Changes

102:2.2 One of the characteristic peculiarities of [[genuine]] [[religious]] [[assurance]] is that, notwithstanding the [[absoluteness]] of its affirmations and the stanchness of its [[attitude]], the [[spirit]] of its [[expression]] is so [[poised]] and tempered that it never conveys the slightest impression of [[self-assertion]] or [[egoistic]] exaltation. The [[wisdom]] of [[religious]] [[experience]] is something of a [[paradox]] in that it is both humanly [[original]] and [[Adjuster]] [[derivative]]. [[Religious]] [[force]] is not the product of the [[individual]]'s [[personal]] [[prerogatives]] but rather the outworking of that [[sublime]] [[partnership]] of man and the everlasting [[source]] of all [[wisdom]]. Thus do the [[words]] and [[acts]] of true and undefiled [[religion]] become compellingly [[authoritative]] for all [[enlightened]] [[mortals]].

102:2.2 One of the characteristic peculiarities of [[genuine]] [[religious]] [[assurance]] is that, notwithstanding the [[absoluteness]] of its affirmations and the stanchness of its [[attitude]], the [[spirit]] of its [[expression]] is so [[poised]] and tempered that it never conveys the slightest impression of [[self-assertion]] or [[egoistic]] exaltation. The [[wisdom]] of [[religious]] [[experience]] is something of a [[paradox]] in that it is both humanly [[original]] and [[Adjuster]] [[derivative]]. [[Religious]] [[force]] is not the product of the [[individual]]'s [[personal]] [[prerogatives]] but rather the outworking of that [[sublime]] [[partnership]] of man and the everlasting [[source]] of all [[wisdom]]. Thus do the [[words]] and [[acts]] of true and undefiled [[religion]] become compellingly [[authoritative]] for all [[enlightened]] [[mortals]].

102:2.3 It is [[difficult]] to identify and [[analyze]] the [[factors]] of a [[religious]] [[experience]], but it is not [[difficult]] to [[observe]] that such [[religious]] practitioners live and carry on as if already in the [[presence]] of the [[Eternal]]. Believers [[react]] to this [[temporal]] life as if [[immortality]] already were within their grasp. In the lives of such [[mortals]] there is a valid [[originality]] and a [[spontaneity]] of [[expression]] that forever [[segregate]] them from those of their fellows who have imbibed only the [[wisdom]] of the world. [[Religionists]] seem to live in effective [[emancipation]] from harrying haste and the [[painful]] [[stress]] of the [[vicissitudes]] [[inherent]] in the [[temporal]] currents of [[time]]; they exhibit a [[stabilization]] of [[personality]] and a tranquillity of [[character]] not [[explained]] by the [[laws]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physiology physiology], [[psychology]], and [[sociology]].

102:2.3 It is [[difficult]] to identify and [[analyze]] the [[factors]] of a [[religious]] [[experience]], but it is not [[difficult]] to [[observe]] that such [[religious]] practitioners live and carry on as if already in the [[presence]] of the [[Eternal]]. Believers [[react]] to this [[temporal]] life as if [[immortality]] already were within their grasp. In the lives of such [[mortals]] there is a valid [[originality]] and a [[spontaneity]] of [[expression]] that forever [[segregate]] them from those of their fellows who have imbibed only the [[wisdom]] of the world. [[Religionists]] seem to live in effective [[emancipation]] from harrying haste and the [[painful]] [[stress]] of the [[vicissitudes]] [[inherent]] in the [[temporal]] currents of [[time]]; they exhibit a [[stabilization]] of [[personality]] and a tranquillity of [[character]] not [[explained]] by the [[laws]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physiology physiology], [[psychology]], and [[sociology]].

102:2.4 [[Time]] is an invariable element in the [[attainment]] of [[knowledge]]; [[religion]] makes its [[endowments]] immediately available, albeit there is the important [[factor]] of [[growth]] in [[grace]], definite advancement in all [[phases]] of religious [[experience]]. [[Knowledge]] is an [[eternal]] [[quest]]; always are you learning, but never are you able to arrive at the full [[knowledge]] of [[absolute]] [[truth]]. In [[knowledge]] alone there can never be [[absolute]] [[certainty]], only increasing [[probability]] of approximation; but the [[religious]] [[soul]] of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] knows, and knows now. And yet this [[profound]] and positive [[certitude]] does not lead such a sound-minded [[religionist]] to take any less interest in the ups and downs of the [[progress]] of [[human]] [[wisdom]], which is bound up on its [[material]] end with the [[developments]] of slow-moving [[science]].

102:2.4 [[Time]] is an invariable element in the [[attainment]] of [[knowledge]]; [[religion]] makes its [[endowments]] immediately available, albeit there is the important [[factor]] of [[growth]] in [[grace]], definite advancement in all [[phases]] of religious [[experience]]. [[Knowledge]] is an [[eternal]] [[quest]]; always are you learning, but never are you able to arrive at the full [[knowledge]] of [[absolute]] [[truth]]. In [[knowledge]] alone there can never be [[absolute]] [[certainty]], only increasing [[probability]] of approximation; but the [[religious]] [[soul]] of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] knows, and knows now. And yet this [[profound]] and positive [[certitude]] does not lead such a sound-minded [[religionist]] to take any less interest in the ups and downs of the [[progress]] of [[human]] [[wisdom]], which is bound up on its [[material]] end with the [[developments]] of slow-moving [[science]].

102:2.6 [[Unity]] is best found in [[human]] [[experience]] through [[philosophy]]. And while the body of philosophic [[thought]] must ever be founded on [[material]] [[facts]], the [[soul]] and [[energy]] of true philosophic [[dynamics]] is [[mortal]] [[spiritual]] [[insight]].

102:2.6 [[Unity]] is best found in [[human]] [[experience]] through [[philosophy]]. And while the body of philosophic [[thought]] must ever be founded on [[material]] [[facts]], the [[soul]] and [[energy]] of true philosophic [[dynamics]] is [[mortal]] [[spiritual]] [[insight]].

102:2.7 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Evolutionary man] does not naturally relish hard [[work]]. To keep [[pace]] in his life [[experience]] with the impelling demands and the compelling urges of a [[growing]] [[religious]] [[experience]] means incessant [[activity]] in [[spiritual]] [[growth]], [[intellectual]] expansion, [[factual]] enlargement, and [[social]] [[service]]. There is no real [[religion]] apart from a highly [[active]] [[personality]]. Therefore do the more [[indolent]] of men often seek to [[escape]] the rigors of truly [[religious]] [[activities]] by a species of ingenious [[self]]-[[deception]] through resorting to a [[retreat]] to the [[false]] [[shelter]] of [[stereotyped]] [[religious]] [[doctrines]] and [[dogmas]]. But true [[religion]] is alive. [[Intellectual]] crystallization of [[religious]] [[concepts]] is the equivalent of [[spiritual]] [[death]]. You cannot [[conceive]] of [[religion]] without [[ideas]], but when [[religion]] once becomes reduced only to an [[idea]], it is no longer [[religion]]; it has become merely a species of human [[philosophy]].

