Changes

99:0.2 But [[religion]] should not be directly concerned either with the [[creation]] of new [[social]] orders or with the [[preservation]] of old ones. True [[religion]] does [[oppose]] [[violence]] as a [[technique]] of [[social]] [[evolution]], but it does not [[oppose]] the [[intelligent]] [[efforts]] of [[society]] to adapt its usages and [[adjust]] its [[institutions]] to new [[economic]] conditions and cultural requirements.

99:0.2 But [[religion]] should not be directly concerned either with the [[creation]] of new [[social]] orders or with the [[preservation]] of old ones. True [[religion]] does [[oppose]] [[violence]] as a [[technique]] of [[social]] [[evolution]], but it does not [[oppose]] the [[intelligent]] [[efforts]] of [[society]] to adapt its usages and [[adjust]] its [[institutions]] to new [[economic]] conditions and cultural requirements.

99:0.3 [[Religion]] did approve the occasional [[social]] [[reforms]] of [[past]] centuries, but in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] it is of [[necessity]] called upon to face [[adjustment]] to extensive and continuing [[social]] reconstruction. Conditions of living alter so rapidly that [[institutional]] [[modifications]] must be greatly [[accelerated]], and [[religion]] must accordingly quicken its [[adaptation]] to this new and ever-changing [[social]] order.

99:0.3 [[Religion]] did approve the occasional [[social]] [[reforms]] of [[past]] centuries, but in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] it is of [[necessity]] called upon to face [[adjustment]] to extensive and continuing [[social]] reconstruction. Conditions of living alter so rapidly that [[institutional]] [[modifications]] must be greatly [[accelerated]], and [[religion]] must accordingly quicken its [[adaptation]] to this new and ever-changing [[social]] order.

==99:1. RELIGION AND SOCIAL RECONSTRUCTION==

==99:1. RELIGION AND SOCIAL RECONSTRUCTION==

99:1.2 [[Religion]] must become a forceful [[influence]] for [[moral]] [[stability]] and [[spiritual]] [[progression]] functioning [[dynamically]] in the midst of these ever-changing conditions and never-ending [[economic]] [[adjustments]].

99:1.2 [[Religion]] must become a forceful [[influence]] for [[moral]] [[stability]] and [[spiritual]] [[progression]] functioning [[dynamically]] in the midst of these ever-changing conditions and never-ending [[economic]] [[adjustments]].

99:1.3 [[Urantia]] [[society]] can never hope to settle down as in [[past]] ages. The [[social]] ship has steamed out of the [[sheltered]] bays of [[established]] [[tradition]] and has begun its cruise upon the high seas of [[evolutionary]] [[destiny]]; and the [[soul]] of man, as never before in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_history world's history], needs [[carefully]] to scrutinize its charts of [[morality]] and painstakingly to [[observe]] the [[compass]] of [[religious]] [[guidance]]. The [[paramount]] mission of [[religion]] as a [[social]] [[influence]] is to [[stabilize]] the [[ideals]] of mankind during these [[dangerous]] times of [[transition]] from one [[phase]] of [[civilization]] to another, from one level of [[culture]] to another.

99:1.3 [[Urantia]] [[society]] can never hope to settle down as in [[past]] ages. The [[social]] ship has steamed out of the [[sheltered]] bays of [[established]] [[tradition]] and has begun its cruise upon the high seas of [[evolutionary]] [[destiny]]; and the [[soul]] of man, as never before in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_history world's history], needs [[carefully]] to scrutinize its charts of [[morality]] and painstakingly to [[observe]] the [[compass]] of [[religious]] [[guidance]]. The [[paramount]] mission of [[religion]] as a [[social]] [[influence]] is to [[stabilize]] the [[ideals]] of mankind during these [[dangerous]] times of [[transition]] from one [[phase]] of [[civilization]] to another, from one level of [[culture]] to another.

