Changes

==PAPER 195: AFTER PENTECOST==

==PAPER 195: AFTER PENTECOST==

195:0.1 The results of [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s [[preaching]] on the day of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentecost Pentecost] were such as to [[decide]] the [[future]] [[policies]], and to determine the [[plans]], of the [[majority]] of [[the apostles]] in their [[efforts]] to [[proclaim]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] was the real founder of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity Christian church]; [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] carried the [[Christian]] [[message]] to the [[gentiles]], and the [[Greek]] [[believers]] carried it to the whole [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire].

195:0.1 The results of [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s [[preaching]] on the day of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentecost Pentecost] were such as to [[decide]] the [[future]] [[policies]], and to determine the [[plans]], of the [[majority]] of [[the apostles]] in their [[efforts]] to [[proclaim]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] was the real founder of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity Christian church]; [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] carried the [[Christian]] [[message]] to the [[gentiles]], and the [[Greek]] [[believers]] carried it to the whole [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire].

195:0.2 Although the [[tradition]]-bound and [[priest]]-ridden [[Hebrews]], as a people, refused to [[accept]] either [[Jesus]]' [[gospel]] of the [[fatherhood]] of [[God]] and the brotherhood of man or [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s and [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]]'s [[proclamation]] of the [[resurrection]] and [[ascension]] of [[Christ]] (subsequent [[Christianity]]), the rest of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] was found to be [[receptive]] to the [[evolving]] [[Christian]] teachings. [[Occident|Western civilization]] was at this time [[intellectual]], [[war]] [[weary]], and thoroughly [[skeptical]] of all existing [[religions]] and [[universe]] [[philosophies]]. The peoples of the [[Western world]], the beneficiaries of [[Greek]] [[culture]], had a revered [[tradition]] of a great [[past]]. They could [[contemplate]] the [[inheritance]] of great accomplishments in [[philosophy]], [[art]], [[literature]], and [[political]] [[progress]]. But with all these achievements they had no [[soul]]-[[satisfying]] [[religion]]. Their spiritual longings remained unsatisfied.  

195:0.2 Although the [[tradition]]-bound and [[priest]]-ridden [[Hebrews]], as a people, refused to [[accept]] either [[Jesus]]' [[gospel]] of the [[fatherhood]] of [[God]] and the brotherhood of man or [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s and [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]]'s [[proclamation]] of the [[resurrection]] and [[ascension]] of [[Christ]] (subsequent [[Christianity]]), the rest of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] was found to be [[receptive]] to the [[evolving]] [[Christian]] teachings. [[Occident|Western civilization]] was at this time [[intellectual]], [[war]] [[weary]], and thoroughly [[skeptical]] of all existing [[religions]] and [[universe]] [[philosophies]]. The peoples of the [[Western world]], the beneficiaries of [[Greek]] [[culture]], had a revered [[tradition]] of a great [[past]]. They could [[contemplate]] the [[inheritance]] of great accomplishments in [[philosophy]], [[art]], [[literature]], and [[political]] [[progress]]. But with all these achievements they had no [[soul]]-[[satisfying]] [[religion]]. Their spiritual longings remained unsatisfied.  

195:0.3 Upon such a [[stage]] of [[human]] [[society]] the [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]], [[embraced]] in the [[Christian]] [[message]], were suddenly thrust. A new order of [[living]] was thus presented to the [[hungry]] [[hearts]] of these [[Occident|Western]] peoples. This situation meant [[immediate]] [[conflict]] between the older [[religious]] [[practices]] and the new Christianized version of [[Jesus]]' [[message]] to the world. Such a [[conflict]] must result in either decided [[victory]] for the new or for the old or in some [[degree]] of [[compromise]]. [[History]] shows that the [[struggle]] ended in [[compromise]]. [[Christianity]] [[presumed]] to [[embrace]] too much for any one people to assimilate in one or two [[generations]]. It was not a [[simple]] [[spiritual]] [[appeal]], such as [[Jesus]] had presented to the [[souls]] of men; it early struck a decided [[attitude]] on [[religious]] [[rituals]], [[education]], [[magic]], [[medicine]], [[art]], [[literature]], [[law]], [[government]], [[morals]], [[sex]] regulation, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygamy polygamy], and, in limited [[degree]], even [[slavery]]. [[Christianity]] came not merely as a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movememnt new religion]—something all the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] and all the [[Orient]] were waiting for—but as a new order of [[human]] [[society]]. And as such a pretension it quickly [[precipitated]] the [[social]]-[[moral]] clash of the ages. The [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]], as they were reinterpreted by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] and [[socialized]] in [[Christianity]], now boldly challenged the [[traditions]] of the human race embodied in the [[ethics]], [[morality]], and [[religions]] of [[Western civilization]].

195:0.3 Upon such a [[stage]] of [[human]] [[society]] the [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]], [[embraced]] in the [[Christian]] [[message]], were suddenly thrust. A new order of [[living]] was thus presented to the [[hungry]] [[hearts]] of these [[Occident|Western]] peoples. This situation meant [[immediate]] [[conflict]] between the older [[religious]] [[practices]] and the new Christianized version of [[Jesus]]' [[message]] to the world. Such a [[conflict]] must result in either decided [[victory]] for the new or for the old or in some [[degree]] of [[compromise]]. [[History]] shows that the [[struggle]] ended in [[compromise]]. [[Christianity]] [[presumed]] to [[embrace]] too much for any one people to assimilate in one or two [[generations]]. It was not a [[simple]] [[spiritual]] [[appeal]], such as [[Jesus]] had presented to the [[souls]] of men; it early struck a decided [[attitude]] on [[religious]] [[rituals]], [[education]], [[magic]], [[medicine]], [[art]], [[literature]], [[law]], [[government]], [[morals]], [[sex]] regulation, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygamy polygamy], and, in limited [[degree]], even [[slavery]]. [[Christianity]] came not merely as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movememnt new religion]—something all the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] and all the [[Orient]] were waiting for—but as a new order of [[human]] [[society]]. And as such a pretension it quickly [[precipitated]] the [[social]]-[[moral]] clash of the ages. The [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]], as they were reinterpreted by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] and [[socialized]] in [[Christianity]], now boldly challenged the [[traditions]] of the human race embodied in the [[ethics]], [[morality]], and [[religions]] of [[Western civilization]].

195:0.4 At first, [[Christianity]] won as [[converts]] only the lower [[social]] and [[economic]] [[Class|strata]]. But by the beginning of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century] the very best of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greco-roman Greco-Roman] [[culture]] was increasingly turning to this new order of [[Christian]] [[belief]], this new [[concept]] of the [[purpose]] of [[living]] and the goal of [[existence]].

195:0.4 At first, [[Christianity]] won as [[converts]] only the lower [[social]] and [[economic]] [[Class|strata]]. But by the beginning of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century] the very best of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greco-roman Greco-Roman] [[culture]] was increasingly turning to this new order of [[Christian]] [[belief]], this new [[concept]] of the [[purpose]] of [[living]] and the goal of [[existence]].

195:0.5 How did this new [[message]] of [[Jewish]] [[origin]], which had almost [[failed]] in the [[land]] of its [[birth]], so quickly and effectively capture the very best [[minds]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire]? The [[triumph]] of [[Christianity]] over the philosophic [[religions]] and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] was due to:

195:0.5 How did this new [[message]] of [[Jewish]] [[origin]], which had almost [[failed]] in the [[land]] of its [[birth]], so quickly and effectively capture the very best [[minds]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire]? The [[triumph]] of [[Christianity]] over the philosophic [[religions]] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] was due to:

*1. 195:0.6 [[Organization]]. [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] was a great organizer and his successors kept up the [[pace]] he set.

*1. 195:0.6 [[Organization]]. [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] was a great organizer and his successors kept up the [[pace]] he set.

*2. 195:0.7 [[Christianity]] was thoroughly [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized]. It [[embraced]] the best in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] as well as the cream of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]].

*2. 195:0.7 [[Christianity]] was thoroughly [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized]. It [[embraced]] the best in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] as well as the cream of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]].

*3. 195:0.8 But best of all, it contained a new and great [[ideal]], the [[echo]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 life bestowal of Jesus] and the [[reflection]] of his [[message]] of [[salvation]] for all [[mankind]].

*3. 195:0.8 But best of all, it contained a new and great [[ideal]], the [[echo]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 life bestowal of Jesus] and the [[reflection]] of his [[message]] of [[salvation]] for all [[mankind]].

*4. 195:0.9 The [[Christian]] [[leaders]] were willing to make such [[compromises]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraism] that the better half of its adherents were won over to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_centers_of_Christianity#Antioch Antioch cult].

*4. 195:0.9 The [[Christian]] [[leaders]] were willing to make such [[compromises]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraism] that the better half of its adherents were won over to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_centers_of_Christianity#Antioch Antioch cult].

*5. 195:0.10 Likewise did the next and later [[generations]] of [[Christian]] [[leaders]] make such further [[compromises]] with [[paganism]] that even the [[Roman]] [[emperor]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine Constantine] was won to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion].

*5. 195:0.10 Likewise did the next and later [[generations]] of [[Christian]] [[leaders]] make such further [[compromises]] with [[paganism]] that even the [[Roman]] [[emperor]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine Constantine] was won to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion].

195:0.11 But the [[Christians]] made a shrewd bargain with the [[pagans]] in that they [[adopted]] the [[ritualistic]] pageantry of the [[pagan]] while compelling the pagan to accept the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized] version of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Pauline Christianity]. They made a better bargain with the [[pagans]] than they did with the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraic cult], but even in that earlier [[compromise]] they came off more than [[conquerors]] in that they succeeded in eliminating the gross immoralities and also numerous other reprehensible [[practices]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iranian_religions#Antiquity Persian mystery].

195:0.11 But the [[Christians]] made a shrewd bargain with the [[pagans]] in that they [[adopted]] the [[ritualistic]] pageantry of the [[pagan]] while compelling the pagan to accept the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized] version of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Pauline Christianity]. They made a better bargain with the [[pagans]] than they did with the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraic cult], but even in that earlier [[compromise]] they came off more than [[conquerors]] in that they succeeded in eliminating the gross immoralities and also numerous other reprehensible [[practices]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iranian_religions#Antiquity Persian mystery].

195:0.12 Wisely or unwisely, these early [[leaders]] of [[Christianity]] deliberately [[compromised]] the [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]] in an [[effort]] to save and further many of his [[ideas]]. And they were eminently successful. But mistake not! these [[compromised]] [[ideals]] of [[the Master]] are still [[latent]] in his [[gospel]], and they will [[eventually]] assert their full [[power]] upon the world.

195:0.12 Wisely or unwisely, these early [[leaders]] of [[Christianity]] deliberately [[compromised]] the [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]] in an [[effort]] to save and further many of his [[ideas]]. And they were eminently successful. But mistake not! these [[compromised]] [[ideals]] of [[the Master]] are still [[latent]] in his [[gospel]], and they will [[eventually]] assert their full [[power]] upon the world.

*4. 195:0.17 [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] was given to man's [[hungry]] [[soul]].

*4. 195:0.17 [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] was given to man's [[hungry]] [[soul]].

195:0.18 Many of the great [[truths]] taught by [[Jesus]] were almost lost in these early [[compromises]], but they yet [[slumber]] in this [[religion]] of [[paganized]] [[Christianity]], which was in turn the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Pauline] version of the life and teachings] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]. And [[Christianity]], even before it was [[paganized]], was first thoroughly [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized]. [[Christianity]] owes much, very much, to the [[Greeks]]. It was a Greek, from Egypt, who so [[bravely]] stood up at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Council_of_Nicaea Nicaea] and so fearlessly challenged this assembly that it [[dared]] not so obscure the [[concept]] of the [[nature]] of [[Jesus]] that the real [[truth]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 his bestowal] might have been in [[danger]] of being lost to the world. This [[Greek]]'s name was [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athanasius_of_Alexadria Athanasius], and but for the [[eloquence]] and the [[logic]] of this believer, the [[persuasions]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arius Arius] would have [[triumphed]].

195:0.18 Many of the great [[truths]] taught by [[Jesus]] were almost lost in these early [[compromises]], but they yet [[slumber]] in this [[religion]] of [[paganized]] [[Christianity]], which was in turn the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Pauline] version of the life and teachings] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]. And [[Christianity]], even before it was [[paganized]], was first thoroughly [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenized]. [[Christianity]] owes much, very much, to the [[Greeks]]. It was a Greek, from Egypt, who so [[bravely]] stood up at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Council_of_Nicaea Nicaea] and so fearlessly challenged this assembly that it [[dared]] not so obscure the [[concept]] of the [[nature]] of [[Jesus]] that the real [[truth]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 his bestowal] might have been in [[danger]] of being lost to the world. This [[Greek]]'s name was [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athanasius_of_Alexadria Athanasius], and but for the [[eloquence]] and the [[logic]] of this believer, the [[persuasions]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arius Arius] would have [[triumphed]].

