Changes

WILL: Your friend Anne is a very [[spiritual]] [[person]]. I do not know though at this time whether she is ready to come into the [[group]]. The advances that she had made in her own [[spiritual growth]] have been many and she was most [[touched]] by the letter that she was given. As to whether she would be allowed into the [[group]] at the present time is really something that the group must [[decide]] upon. It should be taken to the group and let them decide whether a new member should be allowed into the group now. I really cannot give you a definite answer except to ask your fellows and let them decide. It should be made clear that she have a firm [[understanding]] of the [[Urantia Book]] and what it says, so that she not ask questions that would sidetrack the [[discussion]] or get bogged down in her questions. She must do her own searching and she must do her own catching up. She must be willing to do that. Is there someone else?

WILL: Your friend Anne is a very [[spiritual]] [[person]]. I do not know though at this time whether she is ready to come into the [[group]]. The advances that she had made in her own [[spiritual growth]] have been many and she was most [[touched]] by the letter that she was given. As to whether she would be allowed into the [[group]] at the present time is really something that the group must [[decide]] upon. It should be taken to the group and let them decide whether a new member should be allowed into the group now. I really cannot give you a definite answer except to ask your fellows and let them decide. It should be made clear that she have a firm [[understanding]] of the [[Urantia Book]] and what it says, so that she not ask questions that would sidetrack the [[discussion]] or get bogged down in her questions. She must do her own searching and she must do her own catching up. She must be willing to do that. Is there someone else?

VINCENT: Hello Will. My [[parents]] are living in Saudi Arabia and are [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]]. They have asked me to [[inquire]] about the [[Koran]], its source and any comment you might have on it and I am also interested in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Mormon Book of Mormon]. There are a lot of religious [[books]] out there that purport to be [[inspired]] and I would like to know if you can tell us a little bit about those two books.

VINCENT: Hello Will. My [[parents]] are living in Saudi Arabia and are [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]]. They have asked me to [[inquire]] about the [[Koran]], its source and any comment you might have on it and I am also interested in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Mormon Book of Mormon]. There are a lot of religious [[books]] out there that purport to be [[inspired]] and I would like to know if you can tell us a little bit about those two books.

WILL: The books that you speak of are [[inspired]], but they do not contain the [[truth]] about our spiritual world. There are many things in those books that come from [[spiritual]] [[sources]], but there is much that has been [[polluted]] by [[human]] [[thinking]] and, in [[reading]] them, it is best to remember that any time we get into a [[discussion]] of books that are of a [[religious]] source, it is best not to say anything that would be of a [[damaging]] nature to them because they are of great [[inspiration]] to the people who believe in them. So for those who have found inspiration by reading those [[books]], let it be and try not to dissuade them from their [[belief]]. For what they have found has given them substance. It has helped them in their daily lives. The books have helped them walk through their lives. You will get no [[argument]] from me and I would really rather not make any further comment on these [[books]]. As to your [[parents]], it is unfortunate that they are so far away for we know that you miss them. Perhaps there will come a time when you can [[share]] with them what is going on here. Until that day, they are [[surrounded]] by [[the Father]]'s [[love]] and have all the spiritual help that they could possibly need. Our Father loves them as well, just as He loves you. Is there someone else?

WILL: The books that you speak of are [[inspired]], but they do not contain the [[truth]] about our spiritual world. There are many things in those books that come from [[spiritual]] [[sources]], but there is much that has been [[polluted]] by [[human]] [[thinking]] and, in [[reading]] them, it is best to remember that any time we get into a [[discussion]] of books that are of a [[religious]] source, it is best not to say anything that would be of a [[damaging]] nature to them because they are of great [[inspiration]] to the people who believe in them. So for those who have found inspiration by reading those [[books]], let it be and try not to dissuade them from their [[belief]]. For what they have found has given them substance. It has helped them in their daily lives. The books have helped them walk through their lives. You will get no [[argument]] from me and I would really rather not make any further comment on these [[books]]. As to your [[parents]], it is unfortunate that they are so far away for we know that you miss them. Perhaps there will come a time when you can [[share]] with them what is going on here. Until that day, they are [[surrounded]] by [[the Father]]'s [[love]] and have all the spiritual help that they could possibly need. Our Father loves them as well, just as He loves you. Is there someone else?

The type of [[communication]] which we now enjoy is [[adaptable]] to existing [[technologies]] which you daily employ in your [[work]] and [[play]]. There is no reason that the [[written]] [[word]] should be the only [[method]] of [[communication]]. At the moment, you and I are utilizing written communication because it gives us a [[degree]] of privacy that is otherwise virtually unattainable in a [[public]] setting. [[Respect]] for [[literacy]] and [[writing]] is so [[profound]] in your [[society]] that most people suffer severe [[hesitation]] before they would disturb you in this setting. [[Oral]] [[communication]], however, is quite flexible. Roland utilizes videotape to record [[transmissions]]. I recommend it to you as an application for questions such as Desmond's. Please obtain the [[necessary]] materials, and I will arrange a one-way [[communication]] from myself and his teacher Ramsey, to be recorded by you and delivered to Desmond. It is your first try at this novel approach, but I think you are up to it. Desmond will be grateful for anything you produce, and I know that you have legitimate concerns for the [[accuracy]] of the [[material]].

The type of [[communication]] which we now enjoy is [[adaptable]] to existing [[technologies]] which you daily employ in your [[work]] and [[play]]. There is no reason that the [[written]] [[word]] should be the only [[method]] of [[communication]]. At the moment, you and I are utilizing written communication because it gives us a [[degree]] of privacy that is otherwise virtually unattainable in a [[public]] setting. [[Respect]] for [[literacy]] and [[writing]] is so [[profound]] in your [[society]] that most people suffer severe [[hesitation]] before they would disturb you in this setting. [[Oral]] [[communication]], however, is quite flexible. Roland utilizes videotape to record [[transmissions]]. I recommend it to you as an application for questions such as Desmond's. Please obtain the [[necessary]] materials, and I will arrange a one-way [[communication]] from myself and his teacher Ramsey, to be recorded by you and delivered to Desmond. It is your first try at this novel approach, but I think you are up to it. Desmond will be grateful for anything you produce, and I know that you have legitimate concerns for the [[accuracy]] of the [[material]].