99:1.4 [[Religion]] has no new [[duties]] to [[perform]], but it is urgently called upon to [[function]] as a [[wise]] guide and experienced [[counselor]] in all of these new and rapidly changing [[human]] situations. [[Society]] is becoming more [[mechanical]], more compact, more [[complex]], and more critically [[interdependent]]. [[Religion]] must [[function]] to prevent these new and [[intimate]] interassociations from becoming mutually [[retrogressive]] or even [[destructive]]. [[Religion]] must act as the [[cosmic]] salt which prevents the ferments of [[progression]] from destroying the [[cultural]] savor of [[civilization]]. These new [[social]] relations and [[economic]] upheavals can result in lasting [[brotherhood]] only by the ministry of [[religion]].

99:1.4 [[Religion]] has no new [[duties]] to [[perform]], but it is urgently called upon to [[function]] as a [[wise]] guide and experienced [[counselor]] in all of these new and rapidly changing [[human]] situations. [[Society]] is becoming more [[mechanical]], more compact, more [[complex]], and more critically [[interdependent]]. [[Religion]] must [[function]] to prevent these new and [[intimate]] interassociations from becoming mutually [[retrogressive]] or even [[destructive]]. [[Religion]] must act as the [[cosmic]] salt which prevents the ferments of [[progression]] from destroying the [[cultural]] savor of [[civilization]]. These new [[social]] relations and [[economic]] upheavals can result in lasting [[brotherhood]] only by the ministry of [[religion]].

99:1.5 A [[Atheism|godless]] [[humanitarianism]] is, humanly speaking, a [[noble]] [[gesture]], but true [[religion]] is the only [[power]] which can lastingly increase the [[responsiveness]] of one [[social]] [[group]] to the needs and sufferings of [[other]] groups. In the past, [[institutional]] [[religion]] could remain passive while the upper strata of [[society]] turned a deaf ear to the [[sufferings]] and [[oppression]] of the helpless lower strata, but in [[modern]] times these lower [[social]] orders are no longer so abjectly [[ignorant]] nor so politically helpless.

99:1.5 A [[Atheism|godless]] [[humanitarianism]] is, humanly speaking, a [[noble]] [[gesture]], but true [[religion]] is the only [[power]] which can lastingly increase the [[responsiveness]] of one [[social]] [[group]] to the needs and sufferings of [[other]] groups. In the past, [[institutional]] [[religion]] could remain passive while the upper strata of [[society]] turned a deaf ear to the [[sufferings]] and [[oppression]] of the helpless lower strata, but in [[modern]] times these lower [[social]] orders are no longer so abjectly [[ignorant]] nor so politically helpless.

99:1.6 [[Religion]] must not become [[organically]] involved in the [[secular]] [[work]] of [[social]] reconstruction and [[economic]] reorganization. But it must [[actively]] keep [[pace]] with all these advances in [[civilization]] by making clear-cut and [[vigorous]] restatements of its [[moral]] [[mandates]] and [[spiritual]] precepts, its [[progressive]] [[philosophy]] of human living and [[transcendent]] [[survival]]. The [[spirit]] of [[religion]] is [[eternal]], but the [[form]] of its [[expression]] must be restated every time the [http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dictionary dictionary] of [[human]] [[language]] is revised.

99:1.6 [[Religion]] must not become [[organically]] involved in the [[secular]] [[work]] of [[social]] reconstruction and [[economic]] reorganization. But it must [[actively]] keep [[pace]] with all these advances in [[civilization]] by making clear-cut and [[vigorous]] restatements of its [[moral]] [[mandates]] and [[spiritual]] precepts, its [[progressive]] [[philosophy]] of human living and [[transcendent]] [[survival]]. The [[spirit]] of [[religion]] is [[eternal]], but the [[form]] of its [[expression]] must be restated every time the [https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dictionary dictionary] of [[human]] [[language]] is revised.

==99:2. WEAKNESS OF INSTITUTIONAL RELIGION==

==99:2. WEAKNESS OF INSTITUTIONAL RELIGION==

99:2.1 [[Institutional]] [[religion]] cannot afford [[inspiration]] and [[provide]] [[leadership]] in this impending world-wide [[social]] reconstruction and [[economic]] reorganization because it has unfortunately become more or less of an [[organic]] part of the [[social]] order and the [[economic]] [[system]] which is destined to undergo reconstruction. Only the real [[religion]] of [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]] can [[function]] helpfully and [[creatively]] in the [[present]] [[crisis]] of [[civilization]].