102:2.7 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Evolutionary man] does not naturally relish hard [[work]]. To keep [[pace]] in his life [[experience]] with the impelling demands and the compelling urges of a [[growing]] [[religious]] [[experience]] means incessant [[activity]] in [[spiritual]] [[growth]], [[intellectual]] expansion, [[factual]] enlargement, and [[social]] [[service]]. There is no real [[religion]] apart from a highly [[active]] [[personality]]. Therefore do the more [[indolent]] of men often seek to [[escape]] the rigors of truly [[religious]] [[activities]] by a species of ingenious [[self]]-[[deception]] through resorting to a [[retreat]] to the [[false]] [[shelter]] of [[stereotyped]] [[religious]] [[doctrines]] and [[dogmas]]. But true [[religion]] is alive. [[Intellectual]] crystallization of [[religious]] [[concepts]] is the equivalent of [[spiritual]] [[death]]. You cannot [[conceive]] of [[religion]] without [[ideas]], but when [[religion]] once becomes reduced only to an [[idea]], it is no longer [[religion]]; it has become merely a species of human [[philosophy]].

102:2.8 Again, there are other [[types]] of unstable and poorly [[disciplined]] [[souls]] who would use the [[sentimental]] [[ideas]] of [[religion]] as an avenue of [[escape]] from the irritating demands of living. When certain vacillating and timid [[mortals]] attempt to [[escape]] from the incessant [[pressure]] of [[evolutionary]] life, [[religion]], as they conceive it, seems to present the nearest [[refuge]], the best avenue of [[escape]]. But it is the mission of [[religion]] to [[prepare]] man for [[bravely]], even [[heroically]], facing the [[vicissitudes]] of life. [[Religion]] is evolutionary [[man]]'s [[supreme]] [[endowment]], the one thing which enables him to carry on and "[[endure]] as seeing Him who is [[invisible]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_XI] [[Mysticism]], however, is often something of a [[retreat]] from life which is [[embraced]] by those humans who do not relish the more [[robust]] [[activities]] of living a religious life in the open arenas of [[human]] [[society]] and [[commerce]]. True [[religion]] must [[act]]. [[Conduct]] will be the result of [[religion]] when man actually has it, or rather when [[religion]] is permitted truly to [[possess]] the man. Never will [[religion]] be content with mere [[thinking]] or unacting [[feeling]].

102:2.8 Again, there are other [[types]] of unstable and poorly [[disciplined]] [[souls]] who would use the [[sentimental]] [[ideas]] of [[religion]] as an avenue of [[escape]] from the irritating demands of living. When certain vacillating and timid [[mortals]] attempt to [[escape]] from the incessant [[pressure]] of [[evolutionary]] life, [[religion]], as they conceive it, seems to present the nearest [[refuge]], the best avenue of [[escape]]. But it is the mission of [[religion]] to [[prepare]] man for [[bravely]], even [[heroically]], facing the [[vicissitudes]] of life. [[Religion]] is evolutionary [[man]]'s [[supreme]] [[endowment]], the one thing which enables him to carry on and "[[endure]] as seeing Him who is [[invisible]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_XI] [[Mysticism]], however, is often something of a [[retreat]] from life which is [[embraced]] by those humans who do not relish the more [[robust]] [[activities]] of living a religious life in the open arenas of [[human]] [[society]] and [[commerce]]. True [[religion]] must [[act]]. [[Conduct]] will be the result of [[religion]] when man actually has it, or rather when [[religion]] is permitted truly to [[possess]] the man. Never will [[religion]] be content with mere [[thinking]] or unacting [[feeling]].

102:2.9 We are not blind to the fact that [[religion]] often acts unwisely, even irreligiously, but it [[acts]]. Aberrations of [[religious]] [[conviction]] have led to bloody [[persecutions]], but always and ever [[religion]] does something; it is [[dynamic]]!

102:2.9 We are not blind to the fact that [[religion]] often acts unwisely, even irreligiously, but it [[acts]]. Aberrations of [[religious]] [[conviction]] have led to bloody [[persecutions]], but always and ever [[religion]] does something; it is [[dynamic]]!

102:3.12 The pursuit of [[knowledge]] constitutes [[science]]; the search for [[wisdom]] is [[philosophy]]; the [[love]] for [[God]] is [[religion]]; the [[hunger]] for [[truth]] is a [[revelation]]. But it is the indwelling [[Thought Adjuster]] that attaches the [[feeling]] of [[reality]] to man's [[spiritual]] [[insight]] into the [[cosmos]].

102:3.12 The pursuit of [[knowledge]] constitutes [[science]]; the search for [[wisdom]] is [[philosophy]]; the [[love]] for [[God]] is [[religion]]; the [[hunger]] for [[truth]] is a [[revelation]]. But it is the indwelling [[Thought Adjuster]] that attaches the [[feeling]] of [[reality]] to man's [[spiritual]] [[insight]] into the [[cosmos]].

102:3.13 In [[science]], the [[idea]] precedes the [[expression]] of its [[realization]]; in [[religion]], the [[experience]] of [[realization]] precedes the [[expression]] of the [[idea]]. There is a vast [[difference]] between the [[evolutionary]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Will_to_Believe will-to-believe] and the product of [[enlightened]] [[reason]], [[religious]] [[insight]], and [[revelation]]—the will that believes.

102:3.13 In [[science]], the [[idea]] precedes the [[expression]] of its [[realization]]; in [[religion]], the [[experience]] of [[realization]] precedes the [[expression]] of the [[idea]]. There is a vast [[difference]] between the [[evolutionary]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Will_to_Believe will-to-believe] and the product of [[enlightened]] [[reason]], [[religious]] [[insight]], and [[revelation]]—the will that believes.

102:3.14 In [[evolution]], [[religion]] often leads to man's creating his [[concepts]] of [[God]]; [[revelation]] exhibits the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Phenomenon_of_Man phenomenon of God's evolving man] himself, while in the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus earth life of Christ Michael] we behold the [[phenomenon]] of [[God]]'s revealing himself to man. [[Evolution]] tends to make [[God]] manlike; [[revelation]] tends to make man Godlike.

102:3.14 In [[evolution]], [[religion]] often leads to man's creating his [[concepts]] of [[God]]; [[revelation]] exhibits the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Phenomenon_of_Man phenomenon of God's evolving man] himself, while in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus earth life of Christ Michael] we behold the [[phenomenon]] of [[God]]'s revealing himself to man. [[Evolution]] tends to make [[God]] manlike; [[revelation]] tends to make man Godlike.

