Changes

4:0.2 It is easy to [[deduce]] that the purpose in creating the [[perfect]] central universe of [[Havona]] was purely the [[Gratification|satisfaction]] of the [[divine]] [[nature]]. Havona may serve as the [[pattern]] [[creation]] for all other universes and as the finishing school for the [[pilgrims]] of time [[Ascension Career|on their way]] to [[Paradise]]; however, such a supernal creation must exist primarily for the [[pleasure]] and satisfaction of the perfect and infinite [[Creators]].

4:0.2 It is easy to [[deduce]] that the purpose in creating the [[perfect]] central universe of [[Havona]] was purely the [[Gratification|satisfaction]] of the [[divine]] [[nature]]. Havona may serve as the [[pattern]] [[creation]] for all other universes and as the finishing school for the [[pilgrims]] of time [[Ascension Career|on their way]] to [[Paradise]]; however, such a supernal creation must exist primarily for the [[pleasure]] and satisfaction of the perfect and infinite [[Creators]].

4:0.3 The amazing plan for perfecting [[evolutionary]] [[mortals]] and, after their attainment of [[Paradise]] and the [[Corps of the Finality]], providing further [[training]] for some undisclosed future [[work]], does seem to be, at present, one of the chief concerns of the [[seven superuniverses]] and their [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_15#15:3._THE_SUPERUNIVERSE_OF_ORVONTON many subdivisions]; but this [[ascension]] scheme for [[spiritual]]izing and training the mortals of [[time and space]] is by no means the exclusive occupation of the [[universe]] [[intelligences]]. There are, indeed, many other fascinating pursuits which occupy the time and enlist the energies of the [[Paper 38 - Ministering Spirits of the Local Universe|celestial hosts]].

4:0.3 The amazing plan for perfecting [[evolutionary]] [[mortals]] and, after their attainment of [[Paradise]] and the [[Corps of the Finality]], providing further [[training]] for some undisclosed future [[work]], does seem to be, at present, one of the chief concerns of the [[seven superuniverses]] and their [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_15#15:3._THE_SUPERUNIVERSE_OF_ORVONTON many subdivisions]; but this [[ascension]] scheme for [[spiritual]]izing and training the mortals of [[time and space]] is by no means the exclusive occupation of the [[universe]] [[intelligences]]. There are, indeed, many other fascinating pursuits which occupy the time and enlist the energies of the [[Paper 38 - Ministering Spirits of the Local Universe|celestial hosts]].

==4:1. THE UNIVERSE ATTITUDE OF THE FATHER==

==4:1. THE UNIVERSE ATTITUDE OF THE FATHER==

4:1.1 For [[Aeons|ages]] the [[Citizens|inhabitants]] of [[Urantia]] have misunderstood the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:10._FUNCTIONS_OF_PROVIDENCE providence of God]. There is a [[providence]] of [[divine]] outworking on your world, but it is not the childish, [[arbitrary]], and [[material]] ministry many [[mortals]] have conceived it to be. The providence of God consists in the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:9._UNIVERSE_MECHANISMS interlocking activities]] of the [[celestial]] [[beings]] and the [[divine]] [[spirits]] who, in accordance with [[cosmic]] [[law]], unceasingly [[Work|labor]] for the [[honor]] of [[God]] and for the spiritual [[Progress|advancement]] of his universe [[children]].

4:1.1 For [[Aeons|ages]] the [[Citizens|inhabitants]] of [[Urantia]] have misunderstood the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:10._FUNCTIONS_OF_PROVIDENCE providence of God]. There is a [[providence]] of [[divine]] outworking on your world, but it is not the childish, [[arbitrary]], and [[material]] ministry many [[mortals]] have conceived it to be. The providence of God consists in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:9._UNIVERSE_MECHANISMS interlocking activities]] of the [[celestial]] [[beings]] and the [[divine]] [[spirits]] who, in accordance with [[cosmic]] [[law]], unceasingly [[Work|labor]] for the [[honor]] of [[God]] and for the spiritual [[Progress|advancement]] of his universe [[children]].

4:1.2 Can you not advance in your [[concept]] of God's [[Relationship|dealing]] with man to that level where you recognize that the [[Cri de coeur|watchword]] of the [[universe]] is [[progress]]? Through long ages the [[human]] [[race]] has struggled to reach its present position. Throughout all these [[Aeons|millenniums]] [[Providence]] has been working out the plan of progressive [[evolution]]. The two [[thoughts]] are not opposed in [[practice]], only in man's mistaken concepts. Divine providence is never arrayed in opposition to true human progress, either [[temporal]] or [[spiritual]]. Providence is always consistent with the unchanging and [[perfect]] [[nature]] of the supreme Lawmaker.

4:1.2 Can you not advance in your [[concept]] of God's [[Relationship|dealing]] with man to that level where you recognize that the [[Cri de coeur|watchword]] of the [[universe]] is [[progress]]? Through long ages the [[human]] [[race]] has struggled to reach its present position. Throughout all these [[Aeons|millenniums]] [[Providence]] has been working out the plan of progressive [[evolution]]. The two [[thoughts]] are not opposed in [[practice]], only in man's mistaken concepts. Divine providence is never arrayed in opposition to true human progress, either [[temporal]] or [[spiritual]]. Providence is always consistent with the unchanging and [[perfect]] [[nature]] of the supreme Lawmaker.