==195:1. INFLUENCE OF THE GREEKS==

==195:1. INFLUENCE OF THE GREEKS==

195:1.1 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenization] of [[Christianity]] started in [[earnest]] on that eventful day when the [[Apostle Paul]] stood before the [[council]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Areopagus Areopagus] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens Athens] and told the Athenians about " the Unknown God. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.17] There, under the [[shadow]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acropolis Acropolis], this [[Roman]] [[citizen]] [[proclaimed]] to these [[Greeks]] his version of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion] which had taken [[origin]] in the [[Jewish]] [[land]] of [[Galilee]]. And there was something strangely alike in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] and many of the [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]]. They had a common goal—both aimed at the [[emergence]] of the [[individual]]. The [[Greek]], at [[social]] and [[political]] [[emergence]]; [[Jesus]], at [[moral]] and [[spiritual]] emergence. The [[Greek]] taught [[intellectual]] [[liberalism]] leading to [[political]] [[freedom]]; [[Jesus]] taught spiritual liberalism leading to [[religious]] [[liberty]]. These two [[ideas]] put together constituted a new and mighty charter for [[human]] [[freedom]]; they presaged man's [[social]], [[political]], and [[spiritual]] [[liberty]].

195:1.1 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenization] of [[Christianity]] started in [[earnest]] on that eventful day when the [[Apostle Paul]] stood before the [[council]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Areopagus Areopagus] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens Athens] and told the Athenians about " the Unknown God. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.17] There, under the [[shadow]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acropolis Acropolis], this [[Roman]] [[citizen]] [[proclaimed]] to these [[Greeks]] his version of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion] which had taken [[origin]] in the [[Jewish]] [[land]] of [[Galilee]]. And there was something strangely alike in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_philosophy Greek philosophy] and many of the [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]]. They had a common goal—both aimed at the [[emergence]] of the [[individual]]. The [[Greek]], at [[social]] and [[political]] [[emergence]]; [[Jesus]], at [[moral]] and [[spiritual]] emergence. The [[Greek]] taught [[intellectual]] [[liberalism]] leading to [[political]] [[freedom]]; [[Jesus]] taught spiritual liberalism leading to [[religious]] [[liberty]]. These two [[ideas]] put together constituted a new and mighty charter for [[human]] [[freedom]]; they presaged man's [[social]], [[political]], and [[spiritual]] [[liberty]].

195:1.2 [[Christianity]] came into [[existence]] and [[triumphed]] over all [[contending]] religions primarily because of two things:

195:1.2 [[Christianity]] came into [[existence]] and [[triumphed]] over all [[contending]] religions primarily because of two things:

*2. 195:1.4 [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] and his successors were willing but shrewd and [[sagacious]] [[compromisers]]; they were keen [[theologic]] [[traders]].

*2. 195:1.4 [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] and his successors were willing but shrewd and [[sagacious]] [[compromisers]]; they were keen [[theologic]] [[traders]].

195:1.5 At the time [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] stood up in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens Athens] [[preaching]] " Christ and Him Crucified, "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.17] the [[Greeks]] were [[spiritually]] [[hungry]]; they were [[inquiring]], interested, and actually looking for [[spiritual]] [[truth]]. Never [[forget]] that at first the [[Romans]] fought [[Christianity]], while the [[Greeks]] [[embraced]] it, and that it was the [[Greeks]] who [[literally]] [[forced]] the [[Romans]] subsequently to [[accept]] this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion], as then [[modified]], as a part of [[Greek]] [[culture]].

195:1.5 At the time [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] stood up in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens Athens] [[preaching]] " Christ and Him Crucified, "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.17] the [[Greeks]] were [[spiritually]] [[hungry]]; they were [[inquiring]], interested, and actually looking for [[spiritual]] [[truth]]. Never [[forget]] that at first the [[Romans]] fought [[Christianity]], while the [[Greeks]] [[embraced]] it, and that it was the [[Greeks]] who [[literally]] [[forced]] the [[Romans]] subsequently to [[accept]] this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion], as then [[modified]], as a part of [[Greek]] [[culture]].

195:1.6 The [[Greek]] [[revered]] [[beauty]], the [[Jew]] [[holiness]], but both peoples loved [[truth]]. For centuries the [[Greek]] had seriously [[thought]] and [[earnestly]] [[debated]] about all [[human]] [[problems]]—[[social]], [[economic]], [[political]], and [[philosophic]]—except [[religion]]. Few [[Greeks]] had paid much [[attention]] to [[religion]]; they did not take even their own religion very seriously. For centuries the [[Jews]] had neglected these other fields of [[thought]] while they [[devoted]] their [[minds]] to [[religion]]. They took their [[religion]] very seriously, too seriously. As [[illuminated]] by the content of [[Jesus]]' [[message]], the united product of the centuries of the [[thought]] of these two peoples now became the driving [[power]] of a new order of [[human]] [[society]] and, to a certain extent, of a new order of human [[religious]] [[belief]] and [[practice]].

195:1.6 The [[Greek]] [[revered]] [[beauty]], the [[Jew]] [[holiness]], but both peoples loved [[truth]]. For centuries the [[Greek]] had seriously [[thought]] and [[earnestly]] [[debated]] about all [[human]] [[problems]]—[[social]], [[economic]], [[political]], and [[philosophic]]—except [[religion]]. Few [[Greeks]] had paid much [[attention]] to [[religion]]; they did not take even their own religion very seriously. For centuries the [[Jews]] had neglected these other fields of [[thought]] while they [[devoted]] their [[minds]] to [[religion]]. They took their [[religion]] very seriously, too seriously. As [[illuminated]] by the content of [[Jesus]]' [[message]], the united product of the centuries of the [[thought]] of these two peoples now became the driving [[power]] of a new order of [[human]] [[society]] and, to a certain extent, of a new order of human [[religious]] [[belief]] and [[practice]].

195:1.7 The [[influence]] of [[Greek]] [[culture]] had already penetrated the [[lands]] of the western Mediterranean when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great Alexander] spread [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic civilization] over the [[Levant|near-Eastern world]]. The [[Greeks]] did very well with their [[religion]] and their [[politics]] as long as they lived in small [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_states city-states], but when the Macedonian [[king]] dared to expand [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delian_League Greece] into an [[empire]], stretching from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great#Conquest_of_the_Persian_Empire Adriatic to the Indus], trouble began. The [[art]] and [[philosophy]] of Greece were fully [[equal]] to the task of [[imperial]] expansion, but not so with [[Greek]] [[political]] [[administration]] or [[religion]]. After the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_states city-states] of Greece had expanded into [[empire]], their rather [[parochial]] gods seemed a little [[queer]]. The [[Greeks]] were really searching for [[Monotheism|one God]], a greater and better God, when the Christianized version of the older [[Jewish]] [[religion]] came to them.

195:1.7 The [[influence]] of [[Greek]] [[culture]] had already penetrated the [[lands]] of the western Mediterranean when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great Alexander] spread [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic civilization] over the [[Levant|near-Eastern world]]. The [[Greeks]] did very well with their [[religion]] and their [[politics]] as long as they lived in small [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_states city-states], but when the Macedonian [[king]] dared to expand [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delian_League Greece] into an [[empire]], stretching from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great#Conquest_of_the_Persian_Empire Adriatic to the Indus], trouble began. The [[art]] and [[philosophy]] of Greece were fully [[equal]] to the task of [[imperial]] expansion, but not so with [[Greek]] [[political]] [[administration]] or [[religion]]. After the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_states city-states] of Greece had expanded into [[empire]], their rather [[parochial]] gods seemed a little [[queer]]. The [[Greeks]] were really searching for [[Monotheism|one God]], a greater and better God, when the Christianized version of the older [[Jewish]] [[religion]] came to them.

195:1.8 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic Empire], as such, could not [[endure]]. Its cultural sway continued on, but it [[endured]] only after securing from [[the West]] the [[Roman]] [[political]] [[genius]] for [[empire]] [[administration]] and after obtaining from [[the East]] a [[religion]] whose one [[God]] possessed [[empire]] [[dignity]].

195:1.8 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic Empire], as such, could not [[endure]]. Its cultural sway continued on, but it [[endured]] only after securing from [[the West]] the [[Roman]] [[political]] [[genius]] for [[empire]] [[administration]] and after obtaining from [[the East]] a [[religion]] whose one [[God]] possessed [[empire]] [[dignity]].

195:1.9 In the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_century first century] after Christ, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic culture] had already [[attained]] its highest levels; its [[retrogression]] had begun; [[learning]] was advancing but [[genius]] was declining. It was at this very time that the [[ideas]] and [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]], which were partially [[embodied]] in [[Christianity]], became a part of the salvage of [[Greek]] [[culture]] and [[learning]].

195:1.9 In the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_century first century] after Christ, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_civilization Hellenistic culture] had already [[attained]] its highest levels; its [[retrogression]] had begun; [[learning]] was advancing but [[genius]] was declining. It was at this very time that the [[ideas]] and [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]], which were partially [[embodied]] in [[Christianity]], became a part of the salvage of [[Greek]] [[culture]] and [[learning]].

195:1.10 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great Alexander] had charged on [[the East]] with the cultural gift of the [[civilization]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greece#Hellenistic_Greece Greece]; [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] [[assaulted]] [[the West]] with the [[Christian]] version of the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]]. And wherever the Greek [[culture]] prevailed throughout [[the West]], there [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity#Spread_of_Christianity Hellenized Christianity] took root.

195:1.10 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_the_Great Alexander] had charged on [[the East]] with the cultural gift of the [[civilization]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greece#Hellenistic_Greece Greece]; [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]] [[assaulted]] [[the West]] with the [[Christian]] version of the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]]. And wherever the Greek [[culture]] prevailed throughout [[the West]], there [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity#Spread_of_Christianity Hellenized Christianity] took root.

195:1.11 The Eastern version of the [[message]] of [[Jesus]], notwithstanding that it remained more true to his teachings, continued to follow the uncompromising [[attitude]] of [[Abner]]. It never [[progressed]] as did the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity#Spread_of_Christianity Hellenized version] and was [[eventually]] lost in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_islam#Islamic_State_periods Islamic movement].

195:1.11 The Eastern version of the [[message]] of [[Jesus]], notwithstanding that it remained more true to his teachings, continued to follow the uncompromising [[attitude]] of [[Abner]]. It never [[progressed]] as did the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity#Spread_of_Christianity Hellenized version] and was [[eventually]] lost in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_islam#Islamic_State_periods Islamic movement].

==195:2. THE ROMAN INFLUENCE==

==195:2. THE ROMAN INFLUENCE==

195:2.1 The [[Romans]] bodily took over [[Greek]] [[culture]], putting [[representative]] [[government]] in the place of government by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sortition#Ancient_Athens lot]. And presently this [[change]] [[favored]] [[Christianity]] in that [[Rome]] brought into the whole [[Western world]] a new [[tolerance]] for [[strange]] [[languages]], peoples, and even [[religions]].

195:2.1 The [[Romans]] bodily took over [[Greek]] [[culture]], putting [[representative]] [[government]] in the place of government by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sortition#Ancient_Athens lot]. And presently this [[change]] [[favored]] [[Christianity]] in that [[Rome]] brought into the whole [[Western world]] a new [[tolerance]] for [[strange]] [[languages]], peoples, and even [[religions]].

195:2.2 Much of the early [[persecution]] of [[Christians]] in [[Rome]] was due solely to their unfortunate use of the term " kingdom " in their [[preaching]]. The [[Romans]] were [[tolerant]] of any and all [[religions]] but very resentful of anything that savored of [[political]] [[rivalry]]. And so, when these early [[persecutions]], due so largely to misunderstanding, died out, the field for [[religious]] [[propaganda]] was wide open. The [[Roman]] was interested in [[political]] [[administration]]; he cared little for either [[art]] or [[religion]], but he was unusually [[tolerant]] of both.

195:2.2 Much of the early [[persecution]] of [[Christians]] in [[Rome]] was due solely to their unfortunate use of the term " kingdom " in their [[preaching]]. The [[Romans]] were [[tolerant]] of any and all [[religions]] but very resentful of anything that savored of [[political]] [[rivalry]]. And so, when these early [[persecutions]], due so largely to misunderstanding, died out, the field for [[religious]] [[propaganda]] was wide open. The [[Roman]] was interested in [[political]] [[administration]]; he cared little for either [[art]] or [[religion]], but he was unusually [[tolerant]] of both.

