Changes

==PAPER 186: JUST BEFORE THE CRUCIFIXION==

==PAPER 186: JUST BEFORE THE CRUCIFIXION==

186:0.1 As [[Jesus]] and his [[accusers]] started off to see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod], [[the Master]] turned to the [[John, the Apostle|Apostle John]] and said: " John, you can do no more for me. Go to my [[mother]] and bring her to see me ere I die. " When [[John, the Apostle|John] heard his Master's request, although [[reluctant]] to leave him [[alone]] among his [[enemies]], he hastened off to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany], where the entire [[family]] of [[Jesus]] was assembled in waiting at the [[home]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], the sisters of [[Lazarus]] whom [[Jesus]] [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_168 raised from the dead].

186:0.1 As [[Jesus]] and his [[accusers]] started off to see [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod], [[the Master]] turned to the [[John, the Apostle|Apostle John]] and said: " John, you can do no more for me. Go to my [[mother]] and bring her to see me ere I die. " When [[John, the Apostle|John]] heard his Master's request, although [[reluctant]] to leave him [[alone]] among his [[enemies]], he hastened off to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany], where the entire [[family]] of [[Jesus]] was assembled in waiting at the [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary], the sisters of [[Lazarus]] whom [[Jesus]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_168 raised from the dead].

186:0.2 Several times during the [[morning]], [[messengers]] had brought news to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] concerning the [[progress]] of [[Jesus]]' [[trial]]. But the [[family]] of [[Jesus]] did not reach [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] until just a few minutes before [[John, the Apostle|John]] arrived bearing the request of [[Jesus]] to see his [[mother]] before he was put to [[death]]. After [[John Zebedee]] had told them all that had happened since the midnight [[arrest]] of [[Jesus]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] his [[mother]] went at once in the company of [[John, the Apostle|John]] to see her eldest son. By the time [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and [[John, the Apostle|John]] reached [[Jerusalem|the city]], [[Jesus]], accompanied by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] who were to [[crucify]] him, had already arrived at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calvary Golgotha].

186:0.2 Several times during the [[morning]], [[messengers]] had brought news to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] concerning the [[progress]] of [[Jesus]]' [[trial]]. But the [[family]] of [[Jesus]] did not reach [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] until just a few minutes before [[John, the Apostle|John]] arrived bearing the request of [[Jesus]] to see his [[mother]] before he was put to [[death]]. After [[John Zebedee]] had told them all that had happened since the midnight [[arrest]] of [[Jesus]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] his [[mother]] went at once in the company of [[John, the Apostle|John]] to see her eldest son. By the time [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and [[John, the Apostle|John]] reached [[Jerusalem|the city]], [[Jesus]], accompanied by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] who were to [[crucify]] him, had already arrived at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calvary Golgotha].

186:0.3 When [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary the mother of Jesus] started out with [[John, the Apostle|John]] to go to her son, his sister Ruth refused to remain behind with the rest of the [[family]]. Since she was [[determined]] to accompany her [[mother]], her [[brother]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jude,_brother_of_Jesus Jude] went with her. The rest of [[the Master]]'s [[family]] remained in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] under the direction of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James], and almost every hour the [[messengers]] of [[David Zebedee]] brought them reports concerning the [[progress]] of that terrible business of [[Crucifixion|putting to death]] their eldest [[brother]], [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

186:0.3 When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary the mother of Jesus] started out with [[John, the Apostle|John]] to go to her son, his sister Ruth refused to remain behind with the rest of the [[family]]. Since she was [[determined]] to accompany her [[mother]], her [[brother]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jude,_brother_of_Jesus Jude] went with her. The rest of [[the Master]]'s [[family]] remained in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] under the direction of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James], and almost every hour the [[messengers]] of [[David Zebedee]] brought them reports concerning the [[progress]] of that terrible business of [[Crucifixion|putting to death]] their eldest [[brother]], [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]].

==186:1. THE END OF JUDAS ISCARIOT==

==186:1. THE END OF JUDAS ISCARIOT==

186:1.1 It was about half past eight o'clock this Friday [[morning]] when the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_(law) hearing] of [[Jesus]] before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] was ended and [[the Master]] was placed in the [[custody]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] who were to [[crucify]] him. As soon as the [[Romans]] took [[possession]] of [[Jesus]], the captain of the Jewish guards marched with his men back to their [[temple]] [[headquarters]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol chief priest] and his [[Sanhedrist]] [[associates]] followed close behind the guards, going directly to their usual [[meeting]] place in the hall of hewn stone in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple]. Here they found many other [[members]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] waiting to [[learn]] what had been done with [[Jesus]]. As [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] was [[engaged]] in making his report to the [[Sanhedrin]] regarding the [[trial]] and [[condemnation]] of [[Jesus]], [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] [[appeared]] before them to claim his [[reward]] for the part he had played in his Master's [[arrest]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sentence_(law) sentence] of [[death]].

186:1.1 It was about half past eight o'clock this Friday [[morning]] when the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_(law) hearing] of [[Jesus]] before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] was ended and [[the Master]] was placed in the [[custody]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] who were to [[crucify]] him. As soon as the [[Romans]] took [[possession]] of [[Jesus]], the captain of the Jewish guards marched with his men back to their [[temple]] [[headquarters]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol chief priest] and his [[Sanhedrist]] [[associates]] followed close behind the guards, going directly to their usual [[meeting]] place in the hall of hewn stone in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple]. Here they found many other [[members]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] waiting to [[learn]] what had been done with [[Jesus]]. As [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] was [[engaged]] in making his report to the [[Sanhedrin]] regarding the [[trial]] and [[condemnation]] of [[Jesus]], [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] [[appeared]] before them to claim his [[reward]] for the part he had played in his Master's [[arrest]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sentence_(law) sentence] of [[death]].