99:2.1 [[Institutional]] [[religion]] cannot afford [[inspiration]] and [[provide]] [[leadership]] in this impending world-wide [[social]] reconstruction and [[economic]] reorganization because it has unfortunately become more or less of an [[organic]] part of the [[social]] order and the [[economic]] [[system]] which is destined to undergo reconstruction. Only the real [[religion]] of [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]] can [[function]] helpfully and [[creatively]] in the [[present]] [[crisis]] of [[civilization]].

99:2.2 [[Institutional]] [[religion]] is now caught in the [[stalemate]] of a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtuous_circle_and_vicious_circle#Vicious_circle vicious circle]. It cannot reconstruct [[society]] without first reconstructing itself; and being so much an integral part of the [[established]] order, it cannot reconstruct itself until [[society]] has been [[radically]] reconstructed.

99:2.2 [[Institutional]] [[religion]] is now caught in the [[stalemate]] of a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtuous_circle_and_vicious_circle#Vicious_circle vicious circle]. It cannot reconstruct [[society]] without first reconstructing itself; and being so much an integral part of the [[established]] order, it cannot reconstruct itself until [[society]] has been [[radically]] reconstructed.

99:2.3 Religionists must [[function]] in [[society]], in [[industry]], and in [[politics]] as [[individuals]], not as [[groups]], parties, or [[institutions]]. A religious [[group]] which presumes to [[function]] as such, apart from religious activities, [[immediately]] becomes a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party political party], an [[economic]] [[organization]], or a [[social]] [[institution]]. Religious [[collectivism]] must confine its efforts to the furtherance of [[religious]] causes.

99:2.3 Religionists must [[function]] in [[society]], in [[industry]], and in [[politics]] as [[individuals]], not as [[groups]], parties, or [[institutions]]. A religious [[group]] which presumes to [[function]] as such, apart from religious activities, [[immediately]] becomes a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party political party], an [[economic]] [[organization]], or a [[social]] [[institution]]. Religious [[collectivism]] must confine its efforts to the furtherance of [[religious]] causes.

99:2.4 Religionists are of no more [[value]] in the tasks of social reconstruction than nonreligionists except in so far as their [[religion]] has conferred upon them enhanced [[cosmic]] [[foresight]] and [[endowed]] them with that superior social [[wisdom]] which is born of the [[sincere]] [[desire]] to [[love]] [[God]] supremely and to love every man as a [[brother]] in the heavenly kingdom. An [[ideal]] [[social]] order is that in which every man loves his [[neighbor]] as he loves himself.

99:2.4 Religionists are of no more [[value]] in the tasks of social reconstruction than nonreligionists except in so far as their [[religion]] has conferred upon them enhanced [[cosmic]] [[foresight]] and [[endowed]] them with that superior social [[wisdom]] which is born of the [[sincere]] [[desire]] to [[love]] [[God]] supremely and to love every man as a [[brother]] in the heavenly kingdom. An [[ideal]] [[social]] order is that in which every man loves his [[neighbor]] as he loves himself.

==99:3. RELIGION AND THE RELIGIONIST==

==99:3. RELIGION AND THE RELIGIONIST==

99:3.1 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity Early Christianity] was entirely [[free]] from all [[civil]] [[entanglement]]s, [[social]] commitments, and [[economic]] alliances. Only did later [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I_and_Christianity institutionalized Christianity] become an [[organic]] part of the [[political]] and [[social]] [[structure]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occident Occidental civilization].

99:3.1 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity Early Christianity] was entirely [[free]] from all [[civil]] [[entanglement]]s, [[social]] commitments, and [[economic]] alliances. Only did later [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I_and_Christianity institutionalized Christianity] become an [[organic]] part of the [[political]] and [[social]] [[structure]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occident Occidental civilization].

99:3.2 The kingdom of heaven is neither a [[social]] nor [[economic]] order; it is an exclusively [[spiritual]] [[brotherhood]] of [[God]]-knowing [[individuals]]. True, such a [[brotherhood]] is in itself a new and amazing [[social]] [[phenomenon]] attended by astounding [[political]] and [[economic]] [[repercussions]].