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications Telephone communication] is a snap, too. The only [[difficulty]] is in achieving the [[degree]] of [[privacy]] necessary for composure, and [[assurances]] should be provided that the [[integrity]] of the recorded material is not violated or [[exploited]]. In that case, communications with the transgressing party would be suspended. Not ended. Tell this to Desmond.

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications Telephone communication] is a snap, too. The only [[difficulty]] is in achieving the [[degree]] of [[privacy]] necessary for composure, and [[assurances]] should be provided that the [[integrity]] of the recorded material is not violated or [[exploited]]. In that case, communications with the transgressing party would be suspended. Not ended. Tell this to Desmond.

Desmond's [[group]] will come to fruit, in the area originally intended, with the people originally intended. We cannot force or maneuver people against their will. It is forbidden even to maneuver people who have [[expressed]] disinterest by their overt [[acts]], in the service of [[the Kingdom]]. Only those who have consciously [[embraced]] [[the Father]]'s will, and those whose [[acts]] have shown them to be amenable to [[alternative]] views of [[reality]], may be utilized overtly or [[covertly]] to facilitate [[developments]]. With the [[hostile]], and the dullards, we can do nothing, and these abound. For Desmond, however, since he so enjoys the fellowship of the Tallahassee group, we recommend frequent [[visits]] to the Sunday night meetings, as the time is available to him. He is already aware of the [[attractions]] of the Tallahassee family, and will benefit greatly from your [[welcome]], if so offered. You people are [[favored]] in Heaven, and you may show him a good [[service]], and thereby [[influence]] the development of another group with your excellent example of loving fraternity.

Desmond's [[group]] will come to fruit, in the area originally intended, with the people originally intended. We cannot force or maneuver people against their will. It is forbidden even to maneuver people who have [[expressed]] disinterest by their overt [[acts]], in the service of [[the Kingdom]]. Only those who have consciously [[embraced]] [[the Father]]'s will, and those whose [[acts]] have shown them to be amenable to [[alternative]] views of [[reality]], may be utilized overtly or [[covertly]] to facilitate [[developments]]. With the [[hostile]], and the dullards, we can do nothing, and these abound. For Desmond, however, since he so enjoys the fellowship of the Tallahassee group, we recommend frequent [[visits]] to the Sunday night meetings, as the time is available to him. He is already aware of the [[attractions]] of the Tallahassee family, and will benefit greatly from your [[welcome]], if so offered. You people are [[favored]] in Heaven, and you may show him a good [[service]], and thereby [[influence]] the development of another group with your excellent example of loving fraternity.

You will show more love for your [[brothers and sisters]] by dealing with them [[honestly]] than you will show by [[demonstrating]] insincere [[compassion]] or unjustifiable concern or an unnatural [[degree]] of personal interest in their lives. Those things are unnecessary and will arouse the [[suspicion]] of those who you wish to ultimately [[embrace]]. Just be [[honest]] and forthright with the people. They are certainly that [[intelligent]]. You do not need to couch your [[ideas]] in [[cliched]] phrases. You do not need to sugarcoat [[the Father]]'s message. To some it shall [[taste]] bitter, to others sweet and light. The [[message]] is the same. It matters more the [[posture]] of the person who is receiving it. The Father's [[medicine]] is good for all. Therefore we lay this charge upon you. In order to love your [[brother]], speak [[honestly]]. Portray your highest [[understanding]], even better, exhibit through your [[actions]] your understanding of [[the Father]]'s love and His daily concern for your brothers and sisters who are your [[companions]] in this life.

You will show more love for your [[brothers and sisters]] by dealing with them [[honestly]] than you will show by [[demonstrating]] insincere [[compassion]] or unjustifiable concern or an unnatural [[degree]] of personal interest in their lives. Those things are unnecessary and will arouse the [[suspicion]] of those who you wish to ultimately [[embrace]]. Just be [[honest]] and forthright with the people. They are certainly that [[intelligent]]. You do not need to couch your [[ideas]] in [[cliched]] phrases. You do not need to sugarcoat [[the Father]]'s message. To some it shall [[taste]] bitter, to others sweet and light. The [[message]] is the same. It matters more the [[posture]] of the person who is receiving it. The Father's [[medicine]] is good for all. Therefore we lay this charge upon you. In order to love your [[brother]], speak [[honestly]]. Portray your highest [[understanding]], even better, exhibit through your [[actions]] your understanding of [[the Father]]'s love and His daily concern for your brothers and sisters who are your [[companions]] in this life.

I commend you all for your [[progress]] in the [[1,2,3 exercise]]. This very [[progress]] has allowed a further [[development]] of our charge to you. We would like you to speak more [[boldly]]. We would like you to speak more [[candidly]]. We would like you to take more [[chances]]. You all know by now that there is little or nothing to [[fear]]. Who among the people can deny the [[truth]]? Still, it is of concern in untested [[relationships]] and in long-standing relationships that new and [[profound]] [[developments]] such as those we have incorporated might be threatening to one or more of the parties involved. Yet all who know you, each of you, are capable of [[absorbing]] increasing steps towards [[perfection]]. Every day is an occasion to be about [[the Father]]'s business and His main business is [[perfection]]. There is always a better way-that is the salesmen's [[rhetoric]] of your [[society]]. Your job is to [[demonstrate]] that better way. Your job is to challenge the people, show them, lead them. They will follow along after you shortly. You need not be overly concerned for the [[immediate]] product of your example and teaching; the people will follow along. They are [[afraid]] to walk out upon the untracked grass. Your footsteps will be the footsteps that will bend over the blades of that grass, and others will follow until it becomes a trail and then a rut of another kind. [[The Father]] will then [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailblazing blaze] a new trail through you or such as you. But the people will follow along. You will see. So I [[encourage]] you to [[challenge]] them. Challenge them to move towards [[perfection]]. Challenge them to [[embrace]] the better life. There is no occasion from turning aside from the better way. Hardly an [[argument]] can be raised against it.