102:3.15 [[Science]] is only [[satisfied]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_cause first causes], [[religion]] with [[supreme]] [[personality]], and [[philosophy]] with [[unity]]. [[Revelation]] affirms that these [[three]] are [[one]], and that all are [[good]]. The [[eternal]] real is the [[good]] of the [[universe]] and not the [[time]] [[illusions]] of [[space]] [[evil]]. In the [[spiritual]] [[experience]] of all [[personalities]], always is it true that the real is the [[good]] and the good is the real.

102:3.15 [[Science]] is only [[satisfied]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_cause first causes], [[religion]] with [[supreme]] [[personality]], and [[philosophy]] with [[unity]]. [[Revelation]] affirms that these [[three]] are [[one]], and that all are [[good]]. The [[eternal]] real is the [[good]] of the [[universe]] and not the [[time]] [[illusions]] of [[space]] [[evil]]. In the [[spiritual]] [[experience]] of all [[personalities]], always is it true that the real is the [[good]] and the good is the real.

==102:4. THE FACT OF EXPERIENCE==

==102:4. THE FACT OF EXPERIENCE==

102:4.1 Because of the [[presence]] in your [[minds]] of the [[Thought Adjuster]], it is no more of a [[mystery]] for you to know the [[mind]] of [[God]] than for you to be sure of the [[consciousness]] of [[knowing]] any other [[mind]], [[human]] or [[superhuman]]. [[Religion]] and [[social]] [[consciousness]] have this in common: They are predicated on the [[consciousness]] of [[other]]-mindness. The [[technique]] whereby you can [[accept]] another's [[idea]] as yours is the same whereby you may "let the mind which was in Christ be also in you."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Philippians#The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Philippians.2C_II]

102:4.1 Because of the [[presence]] in your [[minds]] of the [[Thought Adjuster]], it is no more of a [[mystery]] for you to know the [[mind]] of [[God]] than for you to be sure of the [[consciousness]] of [[knowing]] any other [[mind]], [[human]] or [[superhuman]]. [[Religion]] and [[social]] [[consciousness]] have this in common: They are predicated on the [[consciousness]] of [[other]]-mindness. The [[technique]] whereby you can [[accept]] another's [[idea]] as yours is the same whereby you may "let the mind which was in Christ be also in you."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Philippians#The_Letter_of_Paul_to_the_Philippians.2C_II]

102:4.2 What is [[human]] [[experience]]? It is [[simply]] any interplay between an [[active]] and [[Inquiry|questioning]] [[self]] and any other [[active]] and [[external]] [[reality]]. The mass of [[experience]] is determined by depth of [[concept]] plus [[totality]] of [[recognition]] of the [[reality]] of the external. The [[motion]] of [[experience]] [[equals]] the [[force]] of [[expectant]] [[imagination]] plus the keenness of the [[sensory]] [[discovery]] of the external [[qualities]] of [[contacted]] [[reality]]. The [[fact]] of [[experience]] is found in [[self-consciousness]] plus [[other]]-[[existences]]—other-thingness, other-mindness, and other-spiritness.

102:4.2 What is [[human]] [[experience]]? It is [[simply]] any interplay between an [[active]] and [[Inquiry|questioning]] [[self]] and any other [[active]] and [[external]] [[reality]]. The mass of [[experience]] is determined by depth of [[concept]] plus [[totality]] of [[recognition]] of the [[reality]] of the external. The [[motion]] of [[experience]] [[equals]] the [[force]] of [[expectant]] [[imagination]] plus the keenness of the [[sensory]] [[discovery]] of the external [[qualities]] of [[contacted]] [[reality]]. The [[fact]] of [[experience]] is found in [[self-consciousness]] plus [[other]]-[[existences]]—other-thingness, other-mindness, and other-spiritness.

102:4.3 Man very early becomes [[conscious]] that he is not alone in the world or the [[universe]]. There [[develops]] a natural [[spontaneous]] [[self-consciousness]] of [[other]]-mindness in the [[environment]] of [[selfhood]]. [[Faith]] [[translates]] this [[natural]] [[experience]] into [[religion]], the [[recognition]] of [[God]] as the [[reality]]—[[source]], [[nature]], and [[destiny]]—of other-mindness. But such a [[knowledge]] of [[God]] is ever and always a [[reality]] of [[personal]] [[experience]]. If [[God]] were not a [[personality]], he could not become a living part of the real [[religious]] [[experience]] of a [[human]] [[personality]].

102:4.3 Man very early becomes [[conscious]] that he is not alone in the world or the [[universe]]. There [[develops]] a natural [[spontaneous]] [[self-consciousness]] of [[other]]-mindness in the [[environment]] of [[selfhood]]. [[Faith]] [[translates]] this [[natural]] [[experience]] into [[religion]], the [[recognition]] of [[God]] as the [[reality]]—[[source]], [[nature]], and [[destiny]]—of other-mindness. But such a [[knowledge]] of [[God]] is ever and always a [[reality]] of [[personal]] [[experience]]. If [[God]] were not a [[personality]], he could not become a living part of the real [[religious]] [[experience]] of a [[human]] [[personality]].

102:4.4 The element of [[error]] present in human [[religious]] [[experience]] is directly [[proportional]] to the [[content]] of [[materialism]] which contaminates the [[spiritual]] [[concept]] of the [[Universal Father]]. Man's prespirit [[progression]] in the [[universe]] consists in the [[experience]] of divesting himself of these erroneous [[ideas]] of the [[nature]] of [[God]] and of the [[reality]] of [[pure]] and true [[spirit]]. [[Deity]] is more than spirit, but the [[spiritual]] approach is the only one possible to [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE ascending man].

102:4.4 The element of [[error]] present in human [[religious]] [[experience]] is directly [[proportional]] to the [[content]] of [[materialism]] which contaminates the [[spiritual]] [[concept]] of the [[Universal Father]]. Man's prespirit [[progression]] in the [[universe]] consists in the [[experience]] of divesting himself of these erroneous [[ideas]] of the [[nature]] of [[God]] and of the [[reality]] of [[pure]] and true [[spirit]]. [[Deity]] is more than spirit, but the [[spiritual]] approach is the only one possible to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE ascending man].

102:4.5 [[Prayer]] is indeed a part of [[religious]] [[experience]], but it has been wrongly emphasized by [[modern]] [[religions]], much to the neglect of the more [[essential]] [[communion]] of [[worship]]. The [[reflective]] powers of the [[mind]] are deepened and broadened by [[worship]]. [[Prayer]] may enrich the life, but [[worship]] [[illuminates]] [[destiny]].

102:4.5 [[Prayer]] is indeed a part of [[religious]] [[experience]], but it has been wrongly emphasized by [[modern]] [[religions]], much to the neglect of the more [[essential]] [[communion]] of [[worship]]. The [[reflective]] powers of the [[mind]] are deepened and broadened by [[worship]]. [[Prayer]] may enrich the life, but [[worship]] [[illuminates]] [[destiny]].

102:4.6 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION Revealed religion] is the [[unifying]] element of [[human]] [[existence]]. [[Revelation]] unifies [[history]], [[co-ordinates]] [[geology]], [[astronomy]], [[physics]], [[chemistry]], [[biology]], [[sociology]], and [[psychology]]. [[Spiritual]] [[experience]] is the real [[soul]] of man's [[cosmos]].