186:1.2 All of these [[Jews]] [[Contempt|loathed]] [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]]; they looked upon the [[betrayer]] with only [[feelings]] of utter [[contempt]]. Throughout the [[trial]] of [[Jesus]] before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] and during his [[appearance]] before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate], [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was pricked in his [[conscience]] about his [[traitorous]] [[conduct]]. And he was also beginning to become somewhat [[disillusioned]] regarding the [[reward]] he was to [[receive]] as payment for his [[services]] as [[Jesus]]' [[betrayer]]. He did not like the coolness and aloofness of the [[Jewish]] [[authorities]]; nevertheless, he [[expected]] to be liberally rewarded for his [[cowardly]] [[conduct]]. He [[anticipated]] being called before the full meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] and there hearing himself eulogized while they conferred upon him suitable [[honors]] in token of the great [[service]] which he [[flattered]] himself he had rendered his [[nation]]. [[Imagine]], therefore, the great [[surprise]] of this [[egotistic]] [[traitor]] when a [[servant]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol high priest], tapping him on the shoulder, called him just outside the hall and said: " [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]], I have been [[appointed]] to pay you for the [[betrayal]] of [[Jesus]]. Here is your [[reward]]. " And thus [[speaking]], the [[servant]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] handed [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] a bag containing thirty pieces of silver—the current price of a [[good]], healthy [[slave]].

186:1.2 All of these [[Jews]] [[Contempt|loathed]] [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]]; they looked upon the [[betrayer]] with only [[feelings]] of utter [[contempt]]. Throughout the [[trial]] of [[Jesus]] before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] and during his [[appearance]] before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate], [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was pricked in his [[conscience]] about his [[traitorous]] [[conduct]]. And he was also beginning to become somewhat [[disillusioned]] regarding the [[reward]] he was to [[receive]] as payment for his [[services]] as [[Jesus]]' [[betrayer]]. He did not like the coolness and aloofness of the [[Jewish]] [[authorities]]; nevertheless, he [[expected]] to be liberally rewarded for his [[cowardly]] [[conduct]]. He [[anticipated]] being called before the full meeting of the [[Sanhedrin]] and there hearing himself eulogized while they conferred upon him suitable [[honors]] in token of the great [[service]] which he [[flattered]] himself he had rendered his [[nation]]. [[Imagine]], therefore, the great [[surprise]] of this [[egotistic]] [[traitor]] when a [[servant]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol high priest], tapping him on the shoulder, called him just outside the hall and said: " [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]], I have been [[appointed]] to pay you for the [[betrayal]] of [[Jesus]]. Here is your [[reward]]. " And thus [[speaking]], the [[servant]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas] handed [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] a bag containing thirty pieces of silver—the current price of a [[good]], healthy [[slave]].

186:1.3 [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was stunned, dumfounded. He rushed back to enter the hall but was debarred by the doorkeeper. He wanted to [[appeal]] to the [[Sanhedrin]], but they would not admit him. [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] could not [[believe]] that these rulers of the [[Jews]] would allow him to [[betray]] his [[friends]] and his [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_(form_of_address) Master] and then offer him as a [[reward]] thirty pieces of silver. He was [[humiliated]], [[disillusioned]], and utterly crushed. He walked away from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple], as it were, in a [[trance]]. He [[automatically]] dropped the money bag in his deep pocket, that same pocket wherein he had so long carried the bag containing the [[Apostles|apostolic]] [[funds]]. And he wandered out through the [[city]] after the crowds who were on their way to [[witness]] the [[crucifixion]]s.

186:1.3 [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was stunned, dumfounded. He rushed back to enter the hall but was debarred by the doorkeeper. He wanted to [[appeal]] to the [[Sanhedrin]], but they would not admit him. [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] could not [[believe]] that these rulers of the [[Jews]] would allow him to [[betray]] his [[friends]] and his [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_(form_of_address) Master] and then offer him as a [[reward]] thirty pieces of silver. He was [[humiliated]], [[disillusioned]], and utterly crushed. He walked away from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple], as it were, in a [[trance]]. He [[automatically]] dropped the money bag in his deep pocket, that same pocket wherein he had so long carried the bag containing the [[Apostles|apostolic]] [[funds]]. And he wandered out through the [[city]] after the crowds who were on their way to [[witness]] the [[crucifixion]]s.

186:1.4 From a distance [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] saw them raise the cross piece with [[Jesus]] nailed thereon, and upon [[sight]] of this he rushed back to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and, forcing his way past the doorkeeper, found himself standing in the [[presence]] of the [[Sanhedrin]], which was still in session. The [[betrayer]] was well-nigh breathless and highly distraught, but he managed to stammer out these [[words]]: " I have [[sinned]] in that I have [[betrayed]] [[innocent]] [[blood]]. You have insulted me. You have offered me as a [[reward]] for my [[service]], [[money]]—the price of a [[slave]]. I [[repent]] that I have done this; here is your [[money]]. I want to [[escape]] the [[guilt]] of this [[deed]]. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_27]

186:1.4 From a distance [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] saw them raise the cross piece with [[Jesus]] nailed thereon, and upon [[sight]] of this he rushed back to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and, forcing his way past the doorkeeper, found himself standing in the [[presence]] of the [[Sanhedrin]], which was still in session. The [[betrayer]] was well-nigh breathless and highly distraught, but he managed to stammer out these [[words]]: " I have [[sinned]] in that I have [[betrayed]] [[innocent]] [[blood]]. You have insulted me. You have offered me as a [[reward]] for my [[service]], [[money]]—the price of a [[slave]]. I [[repent]] that I have done this; here is your [[money]]. I want to [[escape]] the [[guilt]] of this [[deed]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_27]

186:1.5 When the rulers of the [[Jews]] heard [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]], they scoffed at him. One of them sitting near where [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] stood, motioned that he should leave the hall and said: " Your Master has already been put to [[death]] by the [[Romans]], and as for your [[guilt]], what is that to us? See you to that—and begone! "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_27]

186:1.5 When the rulers of the [[Jews]] heard [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]], they scoffed at him. One of them sitting near where [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] stood, motioned that he should leave the hall and said: " Your Master has already been put to [[death]] by the [[Romans]], and as for your [[guilt]], what is that to us? See you to that—and begone! "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_27]

186:1.6 As [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] left the [[Sanhedrin]] chamber, he removed the thirty pieces of silver from the bag and threw them broadcast over [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] floor. When the [[betrayer]] left the [[temple]], he was almost beside himself. [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was now passing through the [[experience]] of the [[realization]] of the true [[nature]] of [[sin]]. All the glamor, [[fascination]], and [[intoxication]] of wrongdoing had vanished. Now the evildoer stood [[alone]] and [[face]] to face with the [[judgment]] [[verdict]] of his [[disillusioned]] and [[disappointed]] [[soul]]. [[Sin]] was bewitching and [[adventurous]] in the committing, but now must the [[harvest]] of the [[naked]] and unromantic [[facts]] be faced.