99:3.2 The kingdom of heaven is neither a [[social]] nor [[economic]] order; it is an exclusively [[spiritual]] [[brotherhood]] of [[God]]-knowing [[individuals]]. True, such a [[brotherhood]] is in itself a new and amazing [[social]] [[phenomenon]] attended by astounding [[political]] and [[economic]] [[repercussions]].

99:3.4 The [[attainment]] of a high [[cultural]] [[civilization]] demands, first, the [[ideal]] type of [[citizen]] and, then, [[ideal]] and adequate [[social]] [[mechanisms]] wherewith such a citizenry may [[control]] the [[economic]] and [[political]] [[institutions]] of such an advanced [[human]] [[society]].

99:3.4 The [[attainment]] of a high [[cultural]] [[civilization]] demands, first, the [[ideal]] type of [[citizen]] and, then, [[ideal]] and adequate [[social]] [[mechanisms]] wherewith such a citizenry may [[control]] the [[economic]] and [[political]] [[institutions]] of such an advanced [[human]] [[society]].

99:3.5 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_church church], because of overmuch false [[sentiment]], has long ministered to the [[Poor|underprivileged]] and the unfortunate, and this has all been well, but this same sentiment has led to the unwise perpetuation of racially [[degenerate]] stocks which have tremendously [[Handicap|retarded]] the [[progress]] of [[civilization]].

99:3.5 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_church church], because of overmuch false [[sentiment]], has long ministered to the [[Poor|underprivileged]] and the unfortunate, and this has all been well, but this same sentiment has led to the unwise perpetuation of racially [[degenerate]] stocks which have tremendously [[Handicap|retarded]] the [[progress]] of [[civilization]].

99:3.6 Many [[individual]] social reconstructionists, while vehemently repudiating [[institutionalized]] [[religion]], are, after all, zealously [[religious]] in the propagation of their [[social]] [[reforms]]. And so it is that religious [[motivation]], [[personal]] and more or less unrecognized, is playing a great part in the present-day [[program]] of [[social]] [[Transformation|reconstruction]].

99:3.6 Many [[individual]] social reconstructionists, while vehemently repudiating [[institutionalized]] [[religion]], are, after all, zealously [[religious]] in the propagation of their [[social]] [[reforms]]. And so it is that religious [[motivation]], [[personal]] and more or less unrecognized, is playing a great part in the present-day [[program]] of [[social]] [[Transformation|reconstruction]].

99:3.7 The great weakness of all this unrecognized and [[unconscious]] type of [[religious]] [[activity]] is that it is unable to profit from open religious [[criticism]] and thereby [[attain]] to profitable levels of [[self]]-[[correction]]. It is a [[fact]] that [[religion]] does not grow unless it is [[disciplined]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constructive_criticism#Constructive_criticism constructive criticism], amplified by [[philosophy]], [[purified]] by [[science]], and nourished by loyal fellowship.

99:3.7 The great weakness of all this unrecognized and [[unconscious]] type of [[religious]] [[activity]] is that it is unable to profit from open religious [[criticism]] and thereby [[attain]] to profitable levels of [[self]]-[[correction]]. It is a [[fact]] that [[religion]] does not grow unless it is [[disciplined]] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constructive_criticism#Constructive_criticism constructive criticism], amplified by [[philosophy]], [[purified]] by [[science]], and nourished by loyal fellowship.

99:3.8 There is always the great [[danger]] that [[religion]] will become distorted and [[perverted]] into the pursuit of false goals, as when in times of [[war]] each contending [[nation]] [[prostitutes]] its religion into [[military]] [[propaganda]]. Loveless zeal is always harmful to religion, while [[persecution]] diverts the [[activities]] of religion into the achievement of some [[sociologic]] or [[theologic]] drive.

99:3.8 There is always the great [[danger]] that [[religion]] will become distorted and [[perverted]] into the pursuit of false goals, as when in times of [[war]] each contending [[nation]] [[prostitutes]] its religion into [[military]] [[propaganda]]. Loveless zeal is always harmful to religion, while [[persecution]] diverts the [[activities]] of religion into the achievement of some [[sociologic]] or [[theologic]] drive.