4:1.3 "God is faithful"[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Corinthians#1st_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Corinthians.2C_I] and "all his commandments are just."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_119] "His faithfulness is established in the very skies."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_36] "Forever, O Lord, your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness is to all generations; you have established the earth and it abides."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_119] "He is a faithful Creator."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.7]

4:1.3 "God is faithful"[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Corinthians#1st_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Corinthians.2C_I] and "all his commandments are just."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_119] "His faithfulness is established in the very skies."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_36] "Forever, O Lord, your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness is to all generations; you have established the earth and it abides."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_119] "He is a faithful Creator."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.7]

4:1.4 There is no [[limitation]] of the [[forces]] and [[personalities]] which [[the Father]] may use to uphold his [[purpose]] and sustain his [[creatures]]. "The eternal God is our [[Sanctuary|refuge]], and underneath are the everlasting arms."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.33] "He who dwells in the secret place of the [[Most High]] shall abide under the shadow of the [[Paper 116 - The Almighty Supreme|Almighty]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_91] "Behold, he who keeps us shall neither slumber nor [[sleep]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_121] "We know that [[Everything|all things]] [[work]] together for [[good]] to those who [[love]] God,"[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Romans#The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Romans.2C_VIII] "for the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open to their [[prayers]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_Peter#1st_Letter_of_Peter.2C_III]

4:1.4 There is no [[limitation]] of the [[forces]] and [[personalities]] which [[the Father]] may use to uphold his [[purpose]] and sustain his [[creatures]]. "The eternal God is our [[Sanctuary|refuge]], and underneath are the everlasting arms."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.33] "He who dwells in the secret place of the [[Most High]] shall abide under the shadow of the [[Paper 116 - The Almighty Supreme|Almighty]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_91] "Behold, he who keeps us shall neither slumber nor [[sleep]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_121] "We know that [[Everything|all things]] [[work]] together for [[good]] to those who [[love]] God,"[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Romans#The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Romans.2C_VIII] "for the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open to their [[prayers]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_Peter#1st_Letter_of_Peter.2C_III]

4:1.5 God upholds "all [[things]] by the [[word]] of his [[power]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_I] And when [[Paper 57 - The Origin of Urantia|new worlds are born]], he "sends forth his Sons and they are created."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_104] God not only [[creates]], but he "preserves them all."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Nehemiah#Chapter_.9] God constantly upholds all [[things]] [[material]] and all [[beings]] [[spiritual]]. The universes are eternally stable. There is [[stability]] in the midst of apparent [[Turbulence|instability]]. There is an underlying [[Cosmos|order]] and [[security]] in the midst of the [[energy]] upheavals and the [[physical]] [[Catastrophism|cataclysms]] of the [[Multiverse|starry realms]].

4:1.5 God upholds "all [[things]] by the [[word]] of his [[power]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_I] And when [[Paper 57 - The Origin of Urantia|new worlds are born]], he "sends forth his Sons and they are created."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_104] God not only [[creates]], but he "preserves them all."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Nehemiah#Chapter_.9] God constantly upholds all [[things]] [[material]] and all [[beings]] [[spiritual]]. The universes are eternally stable. There is [[stability]] in the midst of apparent [[Turbulence|instability]]. There is an underlying [[Cosmos|order]] and [[security]] in the midst of the [[energy]] upheavals and the [[physical]] [[Catastrophism|cataclysms]] of the [[Multiverse|starry realms]].

4:1.6 The [[Universal Father]] has not withdrawn from the [[Administration|management]] of the [[universes]]; he is not an inactive [[Deity]]. If God should retire as the present upholder of all creation, there would immediately occur a [[universal]] [[Default|collapse]]. Except for God, there would be no such thing as [[reality]]. At this very [[moment]], as during the remote ages of the past and in the eternal future, God continues to uphold. The divine [[Embrace|reach]] extends around the [[circle]] of [[eternity]]. The universe is not [[Mechanism|wound up like a clock]] to run just so long and then cease to [[function]]; [[Everything|all things]] are constantly being renewed. The Father unceasingly pours forth [[energy]], [[light]], and life. The [[work]] of God is [[literal]] as well as [[spiritual]]. "He stretches out the north over the empty [[space]] and hangs the [[earth]] upon nothing."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.26]

4:1.6 The [[Universal Father]] has not withdrawn from the [[Administration|management]] of the [[universes]]; he is not an inactive [[Deity]]. If God should retire as the present upholder of all creation, there would immediately occur a [[universal]] [[Default|collapse]]. Except for God, there would be no such thing as [[reality]]. At this very [[moment]], as during the remote ages of the past and in the eternal future, God continues to uphold. The divine [[Embrace|reach]] extends around the [[circle]] of [[eternity]]. The universe is not [[Mechanism|wound up like a clock]] to run just so long and then cease to [[function]]; [[Everything|all things]] are constantly being renewed. The Father unceasingly pours forth [[energy]], [[light]], and life. The [[work]] of God is [[literal]] as well as [[spiritual]]. "He stretches out the north over the empty [[space]] and hangs the [[earth]] upon nothing."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.26]