I commend you all for your [[progress]] in the [[1,2,3 exercise]]. This very [[progress]] has allowed a further [[development]] of our charge to you. We would like you to speak more [[boldly]]. We would like you to speak more [[candidly]]. We would like you to take more [[chances]]. You all know by now that there is little or nothing to [[fear]]. Who among the people can deny the [[truth]]? Still, it is of concern in untested [[relationships]] and in long-standing relationships that new and [[profound]] [[developments]] such as those we have incorporated might be threatening to one or more of the parties involved. Yet all who know you, each of you, are capable of [[absorbing]] increasing steps towards [[perfection]]. Every day is an occasion to be about [[the Father]]'s business and His main business is [[perfection]]. There is always a better way-that is the salesmen's [[rhetoric]] of your [[society]]. Your job is to [[demonstrate]] that better way. Your job is to challenge the people, show them, lead them. They will follow along after you shortly. You need not be overly concerned for the [[immediate]] product of your example and teaching; the people will follow along. They are [[afraid]] to walk out upon the untracked grass. Your footsteps will be the footsteps that will bend over the blades of that grass, and others will follow until it becomes a trail and then a rut of another kind. [[The Father]] will then [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailblazing blaze] a new trail through you or such as you. But the people will follow along. You will see. So I [[encourage]] you to [[challenge]] them. Challenge them to move towards [[perfection]]. Challenge them to [[embrace]] the better life. There is no occasion from turning aside from the better way. Hardly an [[argument]] can be raised against it.

There has been much [[discussion]] and much thought tonight on the [[topic]] of how [[the Father]] proposes to accomplish all of this. You people are coming close.

There has been much [[discussion]] and much thought tonight on the [[topic]] of how [[the Father]] proposes to accomplish all of this. You people are coming close.

Each of you right now is developing the [[abilities]], and when you lay down your hand, you will find the [[necessities]] within your grasp. Do not trouble yourselves overly over how things will be accomplished. [[The Father]]'s plan is unstoppable. Certain people may turn aside from the [[path]], but the Father's plan will never end. He has work for you all, beyond [[paradise]]. You will not be spending [[eternity]] eating grapes. He has the most [[difficult]] tasks imaginable waiting for you. He keeps a large [[book]] and for each of you there will be a task, waiting for just the right [[person]].

Each of you right now is developing the [[abilities]], and when you lay down your hand, you will find the [[necessities]] within your grasp. Do not trouble yourselves overly over how things will be accomplished. [[The Father]]'s plan is unstoppable. Certain people may turn aside from the [[path]], but the Father's plan will never end. He has work for you all, beyond [[paradise]]. You will not be spending [[eternity]] eating grapes. He has the most [[difficult]] tasks imaginable waiting for you. He keeps a large [[book]] and for each of you there will be a task, waiting for just the right [[person]].

===='''''[[Agondonters]]'''''====

===='''''[[Agondonters]]'''''====

If you [[think]] you have a [[difficult]] life on this planet then I say to you that you are [[blessed]]. We have discussed tonight many features of the worlds of [[Light and Life]]; the type of world from which I came. The people on the worlds of [[Light and Life]] make rapid [[progress]]. They know [[the Father]]. They do His work. Many [[embrace]] Him while they are yet alive in the [[material]] life. Yet those people lack an important [[quality]]. They are not [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toughness toughened]. They are not tested. They have not [[suffered]]--oh, they have their [[difficulties]] and they have their [[choices]] to make, but I [[assure]] you that their choices are much more palatable than the choices which you are offered. When [[the Father]] has a [[difficult]] task-one that requires someone who is true and capable of working [[alone]] amid [[doubts]] and [[negative]] [[influences]] and [[isolation]]-He picks people like you because you know. You know what [[faith]] is. Before any of this, there was the faith in [[the Father]]. That faith cannot be [[trained]] into a person. It must be [[earned]]. Therefore we have said many times, you people are favored in heaven, that the people of your planet and planets similar to yours, have earned a rugged [[constitution]] that cannot be [[achieved]] any other way than through a [[difficult]] contrary [[material]] life [[experience]]. Certainly none fall through cracks in [[the Father]]'s [[plan]].

If you [[think]] you have a [[difficult]] life on this planet then I say to you that you are [[blessed]]. We have discussed tonight many features of the worlds of [[Light and Life]]; the type of world from which I came. The people on the worlds of [[Light and Life]] make rapid [[progress]]. They know [[the Father]]. They do His work. Many [[embrace]] Him while they are yet alive in the [[material]] life. Yet those people lack an important [[quality]]. They are not [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toughness toughened]. They are not tested. They have not [[suffered]]--oh, they have their [[difficulties]] and they have their [[choices]] to make, but I [[assure]] you that their choices are much more palatable than the choices which you are offered. When [[the Father]] has a [[difficult]] task-one that requires someone who is true and capable of working [[alone]] amid [[doubts]] and [[negative]] [[influences]] and [[isolation]]-He picks people like you because you know. You know what [[faith]] is. Before any of this, there was the faith in [[the Father]]. That faith cannot be [[trained]] into a person. It must be [[earned]]. Therefore we have said many times, you people are favored in heaven, that the people of your planet and planets similar to yours, have earned a rugged [[constitution]] that cannot be [[achieved]] any other way than through a [[difficult]] contrary [[material]] life [[experience]]. Certainly none fall through cracks in [[the Father]]'s [[plan]].

[[The Father]]'s [[defenses]] are deep. All [[potential]] events are [[compensated]] for. The Father will ask that each of you live long and productive and occasionally [[difficult]] lives. One day you will see the benefit of this [[experience]]. For myself, I envy you. You have [[opportunities]] to display your [[understanding]] that never existed on my [[planet]] in my lifetime. We [[read]] about the challenges that you face daily as if it were a long-lost [[history]], much the same way as you look back upon the [[mythological]] times, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_history ancient eastern societies], or the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greece ancient Greeks], the times of [[heroes]]. Those are the days in which you live today. Notwithstanding your extravagant [[material]] [[progress]], you are still living in the time of [[heroes]]. So when I hear you say, "Ah, this is getting too [[difficult]]," I say to myself, "What an [[opportunity]]."