102:4.6 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION Revealed religion] is the [[unifying]] element of [[human]] [[existence]]. [[Revelation]] unifies [[history]], [[co-ordinates]] [[geology]], [[astronomy]], [[physics]], [[chemistry]], [[biology]], [[sociology]], and [[psychology]]. [[Spiritual]] [[experience]] is the real [[soul]] of man's [[cosmos]].

==102:5. THE SUPREMACY OF PURPOSIVE POTENTIAL==

==102:5. THE SUPREMACY OF PURPOSIVE POTENTIAL==

102:5.1 Although the [[establishment]] of the [[fact]] of [[belief]] is not [[equivalent]] to establishing the [[fact]] of that which is [[believed]], nevertheless, the [[evolutionary]] [[progression]] of [[simple]] life to the [[status]] of [[personality]] does [[demonstrate]] the [[fact]] of the [[existence]] of the [[potential]] of [[personality]] to start with. And in the [[time]] [[universes]], [[potential]] is always [[supreme]] over the [[actual]]. In the [[evolving]] [[cosmos]] the [[potential]] is what is to be, and what is to be is the [[unfolding]] of the [[purposive]] [[mandates]] of [[Deity]].

102:5.1 Although the [[establishment]] of the [[fact]] of [[belief]] is not [[equivalent]] to establishing the [[fact]] of that which is [[believed]], nevertheless, the [[evolutionary]] [[progression]] of [[simple]] life to the [[status]] of [[personality]] does [[demonstrate]] the [[fact]] of the [[existence]] of the [[potential]] of [[personality]] to start with. And in the [[time]] [[universes]], [[potential]] is always [[supreme]] over the [[actual]]. In the [[evolving]] [[cosmos]] the [[potential]] is what is to be, and what is to be is the [[unfolding]] of the [[purposive]] [[mandates]] of [[Deity]].

102:5.2 This same [[purposive]] [[supremacy]] is shown in the [[evolution]] of [[mind]] ideation when [[primitive]] [[animal]] [[fear]] is [[transmuted]] into the constantly deepening [[reverence]] for [[God]] and into increasing [[awe]] of the [[universe]]. [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64 Primitive man] had more [[religious]] [[fear]] than [[faith]], and the [[Dominance|supremacy]] of [[spirit]] [[potentials]] over [[mind]] [[actuals]] is [[demonstrated]] when this craven [[fear]] is [[translated]] into living [[faith]] in [[spiritual]] [[realities]].

102:5.2 This same [[purposive]] [[supremacy]] is shown in the [[evolution]] of [[mind]] ideation when [[primitive]] [[animal]] [[fear]] is [[transmuted]] into the constantly deepening [[reverence]] for [[God]] and into increasing [[awe]] of the [[universe]]. [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64 Primitive man] had more [[religious]] [[fear]] than [[faith]], and the [[Dominance|supremacy]] of [[spirit]] [[potentials]] over [[mind]] [[actuals]] is [[demonstrated]] when this craven [[fear]] is [[translated]] into living [[faith]] in [[spiritual]] [[realities]].

102:5.3 You can [[psychologize]] [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_86#86:7._THE_FUNCTION_OF_PRIMITIVE_RELIGION evolutionary religion] but not the [[personal]]-[[experience]] [[religion]] of [[spiritual]] [[origin]]. [[Human]] [[morality]] may [[recognize]] [[values]], but only [[religion]] can [[conserve]], exalt, and [[spiritualize]] such [[values]]. But notwithstanding such [[actions]], [[religion]] is something more than [[emotional]]ized [[morality]]. [[Religion]] is to [[morality]] as [[love]] is to [[duty]], as sonship is to servitude, as [[essence]] is to substance. [[Morality]] discloses an [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:8._CONTROL_AND_OVERCONTROL almighty Controller], a [[Deity]] to be served; [[religion]] discloses an all-loving [[Father]], a [[God]] to be [[worshiped]] and [[loved]]. And again this is because the [[spiritual]] [[potentiality]] of [[religion]] is [[dominant]] over the [[duty]] [[actuality]] of the [[morality]] of [[evolution]].

102:5.3 You can [[psychologize]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_86#86:7._THE_FUNCTION_OF_PRIMITIVE_RELIGION evolutionary religion] but not the [[personal]]-[[experience]] [[religion]] of [[spiritual]] [[origin]]. [[Human]] [[morality]] may [[recognize]] [[values]], but only [[religion]] can [[conserve]], exalt, and [[spiritualize]] such [[values]]. But notwithstanding such [[actions]], [[religion]] is something more than [[emotional]]ized [[morality]]. [[Religion]] is to [[morality]] as [[love]] is to [[duty]], as sonship is to servitude, as [[essence]] is to substance. [[Morality]] discloses an [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_118#118:8._CONTROL_AND_OVERCONTROL almighty Controller], a [[Deity]] to be served; [[religion]] discloses an all-loving [[Father]], a [[God]] to be [[worshiped]] and [[loved]]. And again this is because the [[spiritual]] [[potentiality]] of [[religion]] is [[dominant]] over the [[duty]] [[actuality]] of the [[morality]] of [[evolution]].

==102:6. THE CERTAINTY OF RELIGIOUS FAITH==

==102:6. THE CERTAINTY OF RELIGIOUS FAITH==

102:6.1 The [[philosophic]] elimination of [[religious]] [[fear]] and the steady [[progress]] of [[science]] add greatly to the [[mortality]] of [[false]] [[gods]]; and even though these casualties of man-made [[deities]] may momentarily be[[fog]] the [[spiritual]] [[vision]], they [[eventually]] destroy that [[ignorance]] and [[superstition]] which so long obscured the living [[God]] of [[eternal]] [[love]]. The [[relation]] between the [[creature]] and the [[Creator]] is a living [[experience]], a [[dynamic]] [[religious]] [[faith]], which is not subject to precise [[definition]]. To [[isolate]] [[part]] of life and call it [[religion]] is to disintegrate life and to [[distort]] [[religion]]. And this is just why the [[God]] of [[worship]] claims all [[allegiance]] or none.

102:6.1 The [[philosophic]] elimination of [[religious]] [[fear]] and the steady [[progress]] of [[science]] add greatly to the [[mortality]] of [[false]] [[gods]]; and even though these casualties of man-made [[deities]] may momentarily be[[fog]] the [[spiritual]] [[vision]], they [[eventually]] destroy that [[ignorance]] and [[superstition]] which so long obscured the living [[God]] of [[eternal]] [[love]]. The [[relation]] between the [[creature]] and the [[Creator]] is a living [[experience]], a [[dynamic]] [[religious]] [[faith]], which is not subject to precise [[definition]]. To [[isolate]] [[part]] of life and call it [[religion]] is to disintegrate life and to [[distort]] [[religion]]. And this is just why the [[God]] of [[worship]] claims all [[allegiance]] or none.