4:1.7 A [[Divine Counselor|being of my order]] is able to [[discover]] [[ultimate]] [[harmony]] and to detect far-reaching and [[profound]] co-ordination in the routine affairs of [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|universe administration]]. Much that seems disjointed and haphazard to the [[mortal]] [[mind]] appears orderly and constructive to my [[understanding]]. But there is very much going on in the universes that [[Unknown|I do not fully comprehend]]. I have long been a student of, and am more or less conversant with, the recognized [[forces]], [[energies]], [[minds]], [[morontias]], [[spirits]], and [[personalities]] of the [[local universe]]s and the [[superuniverses]]. I have a general understanding of how these agencies and personalities operate, and I am [[intimate]]ly familiar with the workings of the accredited [[Paper 30 - Personalities of the Grand Universe|spirit intelligences of the grand universe]]. Notwithstanding my [[knowledge]] of the [[phenomena]] of [[Paper 15 - The Seven Superuniverses|the universes]], I am constantly confronted with [[cosmic]] [[reactions]] which I cannot fully [[fathom]]. I am continually encountering apparently fortuitous conspiracies of the inter[[association]] of [[forces]], [[energies]], [[intellects]], and [[spirits]], which I cannot satisfactorily explain.

4:1.7 A [[Divine Counselor|being of my order]] is able to [[discover]] [[ultimate]] [[harmony]] and to detect far-reaching and [[profound]] co-ordination in the routine affairs of [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|universe administration]]. Much that seems disjointed and haphazard to the [[mortal]] [[mind]] appears orderly and constructive to my [[understanding]]. But there is very much going on in the universes that [[Unknown|I do not fully comprehend]]. I have long been a student of, and am more or less conversant with, the recognized [[forces]], [[energies]], [[minds]], [[morontias]], [[spirits]], and [[personalities]] of the [[local universe]]s and the [[superuniverses]]. I have a general understanding of how these agencies and personalities operate, and I am [[intimate]]ly familiar with the workings of the accredited [[Paper 30 - Personalities of the Grand Universe|spirit intelligences of the grand universe]]. Notwithstanding my [[knowledge]] of the [[phenomena]] of [[Paper 15 - The Seven Superuniverses|the universes]], I am constantly confronted with [[cosmic]] [[reactions]] which I cannot fully [[fathom]]. I am continually encountering apparently fortuitous conspiracies of the inter[[association]] of [[forces]], [[energies]], [[intellects]], and [[spirits]], which I cannot satisfactorily explain.

4:1.9 These [[Absolute]]s must be the not-fully-revealed [[presences]] abroad in the universe which, in the [[phenomena]] of [[space]] potency and in the [[function]] of other superultimates, render it impossible for [[physicists]], [[philosophers]], or even [[religionists]] to predict with certainty as to just how the primordials of [[force]], [[concept]], or [[spirit]] will [[respond]] to demands made in a [[Complexity|complex]] reality situation involving supreme adjustments and [[ultimate]] [[values]].

4:1.9 These [[Absolute]]s must be the not-fully-revealed [[presences]] abroad in the universe which, in the [[phenomena]] of [[space]] potency and in the [[function]] of other superultimates, render it impossible for [[physicists]], [[philosophers]], or even [[religionists]] to predict with certainty as to just how the primordials of [[force]], [[concept]], or [[spirit]] will [[respond]] to demands made in a [[Complexity|complex]] reality situation involving supreme adjustments and [[ultimate]] [[values]].

4:1.10 There is also an organic [[unity]] in the [[universes]] of [[time and space]] which seems to underlie the whole [[fabric]] of cosmic events. This living [[presence]] of the evolving [[Supreme Being]], this [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_117_-_God_the_Supreme#117:7._THE_FUTURE_OF_THE_SUPREME Immanence of the Projected Incomplete], is [[Mystery|inexplicably]] [[manifested]] ever and anon by what appears to be an amazingly fortuitous co-ordination of [[Synchronicity|apparently unrelated universe happenings]]. This must be the [[function]] of [[Providence]]—the realm of the [[Supreme Being]] and the [[Conjoint Actor]].

4:1.10 There is also an organic [[unity]] in the [[universes]] of [[time and space]] which seems to underlie the whole [[fabric]] of cosmic events. This living [[presence]] of the evolving [[Supreme Being]], this [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_117_-_God_the_Supreme#117:7._THE_FUTURE_OF_THE_SUPREME Immanence of the Projected Incomplete], is [[Mystery|inexplicably]] [[manifested]] ever and anon by what appears to be an amazingly fortuitous co-ordination of [[Synchronicity|apparently unrelated universe happenings]]. This must be the [[function]] of [[Providence]]—the realm of the [[Supreme Being]] and the [[Conjoint Actor]].

