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==PAPER 142: THE PASSOVER AT JERUSALEM==

==PAPER 142: THE PASSOVER AT JERUSALEM==

142:0.1 The month of April [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] worked in [[Jerusalem]], going out of the [[city]] each evening to spend the night at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. [[Jesus]] himself spent one or two nights each week in [[Jerusalem]] at the [[home]] of Flavius, a [[Greek]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jew], where many prominent Jews came in [[secret]] to [[Inquiry|interview]] him.

142:0.1 The month of April [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] worked in [[Jerusalem]], going out of the [[city]] each evening to spend the night at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. [[Jesus]] himself spent one or two nights each week in [[Jerusalem]] at the [[home]] of Flavius, a [[Greek]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jew], where many prominent Jews came in [[secret]] to [[Inquiry|interview]] him.

142:0.2 The first day in [[Jerusalem]] Jesus called upon his [[friend]] of former years, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas], the onetime [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest] and relative of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salome_(disciple) Salome], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee]'s [[wife]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas] had been hearing about [[Jesus]] and his teachings, and when Jesus called at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest]'s [[home]], he was received with much reserve. When [[Jesus]] [[perceived]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas]'s coldness, he took [[immediate]] leave, saying as he departed: " [[Fear]] is man's chief enslaver and [[pride]] his great weakness; will you betray yourself into [[bondage]] to both of these destroyers of [[joy]] and [[liberty]]? " But [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas] made no reply. [[The Master]] did not again see Annas until the time when he sat with his [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas son-in-law] in [[judgment]] on the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man].

142:0.2 The first day in [[Jerusalem]] Jesus called upon his [[friend]] of former years, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas], the onetime [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest] and relative of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salome_(disciple) Salome], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee]'s [[wife]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas] had been hearing about [[Jesus]] and his teachings, and when Jesus called at the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_High_Priests_of_Israel high priest]'s [[home]], he was received with much reserve. When [[Jesus]] [[perceived]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas]'s coldness, he took [[immediate]] leave, saying as he departed: " [[Fear]] is man's chief enslaver and [[pride]] his great weakness; will you betray yourself into [[bondage]] to both of these destroyers of [[joy]] and [[liberty]]? " But [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annas Annas] made no reply. [[The Master]] did not again see Annas until the time when he sat with his [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caiaphas son-in-law] in [[judgment]] on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man].

==142:1. TEACHING IN THE TEMPLE==

==142:1. TEACHING IN THE TEMPLE==

142:1.1 Throughout this month [[Jesus]] or one of [[the apostles]] taught daily in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple]. When the [[Passover]] crowds were too great to find entrance to the [[temple]] teaching, [[the apostles]] conducted many teaching [[groups]] outside the [[sacred]] precincts. The burden of their [[message]] was:

142:1.1 Throughout this month [[Jesus]] or one of [[the apostles]] taught daily in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple]. When the [[Passover]] crowds were too great to find entrance to the [[temple]] teaching, [[the apostles]] conducted many teaching [[groups]] outside the [[sacred]] precincts. The burden of their [[message]] was:

*1. The [[kingdom of heaven]] is at hand.

*1. The [[kingdom of heaven]] is at hand.

142:1.2 The multitudes who came to [[celebrate]] the [[Passover]] heard this teaching of [[Jesus]], and hundreds of them rejoiced in the good news. The chief [[priests]] and rulers of the [[Jews]] became much concerned about [[Jesus]] and his [[apostles]] and [[debated]] among themselves as to what should be done with them.

142:1.2 The multitudes who came to [[celebrate]] the [[Passover]] heard this teaching of [[Jesus]], and hundreds of them rejoiced in the good news. The chief [[priests]] and rulers of the [[Jews]] became much concerned about [[Jesus]] and his [[apostles]] and [[debated]] among themselves as to what should be done with them.

142:1.3 Besides teaching in and about the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple], [[the apostles]] and other believers were [[engaged]] in doing much [[personal]] work among the [[Passover]] throngs. These interested men and women carried the news of [[Jesus]]' [[message]] from this [[Passover]] [[celebration]] to the uttermost parts of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] and also to [[the East]]. This was the beginning of the spread of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] to the outside world. No longer was the [[work]] of [[Jesus]] to be confined to [[Palestine]].

142:1.3 Besides teaching in and about the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple], [[the apostles]] and other believers were [[engaged]] in doing much [[personal]] work among the [[Passover]] throngs. These interested men and women carried the news of [[Jesus]]' [[message]] from this [[Passover]] [[celebration]] to the uttermost parts of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_empire Roman Empire] and also to [[the East]]. This was the beginning of the spread of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] to the outside world. No longer was the [[work]] of [[Jesus]] to be confined to [[Palestine]].