195:2.3 [[Oriental]] [[law]] was stern and [[arbitrary]]; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Greek_law Greek law] was [[fluid]] and [[artistic]]; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_law Roman law] was [[dignified]] and [[respect]]-breeding. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_education Roman education] bred an unheard-of and stolid [[loyalty]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Rome early Romans] were [[politically]] [[devoted]] and [[sublimely]] [[consecrated]] [[individuals]]. They were [[honest]], [[zealous]], and [[dedicated]] to their [[ideals]], but without a [[religion]] [[worthy]] of the name. Small [[wonder]] that their [[Greek]] [[teachers]] were able to persuade them to [[accept]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Paul's Christianity].

195:2.3 [[Oriental]] [[law]] was stern and [[arbitrary]]; [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Greek_law Greek law] was [[fluid]] and [[artistic]]; [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_law Roman law] was [[dignified]] and [[respect]]-breeding. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_education Roman education] bred an unheard-of and stolid [[loyalty]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Rome early Romans] were [[politically]] [[devoted]] and [[sublimely]] [[consecrated]] [[individuals]]. They were [[honest]], [[zealous]], and [[dedicated]] to their [[ideals]], but without a [[religion]] [[worthy]] of the name. Small [[wonder]] that their [[Greek]] [[teachers]] were able to persuade them to [[accept]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauline_Christianity Paul's Christianity].

195:2.4 And these [[Romans]] were a great people. They could [[govern]] the [[Occident]] because they did govern themselves. Such unparalleled [[honesty]], [[devotion]], and stalwart [[self-control]] was [[ideal]] [[soil]] for the [[reception]] and [[growth]] of [[Christianity]].

195:2.4 And these [[Romans]] were a great people. They could [[govern]] the [[Occident]] because they did govern themselves. Such unparalleled [[honesty]], [[devotion]], and stalwart [[self-control]] was [[ideal]] [[soil]] for the [[reception]] and [[growth]] of [[Christianity]].

195:2.5 It was easy for these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Greco-Romans] to become just as [[spiritually]] [[devoted]] to an [[institutional]] [[church]] as they were [[politically]] [[devoted]] to the [[state]]. The [[Romans]] fought the [[church]] only when they [[feared]] it as a [[competitor]] of the [[state]]. [[Rome]], having little [[national]] [[philosophy]] or [[native]] [[culture]], took over [[Greek]] [[culture]] for its own and boldly [[adopted]] [[Christ]] as its [[moral]] [[philosophy]]. [[Christianity]] became the [[moral]] [[culture]] of [[Rome]] but hardly its [[religion]] in the sense of being the [[individual]] [[experience]] in [[spiritual]] [[growth]] of those who [[embraced]] the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion] in such a wholesale [[manner]]. True, indeed, many [[individuals]] did penetrate beneath the [[surface]] of all this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_religion state religion] and found for the nourishment of their [[souls]] the real [[values]] of the hidden [[meanings]] held within the latent [[truths]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenized] and [[paganized]] [[Christianity]].

195:2.5 It was easy for these [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Greco-Romans] to become just as [[spiritually]] [[devoted]] to an [[institutional]] [[church]] as they were [[politically]] [[devoted]] to the [[state]]. The [[Romans]] fought the [[church]] only when they [[feared]] it as a [[competitor]] of the [[state]]. [[Rome]], having little [[national]] [[philosophy]] or [[native]] [[culture]], took over [[Greek]] [[culture]] for its own and boldly [[adopted]] [[Christ]] as its [[moral]] [[philosophy]]. [[Christianity]] became the [[moral]] [[culture]] of [[Rome]] but hardly its [[religion]] in the sense of being the [[individual]] [[experience]] in [[spiritual]] [[growth]] of those who [[embraced]] the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion] in such a wholesale [[manner]]. True, indeed, many [[individuals]] did penetrate beneath the [[surface]] of all this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_religion state religion] and found for the nourishment of their [[souls]] the real [[values]] of the hidden [[meanings]] held within the latent [[truths]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenized] and [[paganized]] [[Christianity]].

195:2.6 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoicism Stoic] and his sturdy [[appeal]] to " [[nature]] and [[conscience]] " had only the better [[prepared]] all [[Rome]] to [[receive]] [[Christ]], at least in an [[intellectual]] sense. The [[Roman]] was by [[nature]] and [[training]] a lawyer; he [[revered]] even the [[laws]] of [[nature]]. And now, in [[Christianity]], he [[discerned]] in the laws of nature the [[laws]] of [[God]]. A people that could produce [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cicero Cicero] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vergil Vergil] were ripe for [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]]'s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenized] [[Christianity]].

195:2.6 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoicism Stoic] and his sturdy [[appeal]] to " [[nature]] and [[conscience]] " had only the better [[prepared]] all [[Rome]] to [[receive]] [[Christ]], at least in an [[intellectual]] sense. The [[Roman]] was by [[nature]] and [[training]] a lawyer; he [[revered]] even the [[laws]] of [[nature]]. And now, in [[Christianity]], he [[discerned]] in the laws of nature the [[laws]] of [[God]]. A people that could produce [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cicero Cicero] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vergil Vergil] were ripe for [[Paul, the Apostle|Paul]]'s [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenized] [[Christianity]].

195:2.7 And so did these [[Roman|Romanized]] [[Greeks]] force both [[Jews]] and [[Christians]] to philosophize their religion, to [[co-ordinate]] its [[ideas]] and [[Systems theory|systematize]] its [[ideals]], to adapt [[religious]] [[practices]] to the existing current of life. And all this was enormously helped by [[translation]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebrew_scriptures Hebrew scriptures] into [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_language Greek] and by the later recording of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septuagint New Testament in the Greek tongue].

195:2.7 And so did these [[Roman|Romanized]] [[Greeks]] force both [[Jews]] and [[Christians]] to philosophize their religion, to [[co-ordinate]] its [[ideas]] and [[Systems theory|systematize]] its [[ideals]], to adapt [[religious]] [[practices]] to the existing current of life. And all this was enormously helped by [[translation]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebrew_scriptures Hebrew scriptures] into [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_language Greek] and by the later recording of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septuagint New Testament in the Greek tongue].

195:2.8 The [[Greeks]], in [[contrast]] with the [[Jews]] and many other peoples, had long provisionally [[believed]] in [[immortality]], some sort of [[survival]] after [[death]], and since this was the very [[heart]] of [[Jesus]]' teaching, it was certain that [[Christianity]] would make a strong [[appeal]] to them.

195:2.8 The [[Greeks]], in [[contrast]] with the [[Jews]] and many other peoples, had long provisionally [[believed]] in [[immortality]], some sort of [[survival]] after [[death]], and since this was the very [[heart]] of [[Jesus]]' teaching, it was certain that [[Christianity]] would make a strong [[appeal]] to them.

195:2.9 A [[succession]] of [[Greek]]-cultural and [[Roman]]-[[political]] [[victories]] had [[consolidated]] the [[Mediterranean]] lands into one [[empire]], with one [[language]] and one [[culture]], and had made the [[Western world]] ready for [[Monotheism|one God]]. [[Judaism]] provided this [[God]], but Judaism was not [[acceptable]] as a [[religion]] to these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Romanized Greeks]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philo_of_Alexandria Philo] helped some to [[mitigate]] their objections, but [[Christianity]] [[revealed]] to them an even better [[concept]] of one [[God]], and they [[embraced]] it readily.

195:2.9 A [[succession]] of [[Greek]]-cultural and [[Roman]]-[[political]] [[victories]] had [[consolidated]] the [[Mediterranean]] lands into one [[empire]], with one [[language]] and one [[culture]], and had made the [[Western world]] ready for [[Monotheism|one God]]. [[Judaism]] provided this [[God]], but Judaism was not [[acceptable]] as a [[religion]] to these [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Romanized Greeks]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philo_of_Alexandria Philo] helped some to [[mitigate]] their objections, but [[Christianity]] [[revealed]] to them an even better [[concept]] of one [[God]], and they [[embraced]] it readily.

==195:3. UNDER THE ROMAN EMPIRE==

==195:3. UNDER THE ROMAN EMPIRE==

195:3.1 After the [[consolidation]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_institutions_of_Ancient_Rome Roman political rule] and after the [[dissemination]] of [[Christianity]], the Christians found themselves with one [[God]], a great [[religious]] [[concept]], but without [[empire]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Greco-Romans] found themselves with a great [[empire]] but without a [[God]] to serve as the suitable [[religious]] [[concept]] for [[empire]] [[worship]] and spiritual unification. The Christians [[accepted]] the [[empire]]; the empire [[adopted]] [[Christianity]]. The [[Roman]] provided a [[unity]] of [[political]] rule; the [[Greek]], a unity of [[culture]] and [[learning]]; [[Christianity]], a unity of [[religious]] [[thought]] and [[practice]].

195:3.1 After the [[consolidation]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_institutions_of_Ancient_Rome Roman political rule] and after the [[dissemination]] of [[Christianity]], the Christians found themselves with one [[God]], a great [[religious]] [[concept]], but without [[empire]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco-Roman Greco-Romans] found themselves with a great [[empire]] but without a [[God]] to serve as the suitable [[religious]] [[concept]] for [[empire]] [[worship]] and spiritual unification. The Christians [[accepted]] the [[empire]]; the empire [[adopted]] [[Christianity]]. The [[Roman]] provided a [[unity]] of [[political]] rule; the [[Greek]], a unity of [[culture]] and [[learning]]; [[Christianity]], a unity of [[religious]] [[thought]] and [[practice]].

195:3.2 [[Rome]] overcame the [[tradition]] of [[nationalism]] by imperial [[universalism]] and for the first time in [[history]] made it possible for [[different]] [[races]] and [[nations]] at least nominally to [[accept]] one [[religion]].

195:3.2 [[Rome]] overcame the [[tradition]] of [[nationalism]] by imperial [[universalism]] and for the first time in [[history]] made it possible for [[different]] [[races]] and [[nations]] at least nominally to [[accept]] one [[religion]].

195:3.3 [[Christianity]] came into [[favor]] in [[Rome]] at a time when there was great [[contention]] between the vigorous teachings of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoicism Stoics] and the [[salvation]] [[promises]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults]. [[Christianity]] came with refreshing [[comfort]] and liberating [[power]] to a spiritually [[hungry]] people whose [[language]] had no word for " [[unselfishness]]. "

195:3.3 [[Christianity]] came into [[favor]] in [[Rome]] at a time when there was great [[contention]] between the vigorous teachings of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoicism Stoics] and the [[salvation]] [[promises]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults]. [[Christianity]] came with refreshing [[comfort]] and liberating [[power]] to a spiritually [[hungry]] people whose [[language]] had no word for " [[unselfishness]]. "

195:3.4 That which gave greatest [[power]] to [[Christianity]] was the way its [[believers]] lived lives of [[service]] and even the way they died for their [[faith]] during the earlier times of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_persecutions drastic persecution].

195:3.4 That which gave greatest [[power]] to [[Christianity]] was the way its [[believers]] lived lives of [[service]] and even the way they died for their [[faith]] during the earlier times of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_persecutions drastic persecution].

195:3.5 The teaching regarding [[Christ]]' s [[love]] for [[children]] soon put an end to the widespread [[practice]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infanticide#Greece_and_Rome exposing children to death] when they were not wanted, particularly girl babies.

195:3.5 The teaching regarding [[Christ]]' s [[love]] for [[children]] soon put an end to the widespread [[practice]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infanticide#Greece_and_Rome exposing children to death] when they were not wanted, particularly girl babies.

195:3.6 The early [[plan]] of [[Christian]] [[worship]] was largely taken over from the [[Jewish]] [[synagogue]], [[modified]] by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraic] [[ritual]]; later on, much [[pagan]] pageantry was added. The backbone of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity early Christian church] consisted of Christianized [[Greek]] proselytes to [[Judaism]].

195:3.6 The early [[plan]] of [[Christian]] [[worship]] was largely taken over from the [[Jewish]] [[synagogue]], [[modified]] by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mithraism Mithraic] [[ritual]]; later on, much [[pagan]] pageantry was added. The backbone of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity early Christian church] consisted of Christianized [[Greek]] proselytes to [[Judaism]].

195:3.7 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century after Christ] was the best time in all the world's [[history]] for a [[good]] [[religion]] to make [[progress]] in the [[Western world]]. During the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_century first century] Christianity had [[prepared]] itself, by [[struggle]] and [[compromise]], to take root and rapidly spread. [[Christianity]] [[adopted]] the [[emperor]]; later, he adopted [[Christianity]]. This was a great age for the spread of a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion]. There was [[religious]] [[liberty]]; [[travel]] was [[universal]] and [[thought]] was untrammeled.