99:4.1 Genuine [[religion]] renders the religionist socially fragrant and creates [[insights]] into human fellowship. But the [[formalization]] of religious [[groups]] many times destroys the very [[values]] for the promotion of which the [[group]] was organized. Human [[friendship]] and [[divine]] [[religion]] are [[mutually]] helpful and significantly [[illuminating]] if the [[growth]] in each is equalized and [[harmonized]]. [[Religion]] puts new [[meaning]] into all group [[associations]]—families, schools, and clubs. It imparts new [[values]] to [[play]] and exalts all true [[humor]].

99:4.1 Genuine [[religion]] renders the religionist socially fragrant and creates [[insights]] into human fellowship. But the [[formalization]] of religious [[groups]] many times destroys the very [[values]] for the promotion of which the [[group]] was organized. Human [[friendship]] and [[divine]] [[religion]] are [[mutually]] helpful and significantly [[illuminating]] if the [[growth]] in each is equalized and [[harmonized]]. [[Religion]] puts new [[meaning]] into all group [[associations]]—families, schools, and clubs. It imparts new [[values]] to [[play]] and exalts all true [[humor]].

99:4.2 [[Social]] [[leadership]] is transformed by [[spiritual]] [[insight]]; [[religion]] prevents all [[collective]] [[movements]] from losing sight of their true objectives. Together with [[children]], [[religion]] is the great unifier of [[family]] life, provided it is a living and growing [[faith]]. [[Family]] life cannot be had without [[children]]; it can be lived without [[religion]], but such a [[handicap]] enormously multiplies the [[difficulties]] of this [[intimate]] human [[association]]. During the early decades of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century], [[family]] life, next to [[personal]] religious [[experience]], suffers most from the [[decadence]] consequent upon the [[transition]] from old religious [[loyalties]] to the emerging new [[meanings]] and [[values]].

99:4.2 [[Social]] [[leadership]] is transformed by [[spiritual]] [[insight]]; [[religion]] prevents all [[collective]] [[movements]] from losing sight of their true objectives. Together with [[children]], [[religion]] is the great unifier of [[family]] life, provided it is a living and growing [[faith]]. [[Family]] life cannot be had without [[children]]; it can be lived without [[religion]], but such a [[handicap]] enormously multiplies the [[difficulties]] of this [[intimate]] human [[association]]. During the early decades of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century], [[family]] life, next to [[personal]] religious [[experience]], suffers most from the [[decadence]] consequent upon the [[transition]] from old religious [[loyalties]] to the emerging new [[meanings]] and [[values]].

99:4.3 True [[religion]] is a meaningful way of living [[dynamically]] face to face with the commonplace [[realities]] of everyday life. But if [[religion]] is to [[stimulate]] [[individual]] [[development]] of [[character]] and augment [[integration]] of [[personality]], it must not be [[standardized]]. If it is to stimulate [[evaluation]] of [[experience]] and serve as a value-lure, it must not be [[stereotyped]]. If  is to promote supreme loyalties, it must not be [[formalized]].

99:4.3 True [[religion]] is a meaningful way of living [[dynamically]] face to face with the commonplace [[realities]] of everyday life. But if [[religion]] is to [[stimulate]] [[individual]] [[development]] of [[character]] and augment [[integration]] of [[personality]], it must not be [[standardized]]. If it is to stimulate [[evaluation]] of [[experience]] and serve as a value-lure, it must not be [[stereotyped]]. If  is to promote supreme loyalties, it must not be [[formalized]].

99:4.5 After all, it is what one [[believes]] rather than what one knows that determines [[conduct]] and [[dominates]] [[personal]] [[performances]]. [[Purely]] [[factual]] [[knowledge]] exerts very little [[influence]] upon the [[average]] man unless it becomes [[emotionally]] activated. But the [[activation]] of [[religion]] is superemotional, unifying the entire [[human]] [[experience]] on [[transcendent]] levels through [[contact]] with, and release of, [[spiritual]] [[energies]] in the [[mortal]] life.