102:6.2 The gods of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64 primitive men] may have been no more than [[shadows]] of themselves; the living [[God]] is the [[divine]] [[light]] whose interruptions [[constitute]] the [[creation]] [[shadows]] of all [[space]].

102:6.2 The gods of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64 primitive men] may have been no more than [[shadows]] of themselves; the living [[God]] is the [[divine]] [[light]] whose interruptions [[constitute]] the [[creation]] [[shadows]] of all [[space]].

102:6.3 The [[religionist]] of [[philosophic]] [[attainment]] has [[faith]] in a [[personal]] [[God]] of personal [[salvation]], something more than a [[reality]], a [[value]], a level of [[achievement]], an exalted [[process]], a [[transmutation]], the [[ultimate]] of [[time-space]], an [[idealization]], the [[personalization]] of [[energy]], the [[entity]] of [[gravity]], a human [[projection]], the idealization of [[self]], [[nature]]'s upthrust, the [[inclination]] to [[goodness]], the forward [[impulse]] of [[evolution]], or a [[sublime]] [[hypothesis]]. The religionist has [[faith]] in a [[God]] of [[love]]. [[Love]] is the [[essence]] of [[religion]] and the wellspring of superior [[civilization]].

102:6.3 The [[religionist]] of [[philosophic]] [[attainment]] has [[faith]] in a [[personal]] [[God]] of personal [[salvation]], something more than a [[reality]], a [[value]], a level of [[achievement]], an exalted [[process]], a [[transmutation]], the [[ultimate]] of [[time-space]], an [[idealization]], the [[personalization]] of [[energy]], the [[entity]] of [[gravity]], a human [[projection]], the idealization of [[self]], [[nature]]'s upthrust, the [[inclination]] to [[goodness]], the forward [[impulse]] of [[evolution]], or a [[sublime]] [[hypothesis]]. The religionist has [[faith]] in a [[God]] of [[love]]. [[Love]] is the [[essence]] of [[religion]] and the wellspring of superior [[civilization]].

102:6.6 Though [[reason]] can always question [[faith]], faith can always [[supplement]] both [[reason]] and [[logic]]. [[Reason]] creates the [[probability]] which [[faith]] can [[transform]] into a [[moral]] [[certainty]], even a [[spiritual]] [[experience]]. [[God]] is the first [[truth]] and the last [[fact]]; therefore does all [[truth]] take [[origin]] in him, while all [[facts]] exist [[relative]] to him. God is [[absolute]] [[truth]]. As [[truth]] one may [[know]] [[God]], but to [[understand]]—to [[explain]]—[[God]], one must [[explore]] the [[fact]] of the [[universe of universes]]. The vast gulf between the [[experience]] of the [[truth]] of [[God]] and [[ignorance]] as to the [[fact]] of [[God]] can be bridged only by living [[faith]]. [[Reason]] alone cannot [[achieve]] [[harmony]] between [[infinite]] [[truth]] and [[universal]] [[fact]].

102:6.6 Though [[reason]] can always question [[faith]], faith can always [[supplement]] both [[reason]] and [[logic]]. [[Reason]] creates the [[probability]] which [[faith]] can [[transform]] into a [[moral]] [[certainty]], even a [[spiritual]] [[experience]]. [[God]] is the first [[truth]] and the last [[fact]]; therefore does all [[truth]] take [[origin]] in him, while all [[facts]] exist [[relative]] to him. God is [[absolute]] [[truth]]. As [[truth]] one may [[know]] [[God]], but to [[understand]]—to [[explain]]—[[God]], one must [[explore]] the [[fact]] of the [[universe of universes]]. The vast gulf between the [[experience]] of the [[truth]] of [[God]] and [[ignorance]] as to the [[fact]] of [[God]] can be bridged only by living [[faith]]. [[Reason]] alone cannot [[achieve]] [[harmony]] between [[infinite]] [[truth]] and [[universal]] [[fact]].

102:6.7 [[Belief]] may not be able to [[resist]] [[doubt]] and withstand [[fear]], but [[faith]] is always triumphant over doubting, for [[faith]] is both positive and living. The [[positive]] always has the [[advantage]] over the [[negative]], [[truth]] over [[error]], [[experience]] over [[theory]], [[spiritual]] [[realities]] over the [[isolated]] [[facts]] of [[time and space]]. The convincing [[evidence]] of this [[spiritual]] [[certainty]] consists in the [[social]] [[Fruits of the Spirit.|fruits of the spirit]] which such believers, faithers, yield as a result of this [[genuine]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]]. Said Jesus: "If you love your fellows as I have loved you, then shall all men know that you are my [[disciples]]."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_15]

102:6.7 [[Belief]] may not be able to [[resist]] [[doubt]] and withstand [[fear]], but [[faith]] is always triumphant over doubting, for [[faith]] is both positive and living. The [[positive]] always has the [[advantage]] over the [[negative]], [[truth]] over [[error]], [[experience]] over [[theory]], [[spiritual]] [[realities]] over the [[isolated]] [[facts]] of [[time and space]]. The convincing [[evidence]] of this [[spiritual]] [[certainty]] consists in the [[social]] [[Fruits of the Spirit.|fruits of the spirit]] which such believers, faithers, yield as a result of this [[genuine]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]]. Said Jesus: "If you love your fellows as I have loved you, then shall all men know that you are my [[disciples]]."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_15]

102:6.8 To [[science]] [[God]] is a possibility, to [[psychology]] a desirability, to [[philosophy]] a [[probability]], to [[religion]] a [[certainty]], an [[actuality]] of [[religious]] [[experience]]. [[Reason]] demands that a [[philosophy]] which cannot find the [[God]] of [[probability]] should be very respectful of that [[religious]] [[faith]] which can and does find the [[God]] of [[certitude]]. Neither should [[science]] discount [[religious]] [[experience]] on grounds of credulity, not so long as it [[persists]] in the [[assumption]] that man's [[intellectual]] and [[philosophic]] [[endowments]] emerged from increasingly lesser [[intelligences]] the further back they go, finally taking [[origin]] in [[primitive]] life which was utterly devoid of all [[thinking]] and [[feeling]].

102:6.8 To [[science]] [[God]] is a possibility, to [[psychology]] a desirability, to [[philosophy]] a [[probability]], to [[religion]] a [[certainty]], an [[actuality]] of [[religious]] [[experience]]. [[Reason]] demands that a [[philosophy]] which cannot find the [[God]] of [[probability]] should be very respectful of that [[religious]] [[faith]] which can and does find the [[God]] of [[certitude]]. Neither should [[science]] discount [[religious]] [[experience]] on grounds of credulity, not so long as it [[persists]] in the [[assumption]] that man's [[intellectual]] and [[philosophic]] [[endowments]] emerged from increasingly lesser [[intelligences]] the further back they go, finally taking [[origin]] in [[primitive]] life which was utterly devoid of all [[thinking]] and [[feeling]].