195:3.7 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century after Christ] was the best time in all the world's [[history]] for a [[good]] [[religion]] to make [[progress]] in the [[Western world]]. During the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_century first century] Christianity had [[prepared]] itself, by [[struggle]] and [[compromise]], to take root and rapidly spread. [[Christianity]] [[adopted]] the [[emperor]]; later, he adopted [[Christianity]]. This was a great age for the spread of a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement new religion]. There was [[religious]] [[liberty]]; [[travel]] was [[universal]] and [[thought]] was untrammeled.

195:3.8 The [[spiritual]] [[impetus]] of nominally accepting [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_religion Hellenized] Christianity came to [[Rome]] too late to [[prevent]] the well-started [[moral]] decline or to compensate for the already well-[[established]] and increasing [[racial]] deterioration. This [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religous_movement new religion] was a cultural necessity for [[imperial]] [[Rome]], and it is exceedingly unfortunate that it did not become a means of [[spiritual]] [[salvation]] in a larger sense.

195:3.8 The [[spiritual]] [[impetus]] of nominally accepting [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_religion Hellenized] Christianity came to [[Rome]] too late to [[prevent]] the well-started [[moral]] decline or to compensate for the already well-[[established]] and increasing [[racial]] deterioration. This [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religous_movement new religion] was a cultural necessity for [[imperial]] [[Rome]], and it is exceedingly unfortunate that it did not become a means of [[spiritual]] [[salvation]] in a larger sense.

195:3.9 Even a [[good]] [[religion]] could not save a great [[empire]] from the sure results of lack of [[individual]] [[participation]] in the affairs of [[government]], from overmuch [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paternalism paternalism], overtaxation and gross collection [[abuses]], unbalanced trade with the [[Levant]] which drained away the gold, [[Entertainment|amusement]] madness, Roman standardization, the degradation of woman, [[slavery]] and [[race]] [[decadence]], physical plagues, and a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_religion state church] which became [[institutionalized]] nearly to the point of spiritual barrenness.

195:3.9 Even a [[good]] [[religion]] could not save a great [[empire]] from the sure results of lack of [[individual]] [[participation]] in the affairs of [[government]], from overmuch [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paternalism paternalism], overtaxation and gross collection [[abuses]], unbalanced trade with the [[Levant]] which drained away the gold, [[Entertainment|amusement]] madness, Roman standardization, the degradation of woman, [[slavery]] and [[race]] [[decadence]], physical plagues, and a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_religion state church] which became [[institutionalized]] nearly to the point of spiritual barrenness.

195:3.10 Conditions, however, were not so bad at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria]. The early [[schools]] continued to hold much of [[Jesus]]' teachings [[free]] from [[compromise]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantaenus Poutaenus] taught [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clement_of_Alexandria Clement] and then went on to follow [[Nathaniel]] in proclaiming [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_India Christ in India]. While some of the [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]] were [[sacrificed]] in the building of [[Christianity]], it should in all fairness be recorded that, by the end of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century], practically all the great minds of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco_Roman Greco-Roman] world had become Christian. The [[triumph]] was approaching completion.

195:3.10 Conditions, however, were not so bad at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria]. The early [[schools]] continued to hold much of [[Jesus]]' teachings [[free]] from [[compromise]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantaenus Poutaenus] taught [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clement_of_Alexandria Clement] and then went on to follow [[Nathaniel]] in proclaiming [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_India Christ in India]. While some of the [[ideals]] of [[Jesus]] were [[sacrificed]] in the building of [[Christianity]], it should in all fairness be recorded that, by the end of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_century second century], practically all the great minds of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graeco_Roman Greco-Roman] world had become Christian. The [[triumph]] was approaching completion.

195:3.11 And this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman Empire] lasted sufficiently long to insure the [[survival]] of [[Christianity]] even after the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decline_of_the_Roman_Empire empire collapsed]. But we have often [[conjectured]] what would have happened in [[Rome]] and in the world if it had been the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] which had been [[accepted]] in the place of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_religion Greek] [[Christianity]].

195:3.11 And this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman Empire] lasted sufficiently long to insure the [[survival]] of [[Christianity]] even after the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decline_of_the_Roman_Empire empire collapsed]. But we have often [[conjectured]] what would have happened in [[Rome]] and in the world if it had been the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] which had been [[accepted]] in the place of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenistic_religion Greek] [[Christianity]].

==195:4. THE EUROPEAN DARK AGES==

==195:4. THE EUROPEAN DARK AGES==

195:4.1 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_church The church], being an [[adjunct]] to [[society]] and the ally of [[politics]], was [[doomed]] to [[share]] in the [[intellectual]] and [[spiritual]] decline of the so-called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) European " dark ages. "] During this time, [[religion]] became more and more [[monasticized]], [[asceticized]], and [[legalized]]. In a spiritual sense, [[Christianity]] was [[Sleep|hibernating]]. Throughout this period there existed, alongside this slumbering and [[secularized]] [[religion]], a continuous stream of [[mysticism]], a fantastic [[spiritual]] [[experience]] bordering on unreality and philosophically akin to [[pantheism]].

195:4.1 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_church The church], being an [[adjunct]] to [[society]] and the ally of [[politics]], was [[doomed]] to [[share]] in the [[intellectual]] and [[spiritual]] decline of the so-called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) European " dark ages. "] During this time, [[religion]] became more and more [[monasticized]], [[asceticized]], and [[legalized]]. In a spiritual sense, [[Christianity]] was [[Sleep|hibernating]]. Throughout this period there existed, alongside this slumbering and [[secularized]] [[religion]], a continuous stream of [[mysticism]], a fantastic [[spiritual]] [[experience]] bordering on unreality and philosophically akin to [[pantheism]].

195:4.2 During these [[dark]] and despairing centuries, [[religion]] became virtually second-handed again. The [[individual]] was almost lost before the overshadowing [[authority]], [[tradition]], and [[dictation]] of the church. A new spiritual menace arose in the [[creation]] of a galaxy of " saints " who were [[assumed]] to have special [[influence]] at the [[divine]] [[courts]], and who, therefore, if effectively [[appealed]] to, would be able to intercede in man's behalf before [[the Gods]].

195:4.2 During these [[dark]] and despairing centuries, [[religion]] became virtually second-handed again. The [[individual]] was almost lost before the overshadowing [[authority]], [[tradition]], and [[dictation]] of the church. A new spiritual menace arose in the [[creation]] of a galaxy of " saints " who were [[assumed]] to have special [[influence]] at the [[divine]] [[courts]], and who, therefore, if effectively [[appealed]] to, would be able to intercede in man's behalf before [[the Gods]].

195:4.3 But [[Christianity]] was sufficiently [[socialized]] and [[paganized]] that, while it was impotent to stay the oncoming [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], it was the better [[prepared]] to [[survive]] this long period of [[moral]] [[darkness]] and spiritual stagnation. And it did [[persist]] on through the long night of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] and was still functioning as a [[moral]] [[influence]] in the world when the [[renaissance]] dawned. The [[rehabilitation]] of [[Christianity]], following the passing of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], resulted in bringing into [[existence]] numerous [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_reformation sects of the Christian teachings], [[beliefs]] suited to special [[intellectual]], [[emotional]], and [[spiritual]] [[types]] of [[human]] [[personality]]. And many of these special [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_reformation Christian groups, or religious families], still [[persist]] at the time of the making of this presentation.

195:4.3 But [[Christianity]] was sufficiently [[socialized]] and [[paganized]] that, while it was impotent to stay the oncoming [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], it was the better [[prepared]] to [[survive]] this long period of [[moral]] [[darkness]] and spiritual stagnation. And it did [[persist]] on through the long night of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] and was still functioning as a [[moral]] [[influence]] in the world when the [[renaissance]] dawned. The [[rehabilitation]] of [[Christianity]], following the passing of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], resulted in bringing into [[existence]] numerous [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_reformation sects of the Christian teachings], [[beliefs]] suited to special [[intellectual]], [[emotional]], and [[spiritual]] [[types]] of [[human]] [[personality]]. And many of these special [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_reformation Christian groups, or religious families], still [[persist]] at the time of the making of this presentation.

195:4.4 [[Christianity]] exhibits a [[history]] of having originated out of the unintended [[transformation]] of the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] into a religion about Jesus. It further presents the [[history]] of having [[experienced]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenization], [[paganization]], [[secularization]], [[institutionalization]], [[intellectual]] deterioration, [[spiritual]] [[decadence]], [[moral]] [[Sleep|hibernation]], threatened [[extinction]], later rejuvenation, [[fragmentation]], and more recent [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainline_Christianity#Trends relative rehabilitation]. Such a [[pedigree]] is indicative of [[inherent]] [[vitality]] and the possession of vast recuperative [[resources]]. And this same [[Christianity]] is now present in the civilized world of [[Occidental]] peoples and stands face to face with a [[struggle]] for [[existence]] which is even more ominous than those eventful [[crises]] which have characterized its past [[battles]] for [[dominance]].

195:4.4 [[Christianity]] exhibits a [[history]] of having originated out of the unintended [[transformation]] of the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] into a religion about Jesus. It further presents the [[history]] of having [[experienced]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenization Hellenization], [[paganization]], [[secularization]], [[institutionalization]], [[intellectual]] deterioration, [[spiritual]] [[decadence]], [[moral]] [[Sleep|hibernation]], threatened [[extinction]], later rejuvenation, [[fragmentation]], and more recent [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainline_Christianity#Trends relative rehabilitation]. Such a [[pedigree]] is indicative of [[inherent]] [[vitality]] and the possession of vast recuperative [[resources]]. And this same [[Christianity]] is now present in the civilized world of [[Occidental]] peoples and stands face to face with a [[struggle]] for [[existence]] which is even more ominous than those eventful [[crises]] which have characterized its past [[battles]] for [[dominance]].

195:4.5 [[Religion]] is now confronted by the [[challenge]] of a new age of [[scientific]] [[minds]] and [[materialistic]] [[tendencies]]. In this gigantic struggle between the [[secular]] and the [[spiritual]], the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] will [[eventually]] [[triumph]].

195:4.5 [[Religion]] is now confronted by the [[challenge]] of a new age of [[scientific]] [[minds]] and [[materialistic]] [[tendencies]]. In this gigantic struggle between the [[secular]] and the [[spiritual]], the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] will [[eventually]] [[triumph]].

==195:5. THE MODERN PROBLEM==

==195:5. THE MODERN PROBLEM==

195:5.1 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] has brought new [[problems]] for [[Christianity]] and all other [[religions]] to solve. The higher a [[civilization]] climbs, the more necessitous becomes the [[duty]] to " seek first the [[realities]] of heaven " in all of man's [[efforts]] to [[stabilize]] [[society]] and [[facilitate]] the solution of its [[material]] [[problems]].

195:5.1 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] has brought new [[problems]] for [[Christianity]] and all other [[religions]] to solve. The higher a [[civilization]] climbs, the more necessitous becomes the [[duty]] to " seek first the [[realities]] of heaven " in all of man's [[efforts]] to [[stabilize]] [[society]] and [[facilitate]] the solution of its [[material]] [[problems]].

195:5.2 [[Truth]] often becomes [[confusing]] and even misleading when it is dismembered, [[segregated]], isolated, and too much [[analyzed]]. [[Living]] [[truth]] teaches the truth [[seeker]] aright only when it is [[embraced]] in wholeness and as a living [[spiritual]] [[reality]], not as a [[fact]] of [[material]] [[science]] or an [[inspiration]] of intervening [[art]].

195:5.2 [[Truth]] often becomes [[confusing]] and even misleading when it is dismembered, [[segregated]], isolated, and too much [[analyzed]]. [[Living]] [[truth]] teaches the truth [[seeker]] aright only when it is [[embraced]] in wholeness and as a living [[spiritual]] [[reality]], not as a [[fact]] of [[material]] [[science]] or an [[inspiration]] of intervening [[art]].

195:6.6 The [[violent]] swing from an age of [[miracles]] to an age of [[machines]] has proved altogether upsetting to man. The [[cleverness]] and dexterity of the [[false]] [[philosophies]] of [[mechanism]] belie their very mechanistic contentions. The [[fatalistic]] [[agility]] of the [[mind]] of a [[materialist]] forever disproves his assertions that the [[universe]] is a blind and purposeless [[energy]] [[phenomenon]].

195:6.6 The [[violent]] swing from an age of [[miracles]] to an age of [[machines]] has proved altogether upsetting to man. The [[cleverness]] and dexterity of the [[false]] [[philosophies]] of [[mechanism]] belie their very mechanistic contentions. The [[fatalistic]] [[agility]] of the [[mind]] of a [[materialist]] forever disproves his assertions that the [[universe]] is a blind and purposeless [[energy]] [[phenomenon]].