186:1.6 As [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] left the [[Sanhedrin]] chamber, he removed the thirty pieces of silver from the bag and threw them broadcast over [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] floor. When the [[betrayer]] left the [[temple]], he was almost beside himself. [[Judas Iscariot|Judas]] was now passing through the [[experience]] of the [[realization]] of the true [[nature]] of [[sin]]. All the glamor, [[fascination]], and [[intoxication]] of wrongdoing had vanished. Now the evildoer stood [[alone]] and [[face]] to face with the [[judgment]] [[verdict]] of his [[disillusioned]] and [[disappointed]] [[soul]]. [[Sin]] was bewitching and [[adventurous]] in the committing, but now must the [[harvest]] of the [[naked]] and unromantic [[facts]] be faced.

186:1.7 This onetime [[ambassador]] of [[the kingdom]] of heaven on [[earth]] now walked through the streets of [[Jerusalem]], [[forsaken]] and [[alone]]. His [[despair]] was desperate and well-nigh [[absolute]]. On he [[journeyed]] through the [[city]] and outside the walls, on down into the terrible [[solitude]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna valley of Hinnom], where he climbed up the steep rocks and, taking the girdle of his cloak, fastened one end to a small tree, tied the other about his neck, and cast himself over the precipice. Ere he was [[dead]], the knot which his nervous hands had tied gave way, and the [[betrayer]]'s [[body]] was dashed to pieces as it fell on the jagged rocks below.[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.1]

186:1.7 This onetime [[ambassador]] of [[the kingdom]] of heaven on [[earth]] now walked through the streets of [[Jerusalem]], [[forsaken]] and [[alone]]. His [[despair]] was desperate and well-nigh [[absolute]]. On he [[journeyed]] through the [[city]] and outside the walls, on down into the terrible [[solitude]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna valley of Hinnom], where he climbed up the steep rocks and, taking the girdle of his cloak, fastened one end to a small tree, tied the other about his neck, and cast himself over the precipice. Ere he was [[dead]], the knot which his nervous hands had tied gave way, and the [[betrayer]]'s [[body]] was dashed to pieces as it fell on the jagged rocks below.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Acts_of_the_Apostles#Acts.1]

==186:2. THE MASTER'S ATTITUDE==

==186:2. THE MASTER'S ATTITUDE==

186:2.1 When [[Jesus]] was [[arrested]], he knew that his [[work]] on [[earth]], in the likeness of [[mortal]] [[flesh]], was finished. He fully [[understood]] the sort of [[death]] he would die, and he was little concerned with the details of his so-called [[trials]].

186:2.1 When [[Jesus]] was [[arrested]], he knew that his [[work]] on [[earth]], in the likeness of [[mortal]] [[flesh]], was finished. He fully [[understood]] the sort of [[death]] he would die, and he was little concerned with the details of his so-called [[trials]].

186:2.2 Before the [[Sanhedrist]] [[court]] [[Jesus]] declined to make replies to the [[testimony]] of [[perjured]] [[witnesses]]. There was but one [[question]] which would always elicit an answer, whether asked by [[friend]] or [[foe]], and that was the one concerning the [[nature]] and [[divinity]] of his [[mission]] on [[earth]]. When asked if he were the [[Creator Son|Son of God]], he unfailingly made reply. He [[steadfastly]] refused to [[speak]] when in the [[presence]] of the [[curious]] and [[wicked]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod]. Before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] he [[spoke]] only when he [[thought]] that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] or some other [[sincere]] [[person]] might be helped to a better [[knowledge]] of the [[truth]] by what he said. [[Jesus]] had taught his [[apostles]] the uselessness of casting their pearls before swine, and he now [[dared]] to [[practice]] what he had taught. His [[conduct]] at this time [[Demonstration|exemplified]] the patient submission of the [[human]] [[nature]] coupled with the [[majestic]] [[silence]] and [[solemn]] [[dignity]] of the [[divine]] [[nature]]. He was altogether willing to [[discuss]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] any [[question]] related to the [[political]] charges brought against him—any [[question]] which he [[recognized]] as belonging to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor governor]'s [[jurisdiction]].

186:2.2 Before the [[Sanhedrist]] [[court]] [[Jesus]] declined to make replies to the [[testimony]] of [[perjured]] [[witnesses]]. There was but one [[question]] which would always elicit an answer, whether asked by [[friend]] or [[foe]], and that was the one concerning the [[nature]] and [[divinity]] of his [[mission]] on [[earth]]. When asked if he were the [[Creator Son|Son of God]], he unfailingly made reply. He [[steadfastly]] refused to [[speak]] when in the [[presence]] of the [[curious]] and [[wicked]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod]. Before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] he [[spoke]] only when he [[thought]] that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] or some other [[sincere]] [[person]] might be helped to a better [[knowledge]] of the [[truth]] by what he said. [[Jesus]] had taught his [[apostles]] the uselessness of casting their pearls before swine, and he now [[dared]] to [[practice]] what he had taught. His [[conduct]] at this time [[Demonstration|exemplified]] the patient submission of the [[human]] [[nature]] coupled with the [[majestic]] [[silence]] and [[solemn]] [[dignity]] of the [[divine]] [[nature]]. He was altogether willing to [[discuss]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] any [[question]] related to the [[political]] charges brought against him—any [[question]] which he [[recognized]] as belonging to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor governor]'s [[jurisdiction]].

186:2.3 [[Jesus]] was convinced that it was the will of [[the Father]] that he submit himself to the [[natural]] and ordinary [[course]] of [[human]] [[events]] just as every other [[mortal]] [[creature]] must, and therefore he refused to employ even his [[purely]] [[human]] [[powers]] of [[persuasive]] [[eloquence]] to [[influence]] the outcome of the [[machinations]] of his socially nearsighted and [[spiritually]] blinded fellow [[mortals]]. Although [[Jesus]] lived and died on [[Urantia]], his whole [[human]] [[career]], from first to last, was a [[spectacle]] [[designed]] to [[influence]] and instruct the entire [[universe]] of [[Nebadon|his creation]] and unceasing upholding.