4:1.11 I am inclined to believe that it is this far-flung and generally [[Invisible|unrecognizable]] control of the co-ordination and inter[[association]] of all [[phases]] and forms of universe [[activity]] that causes such a [[Diversity|variegated]] and apparently hopelessly [[confused]] medley of [[physical]], [[mental]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[phenomena]] so unerringly to work out to the [[glory]] of [[God]] and for the [[good]] of men and [[angels]].

4:1.11 I am inclined to believe that it is this far-flung and generally [[Invisible|unrecognizable]] control of the co-ordination and inter[[association]] of all [[phases]] and forms of universe [[activity]] that causes such a [[Diversity|variegated]] and apparently hopelessly [[confused]] medley of [[physical]], [[mental]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[phenomena]] so unerringly to work out to the [[glory]] of [[God]] and for the [[good]] of men and [[angels]].

4:1.12 But in the larger sense the apparent "[[accidents]]"[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Synchronicity] of the [[cosmos]] are undoubtedly a part of the finite [[drama]] of the [[time-space]] [[adventure]] of the [[Infinite]] in his [[eternal]] [[manipulation]] of [[The Three Absolutes|the Absolutes]].

4:1.12 But in the larger sense the apparent "[[accidents]]"[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Synchronicity] of the [[cosmos]] are undoubtedly a part of the finite [[drama]] of the [[time-space]] [[adventure]] of the [[Infinite]] in his [[eternal]] [[manipulation]] of [[The Three Absolutes|the Absolutes]].

==4:2. GOD AND NATURE==

==4:2. GOD AND NATURE==

4:2.5 God is not [[personal]]ly [[Presence|present]] in nature or in any of the [[forces]] of [[nature]], for the [[phenomenon]] of nature is the superimposition of the imperfections of [[progressive]] [[evolution]] and, sometimes, the [[consequences]] of insurrectionary [[rebellion]], upon the Paradise [[foundations]] of God's [[universal]] law. As it appears on such a world as [[Urantia]], nature can never be the adequate [[expression]], the true representation, the faithful portrayal, of an all-wise and infinite God.

4:2.5 God is not [[personal]]ly [[Presence|present]] in nature or in any of the [[forces]] of [[nature]], for the [[phenomenon]] of nature is the superimposition of the imperfections of [[progressive]] [[evolution]] and, sometimes, the [[consequences]] of insurrectionary [[rebellion]], upon the Paradise [[foundations]] of God's [[universal]] law. As it appears on such a world as [[Urantia]], nature can never be the adequate [[expression]], the true representation, the faithful portrayal, of an all-wise and infinite God.

4:2.6 Nature, on your world, is a qualification of the laws of perfection by the evolutionary plans of the local universe. What a travesty to [[worship]] nature because it is in a limited, qualified sense pervaded by [[God]]; because it is a [[phase]] of the [[universal]] and, therefore, [[divine]] [[power]]! Nature also is a [[manifestation]] of the unfinished, the incomplete, the imperfect outworkings of the development, [[growth]], and progress of a universe [[experiment]] in [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:8._CONTROL_AND_OVERCONTROL cosmic evolution].

4:2.6 Nature, on your world, is a qualification of the laws of perfection by the evolutionary plans of the local universe. What a travesty to [[worship]] nature because it is in a limited, qualified sense pervaded by [[God]]; because it is a [[phase]] of the [[universal]] and, therefore, [[divine]] [[power]]! Nature also is a [[manifestation]] of the unfinished, the incomplete, the imperfect outworkings of the development, [[growth]], and progress of a universe [[experiment]] in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:8._CONTROL_AND_OVERCONTROL cosmic evolution].

4:2.7 The apparent defects of the natural world are not indicative of any such corresponding defects in the [[character]] of [[God]]. Rather are such [[observed]] imperfections merely the inevitable stop-[[moments]] in the exhibition of the ever-moving reel of infinity [[Film|picturization]]. It is these very defect-interruptions of perfection-[[continuity]] which make it possible for the [[finite]] mind of [[material]] man to catch a fleeting glimpse of divine [[reality]] in [[time and space]]. The material manifestations of [[divinity]] appear defective to the [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|evolutionary mind of man]] only because mortal man persists in viewing the [[phenomena]] of nature through natural eyes, [[human]] [[vision]] unaided by [[morontia mota]] or by [[revelation]], its compensatory substitute on the [[Paper 49 - The Inhabited Worlds|worlds of time]].

4:2.7 The apparent defects of the natural world are not indicative of any such corresponding defects in the [[character]] of [[God]]. Rather are such [[observed]] imperfections merely the inevitable stop-[[moments]] in the exhibition of the ever-moving reel of infinity [[Film|picturization]]. It is these very defect-interruptions of perfection-[[continuity]] which make it possible for the [[finite]] mind of [[material]] man to catch a fleeting glimpse of divine [[reality]] in [[time and space]]. The material manifestations of [[divinity]] appear defective to the [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|evolutionary mind of man]] only because mortal man persists in viewing the [[phenomena]] of nature through natural eyes, [[human]] [[vision]] unaided by [[morontia mota]] or by [[revelation]], its compensatory substitute on the [[Paper 49 - The Inhabited Worlds|worlds of time]].