[[The Father]]'s [[defenses]] are deep. All [[potential]] events are [[compensated]] for. The Father will ask that each of you live long and productive and occasionally [[difficult]] lives. One day you will see the benefit of this [[experience]]. For myself, I envy you. You have [[opportunities]] to display your [[understanding]] that never existed on my [[planet]] in my lifetime. We [[read]] about the challenges that you face daily as if it were a long-lost [[history]], much the same way as you look back upon the [[mythological]] times, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_history ancient eastern societies], or the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greece ancient Greeks], the times of [[heroes]]. Those are the days in which you live today. Notwithstanding your extravagant [[material]] [[progress]], you are still living in the time of [[heroes]]. So when I hear you say, "Ah, this is getting too [[difficult]]," I say to myself, "What an [[opportunity]]."

There is no other place to gain such [[experience]] as the experience gained on your [[planet]], or those like it. So I may with [[confidence]] say that you are [[blessed]], to have [[trained]] in a difficult [[school]]. I assure you, you are [[prepared]] for anything after this experience. When people such as you walk by, we take off our hats. We [[respect]] you. We [[envy]] you. The [[spiritual]] [[beings]] assigned to ministry on your planet are frequently confounded by your [[activities]], your [[perceptions]]. They do not [[understand]] how it is you do some of the things that you do. They set a high goal and you fall well short. Next they set an easy mark and you so exceed it as if to catch them [[asleep]]. They never get the hang of your [[capabilities]]. People from a [[planet]] like mine are much easier to estimate. We provide few [[surprises]] for them. Those surprises which we have sprung on them were more in the [[nature]] of [[timing]] surprises. But you people astound them. It is why it is a [[difficult]] assignment for the [[celestials]] and why they compete for a posting in an assignment such as this. It requires all the [[skill]] available to them. Only experienced ministers are considered and, even then, many must request [[guidance]]. They fail to estimate the difficult conditions under which you labor, and none of them have lived [[animal]] lives. Few of them have ever lived material lives. When they have a question, they go and ask someone. When you have a question, who should you ask? Your [[Adjuster]], yet you typically cannot [[communicate]] with the Adjuster, so you must tough it out. They do not [[understand]] that. They don't understand how you can have such a [[resource]] available to you and not purposely [[access]] that source. So even those things which you accomplish in furtherance of the [[Adjuster]]'s leading are basically of your own [[volition]] and [[understanding]], and that is when you catch the ministers unaware. They do not understand you. They can never understand you, and in the [[moment]] you understand them, you will be ready for the next, and that is the day upon which you pass them by on the [[journey]] to [[Paradise]] itself. Therefore they remove their hats when you pass by.

There is no other place to gain such [[experience]] as the experience gained on your [[planet]], or those like it. So I may with [[confidence]] say that you are [[blessed]], to have [[trained]] in a difficult [[school]]. I assure you, you are [[prepared]] for anything after this experience. When people such as you walk by, we take off our hats. We [[respect]] you. We [[envy]] you. The [[spiritual]] [[beings]] assigned to ministry on your planet are frequently confounded by your [[activities]], your [[perceptions]]. They do not [[understand]] how it is you do some of the things that you do. They set a high goal and you fall well short. Next they set an easy mark and you so exceed it as if to catch them [[asleep]]. They never get the hang of your [[capabilities]]. People from a [[planet]] like mine are much easier to estimate. We provide few [[surprises]] for them. Those surprises which we have sprung on them were more in the [[nature]] of [[timing]] surprises. But you people astound them. It is why it is a [[difficult]] assignment for the [[celestials]] and why they compete for a posting in an assignment such as this. It requires all the [[skill]] available to them. Only experienced ministers are considered and, even then, many must request [[guidance]]. They fail to estimate the difficult conditions under which you labor, and none of them have lived [[animal]] lives. Few of them have ever lived material lives. When they have a question, they go and ask someone. When you have a question, who should you ask? Your [[Adjuster]], yet you typically cannot [[communicate]] with the Adjuster, so you must tough it out. They do not [[understand]] that. They don't understand how you can have such a [[resource]] available to you and not purposely [[access]] that source. So even those things which you accomplish in furtherance of the [[Adjuster]]'s leading are basically of your own [[volition]] and [[understanding]], and that is when you catch the ministers unaware. They do not understand you. They can never understand you, and in the [[moment]] you understand them, you will be ready for the next, and that is the day upon which you pass them by on the [[journey]] to [[Paradise]] itself. Therefore they remove their hats when you pass by.

I am the [[Melchizedek]], vicegerent [[Planetary Prince]], serving in this post in the place of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], the perfect one. These are my [[words]]:

I am the [[Melchizedek]], vicegerent [[Planetary Prince]], serving in this post in the place of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], the perfect one. These are my [[words]]:

The allegations against the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masonic_Lodge Masonic Lodge] administrative [[management]] are true, although the [[offensive]] [[activities]] in which they are engaged are not the goals or expressed [[purpose]] of their [[organization]]. So long as children are limited to the legal rights of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattel chattels], they will continue to be [[exploited]] by the predatory elements of your [[society]]. The children are not subject to you in [[value]]. They deserve all the rights and [[liberties]] granted to adults, except for access to intoxicants and [[drugs]]; in fact they deserve additional [[protection]]. The failure of your [[society]] to properly value the [[future]] [[generations]] ensures that this despicable [[experience]] will be repeated.

The allegations against the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masonic_Lodge Masonic Lodge] administrative [[management]] are true, although the [[offensive]] [[activities]] in which they are engaged are not the goals or expressed [[purpose]] of their [[organization]]. So long as children are limited to the legal rights of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattel chattels], they will continue to be [[exploited]] by the predatory elements of your [[society]]. The children are not subject to you in [[value]]. They deserve all the rights and [[liberties]] granted to adults, except for access to intoxicants and [[drugs]]; in fact they deserve additional [[protection]]. The failure of your [[society]] to properly value the [[future]] [[generations]] ensures that this despicable [[experience]] will be repeated.