195:6.7 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturalism_(philosophy) mechanistic naturalism] of some supposedly educated men and the thoughtless [[secularism]] of the man in the street are both exclusively concerned with [[things]]; they are barren of all real [[values]], sanctions, and [[satisfactions]] of a [[spiritual]] [[nature]], as well as being devoid of [[faith]], [[hope]], and [[eternal]] [[assurances]]. One of the great troubles with [[modern]] life is that man [[thinks]] he is too [[busy]] to find time for spiritual [[meditation]] and [[religious]] [[devotion]].

195:6.7 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturalism_(philosophy) mechanistic naturalism] of some supposedly educated men and the thoughtless [[secularism]] of the man in the street are both exclusively concerned with [[things]]; they are barren of all real [[values]], sanctions, and [[satisfactions]] of a [[spiritual]] [[nature]], as well as being devoid of [[faith]], [[hope]], and [[eternal]] [[assurances]]. One of the great troubles with [[modern]] life is that man [[thinks]] he is too [[busy]] to find time for spiritual [[meditation]] and [[religious]] [[devotion]].

195:6.8 [[Materialism]] reduces man to a soulless [[automaton]] and constitutes him merely an [[arithmetical]] [[symbol]] finding a helpless place in the [[mathematical]] [[formula]] of an unromantic and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanism_(philosophy) mechanistic universe]. But whence comes all this vast [[universe]] of [[mathematics]] without a Master Mathematician? [[Science]] may expatiate on the [[conservation]] of [[matter]], but [[religion]] validates the conservation of men's [[souls]]—it concerns their [[experience]] with [[spiritual]] [[realities]] and eternal [[values]].

195:6.8 [[Materialism]] reduces man to a soulless [[automaton]] and constitutes him merely an [[arithmetical]] [[symbol]] finding a helpless place in the [[mathematical]] [[formula]] of an unromantic and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanism_(philosophy) mechanistic universe]. But whence comes all this vast [[universe]] of [[mathematics]] without a Master Mathematician? [[Science]] may expatiate on the [[conservation]] of [[matter]], but [[religion]] validates the conservation of men's [[souls]]—it concerns their [[experience]] with [[spiritual]] [[realities]] and eternal [[values]].

195:6.9 The [[materialistic]] [[sociologist]] of today [[surveys]] a [[community]], makes a report thereon, and leaves the people as he found them. Nineteen hundred years ago, unlearned [[Galileans]] [[surveyed]] [[Jesus]] giving his life as a [[spiritual]] contribution to man's [[Inner Life|inner experience]] and then went out and turned the whole [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman Empire] upside down.

195:6.9 The [[materialistic]] [[sociologist]] of today [[surveys]] a [[community]], makes a report thereon, and leaves the people as he found them. Nineteen hundred years ago, unlearned [[Galileans]] [[surveyed]] [[Jesus]] giving his life as a [[spiritual]] contribution to man's [[Inner Life|inner experience]] and then went out and turned the whole [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman Empire] upside down.

195:6.10 But [[religious]] [[leaders]] are making a great [[mistake]] when they try to call [[modern]] man to [[spiritual]] [[battle]] with the trumpet blasts of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Ages Middle Ages]. [[Religion]] must provide itself with new and up-to-date [[slogans]]. Neither [[democracy]] nor any other [[political]] [[panacea]] will take the place of [[spiritual]] [[progress]]. [[False]] [[religions]] may [[represent]] an [[evasion]] of [[reality]], but [[Jesus]] in his [[gospel]] introduced [[mortal]] man to the very entrance upon an [[eternal]] [[reality]] of [[Ascension career|spiritual progression]].

195:6.10 But [[religious]] [[leaders]] are making a great [[mistake]] when they try to call [[modern]] man to [[spiritual]] [[battle]] with the trumpet blasts of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Ages Middle Ages]. [[Religion]] must provide itself with new and up-to-date [[slogans]]. Neither [[democracy]] nor any other [[political]] [[panacea]] will take the place of [[spiritual]] [[progress]]. [[False]] [[religions]] may [[represent]] an [[evasion]] of [[reality]], but [[Jesus]] in his [[gospel]] introduced [[mortal]] man to the very entrance upon an [[eternal]] [[reality]] of [[Ascension career|spiritual progression]].

195:6.11 To say that [[mind]] " emerged " from [[matter]] [[explains]] nothing. If the [[universe]] were merely a [[mechanism]] and mind were unapart from [[matter]], we would never have two differing [[interpretations]] of any [[observed]] [[phenomenon]]. The [[concepts]] of [[truth]], [[beauty]], and [[goodness]] are not [[inherent]] in either [[physics]] or [[chemistry]]. A [[machine]] cannot know, much less know [[truth]], [[hunger]] for [[righteousness]], and cherish [[goodness]].

195:6.11 To say that [[mind]] " emerged " from [[matter]] [[explains]] nothing. If the [[universe]] were merely a [[mechanism]] and mind were unapart from [[matter]], we would never have two differing [[interpretations]] of any [[observed]] [[phenomenon]]. The [[concepts]] of [[truth]], [[beauty]], and [[goodness]] are not [[inherent]] in either [[physics]] or [[chemistry]]. A [[machine]] cannot know, much less know [[truth]], [[hunger]] for [[righteousness]], and cherish [[goodness]].

195:7.4 [[Paradise]] [[values]] of [[eternity]] and [[infinity]], of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness], are concealed within the [[facts]] of the [[phenomena]] of the [[universes]] of [[time and space]]. But it requires the eye of [[faith]] in a spirit-born [[mortal]] to detect and [[discern]] these [[spiritual]] [[values]].

195:7.4 [[Paradise]] [[values]] of [[eternity]] and [[infinity]], of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness], are concealed within the [[facts]] of the [[phenomena]] of the [[universes]] of [[time and space]]. But it requires the eye of [[faith]] in a spirit-born [[mortal]] to detect and [[discern]] these [[spiritual]] [[values]].

195:7.5 The [[realities]] and [[values]] of spiritual [[progress]] are not a " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychological_projection psychologic projection] "—a mere [[glorified]] daydream of the [[material]] [[mind]]. Such [[things]] are the spiritual [[forecasts]] of the [[indwelling Adjuster]], the spirit of [[God]] living in the mind of man. And let not your dabblings with the faintly glimpsed findings of " [[relativity]] " disturb your [[concepts]] of the [[eternity]] and [[infinity]] of [[God]]. And in all your solicitation concerning the [[necessity]] for [[self]]-[[expression]] do not make the mistake of [[failing]] to provide for [[Thought Adjuster|Adjuster]]-[[expression]], the [[manifestation]] of your real and better self.

195:7.5 The [[realities]] and [[values]] of spiritual [[progress]] are not a " [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychological_projection psychologic projection] "—a mere [[glorified]] daydream of the [[material]] [[mind]]. Such [[things]] are the spiritual [[forecasts]] of the [[indwelling Adjuster]], the spirit of [[God]] living in the mind of man. And let not your dabblings with the faintly glimpsed findings of " [[relativity]] " disturb your [[concepts]] of the [[eternity]] and [[infinity]] of [[God]]. And in all your solicitation concerning the [[necessity]] for [[self]]-[[expression]] do not make the mistake of [[failing]] to provide for [[Thought Adjuster|Adjuster]]-[[expression]], the [[manifestation]] of your real and better self.

195:7.6 If this were only a [[material]] [[universe]], [[material]] man would never be able to arrive at the [[concept]] of the [[mechanistic]] [[character]] of such an exclusively material [[existence]]. This very [[mechanistic]] [[concept]] of the [[universe]] is in itself a nonmaterial [[phenomenon]] of [[mind]], and all mind is of nonmaterial origin, no matter how thoroughly it may appear to be materially conditioned and [[mechanistically]] [[controlled]].

195:7.6 If this were only a [[material]] [[universe]], [[material]] man would never be able to arrive at the [[concept]] of the [[mechanistic]] [[character]] of such an exclusively material [[existence]]. This very [[mechanistic]] [[concept]] of the [[universe]] is in itself a nonmaterial [[phenomenon]] of [[mind]], and all mind is of nonmaterial origin, no matter how thoroughly it may appear to be materially conditioned and [[mechanistically]] [[controlled]].

195:7.8 The very [[pessimism]] of the most pessimistic [[materialist]] is, in and of itself, sufficient [[proof]] that the universe of the pessimist is not wholly [[material]]. Both [[optimism]] and [[pessimism]] are [[concept]] [[reactions]] in a mind [[conscious]] of [[values]] as well as of [[facts]]. If the [[universe]] were truly what the [[materialist]] regards it to be, man as a [[human]] [[machine]] would then be devoid of all [[conscious]] [[recognition]] of that very [[fact]]. Without the [[consciousness]] of the [[concept]] of [[values]] within the [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[mind]], the [[fact]] of [[universe]] [[materialism]] and the [[mechanistic]] [[phenomena]] of universe operation would be wholly unrecognized by man. One [[machine]] cannot be [[conscious]] of the [[nature]] or [[value]] of another [[machine]].

195:7.8 The very [[pessimism]] of the most pessimistic [[materialist]] is, in and of itself, sufficient [[proof]] that the universe of the pessimist is not wholly [[material]]. Both [[optimism]] and [[pessimism]] are [[concept]] [[reactions]] in a mind [[conscious]] of [[values]] as well as of [[facts]]. If the [[universe]] were truly what the [[materialist]] regards it to be, man as a [[human]] [[machine]] would then be devoid of all [[conscious]] [[recognition]] of that very [[fact]]. Without the [[consciousness]] of the [[concept]] of [[values]] within the [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[mind]], the [[fact]] of [[universe]] [[materialism]] and the [[mechanistic]] [[phenomena]] of universe operation would be wholly unrecognized by man. One [[machine]] cannot be [[conscious]] of the [[nature]] or [[value]] of another [[machine]].

195:7.9 A [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanism_(philosophy) mechanistic philosophy] of life and the [[universe]] cannot be [[scientific]] because science recognizes and deals only with [[materials]] and [[facts]]. [[Philosophy]] is inevitably superscientific. Man is a material [[fact]] of [[nature]], but his life is a [[phenomenon]] which [[transcends]] the [[material]] [[levels]] of [[nature]] in that it exhibits the [[control]] [[attributes]] of [[mind]] and the [[creative]] [[qualities]] of [[spirit]].

195:7.9 A [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanism_(philosophy) mechanistic philosophy] of life and the [[universe]] cannot be [[scientific]] because science recognizes and deals only with [[materials]] and [[facts]]. [[Philosophy]] is inevitably superscientific. Man is a material [[fact]] of [[nature]], but his life is a [[phenomenon]] which [[transcends]] the [[material]] [[levels]] of [[nature]] in that it exhibits the [[control]] [[attributes]] of [[mind]] and the [[creative]] [[qualities]] of [[spirit]].

195:7.10 The [[sincere]] [[effort]] of man to become a [[mechanist]] [[represents]] the [[tragic]] [[phenomenon]] of that man's futile effort to commit [[intellectual]] and [[moral]] [[suicide]]. But he cannot do it.

195:7.10 The [[sincere]] [[effort]] of man to become a [[mechanist]] [[represents]] the [[tragic]] [[phenomenon]] of that man's futile effort to commit [[intellectual]] and [[moral]] [[suicide]]. But he cannot do it.

195:7.15 [[Art]] [[proves]] that man is not mechanistic, but it does not prove that he is [[spiritually]] [[immortal]]. Art is [[mortal]] [[morontia]], the intervening field between [[man]], the [[material]], and man, the [[spiritual]]. [[Poetry]] is an [[effort]] to [[escape]] from [[material]] [[realities]] to [[spiritual]] [[values]].

195:7.15 [[Art]] [[proves]] that man is not mechanistic, but it does not prove that he is [[spiritually]] [[immortal]]. Art is [[mortal]] [[morontia]], the intervening field between [[man]], the [[material]], and man, the [[spiritual]]. [[Poetry]] is an [[effort]] to [[escape]] from [[material]] [[realities]] to [[spiritual]] [[values]].

195:7.16 In a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_culture high civilization], art humanizes [[science]], while in turn it is spiritualized by true [[religion]]—[[insight]] into spiritual and eternal [[values]]. [[Art]] [[represents]] the human and [[time-space]] [[evaluation]] of [[reality]]. Religion is the [[divine]] [[embrace]] of [[cosmic]] [[values]] and connotes [[eternal]] [[progression]] in spiritual [[ascension]] and expansion. The art of time is [[dangerous]] only when it becomes blind to the [[spirit]] [[standards]] of the [[divine]] [[patterns]] which eternity [[reflects]] as the [[reality]] [[shadows]] of [[time]]. True art is the [[effective]] [[manipulation]] of the [[material]] [[things]] of life; [[religion]] is the ennobling [[transformation]] of the [[material]] [[facts]] of life, and it never ceases in its [[spiritual]] [[evaluation]] of [[art]].