4:4.1 [[God]] is the only stationary, self-contained, and changeless [[being]] in the whole [[universe of universes]], having no outside, no beyond, no past, and no future. God is purposive [[energy]] ([[creative]] [[spirit]]) and [[absolute]] [[will]], and these are self-existent and [[universal]].

4:4.1 [[God]] is the only stationary, self-contained, and changeless [[being]] in the whole [[universe of universes]], having no outside, no beyond, no past, and no future. God is purposive [[energy]] ([[creative]] [[spirit]]) and [[absolute]] [[will]], and these are self-existent and [[universal]].

4:4.2 Since God is self-existent, he is [[absolute]]ly independent. The very [[identity]] of God is inimical to [[change]]. "I, the Lord, change not."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Malachi#Chapter_.3] God is immutable; but not until you achieve [[Paradise]] [[status]] can you even begin to [[understand]] how God can pass from [[simplicity]] to [[complexity]], from [[identity]] to variation, from [[quiescence]] to [[motion]], from [[infinity]] to [[Finite|finitude]], from the [[divine]] to the [[human]], and from [[unity]] to [[duality]] and [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_104#104:3._TRINITIES_AND_TRIUNITIES triunity]. And God can thus modify the [[manifestations]] of his absoluteness because divine immutability does not imply immobility; God has will—he is [[will]].

4:4.2 Since God is self-existent, he is [[absolute]]ly independent. The very [[identity]] of God is inimical to [[change]]. "I, the Lord, change not."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Malachi#Chapter_.3] God is immutable; but not until you achieve [[Paradise]] [[status]] can you even begin to [[understand]] how God can pass from [[simplicity]] to [[complexity]], from [[identity]] to variation, from [[quiescence]] to [[motion]], from [[infinity]] to [[Finite|finitude]], from the [[divine]] to the [[human]], and from [[unity]] to [[duality]] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_104#104:3._TRINITIES_AND_TRIUNITIES triunity]. And God can thus modify the [[manifestations]] of his absoluteness because divine immutability does not imply immobility; God has will—he is [[will]].

4:4.3 God is the [[being]] of [[absolute]] self-[[determination]]; there are no [[limits]] to his [[universe]] [[reactions]] save those which are self-imposed, and his [[freewill]] [[acts]] are conditioned only by those divine [[qualities]] and perfect [[attributes]] which inherently characterize his [[eternal]] [[nature]]. Therefore is God [[Relationship|related]] to the [[universe]] as the being of final [[goodness]] plus a [[free will]] of [[creative]] [[infinity]].

4:4.3 God is the [[being]] of [[absolute]] self-[[determination]]; there are no [[limits]] to his [[universe]] [[reactions]] save those which are self-imposed, and his [[freewill]] [[acts]] are conditioned only by those divine [[qualities]] and perfect [[attributes]] which inherently characterize his [[eternal]] [[nature]]. Therefore is God [[Relationship|related]] to the [[universe]] as the being of final [[goodness]] plus a [[free will]] of [[creative]] [[infinity]].

4:4.4 The Father-[[Absolute]] is the [[creator]] of the [[Havona|central and perfect universe]] and the Father of all other [[Creator Sons|Creators]]. [[Personality]], [[goodness]], and numerous other characteristics, God shares with man and other beings, but infinity of will is his alone. God is limited in his [[creative]] [[acts]] only by the sentiments of his eternal nature and by the [[Mandate|dictates]] of his infinite [[wisdom]]. God [[personal]]ly chooses only that which is infinitely perfect, hence the supernal [[perfection]] of the [[central universe]]; and while the [[Creator Sons]] fully share his [[divinity]], even [[phases]] of his absoluteness, they are not altogether limited by that finality of wisdom which directs the Father's infinity of will. Hence, in the [[Paper 21 - The Paradise Creator Sons|Michael order of sonship]], [[creative]] [[free will]] becomes even more [[active]], wholly divine and well-nigh [[ultimate]], if not [[absolute]]. The Father is infinite and eternal, but to deny the [[possibility]] of his volitional self-limitation amounts to a denial of this very concept of his volitional absoluteness.

4:4.4 The Father-[[Absolute]] is the [[creator]] of the [[Havona|central and perfect universe]] and the Father of all other [[Creator Sons|Creators]]. [[Personality]], [[goodness]], and numerous other characteristics, God shares with man and other beings, but infinity of will is his alone. God is limited in his [[creative]] [[acts]] only by the sentiments of his eternal nature and by the [[Mandate|dictates]] of his infinite [[wisdom]]. God [[personal]]ly chooses only that which is infinitely perfect, hence the supernal [[perfection]] of the [[central universe]]; and while the [[Creator Sons]] fully share his [[divinity]], even [[phases]] of his absoluteness, they are not altogether limited by that finality of wisdom which directs the Father's infinity of will. Hence, in the [[Paper 21 - The Paradise Creator Sons|Michael order of sonship]], [[creative]] [[free will]] becomes even more [[active]], wholly divine and well-nigh [[ultimate]], if not [[absolute]]. The Father is infinite and eternal, but to deny the [[possibility]] of his volitional self-limitation amounts to a denial of this very concept of his volitional absoluteness.