==142:2. GOD'S WRATH==

==142:2. GOD'S WRATH==

142:2.1 There was in [[Jerusalem]] in attendance upon the [[Passover]] festivities one Jacob, a [[wealthy]] Jewish trader from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crete Crete], and he came to [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] making request to see [[Jesus]] [[private]]ly. Andrew arranged this [[secret]] meeting with [[Jesus]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flavius Flavius]'s [[home]] the evening of the next day. This man could not [[comprehend]] [[the Master]]'s teachings, and he came because he [[desired]] to [[inquire]] more fully about the [[kingdom of God]]. Said Jacob to [[Jesus]]: " But, [[Rabbi]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and the olden [[The Prophets|prophets]] tell us that [[Yahweh]] is a [[jealous]] [[God]], a God of great [[wrath]] and fierce [[anger]]. [[The prophets]] say he [[hate]]s evildoers and takes [[vengeance]] on those who [[obey]] not his [[law]]. You and your [[disciples]] teach us that [[God]] is a kind and [[compassionate]] [[Father]] who so [[loves]] all men that he would [[welcome]] them into this new [[kingdom of heaven]], which you [[proclaim]] is so near at hand. "

142:2.1 There was in [[Jerusalem]] in attendance upon the [[Passover]] festivities one Jacob, a [[wealthy]] Jewish trader from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crete Crete], and he came to [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] making request to see [[Jesus]] [[private]]ly. Andrew arranged this [[secret]] meeting with [[Jesus]] at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flavius Flavius]'s [[home]] the evening of the next day. This man could not [[comprehend]] [[the Master]]'s teachings, and he came because he [[desired]] to [[inquire]] more fully about the [[kingdom of God]]. Said Jacob to [[Jesus]]: " But, [[Rabbi]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and the olden [[The Prophets|prophets]] tell us that [[Yahweh]] is a [[jealous]] [[God]], a God of great [[wrath]] and fierce [[anger]]. [[The prophets]] say he [[hate]]s evildoers and takes [[vengeance]] on those who [[obey]] not his [[law]]. You and your [[disciples]] teach us that [[God]] is a kind and [[compassionate]] [[Father]] who so [[loves]] all men that he would [[welcome]] them into this new [[kingdom of heaven]], which you [[proclaim]] is so near at hand. "

142:2.2 When Jacob finished speaking, [[Jesus]] replied: " Jacob, you have well stated the teachings of the olden [[prophets]] who taught the [[children]] of their [[generation]] in [[accordance]] with the [[light]] of their day. [[Our Father]] in [[Paradise]] is changeless. But the [[concept]] of his [[nature]] has enlarged and [[grown]] from the days of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] down through the times of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amos_(prophet) Amos] and even to the [[generation]] of the [[prophet]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]. And now have I come in the [[flesh]] to [[reveal]] [[the Father]] in new [[glory]] and to show forth his [[love]] and [[mercy]] to all men on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_49 all worlds]. As the [[gospel]] of this kingdom shall spread over the world with its [[message]] of [[good]] cheer and good will to all men, there will grow up improved and better [[relations]] among the [[families]] of all [[nations]]. As time passes, [[fathers]] and their [[children]] will [[love]] each other more, and thus will be brought about a better [[understanding]] of the [[love]] of [[the Father]] in heaven for his [[children]] on [[earth]]. Remember, Jacob, that a [[good]] and true [[father]] not only loves his [[family]] as a [[whole]]—as a family—but he also truly loves and [[affection]]ately cares for each [[individual]] member. "

142:2.2 When Jacob finished speaking, [[Jesus]] replied: " Jacob, you have well stated the teachings of the olden [[prophets]] who taught the [[children]] of their [[generation]] in [[accordance]] with the [[light]] of their day. [[Our Father]] in [[Paradise]] is changeless. But the [[concept]] of his [[nature]] has enlarged and [[grown]] from the days of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] down through the times of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amos_(prophet) Amos] and even to the [[generation]] of the [[prophet]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]. And now have I come in the [[flesh]] to [[reveal]] [[the Father]] in new [[glory]] and to show forth his [[love]] and [[mercy]] to all men on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_49 all worlds]. As the [[gospel]] of this kingdom shall spread over the world with its [[message]] of [[good]] cheer and good will to all men, there will grow up improved and better [[relations]] among the [[families]] of all [[nations]]. As time passes, [[fathers]] and their [[children]] will [[love]] each other more, and thus will be brought about a better [[understanding]] of the [[love]] of [[the Father]] in heaven for his [[children]] on [[earth]]. Remember, Jacob, that a [[good]] and true [[father]] not only loves his [[family]] as a [[whole]]—as a family—but he also truly loves and [[affection]]ately cares for each [[individual]] member. "