102:6.9 The [[facts]] of [[evolution]] must not be arrayed against the [[truth]] of the [[reality]] of the certainty of the [[spiritual]] [[experience]] of the religious living of the [[God]]-knowing [[mortal]]. [[Intelligent]] men should cease to [[reason]] like [[children]] and should attempt to use the [[consistent]] [[logic]] of [[Maturity|adulthood]], [[logic]] which [[tolerates]] the [[concept]] of [[truth]] alongside the [[observation]] of [[fact]]. [[Scientific]] [[materialism]] has gone [[bankrupt]] when it [[persists]], in the face of each recurring [[universe]] [[phenomenon]], in refunding its current objections by referring what is admittedly higher back into that which is admittedly lower. [[Consistency]] demands the [[recognition]] of the [[activities]] of a [[purposive]] [[Creator]].

102:6.9 The [[facts]] of [[evolution]] must not be arrayed against the [[truth]] of the [[reality]] of the certainty of the [[spiritual]] [[experience]] of the religious living of the [[God]]-knowing [[mortal]]. [[Intelligent]] men should cease to [[reason]] like [[children]] and should attempt to use the [[consistent]] [[logic]] of [[Maturity|adulthood]], [[logic]] which [[tolerates]] the [[concept]] of [[truth]] alongside the [[observation]] of [[fact]]. [[Scientific]] [[materialism]] has gone [[bankrupt]] when it [[persists]], in the face of each recurring [[universe]] [[phenomenon]], in refunding its current objections by referring what is admittedly higher back into that which is admittedly lower. [[Consistency]] demands the [[recognition]] of the [[activities]] of a [[purposive]] [[Creator]].

102:6.10 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_65#PAPER_65:_THE_OVERCONTROL_OF_EVOLUTION Organic evolution] is a [[fact]]; [[purposive]] or [[progressive]] [[evolution]] is a [[truth]] which makes [[consistent]] the otherwise [[contradictory]] [[phenomena]] of the ever-[[ascending]] achievements of [[evolution]]. The higher any [[scientist]] [[progresses]] in his chosen science, the more will he abandon the [[theories]] of [[materialistic]] [[fact]] in [[favor]] of the [[cosmic]] [[truth]] of the [[dominance]] of the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_116#116:1._THE_SUPREME_MIND Supreme Mind]. [[Materialism]] cheapens [[human]] life; the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]] tremendously enhances and [[supernally]] exalts every [[mortal]]. [[Mortal]] [[existence]] must be visualized as consisting in the [[intriguing]] and [[fascinating]] [[experience]] of the [[realization]] of the [[reality]] of the meeting of the [[human]] upreach and the [[divine]] and saving downreach.

102:6.10 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_65#PAPER_65:_THE_OVERCONTROL_OF_EVOLUTION Organic evolution] is a [[fact]]; [[purposive]] or [[progressive]] [[evolution]] is a [[truth]] which makes [[consistent]] the otherwise [[contradictory]] [[phenomena]] of the ever-[[ascending]] achievements of [[evolution]]. The higher any [[scientist]] [[progresses]] in his chosen science, the more will he abandon the [[theories]] of [[materialistic]] [[fact]] in [[favor]] of the [[cosmic]] [[truth]] of the [[dominance]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_116#116:1._THE_SUPREME_MIND Supreme Mind]. [[Materialism]] cheapens [[human]] life; the [[gospel]] of [[Jesus]] tremendously enhances and [[supernally]] exalts every [[mortal]]. [[Mortal]] [[existence]] must be visualized as consisting in the [[intriguing]] and [[fascinating]] [[experience]] of the [[realization]] of the [[reality]] of the meeting of the [[human]] upreach and the [[divine]] and saving downreach.

==102:7. THE CERTITUDE OF THE DIVINE==

==102:7. THE CERTITUDE OF THE DIVINE==

102:7.1 The Universal Father, being self-existent, is also self-explanatory; he actually lives in every rational mortal. But you cannot be sure about God unless you know him; sonship is the only experience which makes fatherhood certain. The universe is everywhere undergoing change. A changing universe is a dependent universe; such a creation cannot be either final or absolute. A finite universe is wholly dependent on the Ultimate and the Absolute. The universe and God are not identical; one is cause, the other effect. The cause is absolute, infinite, eternal, and changeless; the effect, time-space and transcendental but ever changing, always growing.

102:7.1 The [[Universal Father]], being self-existent, is also self-explanatory; he actually lives in every [[rational]] [[mortal]]. But you cannot be sure about [[God]] unless you know him; sonship is the only [[experience]] which makes [[fatherhood]] certain. The [[universe]] is everywhere undergoing [[change]]. A [[changing]] [[universe]] is a dependent universe; such a [[creation]] cannot be either final or [[absolute]]. A [[finite]] [[universe]] is wholly dependent on the [[Ultimate]] and the [[Absolute]]. The [[universe]] and [[God]] are not identical; one is [[cause]], the other [[effect]]. The cause is [[absolute]], [[infinite]], [[eternal]], and changeless; the [[effect]], [[time-space]] and [[transcendental]] but ever changing, always [[growing]].

102:7.2 God is the one and only self-caused fact in the universe. He is the secret of the order, plan, and purpose of the whole creation of things and beings. The everywhere-changing universe is regulated and stabilized by absolutely unchanging laws, the habits of an unchanging God. The fact of God, the divine law, is changeless; the truth of God, his relation to the universe, is a relative revelation which is ever adaptable to the constantly evolving universe.

102:7.2 [[God]] is the one and only [[self]]-[[cause]]d [[fact]] in the [[universe]]. He is the [[secret]] of the order, [[plan]], and [[purpose]] of the whole [[creation]] of [[things]] and [[beings]]. The everywhere-changing [[universe]] is regulated and [[stabilized]] by absolutely unchanging [[laws]], the [[habits]] of an unchanging [[God]]. The [[fact]] of [[God]], the [[divine]] [[law]], is changeless; the [[truth]] of [[God]], his [[relation]] to the [[universe]], is a [[relative]] [[revelation]] which is ever [[adaptable]] to the constantly [[evolving]] [[universe]].

102:7.3 Those who would invent a religion without God are like those who would gather fruit without trees, have children without parents. You cannot have effects without causes; only the I AM is causeless. The fact of religious experience implies God, and such a God of personal experience must be a personal Deity. You cannot pray to a chemical formula, supplicate a mathematical equation, worship a hypothesis, confide in a postulate, commune with a process, serve an abstraction, or hold loving fellowship with a law.