4:4.5 God's absoluteness pervades [[Paper 106 - Universe Levels of Reality|all seven levels of universe reality]]. And the whole of this absolute nature is subject to the [[relationship]] of the [[Creator]] to his universe [[creature]] [[family]]. Precision may characterize [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_10#10:5._FUNCTIONS_OF_THE_TRINITY trinitarian] [[justice]] in the [[universe of universes]], but in all his vast [[family]] [[relationship]] with the creatures of time the God of universes is [[governed]] by divine [[sentiment]]. First and last—eternally—the infinite God is a [[Father]]. Of all the possible titles by which he might appropriately be known, I have been instructed to portray the God of all [[creation]] as the [[Universal Father]].

4:4.5 God's absoluteness pervades [[Paper 106 - Universe Levels of Reality|all seven levels of universe reality]]. And the whole of this absolute nature is subject to the [[relationship]] of the [[Creator]] to his universe [[creature]] [[family]]. Precision may characterize [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_10#10:5._FUNCTIONS_OF_THE_TRINITY trinitarian] [[justice]] in the [[universe of universes]], but in all his vast [[family]] [[relationship]] with the creatures of time the God of universes is [[governed]] by divine [[sentiment]]. First and last—eternally—the infinite God is a [[Father]]. Of all the possible titles by which he might appropriately be known, I have been instructed to portray the God of all [[creation]] as the [[Universal Father]].

4:4.6 In God the Father [[freewill]] [[performances]] are not ruled by [[power]], nor are they [[guided]] by [[intellect]] alone; the divine [[personality]] is defined as consisting in [[spirit]] and [[manifesting]] himself to the universes as [[love]]. Therefore, in all his personal [[relations]] with the creature personalities of the universes, the [[First Source and Center]] is always and consistently a loving Father. God is a Father in the highest sense of the term. He is eternally motivated by the perfect [[Ideal|idealism]] of divine [[love]], and that tender nature finds its strongest [[expression]] and greatest [[Pleasure|satisfaction]] in loving and being loved.

4:4.6 In God the Father [[freewill]] [[performances]] are not ruled by [[power]], nor are they [[guided]] by [[intellect]] alone; the divine [[personality]] is defined as consisting in [[spirit]] and [[manifesting]] himself to the universes as [[love]]. Therefore, in all his personal [[relations]] with the creature personalities of the universes, the [[First Source and Center]] is always and consistently a loving Father. God is a Father in the highest sense of the term. He is eternally motivated by the perfect [[Ideal|idealism]] of divine [[love]], and that tender nature finds its strongest [[expression]] and greatest [[Pleasure|satisfaction]] in loving and being loved.

4:4.8 We crave the [[concept]] of the [[Infinite]], but we [[worship]] the [[experience]]-idea of God, our [[Omnipresence|anywhere]] and any-time capacity to grasp the [[personality]] and [[divinity]] factors of our highest concept of [[Deity]].

4:4.8 We crave the [[concept]] of the [[Infinite]], but we [[worship]] the [[experience]]-idea of God, our [[Omnipresence|anywhere]] and any-time capacity to grasp the [[personality]] and [[divinity]] factors of our highest concept of [[Deity]].

4:4.9 The [[consciousness]] of a victorious human life on [[earth]] is born of that [[creature]] [[faith]] which dares to [[challenge]] each recurring [[Event|episode]] of [[existence]] when confronted with the awful [[spectacle]] of human [[limitation]]s, by the unfailing declaration: Even if I cannot do this, there lives in me one who can and will do it, a [[Thought Adjuster|part]] of the [[Father]]-Absolute of the [[universe of universes]]. And that is "the victory which overcomes the world, even your [[faith]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_John#1st_Letter_of_John.2C_V]

4:4.9 The [[consciousness]] of a victorious human life on [[earth]] is born of that [[creature]] [[faith]] which dares to [[challenge]] each recurring [[Event|episode]] of [[existence]] when confronted with the awful [[spectacle]] of human [[limitation]]s, by the unfailing declaration: Even if I cannot do this, there lives in me one who can and will do it, a [[Thought Adjuster|part]] of the [[Father]]-Absolute of the [[universe of universes]]. And that is "the victory which overcomes the world, even your [[faith]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1st_Letter_of_John#1st_Letter_of_John.2C_V]

==4:5. ERRONEOUS IDEAS OF GOD==

==4:5. ERRONEOUS IDEAS OF GOD==

4:5.1 [[Religious]] [[tradition]] is the imperfectly preserved [[record]] of the [[experiences]] of the [[God]]-knowing men of [[History|past ages]], but such records are untrustworthy as [[guides]] for religious living or as the [[source]] of true [[information]] about the [[Universal Father]]. Such ancient [[beliefs]] have been invariably altered by the [[fact]] that primitive man was a [[myth]]maker.