195:7.16 In a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_culture high civilization], art humanizes [[science]], while in turn it is spiritualized by true [[religion]]—[[insight]] into spiritual and eternal [[values]]. [[Art]] [[represents]] the human and [[time-space]] [[evaluation]] of [[reality]]. Religion is the [[divine]] [[embrace]] of [[cosmic]] [[values]] and connotes [[eternal]] [[progression]] in spiritual [[ascension]] and expansion. The art of time is [[dangerous]] only when it becomes blind to the [[spirit]] [[standards]] of the [[divine]] [[patterns]] which eternity [[reflects]] as the [[reality]] [[shadows]] of [[time]]. True art is the [[effective]] [[manipulation]] of the [[material]] [[things]] of life; [[religion]] is the ennobling [[transformation]] of the [[material]] [[facts]] of life, and it never ceases in its [[spiritual]] [[evaluation]] of [[art]].

195:7.17 How [[foolish]] to presume that an [[automaton]] could conceive a [[philosophy]] of automatism, and how ridiculous that it should [[presume]] to form such a [[concept]] of other and fellow automatons!

195:7.17 How [[foolish]] to presume that an [[automaton]] could conceive a [[philosophy]] of automatism, and how ridiculous that it should [[presume]] to form such a [[concept]] of other and fellow automatons!

==195:8. SECULAR TOTALITARIANISM==

==195:8. SECULAR TOTALITARIANISM==

195:8.1 But even after [[materialism]] and [[mechanism]] have been more or less [[vanquished]], the devastating [[influence]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth-century] [[secularism]] will still blight the spiritual [[experience]] of millions of unsuspecting [[souls]].

195:8.1 But even after [[materialism]] and [[mechanism]] have been more or less [[vanquished]], the devastating [[influence]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth-century] [[secularism]] will still blight the spiritual [[experience]] of millions of unsuspecting [[souls]].

195:8.2 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secularization Modern secularism] has been fostered by two world-wide [[influences]]. The father of [[secularism]] was the narrow-minded and godless [[attitude]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positivism nineteenth- and twentieth-century so-called science]—atheistic science. The mother of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secularism modern secularism] was the [[totalitarian]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_Christianity#Early_Middle_Ages_.28476.E2.80.93799.29 medieval Christian church]. [[Secularism]] had its inception as a rising [[protest]] against the almost complete [[domination]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization#The_Medieval_West institutionalized Christian church].

195:8.2 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secularization Modern secularism] has been fostered by two world-wide [[influences]]. The father of [[secularism]] was the narrow-minded and godless [[attitude]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positivism nineteenth- and twentieth-century so-called science]—atheistic science. The mother of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secularism modern secularism] was the [[totalitarian]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_Christianity#Early_Middle_Ages_.28476.E2.80.93799.29 medieval Christian church]. [[Secularism]] had its inception as a rising [[protest]] against the almost complete [[domination]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization#The_Medieval_West institutionalized Christian church].

195:8.3 At the time of this [[revelation]], the prevailing [[intellectual]] and [[philosophical]] [[climate]] of both European and American life is decidedly [[secular]]—[[humanistic]]. For three hundred years [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western] [[thinking]] has been [[progressively]] secularized. [[Religion]] has become more and more a nominal [[influence]], largely a [[ritualistic]] [[exercise]]. The [[majority]] of professed Christians of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] are unwittingly actual secularists.

195:8.3 At the time of this [[revelation]], the prevailing [[intellectual]] and [[philosophical]] [[climate]] of both European and American life is decidedly [[secular]]—[[humanistic]]. For three hundred years [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western] [[thinking]] has been [[progressively]] secularized. [[Religion]] has become more and more a nominal [[influence]], largely a [[ritualistic]] [[exercise]]. The [[majority]] of professed Christians of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] are unwittingly actual secularists.

195:8.4 It required a great [[power]], a mighty [[influence]], to [[free]] the [[thinking]] and [[living]] of the Western peoples from the withering grasp of a [[totalitarian]] [[ecclesiastical]] [[domination]]. [[Secularism]] did break the bonds of church [[control]], and now in turn it threatens to [[establish]] a new and godless [[type]] of mastery over the [[hearts]] and [[minds]] of [[modern]] man. The [[tyrannical]] and dictatorial [[political]] [[state]] is the direct offspring of scientific [[materialism]] and philosophic [[secularism]]. Secularism no sooner [[free]]s man from the [[domination]] of the institutionalized [[church]] than it sells him into slavish [[bondage]] to the [[totalitarian]] [[state]]. [[Secularism]] frees man from [[ecclesiastical]] slavery only to betray him into the [[tyranny]] of [[political]] and [[economic]] [[slavery]].

195:8.4 It required a great [[power]], a mighty [[influence]], to [[free]] the [[thinking]] and [[living]] of the Western peoples from the withering grasp of a [[totalitarian]] [[ecclesiastical]] [[domination]]. [[Secularism]] did break the bonds of church [[control]], and now in turn it threatens to [[establish]] a new and godless [[type]] of mastery over the [[hearts]] and [[minds]] of [[modern]] man. The [[tyrannical]] and dictatorial [[political]] [[state]] is the direct offspring of scientific [[materialism]] and philosophic [[secularism]]. Secularism no sooner [[free]]s man from the [[domination]] of the institutionalized [[church]] than it sells him into slavish [[bondage]] to the [[totalitarian]] [[state]]. [[Secularism]] frees man from [[ecclesiastical]] slavery only to betray him into the [[tyranny]] of [[political]] and [[economic]] [[slavery]].

195:8.5 [[Materialism]] denies [[God]], [[secularism]] simply ignores him; at least that was the earlier [[attitude]]. More recently, [[secularism]] has assumed a more [[militant]] [[attitude]], assuming to take the place of the [[religion]] whose totalitarian [[bondage]] it onetime [[resisted]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century Twentieth-century] [[secularism]] tends to affirm that man does not need [[God]]. But beware! this [[Atheism|godless philosophy]] of human [[society]] will lead only to unrest, animosity, unhappiness, war, and world-wide disaster.

195:8.5 [[Materialism]] denies [[God]], [[secularism]] simply ignores him; at least that was the earlier [[attitude]]. More recently, [[secularism]] has assumed a more [[militant]] [[attitude]], assuming to take the place of the [[religion]] whose totalitarian [[bondage]] it onetime [[resisted]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century Twentieth-century] [[secularism]] tends to affirm that man does not need [[God]]. But beware! this [[Atheism|godless philosophy]] of human [[society]] will lead only to unrest, animosity, unhappiness, war, and world-wide disaster.

195:8.6 [[Secularism]] can never bring [[peace]] to [[mankind]]. Nothing can take the place of [[God]] in human [[society]]. But mark you well! do not be quick to [[surrender]] the [[beneficent]] gains of the secular [[revolt]] from [[ecclesiastical]] [[totalitarianism]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] today enjoys many [[liberties]] and [[satisfactions]] as a result of the secular revolt. The great mistake of [[secularism]] was this: In revolting against the almost total [[control]] of life by [[religious]] [[authority]], and after [[attaining]] the liberation from such [[ecclesiastical]] [[tyranny]], the secularists went on to institute a revolt against [[God]] himself, sometimes tacitly and sometimes openly.

195:8.6 [[Secularism]] can never bring [[peace]] to [[mankind]]. Nothing can take the place of [[God]] in human [[society]]. But mark you well! do not be quick to [[surrender]] the [[beneficent]] gains of the secular [[revolt]] from [[ecclesiastical]] [[totalitarianism]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization] today enjoys many [[liberties]] and [[satisfactions]] as a result of the secular revolt. The great mistake of [[secularism]] was this: In revolting against the almost total [[control]] of life by [[religious]] [[authority]], and after [[attaining]] the liberation from such [[ecclesiastical]] [[tyranny]], the secularists went on to institute a revolt against [[God]] himself, sometimes tacitly and sometimes openly.

195:8.7 To the secularistic [[revolt]] you owe the amazing [[creativity]] of [[American]] [[Industry|industrialism]] and the unprecedented [[material]] [[progress]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization]. And because the secularistic [[revolt]] went too far and lost [[sight]] of [[God]] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#101:1._TRUE_RELIGION true religion], there also followed the unlooked-for [[harvest]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_war world wars] and international unsettledness.

195:8.7 To the secularistic [[revolt]] you owe the amazing [[creativity]] of [[American]] [[Industry|industrialism]] and the unprecedented [[material]] [[progress]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_civilization Western civilization]. And because the secularistic [[revolt]] went too far and lost [[sight]] of [[God]] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#101:1._TRUE_RELIGION true religion], there also followed the unlooked-for [[harvest]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_war world wars] and international unsettledness.

195:8.8 It is not [[necessary]] to [[sacrifice]] [[faith]] in [[God]] in order to enjoy the [[blessings]] of the [[modern]] secularistic revolt: [[tolerance]], social service, [[democratic]] [[government]], and civil liberties. It was not necessary for the secularists to antagonize [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#101:1._TRUE_RELIGION true religion] in order to promote [[science]] and to advance [[education]].

195:8.8 It is not [[necessary]] to [[sacrifice]] [[faith]] in [[God]] in order to enjoy the [[blessings]] of the [[modern]] secularistic revolt: [[tolerance]], social service, [[democratic]] [[government]], and civil liberties. It was not necessary for the secularists to antagonize [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#101:1._TRUE_RELIGION true religion] in order to promote [[science]] and to advance [[education]].

195:8.9 But [[secularism]] is not the sole [[parent]] of all these recent gains in the enlargement of [[living]]. Behind the gains of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] are not only [[science]] and [[secularism]] but also the unrecognized and unacknowledged [[spiritual]] workings of the life and teaching of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:8.9 But [[secularism]] is not the sole [[parent]] of all these recent gains in the enlargement of [[living]]. Behind the gains of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] are not only [[science]] and [[secularism]] but also the unrecognized and unacknowledged [[spiritual]] workings of the life and teaching of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:8.10 Without [[God]], without [[religion]], scientific [[secularism]] can never [[co-ordinate]] its [[forces]], [[harmonize]] its [[divergent]] and rivalrous interests, [[races]], and [[nationalism]]s. This secularistic human [[society]], notwithstanding its unparalleled materialistic [[achievement]], is slowly disintegrating. The chief cohesive force resisting this disintegration of antagonism is [[nationalism]]. And [[nationalism]] is the chief barrier to world [[peace]].

195:8.10 Without [[God]], without [[religion]], scientific [[secularism]] can never [[co-ordinate]] its [[forces]], [[harmonize]] its [[divergent]] and rivalrous interests, [[races]], and [[nationalism]]s. This secularistic human [[society]], notwithstanding its unparalleled materialistic [[achievement]], is slowly disintegrating. The chief cohesive force resisting this disintegration of antagonism is [[nationalism]]. And [[nationalism]] is the chief barrier to world [[peace]].

195:8.12 [[Secular]] [[social]] and [[political]] [[optimism]] is an [[illusion]]. Without [[God]], neither [[freedom]] and [[liberty]], nor [[property]] and [[wealth]] will lead to [[peace]].

195:8.12 [[Secular]] [[social]] and [[political]] [[optimism]] is an [[illusion]]. Without [[God]], neither [[freedom]] and [[liberty]], nor [[property]] and [[wealth]] will lead to [[peace]].

195:8.13 The complete [[secularization]] of [[science]], [[education]], [[industry]], and [[society]] can lead only to disaster. During the first third of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] Urantians killed more [[human being]]s than were killed during the whole of the [[Christian]] dispensation up to that time. And this is only the beginning of the dire [[harvest]] of [[materialism]] and [[secularism]]; still more terrible destruction is yet to come.

195:8.13 The complete [[secularization]] of [[science]], [[education]], [[industry]], and [[society]] can lead only to disaster. During the first third of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] Urantians killed more [[human being]]s than were killed during the whole of the [[Christian]] dispensation up to that time. And this is only the beginning of the dire [[harvest]] of [[materialism]] and [[secularism]]; still more terrible destruction is yet to come.

==195:9. CHRISTIANITY'S PROBLEM==

==195:9. CHRISTIANITY'S PROBLEM==

195:9.2 But [[paganized]] and [[socialized]] [[Christianity]] stands in need of new [[contact]] with the uncompromised [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]]; it languishes for lack of a new [[vision]] of [[the Master]]'s life on [[earth]]. A new and fuller [[revelation]] of the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] is destined to [[conquer]] an [[empire]] of materialistic [[secularism]] and to overthrow a world sway of [[mechanistic]] [[naturalism]]. [[Urantia]] is now quivering on the very brink of one of its most [[amazing]] and enthralling [[epochs]] of [[social]] re[[adjustment]], [[moral]] quickening, and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]].