102:7.3 Those who would [[invent]] a [[religion]] without [[God]] are like those who would gather fruit without trees, have [[children]] without [[parents]]. You cannot have [[effects]] without [[causes]]; only the [[I AM]] is causeless. The [[fact]] of [[religious]] [[experience]] implies [[God]], and such a [[God]] of [[personal]] [[experience]] must be a [[personal]] [[Deity]]. You cannot [[pray]] to a [[chemical]] [[formula]], supplicate a [[mathematical]] [[equation]], [[worship]] a [[hypothesis]], confide in a postulate, [[commune]] with a [[process]], serve an [[abstraction]], or hold loving fellowship with a [[law]].

102:7.4 True, many apparently religious traits can grow out of nonreligious roots. Man can, intellectually, deny God and yet be morally good, loyal, filial, honest, and even idealistic. Man may graft many purely humanistic branches onto his basic spiritual nature and thus apparently prove his contentions in behalf of a godless religion, but such an experience is devoid of survival values, God-knowingness and God-ascension. In such a mortal experience only social fruits are forthcoming, not spiritual. The graft determines the nature of the fruit, notwithstanding that the living sustenance is drawn from the roots of original divine endowment of both mind and spirit.

102:7.4 True, many [[apparently]] [[religious]] [[traits]] can grow out of nonreligious [[roots]]. Man can, [[intellectually]], deny [[God]] and yet be [[morally]] [[good]], [[loyal]], filial, [[honest]], and even [[idealistic]]. Man may graft many purely [[humanistic]] branches onto his basic [[spiritual]] [[nature]] and thus [[apparently]] [[prove]] his contentions in behalf of a [[Atheism|godless religion]], but such an [[experience]] is devoid of [[survival]] [[values]], God-knowingness and God-[[ascension]]. In such a [[mortal]] [[experience]] only [[social]] fruits are forthcoming, not [[spiritual]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grafting graft] determines the [[nature]] of the fruit, notwithstanding that the living sustenance is drawn from the [[roots]] of [[original]] [[divine]] [[endowment]] of both [[mind]] and [[spirit]].

102:7.5 The intellectual earmark of religion is certainty; the philosophical characteristic is consistency; the social fruits are love and service.

102:7.5 The [[intellectual]] earmark of [[religion]] is [[certainty]]; the [[philosophical]] characteristic is [[consistency]]; the social fruits are [[love]] and [[service]].

102:7.6 The God-knowing individual is not one who is blind to the difficulties or unmindful of the obstacles which stand in the way of finding God in the maze of superstition, tradition, and materialistic tendencies of modern times. He has encountered all these deterrents and triumphed over them, surmounted them by living faith, and attained the highlands of spiritual experience in spite of them. But it is true that many who are inwardly sure about God fear to assert such feelings of certainty because of the multiplicity and cleverness of those who assemble objections and magnify difficulties about believing in God. It requires no great depth of intellect to pick flaws, ask questions, or raise objections. But it does require brilliance of mind to answer these questions and solve these difficulties; faith certainty is the greatest technique for dealing with all such superficial contentions.

102:7.6 The [[God]]-knowing [[individual]] is not one who is blind to the [[difficulties]] or unmindful of the obstacles which stand in the way of finding [[God]] in the [[maze]] of [[superstition]], [[tradition]], and [[materialistic]] [[tendencies]] of [[modern]] times. He has encountered all these deterrents and triumphed over them, surmounted them by living [[faith]], and [[attained]] the highlands of [[spiritual]] [[experience]] in spite of them. But it is true that many who are inwardly [[sure]] about [[God]] fear to assert such [[feelings]] of [[certainty]] because of the multiplicity and [[cleverness]] of those who assemble objections and [[magnify]] [[difficulties]] about believing in [[God]]. It requires no great depth of [[intellect]] to pick flaws, ask questions, or raise objections. But it does require [[brilliance]] of [[mind]] to answer these questions and solve these [[difficulties]]; [[faith]] [[certainty]] is the greatest [[technique]] for dealing with all such [[superficial]] [[contentions]].

102:7.7 If science, philosophy, or sociology dares to become dogmatic in contending with the prophets of true religion, then should God-knowing men reply to such unwarranted dogmatism with that more farseeing dogmatism of the certainty of personal spiritual experience, " I know what I have experienced because I am a son of I AM. " If the personal experience of a faither is to be challenged by dogma, then this faith-born son of the experiencible Father may reply with that unchallengeable dogma, the statement of his actual sonship with the Universal Father.

102:7.7 If [[science]], [[philosophy]], or [[sociology]] dares to become [[dogmatic]] in contending with the [[prophets]] of true [[religion]], then should [[God]]-knowing men reply to such unwarranted [[dogmatism]] with that more farseeing dogmatism of the [[certainty]] of [[personal]] [[spiritual]] [[experience]], "I know what I have [[experienced]] because I am a son of [[I AM]]." If the [[personal]] [[experience]] of a faither is to be challenged by [[dogma]], then this faith-born son of the experiencible [[Father]] may reply with that unchallengeable [[dogma]], the [[statement]] of his actual sonship with the [[Universal Father]].

102:7.8 Only an unqualified reality, an absolute, could dare consistently to be dogmatic. Those who assume to be dogmatic must, if consistent, sooner or later be driven into the arms of the Absolute of energy, the Universal of truth, and the Infinite of love.

102:7.8 Only an unqualified [[reality]], an [[absolute]], could dare [[consistently]] to be [[dogmatic]]. Those who [[assume]] to be [[dogmatic]] must, if [[consistent]], sooner or later be driven into the arms of the [[Absolute]] of [[energy]], the [[Universal]] of [[truth]], and the [[Infinite]] of [[love]].

102:7.9 If the nonreligious approaches to cosmic reality presume to challenge the certainty of faith on the grounds of its unproved status, then the spirit experiencer can likewise resort to the dogmatic challenge of the facts of science and the beliefs of philosophy on the grounds that they are likewise unproved; they are likewise experiences in the consciousness of the scientist or the philosopher.

102:7.9 If the nonreligious approaches to [[cosmic]] [[reality]] [[presume]] to [[challenge]] the [[certainty]] of [[faith]] on the grounds of its unproved [[status]], then the [[spirit]] experiencer can likewise resort to the [[dogmatic]] [[challenge]] of the [[facts]] of [[science]] and the [[beliefs]] of [[philosophy]] on the grounds that they are likewise unproved; they are likewise [[experiences]] in the [[consciousness]] of the [[scientist]] or the [[philosopher]].

102:7.10 Of God, the most inescapable of all presences, the most real of all facts, the most living of all truths, the most loving of all friends, and the most divine of all values, we have the right to be the most certain of all universe experiences.

102:7.10 Of [[God]], the most inescapable of all [[presences]], the most real of all [[facts]], the most living of all [[truths]], the most [[loving]] of all [[friends]], and the most [[divine]] of all [[values]], we have the right to be the most [[certain]] of all [[universe]] [[experiences]].