4:5.1 [[Religious]] [[tradition]] is the imperfectly preserved [[record]] of the [[experiences]] of the [[God]]-knowing men of [[History|past ages]], but such records are untrustworthy as [[guides]] for religious living or as the [[source]] of true [[information]] about the [[Universal Father]]. Such ancient [[beliefs]] have been invariably altered by the [[fact]] that primitive man was a [[myth]]maker.

4:5.2 One of the greatest sources of [[confusion]] on [[Urantia]] concerning the [[nature]] of [[God]] grows out of the [[failure]] of your [http://institute.daynal.org/books/extended_reference/humanities/religion/sacred/sacred_texts.html sacred books] clearly to distinguish between the [[personalities]] of the [[Paradise Trinity]] and between [[Paradise]] [[Deity]] and the [[local universe]] [[Creator Sons|creators]] and [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|administrators]]. During the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION past dispensations of partial understanding], your [[priests]] and [[prophets]] failed clearly to differentiate between [[Planetary Princes]], [[System Sovereigns]], [[Constellation Fathers]], [[Creator Sons]], [[Ancients of Days|Superuniverse Rulers]], the [[Supreme Being]], and the [[Universal Father]]. Many of the messages of subordinate personalities, such as [[Life Carriers]] and [[Paper 114 - The Seraphic Planetary Government|various orders of angels]], have been, in your [[records]], presented as coming from [[God]] himself. [[Urantia]]n [[religious]] [[thought]] still confuses the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Associativity associate] [[personalities]] of [[Deity]] with the [[Universal Father]] himself, so that all are included under one appellation.

4:5.2 One of the greatest sources of [[confusion]] on [[Urantia]] concerning the [[nature]] of [[God]] grows out of the [[failure]] of your [http://institute.daynal.org/books/extended_reference/humanities/religion/sacred/sacred_texts.html sacred books] clearly to distinguish between the [[personalities]] of the [[Paradise Trinity]] and between [[Paradise]] [[Deity]] and the [[local universe]] [[Creator Sons|creators]] and [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|administrators]]. During the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION past dispensations of partial understanding], your [[priests]] and [[prophets]] failed clearly to differentiate between [[Planetary Princes]], [[System Sovereigns]], [[Constellation Fathers]], [[Creator Sons]], [[Ancients of Days|Superuniverse Rulers]], the [[Supreme Being]], and the [[Universal Father]]. Many of the messages of subordinate personalities, such as [[Life Carriers]] and [[Paper 114 - The Seraphic Planetary Government|various orders of angels]], have been, in your [[records]], presented as coming from [[God]] himself. [[Urantia]]n [[religious]] [[thought]] still confuses the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Associativity associate] [[personalities]] of [[Deity]] with the [[Universal Father]] himself, so that all are included under one appellation.

4:5.3 The people of [[Urantia]] continue to suffer from the [[influence]] of [[primitive]] [[concepts]] of God. The gods who go on a rampage in the storm; who shake the [[earth]] in their wrath and strike down men in their [[anger]]; who inflict their [[judgments]] of displeasure in times of [[Catastrophism|famine and flood]]—these are the gods of primitive religion; they are not the Gods who live and [[Administration|rule]] the [[Grand Universe|universes]]. Such concepts are a [[relic]] of the times when men supposed that the [[universe]] was under the [[guidance]] and [[Power|domination]] of the whims of such [[imaginary]] gods. But mortal man is beginning to [[realize]] that he lives in a realm of [[Relative|comparative]] [[law]] and [[Cosmos|order]] as far as concerns the [[administrative]] [[policies]] and conduct of the [[Supreme Creators]] and the Supreme Controllers.

4:5.3 The people of [[Urantia]] continue to suffer from the [[influence]] of [[primitive]] [[concepts]] of God. The gods who go on a rampage in the storm; who shake the [[earth]] in their wrath and strike down men in their [[anger]]; who inflict their [[judgments]] of displeasure in times of [[Catastrophism|famine and flood]]—these are the gods of primitive religion; they are not the Gods who live and [[Administration|rule]] the [[Grand Universe|universes]]. Such concepts are a [[relic]] of the times when men supposed that the [[universe]] was under the [[guidance]] and [[Power|domination]] of the whims of such [[imaginary]] gods. But mortal man is beginning to [[realize]] that he lives in a realm of [[Relative|comparative]] [[law]] and [[Cosmos|order]] as far as concerns the [[administrative]] [[policies]] and conduct of the [[Supreme Creators]] and the Supreme Controllers.

4:5.4 The barbarous [[idea]] of appeasing an [[angry]] [[God]], of propitiating an offended Lord, of winning the favor of [[Deity]] through [[sacrifices]] and penance and even by the shedding of blood, represents a [[religion]] wholly puerile and [[primitive]], a [[philosophy]] unworthy of an [[The Enlightenment|enlightened age]] of [[science]] and [[truth]]. Such [[beliefs]] are utterly repulsive to the [[celestial]] beings and the [[Supreme Creators|divine rulers]] who [[serve]] and reign in [[Grand Universe|the universes]]. It is an affront to God to believe, hold, or teach that [[Atonement|innocent blood must be shed]] in order to win his favor or to divert the [[Fiction|fictitious]] [[divine]] [[wrath]].