The [[perversion]] of [[power]] is widespread through your [[culture]], with most people assuming that power grants a [[license]] to harm. This is an [[evolution]] of the olden concept of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divine_right_of_kings divine right]. Such an [[assumption]] has no basis in [[celestial]] approval. If anything, the reverse is true. The depredations of the [[rich]] and politically [[influential]] upon the disarmed and defenseless of [[society]] is a stink in the nostrils of [[the Father]]. No penalty that incorporates the element of [[rehabilitation]] is too severe. [[Wealth]] and [[power]] bring not license but additional [[responsibilities]] upon the holder. Any societal sanction which advances this [[change]] in [[attitude]] is acceptable. Remember that the proper societal goal is not [[retribution]], or even [[conformity]] of [[behavior]], but is the pursuit of ever-higher [[expressions]] of [[service]] to the fellow material [[creatures]] who [[share]] the life experience. For this reason, it is better to treat the exposure of these heinous [[activities]] as a statement of present history, than to propose a course of punitive response. The response is a [[justice]]-based determination, and is in the realm of [[society]].

The [[perversion]] of [[power]] is widespread through your [[culture]], with most people assuming that power grants a [[license]] to harm. This is an [[evolution]] of the olden concept of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divine_right_of_kings divine right]. Such an [[assumption]] has no basis in [[celestial]] approval. If anything, the reverse is true. The depredations of the [[rich]] and politically [[influential]] upon the disarmed and defenseless of [[society]] is a stink in the nostrils of [[the Father]]. No penalty that incorporates the element of [[rehabilitation]] is too severe. [[Wealth]] and [[power]] bring not license but additional [[responsibilities]] upon the holder. Any societal sanction which advances this [[change]] in [[attitude]] is acceptable. Remember that the proper societal goal is not [[retribution]], or even [[conformity]] of [[behavior]], but is the pursuit of ever-higher [[expressions]] of [[service]] to the fellow material [[creatures]] who [[share]] the life experience. For this reason, it is better to treat the exposure of these heinous [[activities]] as a statement of present history, than to propose a course of punitive response. The response is a [[justice]]-based determination, and is in the realm of [[society]].

Advocacy of the higher [[ideal]] of [[service]] should be expressed as a personal sentiment, and is more effective as a conclusory observation, to be presented in [[person]] as circumstances allow. The evocative [[challenge]] to [[service]] is the [[teaching]]; the exposure of the [[offense]] is the palette for the lesson. The student [[mind]] must be prepared to [[accept]] the lesson, else the teaching is lost, therefore the application of the conclusion must be reserved to the [[personal]] [[discretion]] of the [[teacher]], to be applied when the [[mind]] is open. All proper instruction is conducted on this model. Even the most reprehensible [[sin]] can be turned to [[the Father]]'s work. Do not forget this. That is the true [[duty]] of the God-knowing [[mortal]].

Advocacy of the higher [[ideal]] of [[service]] should be expressed as a personal sentiment, and is more effective as a conclusory observation, to be presented in [[person]] as circumstances allow. The evocative [[challenge]] to [[service]] is the [[teaching]]; the exposure of the [[offense]] is the palette for the lesson. The student [[mind]] must be prepared to [[accept]] the lesson, else the teaching is lost, therefore the application of the conclusion must be reserved to the [[personal]] [[discretion]] of the [[teacher]], to be applied when the [[mind]] is open. All proper instruction is conducted on this model. Even the most reprehensible [[sin]] can be turned to [[the Father]]'s work. Do not forget this. That is the true [[duty]] of the God-knowing [[mortal]].

I have enjoyed your [[conversation]] this evening and good [[questions]] have been raised. I will attempt to deal with those which I [[believe]] I [[understand]]. If there are any questions discussed earlier tonight which I overlook, please call them to my [[attention]]. First, on the [[topic]] of whether or not I was rebuked by the [[Melchizedek]] on the [[method]] of Eric's [[spiritual]] [[name]]: It is not for me to [[reveal]] such a personal thing as another's [[cosmic]] [[name]]. If Eric chooses not to release or not to publish his name, from my view, it is his [[private]] business. I am quite fond and proud of my [[name]] as I am sure you will all be proud and fond of your names when you ultimately know them, but I will say in his stead that it is something that sometimes takes a little getting used to and since we now have-those of us who are survivors-a luxury of time as you [[understand]] it, the passage of a little time makes little [[difference]]. It is something that will [[work]] itself out, by and by. However, as to the question of rebuke, I eagerly await the next occasion upon which the [[Melchizedek]] shall correct my [[actions]] or my [[opinions]] or my [[point of view]]. I have never found him to be wrong nor any other [[Melchizedek]] reviewing my work closely. Actually that sounds like a qualification. I have never [[perceived]] [[error]] in any of the spiritual ministers. I know that historically some have gone astray and I [[understand]] generally that on [[other planets]], in other [[the System|systems]] and by logical extension in the other [[Local Universe|universes]], some have gone astray. I have never [[witnessed]] it myself. So in my view, the margin for [[error]] is small and, if the [[Melchizedek]] wishes to step in and override my [[exercise]] of restraint, I have nothing to say about that. He is always up to things that I do not completely [[understand]] anyway and this is largely his project. Besides, he has personal [[experience]] in dealing with [[humans]] under instruction from this very planet. It is one of the reasons he was chosen to represent [[Michael]] as [[Planetary Prince]]. He has a way of [[speaking]] that is very forceful and, upon review, I can see that you might feel that his [[words]] were strong enough to imply that I had erred in some way. I do not think that that is true, myself.