186:2.3 [[Jesus]] was convinced that it was the will of [[the Father]] that he submit himself to the [[natural]] and ordinary [[course]] of [[human]] [[events]] just as every other [[mortal]] [[creature]] must, and therefore he refused to employ even his [[purely]] [[human]] [[powers]] of [[persuasive]] [[eloquence]] to [[influence]] the outcome of the [[machinations]] of his socially nearsighted and [[spiritually]] blinded fellow [[mortals]]. Although [[Jesus]] lived and died on [[Urantia]], his whole [[human]] [[career]], from first to last, was a [[spectacle]] [[designed]] to [[influence]] and instruct the entire [[universe]] of [[Nebadon|his creation]] and unceasing upholding.

186:2.4 These shortsighted [[Jews]] clamored unseemlily for [[the Master]]'s [[death]] while he stood there in awful [[silence]] looking upon the [[death]] scene of a [[nation]]—his [[earthly]] [[father]]'s own people.

186:2.4 These shortsighted [[Jews]] clamored unseemlily for [[the Master]]'s [[death]] while he stood there in awful [[silence]] looking upon the [[death]] scene of a [[nation]]—his [[earthly]] [[father]]'s own people.

186:2.5 [[Jesus]] had acquired that [[type]] of [[human]] [[character]] which could preserve its [[composure]] and [[assert]] its [[dignity]] in the [[face]] of continued and gratuitous [[insult]]. He could not be [[intimidated]]. When first [[assaulted]] by the [[servant]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas], he had only suggested the propriety of calling [[witnesses]] who might duly [[testify]] against him.

186:2.5 [[Jesus]] had acquired that [[type]] of [[human]] [[character]] which could preserve its [[composure]] and [[assert]] its [[dignity]] in the [[face]] of continued and gratuitous [[insult]]. He could not be [[intimidated]]. When first [[assaulted]] by the [[servant]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas], he had only suggested the propriety of calling [[witnesses]] who might duly [[testify]] against him.

186:2.6 From first to last, in his so-called [[trial]] before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate], the onlooking [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial hosts] could not refrain from broadcasting to the [[universe]] the depiction of the scene of " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pialte Pilate] on [[trial]] before [[Jesus]]. "

186:2.6 From first to last, in his so-called [[trial]] before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate], the onlooking [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 celestial hosts] could not refrain from broadcasting to the [[universe]] the depiction of the scene of " [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pialte Pilate] on [[trial]] before [[Jesus]]. "

186:2.7 When before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas], and when all the [[perjured]] [[testimony]] had broken down, [[Jesus]] did not [[hesitate]] to answer the [[question]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol chief priest], thereby providing in his own [[testimony]] that which they [[desired]] as a basis for [[convicting]] him of [[blasphemy]].

186:2.7 When before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas Caiaphas], and when all the [[perjured]] [[testimony]] had broken down, [[Jesus]] did not [[hesitate]] to answer the [[question]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohen_Gadol chief priest], thereby providing in his own [[testimony]] that which they [[desired]] as a basis for [[convicting]] him of [[blasphemy]].

186:2.8 [[The Master]] never displayed the least interest in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate]'s well-meant but halfhearted [[efforts]] to [[effect]] his [[Liberty|release]]. He really [[pitied]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] and [[sincerely]] endeavored to [[enlighten]] his [[darkened]] [[mind]]. He was wholly [[passive]] to all the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor Roman governor]'s [[appeals]] to the [[Jews]] to withdraw their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criminal_charge criminal charges] against him. Throughout the whole sorrowful [[ordeal]] he bore himself with [[simple]] [[dignity]] and unostentatious [[majesty]]. He would not so much as cast [[reflections]] of insincerity upon his would-be [[murderers]] when they asked if he were " [[king]] of the [[Jews]]. " With but little qualifying [[explanation]] he accepted the designation, knowing that, while they had [[chosen]] to [[reject]] him, he would be the last to afford them real [[national]] [[leadership]], even in a [[spiritual]] sense.

186:2.8 [[The Master]] never displayed the least interest in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate]'s well-meant but halfhearted [[efforts]] to [[effect]] his [[Liberty|release]]. He really [[pitied]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] and [[sincerely]] endeavored to [[enlighten]] his [[darkened]] [[mind]]. He was wholly [[passive]] to all the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor Roman governor]'s [[appeals]] to the [[Jews]] to withdraw their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criminal_charge criminal charges] against him. Throughout the whole sorrowful [[ordeal]] he bore himself with [[simple]] [[dignity]] and unostentatious [[majesty]]. He would not so much as cast [[reflections]] of insincerity upon his would-be [[murderers]] when they asked if he were " [[king]] of the [[Jews]]. " With but little qualifying [[explanation]] he accepted the designation, knowing that, while they had [[chosen]] to [[reject]] him, he would be the last to afford them real [[national]] [[leadership]], even in a [[spiritual]] sense.

186:2.9 [[Jesus]] said little during these [[trials]], but he said enough to show all [[mortals]] the kind of [[human]] [[character]] man can [[perfect]] in [[partnership]] with [[God]] and to [[reveal]] to all the [[universe]] the [[manner]] in which [[God]] can become [[manifest]] in the life of the [[creature]] when such a [[creature]] truly chooses to [[do the will of the Father]], thus becoming an [[active]] [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD son of the living God].

186:2.9 [[Jesus]] said little during these [[trials]], but he said enough to show all [[mortals]] the kind of [[human]] [[character]] man can [[perfect]] in [[partnership]] with [[God]] and to [[reveal]] to all the [[universe]] the [[manner]] in which [[God]] can become [[manifest]] in the life of the [[creature]] when such a [[creature]] truly chooses to [[do the will of the Father]], thus becoming an [[active]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD son of the living God].

