Changes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4:1.12 But in the larger sense the apparent "[[accidents]]" of the [[cosmos]] are undoubtedly a part of the finite [[drama]] of the [[time-space]] [[adventure]] of the [[Infinite]] in his [[eternal]] [[manipulation]] of [[The Three Absolutes|the Absolutes]].

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

==4:2. GOD AND NATURE==

==4:2. GOD AND NATURE==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4:5.2 One of the greatest sources of confusion on Urantia concerning the nature of God grows out of the failure of your sacred books clearly to distinguish between the personalities of the Paradise Trinity and between Paradise Deity and the local universe creators and administrators. During the past dispensations of partial understanding, your priests and prophets failed clearly to differentiate between Planetary Princes, System Sovereigns, Constellation Fathers, Creator Sons, Superuniverse Rulers, the Supreme Being, and the Universal Father. Many of the messages of subordinate personalities, such as Life Carriers and various orders of angels, have been, in your records, presented as coming from God himself. Urantian religious thought still confuses the associate personalities of Deity with the Universal Father himself, so that all are included under one appellation.

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

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

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

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

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

4:5.5 The Hebrews believed that "without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of sin." They had not found deliverance from the old and pagan idea that the Gods could not be appeased except by the sight of blood, though Moses did make a distinct advance when he forbade human sacrifices and substituted therefor, in the primitive minds of his childlike Bedouin followers, the ceremonial sacrifice of animals.

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

4:5.6 The bestowal of a Paradise Son on your world was inherent in the situation of closing a planetary age; it was inescapable, and it was not made necessary for the purpose of winning the favor of God. This bestowal also happened to be the final personal act of a Creator Son in the long adventure of earning the experiential sovereignty of his universe. What a travesty upon the infinite character of God! this teaching that his fatherly heart in all its austere coldness and hardness was so untouched by the misfortunes and sorrows of his creatures that his tender mercies were not forthcoming until he saw his blameless Son bleeding and dying upon the cross of Calvary!

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

4:5.7 But the inhabitants of Urantia are to find deliverance from these ancient errors and pagan superstitions respecting the nature of the Universal Father. The revelation of the truth about God is appearing, and the human race is destined to know the Universal Father in all that beauty of character and loveliness of attributes so magnificently portrayed by the Creator Son who sojourned on Urantia as the Son of Man and the Son of God.

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

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

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

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

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