I have enjoyed your [[conversation]] this evening and good [[questions]] have been raised. I will attempt to deal with those which I [[believe]] I [[understand]]. If there are any questions discussed earlier tonight which I overlook, please call them to my [[attention]]. First, on the [[topic]] of whether or not I was rebuked by the [[Melchizedek]] on the [[method]] of Eric's [[spiritual]] [[name]]: It is not for me to [[reveal]] such a personal thing as another's [[cosmic]] [[name]]. If Eric chooses not to release or not to publish his name, from my view, it is his [[private]] business. I am quite fond and proud of my [[name]] as I am sure you will all be proud and fond of your names when you ultimately know them, but I will say in his stead that it is something that sometimes takes a little getting used to and since we now have-those of us who are survivors-a luxury of time as you [[understand]] it, the passage of a little time makes little [[difference]]. It is something that will [[work]] itself out, by and by. However, as to the question of rebuke, I eagerly await the next occasion upon which the [[Melchizedek]] shall correct my [[actions]] or my [[opinions]] or my [[point of view]]. I have never found him to be wrong nor any other [[Melchizedek]] reviewing my work closely. Actually that sounds like a qualification. I have never [[perceived]] [[error]] in any of the spiritual ministers. I know that historically some have gone astray and I [[understand]] generally that on [[other planets]], in other [[the System|systems]] and by logical extension in the other [[Local Universe|universes]], some have gone astray. I have never [[witnessed]] it myself. So in my view, the margin for [[error]] is small and, if the [[Melchizedek]] wishes to step in and override my [[exercise]] of restraint, I have nothing to say about that. He is always up to things that I do not completely [[understand]] anyway and this is largely his project. Besides, he has personal [[experience]] in dealing with [[humans]] under instruction from this very planet. It is one of the reasons he was chosen to represent [[Michael]] as [[Planetary Prince]]. He has a way of [[speaking]] that is very forceful and, upon review, I can see that you might feel that his [[words]] were strong enough to imply that I had erred in some way. I do not think that that is true, myself.

I think we recently said that there are [[differences]] of [[opinion]] even among the instruction team. If we were all alike, there would be no point in assembling a team. We each bring different [[perspectives]], different degrees of restraint, different degrees of [[advocacy]] and [[activity]]. Eric would say, "That is what makes horse races." I rather like his name, though. He was reluctant to [[reveal]] his name because there is a [[historical]] [[connection]]. He considers it a suspect connection that goes back fifteen years or so to time when he and Soledet and another used a board called the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouija Ouija board] and his name was clearly spelled out, repeatedly. Soledet's cosmic name also was spelled out clearly, but the record of that [[event]] has been misplaced. It will not hurt to wait awhile for the next step, and he was somewhat unnerved by the [[personal]] [[message]] that was delivered by the Melchizedek along with the revelation of his cosmic name-actually the confirmation of his cosmic name-and not knowing how to extricate the pieces of [[factual]] [[information]], he just refrained from raising the entire topic. Still, the [[Melchizedek]] came through loud and clear. I certainly [[understood]] his remarks.

I think we recently said that there are [[differences]] of [[opinion]] even among the instruction team. If we were all alike, there would be no point in assembling a team. We each bring different [[perspectives]], different degrees of restraint, different degrees of [[advocacy]] and [[activity]]. Eric would say, "That is what makes horse races." I rather like his name, though. He was reluctant to [[reveal]] his name because there is a [[historical]] [[connection]]. He considers it a suspect connection that goes back fifteen years or so to time when he and Soledet and another used a board called the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouija Ouija board] and his name was clearly spelled out, repeatedly. Soledet's cosmic name also was spelled out clearly, but the record of that [[event]] has been misplaced. It will not hurt to wait awhile for the next step, and he was somewhat unnerved by the [[personal]] [[message]] that was delivered by the Melchizedek along with the revelation of his cosmic name-actually the confirmation of his cosmic name-and not knowing how to extricate the pieces of [[factual]] [[information]], he just refrained from raising the entire topic. Still, the [[Melchizedek]] came through loud and clear. I certainly [[understood]] his remarks.

===='''''[[Hierarchy]]'''''====

===='''''[[Hierarchy]]'''''====

On the [[topic]] of [[hierarchy]]: hierarchies exist throughout the [[celestial]] [[administration]] of creature [[progress]]. Hierarchies are [[natural]] among your people no matter the [[culture]]. The question seems to be whether [[hierarchies]] exist in the [[interface]] between the [[morontia]] and the [[material]]. I perceive that hierarchies are inescapable, for there is no such thing as total [[equality]] between people. It is not for us to question the [[skills]] and [[talents]] which are bestowed by [[the Father]] upon the [[individual]] will creatures. Great differences in abilities exist between people closely related-from the same [[genetic]] lines. It is somehow a part of [[the Father]]'s [[plan]]. With such variation among the participants, it is inescapable that [[hierarchy]] shall [[develop]]. The question is, shall we make the [[transition]] from the [[material]] life to the [[morontia life]] with or without the utilization of [[hierarchies]]. [[The Father]] in heaven knows all. We believe this. I have never seen any indication to the contrary. While we ourselves do not ascribe to the [[theory]] of [[providence]] and are instructed not to teach the theory of providence, [[the Father]] knows what [[tools]] are required. He will provide the [[necessaries]]. It is for us on this side and for you on that side to put them into [[action]]. Whatever is needed to effect [[the Father]]'s plan will be provided, and freely. It is true that there was a disparity between the [[necessities]] provided to the [[disciples]] of [[Jesus]] and the sworn [[apostles]] of Jesus. Yet there is no way for me to distinguish for you the [[transit]] between those two points except as the [[embrace]] of [[faith]]. No answer which I provide to you will be [[intellectually]] or [[emotionally]] satisfying. Only the [[embrace]] of [[faith]] in the Father will be [[satisfactory]]. When you embrace the Father's [[love]] and [[the Father]]'s service, all will be made clear, and this distinction between steps on the ladder will become moot.