186:2.10 His [[love]] for [[ignorant]] [[mortals]] is fully disclosed by his [[patience]] and great [[self]]-[[possession]] in the face of the jeers, blows, and buffetings of the coarse [[soldiers]] and the unthinking [[servants]]. He was not even [[angry]] when they blindfolded him and, derisively striking him in the [[face]], exclaimed: " [[Prophesy]] to us who it was that struck you. "

186:2.10 His [[love]] for [[ignorant]] [[mortals]] is fully disclosed by his [[patience]] and great [[self]]-[[possession]] in the face of the jeers, blows, and buffetings of the coarse [[soldiers]] and the unthinking [[servants]]. He was not even [[angry]] when they blindfolded him and, derisively striking him in the [[face]], exclaimed: " [[Prophesy]] to us who it was that struck you. "

186:2.11 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] [[spoke]] more truly than he knew when, after [[Jesus]] had been [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scourge scourged], he presented him before [[the multitude]], exclaiming, " Behold the man! " Indeed, the [[fear]]-ridden [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor Roman governor] little [[dreamed]] that at just that [[moment]] the [[universe]] stood at [[attention]], gazing upon this [[unique]] scene of its beloved [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21#21:3._LOCAL_UNIVERSE_SOVEREIGNTY Sovereign] thus subjected in [[humiliation]] to the taunts and blows of his [[darkened]] and degraded [[mortal]] subjects. And as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] [[spoke]], there [[echoed]] throughout all [[Nebadon]], " Behold [[God]] and [[man]]! " Throughout a [[universe]], untold millions have ever since that day continued to behold that man, while the [[God]] of [[Havona]], the [[supreme]] ruler of the [[universe of universes]], [[accepts]] the man of [[Nazareth]] as the [[satisfaction]] of the [[ideal]] of the [[mortal]] [[creatures]] of this [[local universe]] of [[time and space]]. In his matchless life he never [[failed]] to [[reveal]] [[God]] to man. Now, in these final [[episodes]] of his [[mortal]] [[career]] and in his subsequent [[death]], he made a new and [[touching]] [[revelation]] of man to God.

186:2.11 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] [[spoke]] more truly than he knew when, after [[Jesus]] had been [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scourge scourged], he presented him before [[the multitude]], exclaiming, " Behold the man! " Indeed, the [[fear]]-ridden [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_governor Roman governor] little [[dreamed]] that at just that [[moment]] the [[universe]] stood at [[attention]], gazing upon this [[unique]] scene of its beloved [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21#21:3._LOCAL_UNIVERSE_SOVEREIGNTY Sovereign] thus subjected in [[humiliation]] to the taunts and blows of his [[darkened]] and degraded [[mortal]] subjects. And as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] [[spoke]], there [[echoed]] throughout all [[Nebadon]], " Behold [[God]] and [[man]]! " Throughout a [[universe]], untold millions have ever since that day continued to behold that man, while the [[God]] of [[Havona]], the [[supreme]] ruler of the [[universe of universes]], [[accepts]] the man of [[Nazareth]] as the [[satisfaction]] of the [[ideal]] of the [[mortal]] [[creatures]] of this [[local universe]] of [[time and space]]. In his matchless life he never [[failed]] to [[reveal]] [[God]] to man. Now, in these final [[episodes]] of his [[mortal]] [[career]] and in his subsequent [[death]], he made a new and [[touching]] [[revelation]] of man to God.

==186:3. THE DEPENDABLE DAVID ZEBEDEE==

==186:3. THE DEPENDABLE DAVID ZEBEDEE==

186:3.1 Shortly after [[Jesus]] was turned over to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] at the conclusion of the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_185 hearing before Pilate], a detachment of the temple guards hastened out to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to disperse or [[arrest]] the followers of [[the Master]]. But long before their arrival these followers had scattered. [[The apostles]] had retired to designated hiding places; the [[Greeks]] had separated and gone to various [[homes]] in [[Jerusalem]]; the other [[disciples]] had likewise disappeared. [[David Zebedee]] [[believed]] that [[Jesus]]' [[enemies]] would return; so he early removed some five or six tents up the ravine near where [[the Master]] so often retired to [[pray]] and [[worship]]. Here he [[proposed]] to hide and at the same time maintain a [[center]], or [[co-ordinating]] station, for his [[messenger]] [[service]]. [[David Zebedee|David]] had hardly left the camp when the temple guards arrived. Finding no one there, they contented themselves with burning the camp and then hastened back to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple]. On hearing their report, the [[Sanhedrin]] was [[satisfied]] that the followers of [[Jesus]] were so thoroughly [[frightened]] and subdued that there would be no [[danger]] of an uprising or any attempt to [[rescue]] [[Jesus]] from the hands of his executioners. They were at last able to [[breathe]] easily, and so they [[adjourned]], every man going his way to [[prepare]] for the [[Passover]].

186:3.1 Shortly after [[Jesus]] was turned over to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] at the conclusion of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_185 hearing before Pilate], a detachment of the temple guards hastened out to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to disperse or [[arrest]] the followers of [[the Master]]. But long before their arrival these followers had scattered. [[The apostles]] had retired to designated hiding places; the [[Greeks]] had separated and gone to various [[homes]] in [[Jerusalem]]; the other [[disciples]] had likewise disappeared. [[David Zebedee]] [[believed]] that [[Jesus]]' [[enemies]] would return; so he early removed some five or six tents up the ravine near where [[the Master]] so often retired to [[pray]] and [[worship]]. Here he [[proposed]] to hide and at the same time maintain a [[center]], or [[co-ordinating]] station, for his [[messenger]] [[service]]. [[David Zebedee|David]] had hardly left the camp when the temple guards arrived. Finding no one there, they contented themselves with burning the camp and then hastened back to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple]. On hearing their report, the [[Sanhedrin]] was [[satisfied]] that the followers of [[Jesus]] were so thoroughly [[frightened]] and subdued that there would be no [[danger]] of an uprising or any attempt to [[rescue]] [[Jesus]] from the hands of his executioners. They were at last able to [[breathe]] easily, and so they [[adjourned]], every man going his way to [[prepare]] for the [[Passover]].

186:3.2 As soon as [[Jesus]] was turned over to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] for [[crucifixion]], a [[messenger]] hastened away to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to inform [[David Zebedee|David]], and within five minutes runners were on their way to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidon Sidon], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shechem Shechem], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebron Hebron], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus Damascus], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria]. And these [[messengers]] carried the news that [[Jesus]] was about to be [[crucified]] by the [[Romans]] at the insistent behest of the [[Sanhedrin|rulers]] of the [[Jews]].