142:2.3 After considerable [[discussion]] of the heavenly Father's [[character]], [[Jesus]] paused to say: " You, Jacob, being a [[father]] of many, know well the [[truth]] of my [[words]]. " And Jacob said: " But, Master, who told you I was the [[father]] of six children? How did you know this about me? " And [[the Master]] replied: " Suffice it to say that [[the Father]] and [[the Son]] know all things, for indeed they see all. Loving your [[children]] as a [[father]] on [[earth]], you must now [[accept]] as a [[reality]] the [[love]] of the heavenly Father for you —not just for all the [[children]] of [[Abraham]], but for you, your [[individual]] [[soul]]. "

142:2.3 After considerable [[discussion]] of the heavenly Father's [[character]], [[Jesus]] paused to say: " You, Jacob, being a [[father]] of many, know well the [[truth]] of my [[words]]. " And Jacob said: " But, Master, who told you I was the [[father]] of six children? How did you know this about me? " And [[the Master]] replied: " Suffice it to say that [[the Father]] and [[the Son]] know all things, for indeed they see all. Loving your [[children]] as a [[father]] on [[earth]], you must now [[accept]] as a [[reality]] the [[love]] of the heavenly Father for you —not just for all the [[children]] of [[Abraham]], but for you, your [[individual]] [[soul]]. "

142:2.4 Then Jesus went on to say: " When your [[children]] are very young and immature, and when you must chastise them, they may [[reflect]] that their [[father]] is [[angry]] and filled with resentful [[wrath]]. Their immaturity cannot penetrate beyond the [[punishment]] to [[discern]] the [[father]]'s farseeing and corrective [[affection]]. But when these same [[children]] become grown-up [[men]] and [[women]], would it not be folly for them to cling to these earlier and misconceived notions regarding their [[father]]? As men and women they should now [[discern]] their father's [[love]] in all these early [[discipline]]s. And should not [[mankind]], as the centuries pass, come the better to [[understand]] the true [[nature]] and loving [[character]] of [[the Father]] in heaven? What profit have you from [[successive]] [[generations]] of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] if you [[persist]] in viewing [[God]] as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and [[the prophets]] saw him? I say to you, Jacob, under the bright [[light]] of this hour you should see [[the Father]] as none of those who have gone before ever beheld him. And thus seeing him, you should [[rejoice]] to enter [[the kingdom]] wherein such a [[merciful]] [[Father]] rules, and you should seek to have his will of [[love]] [[dominate]] your life henceforth. "

142:2.4 Then Jesus went on to say: " When your [[children]] are very young and immature, and when you must chastise them, they may [[reflect]] that their [[father]] is [[angry]] and filled with resentful [[wrath]]. Their immaturity cannot penetrate beyond the [[punishment]] to [[discern]] the [[father]]'s farseeing and corrective [[affection]]. But when these same [[children]] become grown-up [[men]] and [[women]], would it not be folly for them to cling to these earlier and misconceived notions regarding their [[father]]? As men and women they should now [[discern]] their father's [[love]] in all these early [[discipline]]s. And should not [[mankind]], as the centuries pass, come the better to [[understand]] the true [[nature]] and loving [[character]] of [[the Father]] in heaven? What profit have you from [[successive]] [[generations]] of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] if you [[persist]] in viewing [[God]] as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and [[the prophets]] saw him? I say to you, Jacob, under the bright [[light]] of this hour you should see [[the Father]] as none of those who have gone before ever beheld him. And thus seeing him, you should [[rejoice]] to enter [[the kingdom]] wherein such a [[merciful]] [[Father]] rules, and you should seek to have his will of [[love]] [[dominate]] your life henceforth. "

142:2.5 And Jacob answered: " [[Rabbi]], I [[believe]]; I [[desire]] that you [[lead]] me into [[the Father]]'s kingdom. "

142:2.5 And Jacob answered: " [[Rabbi]], I [[believe]]; I [[desire]] that you [[lead]] me into [[the Father]]'s kingdom. "

142:3.1 The [[twelve apostles]], most of whom had [[listened]] to this [[discussion]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_2 character of God], that night asked [[Jesus]] many questions about [[the Father]] in heaven. [[The Master]]'s answers to these questions can best be presented by the following summary in [[modern]] phraseology:

142:3.1 The [[twelve apostles]], most of whom had [[listened]] to this [[discussion]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_2 character of God], that night asked [[Jesus]] many questions about [[the Father]] in heaven. [[The Master]]'s answers to these questions can best be presented by the following summary in [[modern]] phraseology:

142:3.2 [[Jesus]] mildly upbraided [[the twelve]], in substance saying: Do you not know the [[traditions]] of [[Israel]] relating to the [[growth]] of the [[idea]] of [[Yahweh]], and are you [[ignorant]] of the teaching of [[Hebrew Bible|the Scriptures]] concerning the [[doctrine]] of [[God]]? And then did [[the Master]] proceed to instruct [[the apostles]] about the [[evolution]] of the [[concept]] of [[Deity]] throughout the [[course]] of the [[development]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Jews Jewish people]. He called [[attention]] to the following [[phases]] of the [[growth]] of the [[God]] [[idea]]:

142:3.2 [[Jesus]] mildly upbraided [[the twelve]], in substance saying: Do you not know the [[traditions]] of [[Israel]] relating to the [[growth]] of the [[idea]] of [[Yahweh]], and are you [[ignorant]] of the teaching of [[Hebrew Bible|the Scriptures]] concerning the [[doctrine]] of [[God]]? And then did [[the Master]] proceed to instruct [[the apostles]] about the [[evolution]] of the [[concept]] of [[Deity]] throughout the [[course]] of the [[development]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Jews Jewish people]. He called [[attention]] to the following [[phases]] of the [[growth]] of the [[God]] [[idea]]:

*1. 142:3.3 ''[[Yahweh]]'' —the god of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai] [[clans]]. This was the [[primitive]] [[concept]] of [[Deity]] which [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] exalted to the higher level of the ''Lord God of Israel''. [[The Father]] in heaven never fails to [[accept]] the [[sincere]] [[worship]] of his [[children]] on [[earth]], no matter how crude their [[concept]] of [[Deity]] or by what name they [[symbolize]] his [[divine]] [[nature]].

*1. 142:3.3 ''[[Yahweh]]'' —the god of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai] [[clans]]. This was the [[primitive]] [[concept]] of [[Deity]] which [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] exalted to the higher level of the ''Lord God of Israel''. [[The Father]] in heaven never fails to [[accept]] the [[sincere]] [[worship]] of his [[children]] on [[earth]], no matter how crude their [[concept]] of [[Deity]] or by what name they [[symbolize]] his [[divine]] [[nature]].

*2. 142:3.4 ''The [[Most High]]''. This [[concept]] of [[the Father]] in heaven was proclaimed by [[Melchizedek]] to [[Abraham]] and was carried far from [[Salem]] by those who subsequently believed in this enlarged and expanded [[idea]] of [[Deity]]. [[Abraham]] and his brother left [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ur Ur] because of the [[establishment]] of [[sun]] [[worship]], and they became believers in [[Melchizedek]]'s teaching of [[El Elyon]]—the [[Most High]] God. Theirs was a [[composite]] [[concept]] of [[God]], consisting in a blending of their older [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamian] [[ideas]] and the [[Most High]] [[doctrine]].

*2. 142:3.4 ''The [[Most High]]''. This [[concept]] of [[the Father]] in heaven was proclaimed by [[Melchizedek]] to [[Abraham]] and was carried far from [[Salem]] by those who subsequently believed in this enlarged and expanded [[idea]] of [[Deity]]. [[Abraham]] and his brother left [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ur Ur] because of the [[establishment]] of [[sun]] [[worship]], and they became believers in [[Melchizedek]]'s teaching of [[El Elyon]]—the [[Most High]] God. Theirs was a [[composite]] [[concept]] of [[God]], consisting in a blending of their older [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamian] [[ideas]] and the [[Most High]] [[doctrine]].

*3. 142:3.5 ''El Shaddai''. During these early days many of the [[Hebrews]] [[worshiped]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_shaddai El Shaddai], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egyptian_religion Egyptian concept of the God of heaven], which they learned about during their captivity in the land of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nile Nile]. Long after the times of [[Melchizedek]] all [[three]] of these [[concepts]] of [[God]] became joined [[together]] to form the [[doctrine]] of the [[creator]] [[Deity]], the Lord God of Israel.

*3. 142:3.5 ''El Shaddai''. During these early days many of the [[Hebrews]] [[worshiped]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_shaddai El Shaddai], the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egyptian_religion Egyptian concept of the God of heaven], which they learned about during their captivity in the land of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nile Nile]. Long after the times of [[Melchizedek]] all [[three]] of these [[concepts]] of [[God]] became joined [[together]] to form the [[doctrine]] of the [[creator]] [[Deity]], the Lord God of Israel.

*4. 142:3.6 ''Elohim''. From the times of [[Adam]] the teaching of the [[Paradise Trinity]] has [[persisted]]. Do you not recall how the [[Scriptures]] begin by asserting that " In the beginning [[the Gods]] created the heavens and the [[earth]] "? This indicates that when that [[record]] was made the [[Trinity]] [[concept]] of three Gods in one had found lodgment in the [[religion]] of our [[forebears]].

*4. 142:3.6 ''Elohim''. From the times of [[Adam]] the teaching of the [[Paradise Trinity]] has [[persisted]]. Do you not recall how the [[Scriptures]] begin by asserting that " In the beginning [[the Gods]] created the heavens and the [[earth]] "? This indicates that when that [[record]] was made the [[Trinity]] [[concept]] of three Gods in one had found lodgment in the [[religion]] of our [[forebears]].