On the [[topic]] of [[hierarchy]]: hierarchies exist throughout the [[celestial]] [[administration]] of creature [[progress]]. Hierarchies are [[natural]] among your people no matter the [[culture]]. The question seems to be whether [[hierarchies]] exist in the [[interface]] between the [[morontia]] and the [[material]]. I perceive that hierarchies are inescapable, for there is no such thing as total [[equality]] between people. It is not for us to question the [[skills]] and [[talents]] which are bestowed by [[the Father]] upon the [[individual]] will creatures. Great differences in abilities exist between people closely related-from the same [[genetic]] lines. It is somehow a part of [[the Father]]'s [[plan]]. With such variation among the participants, it is inescapable that [[hierarchy]] shall [[develop]]. The question is, shall we make the [[transition]] from the [[material]] life to the [[morontia life]] with or without the utilization of [[hierarchies]]. [[The Father]] in heaven knows all. We believe this. I have never seen any indication to the contrary. While we ourselves do not ascribe to the [[theory]] of [[providence]] and are instructed not to teach the theory of providence, [[the Father]] knows what [[tools]] are required. He will provide the [[necessaries]]. It is for us on this side and for you on that side to put them into [[action]]. Whatever is needed to effect [[the Father]]'s plan will be provided, and freely. It is true that there was a disparity between the [[necessities]] provided to the [[disciples]] of [[Jesus]] and the sworn [[apostles]] of Jesus. Yet there is no way for me to distinguish for you the [[transit]] between those two points except as the [[embrace]] of [[faith]]. No answer which I provide to you will be [[intellectually]] or [[emotionally]] satisfying. Only the [[embrace]] of [[faith]] in the Father will be [[satisfactory]]. When you embrace the Father's [[love]] and [[the Father]]'s service, all will be made clear, and this distinction between steps on the ladder will become moot.

Many of you think that your [[stillness]] [[practice]] is unproductive, yet I say to you that this sincere [[worship]] of the [[Heavenly Father]] rockets straight to [[Paradise]], with no intervening [[interpretation]]. This [[sincere]] [[act]] of [[love]] and [[respect]] falls directly upon [[the Father]]'s ears. The Father will [[change]] your world, one person by one [[person]]. In order to do this, it is [[necessary]] for people, one person by one person, to [[embrace]] the [[love]] of [[the Father]], therefore we ask that you go out and, as [[opportunities]] present themselves, expose yourselves to these [[groups]], whether they are small or large. Try to gauge their [[concept]] of [[the Father]]'s activity in their lives.

Many of you think that your [[stillness]] [[practice]] is unproductive, yet I say to you that this sincere [[worship]] of the [[Heavenly Father]] rockets straight to [[Paradise]], with no intervening [[interpretation]]. This [[sincere]] [[act]] of [[love]] and [[respect]] falls directly upon [[the Father]]'s ears. The Father will [[change]] your world, one person by one [[person]]. In order to do this, it is [[necessary]] for people, one person by one person, to [[embrace]] the [[love]] of [[the Father]], therefore we ask that you go out and, as [[opportunities]] present themselves, expose yourselves to these [[groups]], whether they are small or large. Try to gauge their [[concept]] of [[the Father]]'s activity in their lives.

You do not have a [[duty]] to [[represent]] your own [[thoughts]] on this subject to such groups but, if you should feel an undeniable urge to represent your highest [[understanding]] of [[the Father]]'s ministry-- if you should feel the [[activity]] of your [[Adjuster]] leading you onward-we [[encourage]] you, follow suit. While you might now think such an [[experience]] is terrifying, I [[assure]] you that it is not. It is [[sublime]]-to feel the [[Adjuster]] angling up, and you willing and consciously [[cooperating]] with His [[leading]]. It is a fast race we run up the [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9TGj2jrJk8 staircase to heaven]. It is the [[work]] that you were all born to do and by now you well know there are an [[infinite]] [[number]] of forks leading to [[the Father]]'s road. If you should [[elect]] to pass one by, shortly another will be presented to you. You are not being tested. We are only placing [[opportunities]] in your path. It will change your view of your [[community]] to see the numbers of people who are concerned with [[spiritual development]]. You are not [[alone]]. Y[[our Father]] works with each of those people just as He is with us tonight.

You do not have a [[duty]] to [[represent]] your own [[thoughts]] on this subject to such groups but, if you should feel an undeniable urge to represent your highest [[understanding]] of [[the Father]]'s ministry-- if you should feel the [[activity]] of your [[Adjuster]] leading you onward-we [[encourage]] you, follow suit. While you might now think such an [[experience]] is terrifying, I [[assure]] you that it is not. It is [[sublime]]-to feel the [[Adjuster]] angling up, and you willing and consciously [[cooperating]] with His [[leading]]. It is a fast race we run up the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9TGj2jrJk8 staircase to heaven]. It is the [[work]] that you were all born to do and by now you well know there are an [[infinite]] [[number]] of forks leading to [[the Father]]'s road. If you should [[elect]] to pass one by, shortly another will be presented to you. You are not being tested. We are only placing [[opportunities]] in your path. It will change your view of your [[community]] to see the numbers of people who are concerned with [[spiritual development]]. You are not [[alone]]. Y[[our Father]] works with each of those people just as He is with us tonight.

===='''''[[Evangelism]]'''''====

===='''''[[Evangelism]]'''''====

Are there further questions tonight? If not, I will [[encourage]] you to [[communicate]] with those groups under [[development]] in your area, to [[communicate]] freely with all [[Urantia Book]] readers. In those groups under [[spiritual]] [[guidance]] such as this, you will find it instructive, and the [[degree]] of variety which is available. The [[Melchizedek]] has taken the minimum steps to [[influence]] the [[development]] of the new group now forming. We are all quite excited about these developments. Soon we will be adding groups monthly to our roster.

Are there further questions tonight? If not, I will [[encourage]] you to [[communicate]] with those groups under [[development]] in your area, to [[communicate]] freely with all [[Urantia Book]] readers. In those groups under [[spiritual]] [[guidance]] such as this, you will find it instructive, and the [[degree]] of variety which is available. The [[Melchizedek]] has taken the minimum steps to [[influence]] the [[development]] of the new group now forming. We are all quite excited about these developments. Soon we will be adding groups monthly to our roster.

I was [[touched]] by your [[reaction]], yesterday, to the thought of me [[comforting]] you. Of course I comfort you! How [[foolish]] it is that your people pretend to carry their burdens [[alone]]. No [[wonder]] they feel [[isolated]] and resentful. Yet I was glad to see that you could feel a [[morontia]] [[touch]]. It is not like the touch of a [[material]] [[being]], for it soothes a different, and somewhat unfamiliar, you. You, like all your [[study]] [[group]], are growing in [[morontia]] [[power]], and gaining an [[existence]] in that new [[transition]] realm. I can [[touch]] that part of you. It is very like your [[material]] [[body]], but is built from the product of growing [[spiritual]] [[awareness]].