4:5.4 The barbarous [[idea]] of appeasing an [[angry]] [[God]], of propitiating an offended Lord, of winning the favor of [[Deity]] through [[sacrifices]] and penance and even by the shedding of blood, represents a [[religion]] wholly puerile and [[primitive]], a [[philosophy]] unworthy of an [[The Enlightenment|enlightened age]] of [[science]] and [[truth]]. Such [[beliefs]] are utterly repulsive to the [[celestial]] beings and the [[Supreme Creators|divine rulers]] who [[serve]] and reign in [[Grand Universe|the universes]]. It is an affront to God to believe, hold, or teach that [[Atonement|innocent blood must be shed]] in order to win his favor or to divert the [[Fiction|fictitious]] [[divine]] [[wrath]].

4:5.5 The [[Hebrews]] believed that "without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of [[sin]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_IX] They had not found [[Liberation|deliverance]] from the old and [[pagan]] [[idea]] that the Gods could not be appeased except by the sight of blood, though [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] did make a distinct advance when he forbade [[human]] [[sacrifices]] and substituted therefor, in the primitive minds of his childlike [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedouin Bedouin] followers, the [[ceremonial]] [[sacrifice]] of [[animals]].

4:5.5 The [[Hebrews]] believed that "without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of [[sin]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_IX] They had not found [[Liberation|deliverance]] from the old and [[pagan]] [[idea]] that the Gods could not be appeased except by the sight of blood, though [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] did make a distinct advance when he forbade [[human]] [[sacrifices]] and substituted therefor, in the primitive minds of his childlike [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedouin Bedouin] followers, the [[ceremonial]] [[sacrifice]] of [[animals]].

4:5.6 The [[Paper 120 - The Bestowal of Michael on Urantia|bestowal of a Paradise Son]] on your world was inherent in the situation of [[New Age|closing a planetary age]]; it was inescapable, and it was not made [[necessary]] for the [[purpose]] of winning the favor of God. This bestowal also happened to be the final [[personal]] [[act]] of a [[Creator Son]] in the long [[adventure]] of [[Paper 119 - The Bestowals of Christ Michael|earning the experiential sovereignty]] of his [[Nebadon|universe]]. What a travesty upon the infinite [[character]] of [[God]]! this teaching that his [[fatherly]] [[heart]] in all its austere coldness and hardness was so untouched by the misfortunes and [[Grief|sorrows]] of his [[creatures]] that his tender [[mercies]] were not forthcoming until he saw his [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD blameless Son] bleeding and dying upon the [[Crucifixion|cross of Calvary]]!

4:5.6 The [[Paper 120 - The Bestowal of Michael on Urantia|bestowal of a Paradise Son]] on your world was inherent in the situation of [[New Age|closing a planetary age]]; it was inescapable, and it was not made [[necessary]] for the [[purpose]] of winning the favor of God. This bestowal also happened to be the final [[personal]] [[act]] of a [[Creator Son]] in the long [[adventure]] of [[Paper 119 - The Bestowals of Christ Michael|earning the experiential sovereignty]] of his [[Nebadon|universe]]. What a travesty upon the infinite [[character]] of [[God]]! this teaching that his [[fatherly]] [[heart]] in all its austere coldness and hardness was so untouched by the misfortunes and [[Grief|sorrows]] of his [[creatures]] that his tender [[mercies]] were not forthcoming until he saw his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD blameless Son] bleeding and dying upon the [[Crucifixion|cross of Calvary]]!

4:5.7 But the inhabitants of [[Urantia]] are to find [[Liberty|deliverance]] from these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_history ancient] [[errors]] and [[pagan]] [[Superstition.|superstitions]] respecting the [[nature]] of the [[Universal Father]]. The [[revelation]] of the [[truth]] about God is appearing, and the [[human]] [[race]] is [[Destiny|destined]] to know the Universal Father in all that [[beauty]] of [[character]] and loveliness of [[attributes]] so magnificently portrayed by the [[Creator Son]] who sojourned on [[Urantia]] as the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#120:4._THE_INCARNATION.E2.80.94MAKING_TWO_ONE Son of Man and the Son of God].

4:5.7 But the inhabitants of [[Urantia]] are to find [[Liberty|deliverance]] from these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_history ancient] [[errors]] and [[pagan]] [[Superstition.|superstitions]] respecting the [[nature]] of the [[Universal Father]]. The [[revelation]] of the [[truth]] about God is appearing, and the [[human]] [[race]] is [[Destiny|destined]] to know the Universal Father in all that [[beauty]] of [[character]] and loveliness of [[attributes]] so magnificently portrayed by the [[Creator Son]] who sojourned on [[Urantia]] as the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#120:4._THE_INCARNATION.E2.80.94MAKING_TWO_ONE Son of Man and the Son of God].

4:5.8 [Presented by a [[Divine Counselor]] of [[Uversa]].]

4:5.8 [Presented by a [[Divine Counselor]] of [[Uversa]].]

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[[Category: PART I: The Central and Superuniverses]]

[[Category: PART I: The Central and Superuniverses]]