*5. 142:3.7 ''The Supreme [[Yahweh]]''. By the times of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah] these [[beliefs]] about [[God]] had expanded into the [[concept]] of a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_4 Universal Creator] who was [[simultaneously]] all-[[powerful]] and all-[[merciful]]. And this [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92 evolving and enlarging concept of God] virtually supplanted all previous [[ideas]] of [[Deity]] in our [[fathers]]' [[religion]].

*5. 142:3.7 ''The Supreme [[Yahweh]]''. By the times of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah] these [[beliefs]] about [[God]] had expanded into the [[concept]] of a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_4 Universal Creator] who was [[simultaneously]] all-[[powerful]] and all-[[merciful]]. And this [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92 evolving and enlarging concept of God] virtually supplanted all previous [[ideas]] of [[Deity]] in our [[fathers]]' [[religion]].

*6. 142:3.8 ''The Father in heaven''. And now do we know [[God]] as [[our Father]] in heaven. Our teaching provides a [[religion]] wherein the believer is a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God]. That is the good news of the [[gospel]] of the [[kingdom of heaven]]. Coexistent with [[the Father]] are [[the Son]] and [[the Spirit]], and the [[revelation]] of the [[nature]] and ministry of these [[Paradise Deities]] will continue to enlarge and brighten throughout the endless ages of the [[eternal]] [[spiritual]] [[progression]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#PAPER_40:_THE_ASCENDING_SONS_OF_GOD ascending sons of God]. At all times and during all ages the true [[worship]] of any [[human being]]—as concerns [[individual]] [[spiritual]] [[progress]]—is [[recognized]] by the [[indwelling spirit]] as [[homage]] rendered to [[the Father]] in heaven.

*6. 142:3.8 ''The Father in heaven''. And now do we know [[God]] as [[our Father]] in heaven. Our teaching provides a [[religion]] wherein the believer is a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God]. That is the good news of the [[gospel]] of the [[kingdom of heaven]]. Coexistent with [[the Father]] are [[the Son]] and [[the Spirit]], and the [[revelation]] of the [[nature]] and ministry of these [[Paradise Deities]] will continue to enlarge and brighten throughout the endless ages of the [[eternal]] [[spiritual]] [[progression]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#PAPER_40:_THE_ASCENDING_SONS_OF_GOD ascending sons of God]. At all times and during all ages the true [[worship]] of any [[human being]]—as concerns [[individual]] [[spiritual]] [[progress]]—is [[recognized]] by the [[indwelling spirit]] as [[homage]] rendered to [[the Father]] in heaven.

142:3.9 Never before had [[the apostles]] been so [[shocked]] as they were upon hearing this recounting of the [[growth]] of the [[concept]] of [[God]] in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Jews Jewish minds of previous generations]; they were too bewildered to ask questions. As they sat before [[Jesus]] in [[silence]], [[the Master]] continued: " And you would have known these [[truths]] had you read the [[Scriptures]]. Have you not [[read]] in [[Second Book of Samuel|Samuel]] where it says: `And the [[anger]] of the Lord was kindled against [[Israel]], so much so that he moved [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David] against them, saying, go number [[Israel]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judah Judah]'?[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Second_Book_of_Samuel#Chapter_.24] And this was not strange because in the days of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel Samuel] the [[children]] of [[Abraham]] really believed that [[Yahweh]] created both [[good]] and [[evil]]. But when a later [[writer]] narrated these [[events]], subsequent to the enlargement of the Jewish [[concept]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_2 nature of God], he did not dare attribute [[evil]] to [[Yahweh]]; therefore he said: `And [[Satan]] stood up against [[Israel]] and provoked [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David] to number [[Israel]].' Cannot you [[discern]] that such records in the [[Scriptures]] clearly show how the [[concept]] of the [[Paper 2 - The Nature of God|nature of God]] continued to [[grow]] from one [[generation]] to another?

142:3.9 Never before had [[the apostles]] been so [[shocked]] as they were upon hearing this recounting of the [[growth]] of the [[concept]] of [[God]] in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Jews Jewish minds of previous generations]; they were too bewildered to ask questions. As they sat before [[Jesus]] in [[silence]], [[the Master]] continued: " And you would have known these [[truths]] had you read the [[Scriptures]]. Have you not [[read]] in [[Second Book of Samuel|Samuel]] where it says: `And the [[anger]] of the Lord was kindled against [[Israel]], so much so that he moved [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David] against them, saying, go number [[Israel]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judah Judah]'?[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Second_Book_of_Samuel#Chapter_.24] And this was not strange because in the days of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel Samuel] the [[children]] of [[Abraham]] really believed that [[Yahweh]] created both [[good]] and [[evil]]. But when a later [[writer]] narrated these [[events]], subsequent to the enlargement of the Jewish [[concept]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_2 nature of God], he did not dare attribute [[evil]] to [[Yahweh]]; therefore he said: `And [[Satan]] stood up against [[Israel]] and provoked [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David] to number [[Israel]].' Cannot you [[discern]] that such records in the [[Scriptures]] clearly show how the [[concept]] of the [[Paper 2 - The Nature of God|nature of God]] continued to [[grow]] from one [[generation]] to another?