99:4.5 After all, it is what one [[believes]] rather than what one knows that determines [[conduct]] and [[dominates]] [[personal]] [[performances]]. [[Purely]] [[factual]] [[knowledge]] exerts very little [[influence]] upon the [[average]] man unless it becomes [[emotionally]] activated. But the [[activation]] of [[religion]] is superemotional, unifying the entire [[human]] [[experience]] on [[transcendent]] levels through [[contact]] with, and release of, [[spiritual]] [[energies]] in the [[mortal]] life.

99:4.6 During the [[psychologically]] unsettled times of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century], amid the [[economic]] [[upheavals]], the moral crosscurrents, and the sociologic rip tides of the cyclonic [[transitions]] of a [[scientific]] era, thousands upon thousands of men and women have become humanly dislocated; they are [[anxious]], restless, [[fearful]], uncertain, and unsettled; as never before in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_history world's history] they need the consolation and [[stabilization]] of sound [[religion]]. In the face of unprecedented [[scientific]] [[achievement]] and [[mechanical]] [[development]] there is [[spiritual]] stagnation and [[philosophic]] [[chaos]].

99:4.6 During the [[psychologically]] unsettled times of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century], amid the [[economic]] [[upheavals]], the moral crosscurrents, and the sociologic rip tides of the cyclonic [[transitions]] of a [[scientific]] era, thousands upon thousands of men and women have become humanly dislocated; they are [[anxious]], restless, [[fearful]], uncertain, and unsettled; as never before in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_history world's history] they need the consolation and [[stabilization]] of sound [[religion]]. In the face of unprecedented [[scientific]] [[achievement]] and [[mechanical]] [[development]] there is [[spiritual]] stagnation and [[philosophic]] [[chaos]].

99:4.7 There is no [[danger]] in religion's becoming more and more of a [[private]] matter—a [[personal]] [[experience]]—provided it does not lose its [[motivation]] for [[unselfish]] and loving [[social]] [[service]]. [[Religion]] has suffered from many secondary [[influences]]: sudden mixing of [[cultures]], intermingling of [[creeds]], diminution of ecclesiastical [[authority]], changing of [[family]] life, together with urbanization and [[mechanization]].

99:4.7 There is no [[danger]] in religion's becoming more and more of a [[private]] matter—a [[personal]] [[experience]]—provided it does not lose its [[motivation]] for [[unselfish]] and loving [[social]] [[service]]. [[Religion]] has suffered from many secondary [[influences]]: sudden mixing of [[cultures]], intermingling of [[creeds]], diminution of ecclesiastical [[authority]], changing of [[family]] life, together with urbanization and [[mechanization]].

99:4.8 Man's greatest [[spiritual]] [[jeopardy]] consists in partial [[progress]], the predicament of unfinished [[growth]]: forsaking the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religions of fear] without [[immediately]] grasping the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION revelatory religion] of [[love]]. [[Modern]] [[science]], particularly [[psychology]], has weakened only those [[religions]] which are so largely dependent upon [[fear]], [[superstition]], and [[emotion]].

99:4.8 Man's greatest [[spiritual]] [[jeopardy]] consists in partial [[progress]], the predicament of unfinished [[growth]]: forsaking the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religions of fear] without [[immediately]] grasping the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION revelatory religion] of [[love]]. [[Modern]] [[science]], particularly [[psychology]], has weakened only those [[religions]] which are so largely dependent upon [[fear]], [[superstition]], and [[emotion]].

99:4.9 [[Transition]] is always accompanied by [[confusion]], and there will be little [[tranquillity]] in the religious world until the great [[struggle]] between the [[three]] [[contending]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy_of_religion philosophies of religion] is ended:

99:4.9 [[Transition]] is always accompanied by [[confusion]], and there will be little [[tranquillity]] in the religious world until the great [[struggle]] between the [[three]] [[contending]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy_of_religion philosophies of religion] is ended:

*1. The spiritistic [[belief]] (in a [[providential]] [[Deity]]) of many religions.

*1. The spiritistic [[belief]] (in a [[providential]] [[Deity]]) of many religions.