186:3.2 As soon as [[Jesus]] was turned over to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] for [[crucifixion]], a [[messenger]] hastened away to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to inform [[David Zebedee|David]], and within five minutes runners were on their way to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidon Sidon], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shechem Shechem], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebron Hebron], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus Damascus], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria]. And these [[messengers]] carried the news that [[Jesus]] was about to be [[crucified]] by the [[Romans]] at the insistent behest of the [[Sanhedrin|rulers]] of the [[Jews]].

186:3.3 Throughout this [[tragic]] day, until the [[message]] finally went forth that [[the Master]] had been laid in the [[tomb]], [[David Zebedee|David]] sent [[messengers]] about every half hour with reports to [[the apostles]], the [[Greeks]], and [[Jesus]]' [[earthly]] [[family]], assembled at the [[home]] of [[Lazarus]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. When the [[messengers]] departed with the [[word]] that [[Jesus]] had been [[buried]], [[David Zebedee|David]] dismissed his corps of local runners for the [[Passover]] [[celebration]] and for the coming [[Sabbath]] of [[rest]], instructing them to report to him [[quietly]] on Sunday morning at the [[home]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], where he [[proposed]] to go in hiding for a few days with [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] and [[Simon Peter]].

186:3.3 Throughout this [[tragic]] day, until the [[message]] finally went forth that [[the Master]] had been laid in the [[tomb]], [[David Zebedee|David]] sent [[messengers]] about every half hour with reports to [[the apostles]], the [[Greeks]], and [[Jesus]]' [[earthly]] [[family]], assembled at the [[home]] of [[Lazarus]] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. When the [[messengers]] departed with the [[word]] that [[Jesus]] had been [[buried]], [[David Zebedee|David]] dismissed his corps of local runners for the [[Passover]] [[celebration]] and for the coming [[Sabbath]] of [[rest]], instructing them to report to him [[quietly]] on Sunday morning at the [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], where he [[proposed]] to go in hiding for a few days with [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] and [[Simon Peter]].

186:3.4 This peculiar-minded [[David Zebedee]] was the only one of the [[leading]] [[disciples]] of [[Jesus]] who was inclined to take a [[literal]] and plain matter-of-[[fact]] view of [[the Master]]'s [[assertion]] that he would die and " rise again on the third day. " [[David Zebedee|David]] had once heard him make this [[prediction]] and, being of a [[literal]] turn of [[mind]], now [[proposed]] to assemble his [[messengers]] early Sunday morning at the [[home]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] so that they would be on hand to spread the news in case [[Jesus]] [[Resurrection|rose]] from the [[dead]]. [[David Zebedee|David]] soon [[discovered]] that none of [[Jesus]]' followers were looking for him to return so soon from the [[grave]]; therefore did he say little about his [[belief]] and nothing about the mobilization of all his [[messenger]] force on early Sunday morning except to the runners who had been dispatched on Friday forenoon to distant [[cities]] and [[believer]] [[centers]].

186:3.4 This peculiar-minded [[David Zebedee]] was the only one of the [[leading]] [[disciples]] of [[Jesus]] who was inclined to take a [[literal]] and plain matter-of-[[fact]] view of [[the Master]]'s [[assertion]] that he would die and " rise again on the third day. " [[David Zebedee|David]] had once heard him make this [[prediction]] and, being of a [[literal]] turn of [[mind]], now [[proposed]] to assemble his [[messengers]] early Sunday morning at the [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] so that they would be on hand to spread the news in case [[Jesus]] [[Resurrection|rose]] from the [[dead]]. [[David Zebedee|David]] soon [[discovered]] that none of [[Jesus]]' followers were looking for him to return so soon from the [[grave]]; therefore did he say little about his [[belief]] and nothing about the mobilization of all his [[messenger]] force on early Sunday morning except to the runners who had been dispatched on Friday forenoon to distant [[cities]] and [[believer]] [[centers]].

186:3.5 And so these followers of [[Jesus]], scattered throughout [[Jerusalem]] and its environs, that night partook of the [[Passover]] and the following day remained in [[seclusion]].

186:3.5 And so these followers of [[Jesus]], scattered throughout [[Jerusalem]] and its environs, that night partook of the [[Passover]] and the following day remained in [[seclusion]].

==186:4. PREPARATION FOR THE CRUCIFIXION==

==186:4. PREPARATION FOR THE CRUCIFIXION==

186:4.1 After [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] had washed his hands before [[the multitude]], thus seeking to [[escape]] the [[guilt]] of delivering up an [[innocent]] man to be [[crucified]] just because he [[feared]] to resist the clamor of the [[Sanhedrin|rulers of the Jews]], he ordered [[the Master]] turned over to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] and gave the [[word]] to their captain that he was to be [[crucified]] [[immediately]]. Upon taking charge of [[Jesus]], the [[soldiers]] led him back into the [[courtyard]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praetorium praetorium], and after removing the robe which [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod] had put on him, they dressed him in his own [[garments]]. These [[soldiers]] mocked and derided him, but they did not inflict further [[physical]] [[Abuse|punishment]]. [[Jesus]] was now [[alone]] with these [[Roman]] [[soldiers]]. His [[friends]] were in [[hiding]]; his [[enemies]] had gone their way; even [[John Zebedee]] was no longer by his side.

186:4.1 After [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] had washed his hands before [[the multitude]], thus seeking to [[escape]] the [[guilt]] of delivering up an [[innocent]] man to be [[crucified]] just because he [[feared]] to resist the clamor of the [[Sanhedrin|rulers of the Jews]], he ordered [[the Master]] turned over to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_soldiers Roman soldiers] and gave the [[word]] to their captain that he was to be [[crucified]] [[immediately]]. Upon taking charge of [[Jesus]], the [[soldiers]] led him back into the [[courtyard]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praetorium praetorium], and after removing the robe which [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod] had put on him, they dressed him in his own [[garments]]. These [[soldiers]] mocked and derided him, but they did not inflict further [[physical]] [[Abuse|punishment]]. [[Jesus]] was now [[alone]] with these [[Roman]] [[soldiers]]. His [[friends]] were in [[hiding]]; his [[enemies]] had gone their way; even [[John Zebedee]] was no longer by his side.

186:4.2 It was a little after eight o'clock when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] turned [[Jesus]] over to the [[soldiers]] and a little before nine o'clock when they started for the scene of the [[crucifixion]]. During this period of more than half an hour [[Jesus]] never spoke a [[word]]. The [[executive]] [[business]] of a [[Nebadon|great universe]] was practically at a standstill. [[Gabriel]] and the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_33 chief rulers] of [[Nebadon]] were either assembled here on [[Urantia]], or else they were closely attending upon the [[Reflectivity|space reports]] of the [[archangels]] in an [[effort]] to keep advised as to what was happening to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] on [[Urantia]].