142:3.10 " Again should you have [[discerned]] the [[growth]] of the [[understanding]] of [[divine]] [[law]] in [[perfect]] keeping with these enlarging [[concepts]] of [[divinity]]. When the [[children]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Exodus Israel came out of Egypt] in the days before the enlarged [[revelation]] of [[Yahweh]], they had [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments ten commandments] which served as their [[law]] right up to the times when they were encamped before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai]. And these ten commandments were:

142:3.10 " Again should you have [[discerned]] the [[growth]] of the [[understanding]] of [[divine]] [[law]] in [[perfect]] keeping with these enlarging [[concepts]] of [[divinity]]. When the [[children]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Exodus Israel came out of Egypt] in the days before the enlarged [[revelation]] of [[Yahweh]], they had [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments ten commandments] which served as their [[law]] right up to the times when they were encamped before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai]. And these ten commandments were:

142:3.11 " 1. You shall [[worship]] no other [[god]], for the Lord is a [[jealous]] God.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.34]

142:3.11 " 1. You shall [[worship]] no other [[god]], for the Lord is a [[jealous]] God.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.34]

142:3.20 " 10. You shall not [[seethe]] a kid in its [[mother]]'s milk.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.23]

142:3.20 " 10. You shall not [[seethe]] a kid in its [[mother]]'s milk.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.23]

142:3.21 " And then, amidst the thunders and lightnings of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] gave them the new ten commandments, which you will all allow are more [[worthy]] utterances to accompany the enlarging [[Yahweh]] [[concepts]] of [[Deity]]. And did you never take notice of these commandments as [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.5 twice recorded] in the [[Scriptures]], that in the first case [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Exodus deliverance from Egypt] is assigned as the [[reason]] for [[Sabbath]] keeping, while in a later [[record]] the advancing [[religious]] [[beliefs]] of our [[forefathers]] demanded that this be changed to the [[recognition]] of the [[fact]] of [[creation]] as the reason for [[Sabbath]] observance?

142:3.21 " And then, amidst the thunders and lightnings of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai Sinai], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] gave them the new ten commandments, which you will all allow are more [[worthy]] utterances to accompany the enlarging [[Yahweh]] [[concepts]] of [[Deity]]. And did you never take notice of these commandments as [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.5 twice recorded] in the [[Scriptures]], that in the first case [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Exodus deliverance from Egypt] is assigned as the [[reason]] for [[Sabbath]] keeping, while in a later [[record]] the advancing [[religious]] [[beliefs]] of our [[forefathers]] demanded that this be changed to the [[recognition]] of the [[fact]] of [[creation]] as the reason for [[Sabbath]] observance?

142:3.22 " And then will you [[remember]] that once again—in the greater [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]'s day—these ten [[negative]] commandments were changed into the great and [[positive]] [[law]] of [[love]], the injunction to love [[God]] supremely and your [[neighbor]] as yourself. And it is this [[supreme]] law of [[love]] for [[God]] and for man that I also [[declare]] to you as constituting the whole [[duty]] of [[man]]. "

142:3.22 " And then will you [[remember]] that once again—in the greater [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]'s day—these ten [[negative]] commandments were changed into the great and [[positive]] [[law]] of [[love]], the injunction to love [[God]] supremely and your [[neighbor]] as yourself. And it is this [[supreme]] law of [[love]] for [[God]] and for man that I also [[declare]] to you as constituting the whole [[duty]] of [[man]]. "

142:3.23 And when he had finished [[speaking]], no man asked him a question. They went, each one to his [[sleep]].

142:3.23 And when he had finished [[speaking]], no man asked him a question. They went, each one to his [[sleep]].

==142:4. FLAVIUS AND GREEK CULTURE==

==142:4. FLAVIUS AND GREEK CULTURE==

142:4.1 Flavius, the [[Greek]] [[Jew]], was a [[proselyte]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple#The_Court_of_the_Gentiles gate], having been neither [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brit_milah circumcised] nor [[baptized]]; and since he was a great [[lover]] of the [[beautiful]] in [[art]] and [[sculpture]], the house which he occupied when [[sojourning]] in [[Jerusalem]] was a beautiful edifice. This [[home]] was exquisitely adorned with priceless [[treasures]] which he had gathered up here and there on his world [[travels]]. When he first [[thought]] of inviting [[Jesus]] to his [[home]], he feared that [[the Master]] might take offense at the sight of these so-called images. But Flavius was agreeably [[surprised]] when [[Jesus]] entered the [[home]] that, instead of [[rebuking]] him for having these supposedly [[idolatrous]] objects scattered about the house, he [[manifested]] great interest in the entire collection and asked many [[appreciative]] questions about each object as Flavius escorted him from room to room, showing him all of his favorite [[statues]].