==99:5. SOCIAL ASPECTS OF RELIGION==

==99:5. SOCIAL ASPECTS OF RELIGION==

99:5.1 While [[religion]] is exclusively a [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]]—knowing [[God]] as a [[Father]]—the corollary of this [[experience]]—knowing man as a [[brother]]—entails the [[adjustment]] of the [[self]] to [[other]] selves, and that involves the [[social]] or [[group]] aspect of religious life. [[Religion]] is first an [[Inner Life|inner] or [[personal]] [[adjustment]], and then it becomes a matter of [[social]] [[service]] or [[group]] adjustment. The [[fact]] of man's gregariousness perforce determines that religious [[groups]] will come into [[existence]]. What happens to these religious [[groups]] depends very much on [[intelligent]] [[leadership]]. In [[primitive]] [[society]] the religious group is not always very [[different]] from [[economic]] or [[political]] groups. [[Religion]] has always been a [[conservator]] of [[morals]] and a [[stabilizer]] of [[society]]. And this is still true, notwithstanding the contrary teaching of many [[modern]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socialism socialists] and [[humanists]].

99:5.1 While [[religion]] is exclusively a [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]]—knowing [[God]] as a [[Father]]—the corollary of this [[experience]]—knowing man as a [[brother]]—entails the [[adjustment]] of the [[self]] to [[other]] selves, and that involves the [[social]] or [[group]] aspect of religious life. [[Religion]] is first an [[Inner Life|inner] or [[personal]] [[adjustment]], and then it becomes a matter of [[social]] [[service]] or [[group]] adjustment. The [[fact]] of man's gregariousness perforce determines that religious [[groups]] will come into [[existence]]. What happens to these religious [[groups]] depends very much on [[intelligent]] [[leadership]]. In [[primitive]] [[society]] the religious group is not always very [[different]] from [[economic]] or [[political]] groups. [[Religion]] has always been a [[conservator]] of [[morals]] and a [[stabilizer]] of [[society]]. And this is still true, notwithstanding the contrary teaching of many [[modern]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socialism socialists] and [[humanists]].

99:5.2 Always keep in [[mind]]: True [[religion]] is to know [[God]] as your [[Father]] and man as your [[brother]]. [[Religion]] is not a [[slavish]] [[belief]] in threats of punishment or [[magical]] [[promises]] of [[future]] [[mystical]] rewards.

99:5.2 Always keep in [[mind]]: True [[religion]] is to know [[God]] as your [[Father]] and man as your [[brother]]. [[Religion]] is not a [[slavish]] [[belief]] in threats of punishment or [[magical]] [[promises]] of [[future]] [[mystical]] rewards.

==99:6. INSTITUTIONAL RELIGION==

==99:6. INSTITUTIONAL RELIGION==

99:6.1 [[Sectarianism]] is a [[disease]] of [[institutional]] [[religion]], and [[dogmatism]] is an [[enslavement]] of the [[spiritual]] [[nature]]. It is far better to have a [[religion]] without a [[church]] than a church without religion. The religious [[turmoil]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] does not, in and of itself, betoken [[spiritual]] [[decadence]]. [[Confusion]] goes before [[growth]] as well as before destruction.

99:6.1 [[Sectarianism]] is a [[disease]] of [[institutional]] [[religion]], and [[dogmatism]] is an [[enslavement]] of the [[spiritual]] [[nature]]. It is far better to have a [[religion]] without a [[church]] than a church without religion. The religious [[turmoil]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] does not, in and of itself, betoken [[spiritual]] [[decadence]]. [[Confusion]] goes before [[growth]] as well as before destruction.

99:6.2 There is a real [[purpose]] in the [[socialization]] of [[religion]]. It is the [[purpose]] of [[group]] religious [[activities]] to [[dramatize]] the [[loyalties]] of [[religion]]; to [[magnify]] the lures of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness]; to foster the [[attractions]] of [[supreme]] [[values]]; to enhance the [[service]] of [[unselfish]] fellowship; to [[glorify]] the [[potentials]] of [[family]] life; to promote [[religious]] [[education]]; to provide [[wise]] [[counsel]] and [[spiritual]] [[guidance]]; and to [[encourage]] group [[worship]]. And all live [[religions]] encourage [[human]] [[friendship]], [[conserve]] [[morality]], promote [[neighborhood]] welfare, and [[facilitate]] the spread of the [[essential]] [[gospel]] of their respective [[messages]] of [[eternal]] [[salvation]].