I was [[touched]] by your [[reaction]], yesterday, to the thought of me [[comforting]] you. Of course I comfort you! How [[foolish]] it is that your people pretend to carry their burdens [[alone]]. No [[wonder]] they feel [[isolated]] and resentful. Yet I was glad to see that you could feel a [[morontia]] [[touch]]. It is not like the touch of a [[material]] [[being]], for it soothes a different, and somewhat unfamiliar, you. You, like all your [[study]] [[group]], are growing in [[morontia]] [[power]], and gaining an [[existence]] in that new [[transition]] realm. I can [[touch]] that part of you. It is very like your [[material]] [[body]], but is built from the product of growing [[spiritual]] [[awareness]].

===='''''[[Service]]'''''====

===='''''[[Service]]'''''====

I will [[respond]] to the question of the [[missionary]] trip to Mexico: This is a [[good]] thing, a [[worthy]] effort, but it is not asked. It is not [[necessary]] for any of you to go anywhere or do anything in order to do [[the Father]]'s work. The very notion is counterproductive -- that [[the Father]]'s [[work]] must be done in some special place. [[Opportunities]] abound within arm's reach daily, yet you do not [[perceive]] them. While specifically disapproving the concept of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_isolationism isolationism], as [[expressed]] in the popular bumper-sticker philosophy of ''Fix America First'', we will say that you need to [[concentrate]] your [[resources]] rather than scatter them. By this, we do not deny that valuable lessons and [[insights]] and the ever-growing [[simple]] joys of [[service]] are to be gained through such [[missionary]] [[acts]]. These things are equally true no matter where they are [[learned]]. The lesson is no less true for the locality in which it was learned. But I say to you again that it is unnecessary for you to go to any place to be about [[the Father]]'s work. This very day, you will be insensitive to your fellows who need what you already have and are able to dispense freely. This is akin to [[the Master]]'s easiest [[prediction]]: that Peter would deny him three times, before even the cock crowed. It is like saying the [[sun]] shall set this evening.

I will [[respond]] to the question of the [[missionary]] trip to Mexico: This is a [[good]] thing, a [[worthy]] effort, but it is not asked. It is not [[necessary]] for any of you to go anywhere or do anything in order to do [[the Father]]'s work. The very notion is counterproductive -- that [[the Father]]'s [[work]] must be done in some special place. [[Opportunities]] abound within arm's reach daily, yet you do not [[perceive]] them. While specifically disapproving the concept of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_isolationism isolationism], as [[expressed]] in the popular bumper-sticker philosophy of ''Fix America First'', we will say that you need to [[concentrate]] your [[resources]] rather than scatter them. By this, we do not deny that valuable lessons and [[insights]] and the ever-growing [[simple]] joys of [[service]] are to be gained through such [[missionary]] [[acts]]. These things are equally true no matter where they are [[learned]]. The lesson is no less true for the locality in which it was learned. But I say to you again that it is unnecessary for you to go to any place to be about [[the Father]]'s work. This very day, you will be insensitive to your fellows who need what you already have and are able to dispense freely. This is akin to [[the Master]]'s easiest [[prediction]]: that Peter would deny him three times, before even the cock crowed. It is like saying the [[sun]] shall set this evening.

We neither approve nor disapprove the [[activity]] proposed; we simply find it unnecessary. If you [[desire]] to utilize your [[vacation]] time in this [[manner]], that is your [[choice]], but whether you stay, or go, or go to some other place, we can guarantee that you will encounter occasions to advance [[the Kingdom]]. Beyond that, there is nothing to say.

We neither approve nor disapprove the [[activity]] proposed; we simply find it unnecessary. If you [[desire]] to utilize your [[vacation]] time in this [[manner]], that is your [[choice]], but whether you stay, or go, or go to some other place, we can guarantee that you will encounter occasions to advance [[the Kingdom]]. Beyond that, there is nothing to say.

Vincent, you slacker. You still [[doubt]] that our daily [[communications]] are [[authentic]]. You [[think]] that I will transmit some [[secret]] password that will validate the [[truth]] of our one- and two- way conversations. How could such a password, if recognizable by you, not be within your [[personal]] [[knowledge]] and therefore yet another occasion for doubt?

Vincent, you slacker. You still [[doubt]] that our daily [[communications]] are [[authentic]]. You [[think]] that I will transmit some [[secret]] password that will validate the [[truth]] of our one- and two- way conversations. How could such a password, if recognizable by you, not be within your [[personal]] [[knowledge]] and therefore yet another occasion for doubt?

Alternatively, you seek an [[experience]] which will [[confirm]] the spiritual [[authenticity]] of these teachings and your role in them. I say to you that such [[experiences]] are only to be gained as a result of [[acts]] performed in the [[service]] of [[the kingdom]]. Your retort is, "Then what is my part in the [[plan]]?" And I say, yet again, that the plan is in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Becoming_%28philosophy%29 state of becoming]. The entire [[universe]] is in the state of becoming. [[The Father]], Himself, is in the state of becoming. So are you.

Alternatively, you seek an [[experience]] which will [[confirm]] the spiritual [[authenticity]] of these teachings and your role in them. I say to you that such [[experiences]] are only to be gained as a result of [[acts]] performed in the [[service]] of [[the kingdom]]. Your retort is, "Then what is my part in the [[plan]]?" And I say, yet again, that the plan is in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Becoming_%28philosophy%29 state of becoming]. The entire [[universe]] is in the state of becoming. [[The Father]], Himself, is in the state of becoming. So are you.

Not two days ago you [[spoke]] [[words]] with your [[visitor]] that have the power to shake worlds from their slumber, that "It is the [[process]], not the result, that is the minister's spiritual goal." Then you leaned back in your chair and [[thought]], "Yeah, but I wish I knew what the [[plan]] was..."

Not two days ago you [[spoke]] [[words]] with your [[visitor]] that have the power to shake worlds from their slumber, that "It is the [[process]], not the result, that is the minister's spiritual goal." Then you leaned back in your chair and [[thought]], "Yeah, but I wish I knew what the [[plan]] was..."