142:4.1 Flavius, the [[Greek]] [[Jew]], was a [[proselyte]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple#The_Court_of_the_Gentiles gate], having been neither [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brit_milah circumcised] nor [[baptized]]; and since he was a great [[lover]] of the [[beautiful]] in [[art]] and [[sculpture]], the house which he occupied when [[sojourning]] in [[Jerusalem]] was a beautiful edifice. This [[home]] was exquisitely adorned with priceless [[treasures]] which he had gathered up here and there on his world [[travels]]. When he first [[thought]] of inviting [[Jesus]] to his [[home]], he feared that [[the Master]] might take offense at the sight of these so-called images. But Flavius was agreeably [[surprised]] when [[Jesus]] entered the [[home]] that, instead of [[rebuking]] him for having these supposedly [[idolatrous]] objects scattered about the house, he [[manifested]] great interest in the entire collection and asked many [[appreciative]] questions about each object as Flavius escorted him from room to room, showing him all of his favorite [[statues]].

142:4.2 [[The Master]] saw that his host was bewildered at his [[friendly]] [[attitude]] toward [[art]]; therefore, when they had finished the [[survey]] of the entire [[collection]], Jesus said: " Because you [[appreciate]] the [[beauty]] of [[things]] created by my Father and fashioned by the artistic hands of man, why should you [[expect]] to be [[rebuked]]? Because [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] onetime sought to combat [[idolatry]] and the [[worship]] of false gods, why should all men frown upon the reproduction of [[grace]] and [[beauty]]? I say to you, Flavius, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]' [[children]] have misunderstood him, and now do they make false gods of even his prohibitions of images and the likeness of [[things]] in [[heaven]] and on [[earth]]. But even if [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] taught such restrictions to the [[darkened]] [[minds]] of those days, what has that to do with this day when [[the Father]] in heaven is [[revealed]] as the [[universal]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_4#4:2._GOD_AND_NATURE Spirit Ruler] over all? And, Flavius, I [[declare]] that in the coming kingdom they shall no longer teach, `Do not [[worship]] this and do not worship that'; no longer shall they concern themselves with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments commands] to refrain from this and take care not to do that, but rather shall all be concerned with one [[supreme]] [[duty]]. And this [[duty]] of [[man]] is [[expressed]] in two great [[privileges]]: [[sincere]] [[worship]] of the [[infinite]] [[Creator]], the [[Paradise Father]], and loving [[service]] bestowed upon one's fellow men. If you [[love]] your [[neighbor]] as you love yourself, you really know that you are a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God].

142:4.2 [[The Master]] saw that his host was bewildered at his [[friendly]] [[attitude]] toward [[art]]; therefore, when they had finished the [[survey]] of the entire [[collection]], Jesus said: " Because you [[appreciate]] the [[beauty]] of [[things]] created by my Father and fashioned by the artistic hands of man, why should you [[expect]] to be [[rebuked]]? Because [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] onetime sought to combat [[idolatry]] and the [[worship]] of false gods, why should all men frown upon the reproduction of [[grace]] and [[beauty]]? I say to you, Flavius, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]' [[children]] have misunderstood him, and now do they make false gods of even his prohibitions of images and the likeness of [[things]] in [[heaven]] and on [[earth]]. But even if [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] taught such restrictions to the [[darkened]] [[minds]] of those days, what has that to do with this day when [[the Father]] in heaven is [[revealed]] as the [[universal]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_4#4:2._GOD_AND_NATURE Spirit Ruler] over all? And, Flavius, I [[declare]] that in the coming kingdom they shall no longer teach, `Do not [[worship]] this and do not worship that'; no longer shall they concern themselves with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments commands] to refrain from this and take care not to do that, but rather shall all be concerned with one [[supreme]] [[duty]]. And this [[duty]] of [[man]] is [[expressed]] in two great [[privileges]]: [[sincere]] [[worship]] of the [[infinite]] [[Creator]], the [[Paradise Father]], and loving [[service]] bestowed upon one's fellow men. If you [[love]] your [[neighbor]] as you love yourself, you really know that you are a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God].