==102:8. THE EVIDENCES OF RELIGION==

==102:8. THE EVIDENCES OF RELIGION==

102:8.1 The highest evidence of the reality and efficacy of religion consists in the fact of human experience; namely, that man, naturally fearful and suspicious, innately endowed with a strong instinct of self-preservation and craving survival after death, is willing fully to trust the deepest interests of his present and future to the keeping and direction of that power and person designated by his faith as God. That is the one central truth of all religion. As to what that power or person requires of man in return for this watchcare and final salvation, no two religions agree; in fact, they all more or less disagree.

102:8.1 The highest [[evidence]] of the [[reality]] and efficacy of [[religion]] consists in the [[fact]] of [[human]] [[experience]]; namely, that man, [[naturally]] [[fearful]] and [[suspicious]], [[innately]] [[endowed]] with a strong [[instinct]] of [[self]]-[[preservation]] and craving [[survival]] after [[death]], is willing fully to [[trust]] the deepest interests of his [[present]] and [[future]] to the keeping and direction of that [[power]] and [[person]] designated by his [[faith]] as [[God]]. That is the one central [[truth]] of all [[religion]]. As to what that [[power]] or [[person]] requires of man in return for this watchcare and final [[salvation]], no two [[religions]] [[agree]]; in fact, they all more or less disagree.

102:8.2 Regarding the status of any religion in the evolutionary scale, it may best be judged by its moral judgments and its ethical standards. The higher the type of any religion, the more it encourages and is encouraged by a constantly improving social morality and ethical culture. We cannot judge religion by the status of its accompanying civilization; we had better estimate the real nature of a civilization by the purity and nobility of its religion. Many of the world's most notable religious teachers have been virtually unlettered. The wisdom of the world is not necessary to an exercise of saving faith in eternal realities.

102:8.2 Regarding the [[status]] of any [[religion]] in the [[evolutionary]] scale, it may best be [[judged]] by its [[moral]] [[judgments]] and its [[ethical]] [[standards]]. The higher the [[type]] of any [[religion]], the more it [[encourages]] and is encouraged by a constantly improving [[social]] [[morality]] and [[ethical]] [[culture]]. We cannot [[judge]] [[religion]] by the [[status]] of its accompanying [[civilization]]; we had better estimate the real [[nature]] of a [[civilization]] by the [[purity]] and [[nobility]] of its [[religion]]. Many of the world's most notable [[religious]] [[teachers]] have been virtually unlettered. The [[wisdom]] of the world is not [[necessary]] to an exercise of saving [[faith]] in [[eternal]] [[realities]].

102:8.3 The difference in the religions of various ages is wholly dependent on the difference in man's comprehension of reality and on his differing recognition of moral values, ethical relationships, and spirit realities.

102:8.3 The [[difference]] in the [[religions]] of various ages is wholly dependent on the [[difference]] in man's [[comprehension]] of [[reality]] and on his differing [[recognition]] of moral [[values]], [[ethical]] [[relationships]], and [[spirit]] [[realities]].

102:8.4 Ethics is the eternal social or racial mirror which faithfully reflects the otherwise unobservable progress of internal spiritual and religious developments. Man has always thought of God in the terms of the best he knew, his deepest ideas and highest ideals. Even historic religion has always created its God conceptions out of its highest recognized values. Every intelligent creature gives the name of God to the best and highest thing he knows.

102:8.4 [[Ethics]] is the [[eternal]] [[social]] or racial [[mirror]] which [[faithfully]] [[reflects]] the otherwise [[Invisible|unobservable]] [[progress]] of internal [[spiritual]] and religious [[developments]]. Man has always [[thought]] of [[God]] in the terms of the best he knew, his deepest [[ideas]] and highest [[ideals]]. Even historic [[religion]] has always created its [[God]] [[conceptions]] out of its highest recognized [[values]]. Every [[intelligent]] [[creature]] gives the [[name]] of [[God]] to the best and highest thing he knows.

102:8.5 Religion, when reduced to terms of reason and intellectual expression, has always dared to criticize civilization and evolutionary progress as judged by its own standards of ethical culture and moral progress.

102:8.5 [[Religion]], when reduced to terms of [[reason]] and [[intellectual]] [[expression]], has always dared to [[criticize]] [[civilization]] and [[evolutionary]] [[progress]] as judged by its own [[standards]] of [[ethical]] [[culture]] and moral [[progress]].

102:8.6 While personal religion precedes the evolution of human morals, it is regretfully recorded that institutional religion has invariably lagged behind the slowly changing mores of the human races. Organized religion has proved to be conservatively tardy. The prophets have usually led the people in religious development; the theologians have usually held them back. Religion, being a matter of inner or personal experience, can never develop very far in advance of the intellectual evolution of the races.

102:8.6 While [[personal]] [[religion]] precedes the [[evolution]] of [[human]] [[morals]], it is regretfully recorded that [[institutional]] [[religion]] has invariably lagged behind the slowly changing [[mores]] of the human races. [[Organized]] [[religion]] has proved to be [[conservatively]] tardy. The [[prophets]] have usually led the people in [[religious]] [[development]]; the [[theologians]] have usually held them back. [[Religion]], being a matter of [[Inner Life|inner]] or [[personal]] [[experience]], can never [[develop]] very far in advance of the [[intellectual]] [[evolution]] of the races.

102:8.7 But religion is never enhanced by an appeal to the so-called miraculous. The quest for miracles is a harking back to the primitive religions of magic. True religion has nothing to do with alleged miracles, and never does revealed religion point to miracles as proof of authority. Religion is ever and always rooted and grounded in personal experience. And your highest religion, the life of Jesus, was just such a personal experience: man, mortal man, seeking God and finding him to the fullness during one short life in the flesh, while in the same human experience there appeared God seeking man and finding him to the full satisfaction of the perfect soul of infinite supremacy. And that is religion, even the highest yet revealed in the universe of Nebadon—the earth life of Jesus of Nazareth.

102:8.7 But [[religion]] is never enhanced by an [[appeal]] to the so-called [[miraculous]]. The [[quest]] for [[miracles]] is a harking back to the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_88#PAPER_88:_FETISHES.2C_CHARMS.2C_AND_MAGIC primitive religions of magic]. True religion has nothing to do with alleged [[miracles]], and never does [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION revealed religion] point to [[miracles]] as [[proof]] of [[authority]]. [[Religion]] is ever and always rooted and grounded in [[personal]] [[experience]]. And your highest [[religion]], the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus life of Jesus], was just such a [[personal]] [[experience]]: man, [[mortal]] man, seeking [[God]] and finding him to the fullness during one short life in the [[flesh]], while in the same [[human]] [[experience]] there [[appeared]] [[God]] seeking man and finding him to the full [[satisfaction]] of the [[perfect]] [[soul]] of [[infinite]] [[supremacy]]. And that is [[religion]], even the highest yet [[revealed]] in the [[universe]] of [[Nebadon]]—the [[earth]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus life of Jesus of Nazareth].

102:8.8 Presented by a [[Melchizedek]] of [[Nebadon]].

102:8.8 Presented by a [[Melchizedek]] of [[Nebadon]].

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[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]

[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]