186:4.2 It was a little after eight o'clock when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilate Pilate] turned [[Jesus]] over to the [[soldiers]] and a little before nine o'clock when they started for the scene of the [[crucifixion]]. During this period of more than half an hour [[Jesus]] never spoke a [[word]]. The [[executive]] [[business]] of a [[Nebadon|great universe]] was practically at a standstill. [[Gabriel]] and the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_33 chief rulers] of [[Nebadon]] were either assembled here on [[Urantia]], or else they were closely attending upon the [[Reflectivity|space reports]] of the [[archangels]] in an [[effort]] to keep advised as to what was happening to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] on [[Urantia]].

186:4.3 By the time the [[soldiers]] were ready to depart with [[Jesus]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calvary Golgotha], they had begun to be impressed by his unusual [[composure]] and extraordinary [[dignity]], by his uncomplaining [[silence]].

186:4.3 By the time the [[soldiers]] were ready to depart with [[Jesus]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calvary Golgotha], they had begun to be impressed by his unusual [[composure]] and extraordinary [[dignity]], by his uncomplaining [[silence]].

186:4.4 Much of the [[delay]] in starting off with [[Jesus]] for the site of the [[crucifixion]] was due to the last-minute [[decision]] of the captain to take along two thieves who had been [[condemned]] to die; since [[Jesus]] was to be [[crucified]] that [[morning]], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_centurion Roman captain] thought these two might just as well die with him as wait for the end of the [[Passover]] festivities.

186:4.4 Much of the [[delay]] in starting off with [[Jesus]] for the site of the [[crucifixion]] was due to the last-minute [[decision]] of the captain to take along two thieves who had been [[condemned]] to die; since [[Jesus]] was to be [[crucified]] that [[morning]], the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_centurion Roman captain] thought these two might just as well die with him as wait for the end of the [[Passover]] festivities.

186:4.5 As soon as the thieves could be made ready, they were led into the [[courtyard]], where they gazed upon [[Jesus]], one of them for the first time, but the other had often heard him [[speak]], both in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and many months before at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] camp.

186:4.5 As soon as the thieves could be made ready, they were led into the [[courtyard]], where they gazed upon [[Jesus]], one of them for the first time, but the other had often heard him [[speak]], both in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and many months before at the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pella,_Jordan Pella] camp.

==186:5. JESUS' DEATH IN RELATION TO THE PASSOVER==

==186:5. JESUS' DEATH IN RELATION TO THE PASSOVER==

186:5.1 There is no direct relation between the death of Jesus and the Jewish Passover. True, the Master did lay down his life in the flesh on this day, the day of the preparation for the Jewish Passover, and at about the time of the sacrificing of the Passover lambs in the temple. But this coincidental occurrence does not in any manner indicate that the death of the Son of Man on earth has any connection with the Jewish sacrificial system. Jesus was a Jew, but as the Son of Man he was a mortal of the realms. The events already narrated and leading up to this hour of the Master's impending crucifixion are sufficient to indicate that his death at about this time was a purely natural and man-managed affair.

186:5.1 There is no direct [[relation]] between the [[death]] of [[Jesus]] and the [[Jewish]] [[Passover]]. True, [[the Master]] did lay down his life in the [[flesh]] on this day, the day of the [[preparation]] for the [[Jewish]] [[Passover]], and at about the time of the [[sacrificing]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban_Pesach Passover lambs] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple]. But this [[coincidental]] occurrence does not in any [[manner]] indicate that the [[death]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] on [[earth]] has any [[connection]] with the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban Jewish sacrificial system]. [[Jesus]] was a [[Jew]], but as the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] he was a [[mortal]] of the realms. The [[events]] already narrated and leading up to this hour of [[the Master]]'s impending [[crucifixion]] are sufficient to indicate that his [[death]] at about this time was a [[purely]] [[natural]] and man-managed affair.

186:5.2 It was man and not God who planned and executed the death of Jesus on the cross. True, the Father refused to interfere with the march of human events on Urantia, but the Father in Paradise did not decree, demand, or require the death of his Son as it was carried out on earth. It is a fact that in some manner, sooner or later, Jesus would have had to divest himself of his mortal body, his incarnation in the flesh, but he could have executed such a task in countless ways without dying on a cross between two thieves. All of this was man's doing, not God's.

186:5.2 It was [[man]] and not [[God]] who [[planned]] and [[executed]] the [[Crucifixion|death]] of [[Jesus]] on [[the cross]]. True, [[the Father]] refused to [[interfere]] with the march of [[human]] [[events]] on [[Urantia]], but [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]] did not [[decree]], demand, or require the [[death]] of his [[Creator Son|Son]] as it was carried out on [[earth]]. It is a [[fact]] that in some [[manner]], sooner or later, [[Jesus]] would have had to divest himself of his [[mortal]] [[body]], his [[incarnation]] in the flesh, but he could have [[executed]] such a task in countless ways without dying on a cross between two thieves. All of this was [[man]]'s doing, not [[God]]'s.

186:5.3 At the time of the Master's baptism he had already completed the technique of the required experience on earth and in the flesh which was necessary for the completion of his seventh and last universe bestowal. At this very time Jesus' duty on earth was done. All the life he lived thereafter, and even the manner of his death, was a purely personal ministry on his part for the welfare and uplifting of his mortal creatures on this world and on other worlds.

186:5.3 At the time of [[the Master]]'s [[baptism]] he had already completed the [[technique]] of the required [[experience]] on [[earth]] and in the [[flesh]] which was [[necessary]] for the completion of his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_119#119:7._THE_SEVENTH_AND_FINAL_BESTOWAL seventh and last universe bestowal]. At this very time [[Jesus]]' [[duty]] on [[earth]] was done. All the life he lived thereafter, and even the [[manner]] of his [[death]], was a [[purely]] [[personal]] [[ministry]] on his part for the [[welfare]] and uplifting of his [[mortal]] [[creatures]] on this world and on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_49 other worlds].