99:6.2 There is a real [[purpose]] in the [[socialization]] of [[religion]]. It is the [[purpose]] of [[group]] religious [[activities]] to [[dramatize]] the [[loyalties]] of [[religion]]; to [[magnify]] the lures of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness]; to foster the [[attractions]] of [[supreme]] [[values]]; to enhance the [[service]] of [[unselfish]] fellowship; to [[glorify]] the [[potentials]] of [[family]] life; to promote [[religious]] [[education]]; to provide [[wise]] [[counsel]] and [[spiritual]] [[guidance]]; and to [[encourage]] group [[worship]]. And all live [[religions]] encourage [[human]] [[friendship]], [[conserve]] [[morality]], promote [[neighborhood]] welfare, and [[facilitate]] the spread of the [[essential]] [[gospel]] of their respective [[messages]] of [[eternal]] [[salvation]].

99:6.3 But as [[religion]] becomes [[institutionalized]], its [[power]] for [[good]] is curtailed, while the [[possibilities]] for [[evil]] are greatly multiplied. The [[dangers]] of [[formalized]] [[religion]] are: fixation of [[beliefs]] and crystallization of sentiments; accumulation of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vested_interest vested interests] with increase of [[secularization]]; tendency to [[standardize]] and [[fossilize]] [[truth]]; diversion of [[religion]] from the [[service]] of [[God]] to the service of the [[church]]; inclination of [[leaders]] to become [[administrators]] instead of ministers; tendency to form [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sect sects] and [[competitive]] divisions; [[establishment]] of [[oppressive]] ecclesiastical [[authority]]; [[creation]] of the [[aristocratic]] "[[chosen-people]]" [[attitude]]; fostering of false and exaggerated [[ideas]] of [[sacredness]]; the routinizing of religion and the petrification of [[worship]]; [[tendency]] to [[venerate]] the [[past]] while ignoring present demands; failure to make up-to-date [[interpretations]] of religion; [[entanglement]] with [[functions]] of [[secular]] [[institutions]]; it creates the [[evil]] [[discrimination]] of religious [[castes]]; it becomes an intolerant [[judge]] of [[orthodoxy]]; it fails to hold the interest of [[adventurous]] [[youth]] and [[gradually]] loses the saving [[message]] of the gospel of [[eternal]] [[salvation]].

99:6.3 But as [[religion]] becomes [[institutionalized]], its [[power]] for [[good]] is curtailed, while the [[possibilities]] for [[evil]] are greatly multiplied. The [[dangers]] of [[formalized]] [[religion]] are: fixation of [[beliefs]] and crystallization of sentiments; accumulation of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vested_interest vested interests] with increase of [[secularization]]; tendency to [[standardize]] and [[fossilize]] [[truth]]; diversion of [[religion]] from the [[service]] of [[God]] to the service of the [[church]]; inclination of [[leaders]] to become [[administrators]] instead of ministers; tendency to form [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sect sects] and [[competitive]] divisions; [[establishment]] of [[oppressive]] ecclesiastical [[authority]]; [[creation]] of the [[aristocratic]] "[[chosen-people]]" [[attitude]]; fostering of false and exaggerated [[ideas]] of [[sacredness]]; the routinizing of religion and the petrification of [[worship]]; [[tendency]] to [[venerate]] the [[past]] while ignoring present demands; failure to make up-to-date [[interpretations]] of religion; [[entanglement]] with [[functions]] of [[secular]] [[institutions]]; it creates the [[evil]] [[discrimination]] of religious [[castes]]; it becomes an intolerant [[judge]] of [[orthodoxy]]; it fails to hold the interest of [[adventurous]] [[youth]] and [[gradually]] loses the saving [[message]] of the gospel of [[eternal]] [[salvation]].

99:6.4 [[Formal]] [[religion]] restrains men in their [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[activities]] instead of releasing them for heightened [[service]] as kingdom builders.

99:6.4 [[Formal]] [[religion]] restrains men in their [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[activities]] instead of releasing them for heightened [[service]] as kingdom builders.