195:9.2 But [[paganized]] and [[socialized]] [[Christianity]] stands in need of new [[contact]] with the uncompromised [[teachings]] of [[Jesus]]; it languishes for lack of a new [[vision]] of [[the Master]]'s life on [[earth]]. A new and fuller [[revelation]] of the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] is destined to [[conquer]] an [[empire]] of materialistic [[secularism]] and to overthrow a world sway of [[mechanistic]] [[naturalism]]. [[Urantia]] is now quivering on the very brink of one of its most [[amazing]] and enthralling [[epochs]] of [[social]] re[[adjustment]], [[moral]] quickening, and [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]].

195:9.3 The teachings of [[Jesus]], even though greatly [[modified]], [[survived]] the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] of their birthtime, the [[ignorance]] and [[superstition]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], and are even now slowly [[triumphing]] over the [[materialism]], [[mechanism]], and [[secularism]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century]. And such times of great testing and threatened [[defeat]] are always times of great [[revelation]].

195:9.3 The teachings of [[Jesus]], even though greatly [[modified]], [[survived]] the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] of their birthtime, the [[ignorance]] and [[superstition]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Ages_(historiography) dark ages], and are even now slowly [[triumphing]] over the [[materialism]], [[mechanism]], and [[secularism]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century]. And such times of great testing and threatened [[defeat]] are always times of great [[revelation]].

195:9.4 [[Religion]] does need new [[leaders]], [[spiritual]] men and women who will [[dare]] to depend solely on [[Jesus]] and his incomparable teachings. If [[Christianity]] [[persists]] in neglecting its [[spiritual]] [[mission]] while it continues to [[busy]] itself with [[social]] and [[material]] [[problems]], the spiritual [[renaissance]] must await the coming of these new [[teachers]] of [[Jesus]]' [[religion]] who will be exclusively [[devoted]] to the spiritual regeneration of men. And then will these [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[souls]] quickly supply the [[leadership]] and [[inspiration]] requisite for the [[social]], [[moral]], [[economic]], and [[political]] reorganization of the world.

195:9.4 [[Religion]] does need new [[leaders]], [[spiritual]] men and women who will [[dare]] to depend solely on [[Jesus]] and his incomparable teachings. If [[Christianity]] [[persists]] in neglecting its [[spiritual]] [[mission]] while it continues to [[busy]] itself with [[social]] and [[material]] [[problems]], the spiritual [[renaissance]] must await the coming of these new [[teachers]] of [[Jesus]]' [[religion]] who will be exclusively [[devoted]] to the spiritual regeneration of men. And then will these [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[souls]] quickly supply the [[leadership]] and [[inspiration]] requisite for the [[social]], [[moral]], [[economic]], and [[political]] reorganization of the world.

195:9.7 [[Selfish]] men and women simply will not pay such a price for even the greatest [[spiritual]] [[treasure]] ever offered [[mortal]] man. Only when man has become sufficiently [[disillusioned]] by the sorrowful [[disappointments]] attendant upon the [[foolish]] and [[deceptive]] pursuits of [[selfishness]], and subsequent to the [[discovery]] of the barrenness of [[formalized]] [[religion]], will he be disposed to turn wholeheartedly to the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:9.7 [[Selfish]] men and women simply will not pay such a price for even the greatest [[spiritual]] [[treasure]] ever offered [[mortal]] man. Only when man has become sufficiently [[disillusioned]] by the sorrowful [[disappointments]] attendant upon the [[foolish]] and [[deceptive]] pursuits of [[selfishness]], and subsequent to the [[discovery]] of the barrenness of [[formalized]] [[religion]], will he be disposed to turn wholeheartedly to the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], the [[religion]] of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:9.8 The world needs more firsthand [[religion]]. Even [[Christianity]]—the best of the religions of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century]—is not only a religion about Jesus, but it is so largely one which men [[experience]] secondhand. They take their [[religion]] wholly as handed down by their [[accepted]] religious [[teachers]]. What an [[awakening]] the world would [[experience]] if it could only see [[Jesus]] as he really lived on [[earth]] and know, firsthand, his life-giving teachings! Descriptive [[words]] of [[things]] [[beautiful]] cannot thrill like the [[sight]] thereof, neither can [[creed]]al [[words]] [[inspire]] men's [[souls]] like the [[experience]] of knowing the [[presence]] of [[God]]. But [[expectant]] [[faith]] will ever keep the [[hope]]-door of man's [[soul]] open for the entrance of the [[eternal]] [[spiritual]] realities of the [[divine]] [[values]] of the worlds beyond.

195:9.8 The world needs more firsthand [[religion]]. Even [[Christianity]]—the best of the religions of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century]—is not only a religion about Jesus, but it is so largely one which men [[experience]] secondhand. They take their [[religion]] wholly as handed down by their [[accepted]] religious [[teachers]]. What an [[awakening]] the world would [[experience]] if it could only see [[Jesus]] as he really lived on [[earth]] and know, firsthand, his life-giving teachings! Descriptive [[words]] of [[things]] [[beautiful]] cannot thrill like the [[sight]] thereof, neither can [[creed]]al [[words]] [[inspire]] men's [[souls]] like the [[experience]] of knowing the [[presence]] of [[God]]. But [[expectant]] [[faith]] will ever keep the [[hope]]-door of man's [[soul]] open for the entrance of the [[eternal]] [[spiritual]] realities of the [[divine]] [[values]] of the worlds beyond.

195:9.9 [[Christianity]] has [[dared]] to lower its [[ideals]] before the [[challenge]] of human [[greed]], [[war]]-madness, and the [[lust]] for [[power]]; but the religion of [[Jesus]] stands as the unsullied and [[transcendent]] [[spiritual]] [[summons]], calling to the best there is in man to rise above all these [[legacies]] of [[animal]] [[evolution]] and, by [[grace]], attain the moral heights of true [[human]] [[destiny]].

195:9.9 [[Christianity]] has [[dared]] to lower its [[ideals]] before the [[challenge]] of human [[greed]], [[war]]-madness, and the [[lust]] for [[power]]; but the religion of [[Jesus]] stands as the unsullied and [[transcendent]] [[spiritual]] [[summons]], calling to the best there is in man to rise above all these [[legacies]] of [[animal]] [[evolution]] and, by [[grace]], attain the moral heights of true [[human]] [[destiny]].

==195:10. THE FUTURE==   

==195:10. THE FUTURE==   

195:10.1 [[Christianity]] has indeed done a great [[service]] for this world, but what is now most needed is [[Jesus]]. The world needs to see Jesus living again on [[earth]] in the [[experience]] of [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[mortals]] who effectively reveal [[the Master]] to all men. It is futile to talk about a [[revival]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostolic_Age primitive Christianity]; you must go forward from where you find yourselves. [[Modern]] [[culture]] must become spiritually [[baptized]] with a new [[revelation]] of [[Jesus]]' life and [[illuminated]] with a new [[understanding]] of his [[gospel]] of [[eternal]] [[salvation]]. And when [[Jesus]] becomes thus lifted up, he will draw all men to himself. [[Jesus]]' [[disciples]] should be more than [[conquerors]], even overflowing [[sources]] of [[inspiration]] and enhanced [[living]] to all men. [[Religion]] is only an exalted [[humanism]] until it is made [[divine]] by the [[discovery]] of the [[reality]] of the [[presence]] of [[God]] in [[personal]] [[experience]].

195:10.1 [[Christianity]] has indeed done a great [[service]] for this world, but what is now most needed is [[Jesus]]. The world needs to see Jesus living again on [[earth]] in the [[experience]] of [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[mortals]] who effectively reveal [[the Master]] to all men. It is futile to talk about a [[revival]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostolic_Age primitive Christianity]; you must go forward from where you find yourselves. [[Modern]] [[culture]] must become spiritually [[baptized]] with a new [[revelation]] of [[Jesus]]' life and [[illuminated]] with a new [[understanding]] of his [[gospel]] of [[eternal]] [[salvation]]. And when [[Jesus]] becomes thus lifted up, he will draw all men to himself. [[Jesus]]' [[disciples]] should be more than [[conquerors]], even overflowing [[sources]] of [[inspiration]] and enhanced [[living]] to all men. [[Religion]] is only an exalted [[humanism]] until it is made [[divine]] by the [[discovery]] of the [[reality]] of the [[presence]] of [[God]] in [[personal]] [[experience]].

195:10.2 The [[beauty]] and [[sublimity]], the [[humanity]] and [[divinity]], the [[simplicity]] and [[uniqueness]], of [[Jesus]]' life on [[earth]] present such a striking and [[appealing]] picture of man-saving and [[God]]-revealing that the [[theologians]] and [[philosophers]] of all time should be effectively restrained from [[daring]] to form [[creeds]] or create theological [[systems]] of spiritual [[bondage]] out of such a [[transcendental]] [[bestowal]] of God in the form of man. In [[Jesus]] the [[universe]] produced a [[mortal]] man in whom the spirit of [[love]] [[triumphed]] over the [[material]] [[handicaps]] of [[time]] and overcame the [[fact]] of [[physical]] [[origin]].

195:10.2 The [[beauty]] and [[sublimity]], the [[humanity]] and [[divinity]], the [[simplicity]] and [[uniqueness]], of [[Jesus]]' life on [[earth]] present such a striking and [[appealing]] picture of man-saving and [[God]]-revealing that the [[theologians]] and [[philosophers]] of all time should be effectively restrained from [[daring]] to form [[creeds]] or create theological [[systems]] of spiritual [[bondage]] out of such a [[transcendental]] [[bestowal]] of God in the form of man. In [[Jesus]] the [[universe]] produced a [[mortal]] man in whom the spirit of [[love]] [[triumphed]] over the [[material]] [[handicaps]] of [[time]] and overcame the [[fact]] of [[physical]] [[origin]].

195:10.7 No [[social]] [[system]] or [[political]] [[regime]] which denies the [[reality]] of [[God]] can contribute in any constructive and lasting [[manner]] to the advancement of human civilization. But [[Christianity]], as it is subdivided and [[secularized]] today, presents the greatest single [[obstacle]] to its further advancement; especially is this true concerning the [[Orient]].

195:10.7 No [[social]] [[system]] or [[political]] [[regime]] which denies the [[reality]] of [[God]] can contribute in any constructive and lasting [[manner]] to the advancement of human civilization. But [[Christianity]], as it is subdivided and [[secularized]] today, presents the greatest single [[obstacle]] to its further advancement; especially is this true concerning the [[Orient]].

195:10.8 [[Ecclesiasticism]] is at once and forever incompatible with that living [[faith]], growing [[spirit]], and firsthand [[experience]] of the [[faith]]-[[comrades]] of [[Jesus]] in the brotherhood of man in the [[spiritual]] [[association]] of [[the kingdom]] of heaven. The praiseworthy [[desire]] to preserve [[traditions]] of past [[achievement]] often leads to the [[defense]] of outgrown [[systems]] of [[worship]]. The well-meant [[desire]] to foster ancient [[thought]] systems effectually prevents the sponsoring of new and adequate means and [[methods]] designed to [[satisfy]] the spiritual longings of the expanding and advancing [[minds]] of [[modern]] men. Likewise, the [[Christian]] [[church]]es of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] stand as great, but wholly [[unconscious]], obstacles to the [[immediate]] advance of the real [[gospel]]—the teachings of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:10.8 [[Ecclesiasticism]] is at once and forever incompatible with that living [[faith]], growing [[spirit]], and firsthand [[experience]] of the [[faith]]-[[comrades]] of [[Jesus]] in the brotherhood of man in the [[spiritual]] [[association]] of [[the kingdom]] of heaven. The praiseworthy [[desire]] to preserve [[traditions]] of past [[achievement]] often leads to the [[defense]] of outgrown [[systems]] of [[worship]]. The well-meant [[desire]] to foster ancient [[thought]] systems effectually prevents the sponsoring of new and adequate means and [[methods]] designed to [[satisfy]] the spiritual longings of the expanding and advancing [[minds]] of [[modern]] men. Likewise, the [[Christian]] [[church]]es of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] stand as great, but wholly [[unconscious]], obstacles to the [[immediate]] advance of the real [[gospel]]—the teachings of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

195:10.9 Many [[earnest]] [[persons]] who would gladly yield [[loyalty]] to the Christ of the [[gospel]] find it very difficult enthusiastically to [[support]] a [[church]] which exhibits so little of the spirit of his life and teachings, and which they have been erroneously taught he founded. [[Jesus]] did not found the so-called Christian church, but he has, in every [[manner]] [[consistent]] with his [[nature]], fostered it as the best existent exponent of his lifework on [[earth]].

195:10.9 Many [[earnest]] [[persons]] who would gladly yield [[loyalty]] to the Christ of the [[gospel]] find it very difficult enthusiastically to [[support]] a [[church]] which exhibits so little of the spirit of his life and teachings, and which they have been erroneously taught he founded. [[Jesus]] did not found the so-called Christian church, but he has, in every [[manner]] [[consistent]] with his [[nature]], fostered it as the best existent exponent of his lifework on [[earth]].