186:5.4 The gospel of the good news that mortal man may, by faith, become spirit-conscious that he is a son of God, is not dependent on the death of Jesus. True, indeed, all this gospel of the kingdom has been tremendously illuminated by the Master's death, but even more so by his life.

186:5.4 The [[gospel]] of the good news that [[mortal]] [[man]] may, by [[faith]], become [[spirit]]-[[conscious]] that he is a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD son of God], is not dependent on the [[death]] of [[Jesus]]. True, indeed, all this [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] has been tremendously [[illuminated]] by [[the Master]]'s [[death]], but even more so by his life.

186:5.5 All that the Son of Man said or did on earth greatly embellished the doctrines of sonship with God and of the brotherhood of men, but these essential relationships of God and men are inherent in the universe facts of God's love for his creatures and the innate mercy of the divine Sons. These touching and divinely beautiful relations between man and his Maker on this world and on all others throughout the universe of universes have existed from eternity; and they are not in any sense dependent on these periodic bestowal enactments of the Creator Sons of God, who thus assume the nature and likeness of their created intelligences as a part of the price which they must pay for the final acquirement of unlimited sovereignty over their respective local universes.

186:5.5 All that the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] said or did on [[earth]] greatly embellished the [[doctrines]] of [[sonship]] with [[God]] and of the brotherhood of men, but these [[essential]] [[relationships]] of [[God]] and men are [[inherent]] in the [[universe]] [[facts]] of [[God]]'s [[love]] for his [[creatures]] and the innate [[mercy]] of the [[divine Sons]]. These [[touching]] and [[divinely]] [[beautiful]] [[relations]] between man and his Maker on [[Urantia|this world]] and on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_49 all others] throughout the [[universe of universes]] have existed from [[eternity]]; and they are not in any sense dependent on these [[periodic]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD bestowal enactments] of the [[Creator Sons of God]], who thus [[assume]] the [[nature]] and likeness of their created [[intelligences]] as a part of the price which they must pay for the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21#21:3._LOCAL_UNIVERSE_SOVEREIGNTY final acquirement of unlimited sovereignty] over their respective [[local universe]]s.

186:5.6 The Father in heaven loved mortal man on earth just as much before the life and death of Jesus on Urantia as he did after this transcendent exhibition of the copartnership of man and God. This mighty transaction of the incarnation of the God of Nebadon as a man on Urantia could not augment the attributes of the eternal, infinite, and universal Father, but it did enrich and enlighten all other administrators and creatures of the universe of Nebadon. While the Father in heaven loves us no more because of this bestowal of Michael, all other celestial intelligences do. And this is because Jesus not only made a revelation of God to man, but he also likewise made a new revelation of man to the Gods and to the celestial intelligences of the universe of universes.

186:5.6 [[The Father]] in [[heaven]] loved [[mortal]] [[man]] on [[earth]] just as much before the life and [[death]] of [[Jesus]] on [[Urantia]] as he did after this [[transcendent]] exhibition of the co[[partnership]] of [[man]] and [[God]]. This mighty [[transaction]] of the [[incarnation]] of the [[God]] of [[Nebadon]] as a man on [[Urantia]] could not augment the [[attributes]] of the [[eternal]], [[infinite]], and [[universal Father]], but it did enrich and [[enlighten]] all other [[administrators]] and [[creatures]] of the [[universe]] of [[Nebadon]]. While [[the Father]] in heaven [[loves]] us no more because of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 this bestowal of Michael], all other [[celestial]] [[intelligences]] do. And this is because [[Jesus]] not only made a [[revelation]] of [[God]] to [[man]], but he also likewise made a new [[revelation]] of [[man]] to [[the Gods]] and to the [[celestial]] [[intelligences]] of the [[universe of universes]].

186:5.7 Jesus is not about to die as a sacrifice for sin. He is not going to atone for the inborn moral guilt of the human race. Mankind has no such racial guilt before God. Guilt is purely a matter of personal sin and knowing, deliberate rebellion against the will of the Father and the administration of his Sons.

186:5.7 [[Jesus]] is not about to die as a [[sacrifice]] for [[sin]]. He is not going to [[atone]] for the inborn [[moral]] [[guilt]] of the [[human]] [[race]]. [[Mankind]] has no such [[racial]] [[guilt]] before [[God]]. [[Guilt]] is purely a matter of [[personal]] [[sin]] and knowing, deliberate [[rebellion]] against the will of [[the Father]] and the [[administration]] of [[Divine Sons|his Sons]].

186:5.8 Sin and rebellion have nothing to do with the fundamental bestowal plan of the Paradise Sons of God, albeit it does appear to us that the salvage plan is a provisional feature of the bestowal plan.

186:5.8 [[Sin]] and [[rebellion]] have nothing to do with the fundamental [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20#20:5._BESTOWAL_OF_THE_PARADISE_SONS_OF_GOD bestowal plan] of the [[Paradise Sons of God]], albeit it does [[appear]] to us that the salvage [[plan]] is a provisional feature of the [[bestowal]] [[plan]].

186:5.9 The salvation of God for the mortals of Urantia would have been just as effective and unerringly certain if Jesus had not been put to death by the cruel hands of ignorant mortals. If the Master had been favorably received by the mortals of earth and had departed from Urantia by the voluntary relinquishment of his life in the flesh, the fact of the love of God and the mercy of the Son—the fact of sonship with God—would have in no wise been affected. You mortals are the sons of God, and only one thing is required to make such a truth factual in your personal experience, and that is your spirit-born faith.

186:5.9 The [[salvation]] of [[God]] for the [[mortals]] of [[Urantia]] would have been just as [[effective]] and unerringly certain if [[Jesus]] had not been put to [[death]] by the [[cruel]] hands of [[ignorant]] [[mortals]]. If [[the Master]] had been favorably [[received]] by the [[mortals]] of [[earth]] and had departed from [[Urantia]] by the [[voluntary]] relinquishment of his life in the [[flesh]], the [[fact]] of the [[love]] of [[God]] and the [[mercy]] of [[Creator Son|the Son]]—the [[fact]] of [[sonship]] with [[God]]—would have in no wise been affected. You [[mortals]] are the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD sons of God], and only one thing is required to make such a [[truth]] factual in your [[personal]] [[experience]], and that is your [[spirit]]-[[born]] [[faith]].

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[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]

[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]