] from [[Jerusalem]] were not slow to feed this [[feeling]] of disaffection and in every way possible to seek to promote the [[movement]] away from [[Jesus]] and his teachings. During these trying hours [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS the twelve women] were in session over at [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s house. They were tremendously upset, but none of them [[deserted]].

153:5.3 It was a little after midnight when [[Jesus]] came down from the upper chamber and stood among [[the twelve]] and their [[associates]], numbering about thirty in all. He said: " I [[recognize]] that this sifting of [[the kingdom]] distresses you, but it is unavoidable. Still, after all the [[training]] you have had, was there any [[good]] [[reason]] why you should stumble at my [[words]]? Why is it that you are filled with [[fear]] and consternation when you see [[the kingdom]] being divested of these lukewarm multitudes and these halfhearted [[disciples]]? Why do you [[grieve]] when the new day is [[dawning]] for the shining forth in new [[glory]] of the [[spiritual]] teachings of [[the kingdom]] of heaven? If you find it [[difficult]] to [[endure]] this test, what, then, will you do when the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] must return to [[the Father]]? When and how will you [[prepare]] yourselves for the time when I [[ascend]] to the place whence I came to this world?

153:5.3 It was a little after midnight when [[Jesus]] came down from the upper chamber and stood among [[the twelve]] and their [[associates]], numbering about thirty in all. He said: " I [[recognize]] that this sifting of [[the kingdom]] distresses you, but it is unavoidable. Still, after all the [[training]] you have had, was there any [[good]] [[reason]] why you should stumble at my [[words]]? Why is it that you are filled with [[fear]] and consternation when you see [[the kingdom]] being divested of these lukewarm multitudes and these halfhearted [[disciples]]? Why do you [[grieve]] when the new day is [[dawning]] for the shining forth in new [[glory]] of the [[spiritual]] teachings of [[the kingdom]] of heaven? If you find it [[difficult]] to [[endure]] this test, what, then, will you do when the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] must return to [[the Father]]? When and how will you [[prepare]] yourselves for the time when I [[ascend]] to the place whence I came to this world?

153:5.4 " My beloved, you must [[remember]] that it is the [[spirit]] that quickens; the [[flesh]] and all that pertains thereto is of little [[profit]]. The [[words]] which I have spoken to you are [[spirit]] and life. Be of [[good]] [[cheer]]! I have not [[deserted]] you. Many shall be [[offended]] by the plain speaking of these days. Already you have heard that many of my [[disciples]] have turned back; they walk no more with me. From the beginning I knew that these halfhearted [[believers]] would fall out by the way. Did I not [[choose]] you [[The Apostles|twelve men]] and set you apart as [[ambassadors]] of [[the kingdom]]? And now at such a time as this would you also desert? Let each of you look to his own [[faith]], for one of you stands in grave [[danger]]. " And when [[Jesus]] had finished speaking, [[Simon Peter]] said: " Yes, Lord, we are sad and [[perplexed]], but we will never forsake you. You have taught us the [[words]] of [[eternal]] life. We have [[believed]] in you and followed with you all this time. We will not turn back, for we know that you are sent by [[God]]. " And as [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] ceased speaking, they all with one accord nodded their [[approval]] of his [[pledge]] of [[loyalty]].

153:5.4 " My beloved, you must [[remember]] that it is the [[spirit]] that quickens; the [[flesh]] and all that pertains thereto is of little [[profit]]. The [[words]] which I have spoken to you are [[spirit]] and life. Be of [[good]] [[cheer]]! I have not [[deserted]] you. Many shall be [[offended]] by the plain speaking of these days. Already you have heard that many of my [[disciples]] have turned back; they walk no more with me. From the beginning I knew that these halfhearted [[believers]] would fall out by the way. Did I not [[choose]] you [[The Apostles|twelve men]] and set you apart as [[ambassadors]] of [[the kingdom]]? And now at such a time as this would you also desert? Let each of you look to his own [[faith]], for one of you stands in grave [[danger]]. " And when [[Jesus]] had finished speaking, [[Simon Peter]] said: " Yes, Lord, we are sad and [[perplexed]], but we will never forsake you. You have taught us the [[words]] of [[eternal]] life. We have [[believed]] in you and followed with you all this time. We will not turn back, for we know that you are sent by [[God]]. " And as [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] ceased speaking, they all with one accord nodded their [[approval]] of his [[pledge]] of [[loyalty]].