195:10.10 If the [[Christian]] [[church]] would only dare to espouse [[the Master]]'s program, thousands of apparently indifferent [[youths]] would rush forward to enlist in such a [[spiritual]] undertaking, and they would not [[hesitate]] to go all the way through with this great [[adventure]].

195:10.10 If the [[Christian]] [[church]] would only dare to espouse [[the Master]]'s program, thousands of apparently indifferent [[youths]] would rush forward to enlist in such a [[spiritual]] undertaking, and they would not [[hesitate]] to go all the way through with this great [[adventure]].

195:10.11 [[Christianity]] is seriously [[confronted]] with the [[doom]] embodied in one of its own [[slogans]]: " A house divided against itself cannot stand. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_12] The non-Christian world will hardly capitulate to a [[sect]]-divided [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christendom Christendom]. The living [[Jesus]] is the only [[hope]] of a possible unification of [[Christianity]]. The true church—the [[Jesus]] brotherhood—is invisible, [[spiritual]], and is characterized by [[unity]], not necessarily by [[uniformity]]. Uniformity is the earmark of the [[physical]] world of [[mechanistic]] nature. [[Spiritual]] [[unity]] is the fruit of [[faith]] union with the living [[Jesus]]. The visible [[church]] should refuse longer to [[handicap]] the [[progress]] of the invisible and [[spiritual]] brotherhood of [[the kingdom]] of God. And this brotherhood is [[destined]] to become a living [[organism]] in [[contrast]] to an institutionalized [[social]] [[organization]]. It may well utilize such social organizations, but it must not be supplanted by them.

195:10.11 [[Christianity]] is seriously [[confronted]] with the [[doom]] embodied in one of its own [[slogans]]: " A house divided against itself cannot stand. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_12] The non-Christian world will hardly capitulate to a [[sect]]-divided [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christendom Christendom]. The living [[Jesus]] is the only [[hope]] of a possible unification of [[Christianity]]. The true church—the [[Jesus]] brotherhood—is invisible, [[spiritual]], and is characterized by [[unity]], not necessarily by [[uniformity]]. Uniformity is the earmark of the [[physical]] world of [[mechanistic]] nature. [[Spiritual]] [[unity]] is the fruit of [[faith]] union with the living [[Jesus]]. The visible [[church]] should refuse longer to [[handicap]] the [[progress]] of the invisible and [[spiritual]] brotherhood of [[the kingdom]] of God. And this brotherhood is [[destined]] to become a living [[organism]] in [[contrast]] to an institutionalized [[social]] [[organization]]. It may well utilize such social organizations, but it must not be supplanted by them.

195:10.12 But the [[Christianity]] of even the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] must not be despised. It is the product of the combined [[moral]] [[genius]] of the God-knowing men of many [[races]] during many ages, and it has truly been one of the greatest [[powers]] for [[good]] on [[earth]], and therefore no man should lightly regard it, notwithstanding its [[inherent]] and acquired [[defects]]. [[Christianity]] still contrives to move the minds of [[reflective]] men with mighty [[moral]] [[emotions]].

195:10.12 But the [[Christianity]] of even the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] must not be despised. It is the product of the combined [[moral]] [[genius]] of the God-knowing men of many [[races]] during many ages, and it has truly been one of the greatest [[powers]] for [[good]] on [[earth]], and therefore no man should lightly regard it, notwithstanding its [[inherent]] and acquired [[defects]]. [[Christianity]] still contrives to move the minds of [[reflective]] men with mighty [[moral]] [[emotions]].

195:10.13 But there is no excuse for the involvement of the [[church]] in [[commerce]] and [[politics]]; such unholy [[alliance]]s are a flagrant [[betrayal]] of [[the Master]]. And the genuine lovers of [[truth]] will be slow to forget that this powerful [[institutionalized]] [[church]] has often dared to smother newborn [[faith]] and [[persecute]] [[truth]] bearers who chanced to [[appear]] in unorthodox raiment.

195:10.13 But there is no excuse for the involvement of the [[church]] in [[commerce]] and [[politics]]; such unholy [[alliance]]s are a flagrant [[betrayal]] of [[the Master]]. And the genuine lovers of [[truth]] will be slow to forget that this powerful [[institutionalized]] [[church]] has often dared to smother newborn [[faith]] and [[persecute]] [[truth]] bearers who chanced to [[appear]] in unorthodox raiment.

195:10.14 It is all too true that such a [[church]] would not have [[survived]] unless there had been men in the world who preferred such a [[Form|style]] of [[worship]]. Many spiritually [[indolent]] [[souls]] crave an ancient and [[authoritative]] religion of [[ritual]] and [[sacred]] [[traditions]]. Human [[evolution]] and spiritual [[progress]] are hardly sufficient to enable all men to dispense with [[religious]] [[authority]]. And the invisible brotherhood of [[the kingdom]] may well include these family [[groups]] of various [[social]] and [[temperamental]] [[classes]] if they are only willing to become truly [[spirit]]-led [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD sons of God]. But in this brotherhood of [[Jesus]] there is no place for [[sectarian]] [[rivalry]], [[group]] bitterness, nor assertions of [[moral]] superiority and spiritual [[infallibility]].

195:10.14 It is all too true that such a [[church]] would not have [[survived]] unless there had been men in the world who preferred such a [[Form|style]] of [[worship]]. Many spiritually [[indolent]] [[souls]] crave an ancient and [[authoritative]] religion of [[ritual]] and [[sacred]] [[traditions]]. Human [[evolution]] and spiritual [[progress]] are hardly sufficient to enable all men to dispense with [[religious]] [[authority]]. And the invisible brotherhood of [[the kingdom]] may well include these family [[groups]] of various [[social]] and [[temperamental]] [[classes]] if they are only willing to become truly [[spirit]]-led [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD sons of God]. But in this brotherhood of [[Jesus]] there is no place for [[sectarian]] [[rivalry]], [[group]] bitterness, nor assertions of [[moral]] superiority and spiritual [[infallibility]].

195:10.15 These various groupings of [[Christians]] may serve to accommodate numerous [[different]] [[types]] of would-be [[believers]] among the various peoples of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization], but such division of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christendom Christendom] presents a grave [[weakness]] when it attempts to carry the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]] to [[Oriental]] peoples. These [[races]] do not yet understand that there is a religion of Jesus separate, and somewhat apart, from Christianity, which has more and more become a religion about Jesus.

195:10.15 These various groupings of [[Christians]] may serve to accommodate numerous [[different]] [[types]] of would-be [[believers]] among the various peoples of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization], but such division of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christendom Christendom] presents a grave [[weakness]] when it attempts to carry the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]] to [[Oriental]] peoples. These [[races]] do not yet understand that there is a religion of Jesus separate, and somewhat apart, from Christianity, which has more and more become a religion about Jesus.

195:10.16 The great [[hope]] of [[Urantia]] lies in the [[possibility]] of a new [[revelation]] of [[Jesus]] with a new and enlarged presentation of his saving [[message]] which would spiritually unite in loving [[service]] the numerous [[families]] of his present-day professed [[followers]].

195:10.16 The great [[hope]] of [[Urantia]] lies in the [[possibility]] of a new [[revelation]] of [[Jesus]] with a new and enlarged presentation of his saving [[message]] which would spiritually unite in loving [[service]] the numerous [[families]] of his present-day professed [[followers]].

195:10.17 Even [[secular]] [[education]] could help in this great [[spiritual]] [[renaissance]] if it would pay more [[attention]] to the [[work]] of teaching [[youth]] how to [[engage]] in life planning and [[character]] progression. The [[purpose]] of all [[education]] should be to foster and further the [[supreme]] [[purpose]] of life, the [[development]] of a [[majestic]] and well-[[balanced]] [[personality]]. There is great need for the teaching of [[moral]] [[discipline]] in the place of so much [[self-gratification]]. Upon such a [[foundation]] religion may contribute its [[spiritual]] [[incentive]] to the enlargement and enrichment of [[mortal]] life, even to the [[security]] and enhancement of life [[eternal]].

195:10.17 Even [[secular]] [[education]] could help in this great [[spiritual]] [[renaissance]] if it would pay more [[attention]] to the [[work]] of teaching [[youth]] how to [[engage]] in life planning and [[character]] progression. The [[purpose]] of all [[education]] should be to foster and further the [[supreme]] [[purpose]] of life, the [[development]] of a [[majestic]] and well-[[balanced]] [[personality]]. There is great need for the teaching of [[moral]] [[discipline]] in the place of so much [[self-gratification]]. Upon such a [[foundation]] religion may contribute its [[spiritual]] [[incentive]] to the enlargement and enrichment of [[mortal]] life, even to the [[security]] and enhancement of life [[eternal]].

195:10.18 [[Christianity]] is an extemporized [[religion]], and therefore must it operate in low gear. High-gear [[spiritual]] [[performances]] must await the new [[revelation]] and the more general [[acceptance]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#PAPER_101:_THE_REAL_NATURE_OF_RELIGION real religion] of Jesus. But [[Christianity]] is a mighty religion, seeing that the commonplace [[disciples]] of a [[crucified]] [[carpenter]] set in motion those teachings which conquered the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman world] in three hundred years and then went on to [[triumph]] over the [[barbarians]] who overthrew [[Rome]]. This same [[Christianity]] [[conquered]]—absorbed and exalted—the whole [[stream]] of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]] and [[Greek]] [[philosophy]]. And then, when this Christian religion became [[Sleep|comatose]] for more than a thousand years as a result of an overdose of [[mysteries]] and [[paganism]], it resurrected itself and virtually reconquered the whole [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western world]. Christianity contains enough of [[Jesus]]' teachings to immortalize it.

195:10.18 [[Christianity]] is an extemporized [[religion]], and therefore must it operate in low gear. High-gear [[spiritual]] [[performances]] must await the new [[revelation]] and the more general [[acceptance]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_101#PAPER_101:_THE_REAL_NATURE_OF_RELIGION real religion] of Jesus. But [[Christianity]] is a mighty religion, seeing that the commonplace [[disciples]] of a [[crucified]] [[carpenter]] set in motion those teachings which conquered the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman world] in three hundred years and then went on to [[triumph]] over the [[barbarians]] who overthrew [[Rome]]. This same [[Christianity]] [[conquered]]—absorbed and exalted—the whole [[stream]] of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]] and [[Greek]] [[philosophy]]. And then, when this Christian religion became [[Sleep|comatose]] for more than a thousand years as a result of an overdose of [[mysteries]] and [[paganism]], it resurrected itself and virtually reconquered the whole [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western world]. Christianity contains enough of [[Jesus]]' teachings to immortalize it.

195:10.19 If [[Christianity]] could only grasp more of Jesus' teachings, it could do so much more in helping [[modern]] man to solve his new and increasingly [[complex]] [[problems]].

195:10.19 If [[Christianity]] could only grasp more of Jesus' teachings, it could do so much more in helping [[modern]] man to solve his new and increasingly [[complex]] [[problems]].

195:10.20 Christianity suffers under a great [[handicap]] because it has become identified in the [[minds]] of all the world as a part of the [[social]] [[system]], the [[industrial]] life, and the [[moral]] [[standards]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization]; and thus has Christianity unwittingly seemed to sponsor a [[society]] which staggers under the [[guilt]] of tolerating [[science]] without [[idealism]], [[politics]] without [[principles]], [[wealth]] without [[work]], [[pleasure]] without restraint, [[knowledge]] without [[character]], [[power]] without [[conscience]], and [[industry]] without [[morality]].

195:10.20 Christianity suffers under a great [[handicap]] because it has become identified in the [[minds]] of all the world as a part of the [[social]] [[system]], the [[industrial]] life, and the [[moral]] [[standards]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization]; and thus has Christianity unwittingly seemed to sponsor a [[society]] which staggers under the [[guilt]] of tolerating [[science]] without [[idealism]], [[politics]] without [[principles]], [[wealth]] without [[work]], [[pleasure]] without restraint, [[knowledge]] without [[character]], [[power]] without [[conscience]], and [[industry]] without [[morality]].

195:10.21 The [[hope]] of [[modern]] Christianity is that it should cease to sponsor the [[social]] [[systems]] and [[industrial]] [[policies]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization] while it [[humbly]] bows itself before the [[cross]] it so valiantly extols, there to learn anew from [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] the greatest [[truths]] mortal man can ever hear—the living [[gospel]] of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man.

195:10.21 The [[hope]] of [[modern]] Christianity is that it should cease to sponsor the [[social]] [[systems]] and [[industrial]] [[policies]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_culture Western civilization] while it [[humbly]] bows itself before the [[cross]] it so valiantly extols, there to learn anew from [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] the greatest [[truths]] mortal man can ever hear—the living [[gospel]] of the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man.

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