142:4.3 " In an age when my Father was not well [[understood]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] was [[justified]] in his attempts to withstand [[idolatry]], but in the coming age [[the Father]] will have been [[revealed]] in the life of [[Creator Son|the Son]]; and this new [[revelation]] of [[God]] will make it forever unnecessary to [[confuse]] the [[Universal Father|Creator Father]] with [[idols]] of stone or images of gold and silver. Henceforth, [[intelligent]] men may [[enjoy]] the [[treasures]] of [[art]] without [[confusing]] such [[material]] [[appreciation]] of [[beauty]] with the [[worship]] and [[service]] of [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]], the [[God]] of [[all things]] and all [[beings]]. "

142:4.3 " In an age when my Father was not well [[understood]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] was [[justified]] in his attempts to withstand [[idolatry]], but in the coming age [[the Father]] will have been [[revealed]] in the life of [[Creator Son|the Son]]; and this new [[revelation]] of [[God]] will make it forever unnecessary to [[confuse]] the [[Universal Father|Creator Father]] with [[idols]] of stone or images of gold and silver. Henceforth, [[intelligent]] men may [[enjoy]] the [[treasures]] of [[art]] without [[confusing]] such [[material]] [[appreciation]] of [[beauty]] with the [[worship]] and [[service]] of [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]], the [[God]] of [[all things]] and all [[beings]]. "

142:4.4 Flavius believed all that [[Jesus]] taught him. The next day he went to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] beyond the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] and was [[baptized]] by the [[disciples]] of [[John the Baptist|John]]. And this he did because [[the apostles]] of [[Jesus]] did not yet [[baptize]] believers. When Flavius returned to [[Jerusalem]], he made a great feast for [[Jesus]] and invited sixty of his [[friends]]. And many of these guests also became [[believers]] in the [[message]] of the coming [[The kingdom|kingdom]].

142:4.4 Flavius believed all that [[Jesus]] taught him. The next day he went to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] beyond the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] and was [[baptized]] by the [[disciples]] of [[John the Baptist|John]]. And this he did because [[the apostles]] of [[Jesus]] did not yet [[baptize]] believers. When Flavius returned to [[Jerusalem]], he made a great feast for [[Jesus]] and invited sixty of his [[friends]]. And many of these guests also became [[believers]] in the [[message]] of the coming [[The kingdom|kingdom]].

==142:5. THE DISCOURSE ON ASSURANCE==

==142:5. THE DISCOURSE ON ASSURANCE==

142:5.1 One of the great [[sermons]] which [[Jesus]] preached in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple] this [[Passover]] week was in answer to a question asked by one of his hearers, a man from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus Damascus]. This man asked [[Jesus]]: " But, [[Rabbi]], how shall we know of a [[certainty]] that you are sent by [[God]], and that we may truly enter into this [[The Kingdom|kingdom]] which you and your [[disciples]] [[declare]] is near at hand? " And [[Jesus]] answered:

142:5.1 One of the great [[sermons]] which [[Jesus]] preached in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple] this [[Passover]] week was in answer to a question asked by one of his hearers, a man from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus Damascus]. This man asked [[Jesus]]: " But, [[Rabbi]], how shall we know of a [[certainty]] that you are sent by [[God]], and that we may truly enter into this [[The Kingdom|kingdom]] which you and your [[disciples]] [[declare]] is near at hand? " And [[Jesus]] answered:

142:5.2 " As to my [[message]] and the teaching of my [[disciples]], you should [[judge]] them by their fruits. If we [[proclaim]] to you the [[truths]] of the [[spirit]], the spirit will [[witness]] in your [[hearts]] that our [[message]] is [[genuine]]. Concerning [[the kingdom]] and your [[assurance]] of [[acceptance]] by the [[heavenly Father]], let me ask what [[father]] among you who is a [[worthy]] and kindhearted father would keep his son in [[anxiety]] or [[suspense]] regarding his [[status]] in the [[family]] or his place of [[security]] in the [[affections]] of his father's [[heart]]? Do you [[earth]] [[fathers]] take [[pleasure]] in [[torturing]] your [[children]] with uncertainty about their place of abiding [[love]] in your [[human]] [[hearts]]? Neither does y[[our Father]] in heaven leave his [[faith]] children of the [[spirit]] in doubtful uncertainty as to their position in [[the kingdom]]. If you receive [[God]] as y[[our Father]], then indeed and in [[truth]] are you the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God]. And if you are sons, then are you [[secure]] in the position and standing of all that concerns [[eternal]] and [[divine]] sonship. If you believe my [[words]], you thereby believe in Him who sent me, and by thus believing in [[the Father]], you have made your [[status]] in heavenly [[citizenship]] sure. If you [[do the will of the Father]] in heaven, you shall never fail in the [[attainment]] of the [[eternal]] life of [[progress]] in the [[divine]] kingdom.

142:5.2 " As to my [[message]] and the teaching of my [[disciples]], you should [[judge]] them by their fruits. If we [[proclaim]] to you the [[truths]] of the [[spirit]], the spirit will [[witness]] in your [[hearts]] that our [[message]] is [[genuine]]. Concerning [[the kingdom]] and your [[assurance]] of [[acceptance]] by the [[heavenly Father]], let me ask what [[father]] among you who is a [[worthy]] and kindhearted father would keep his son in [[anxiety]] or [[suspense]] regarding his [[status]] in the [[family]] or his place of [[security]] in the [[affections]] of his father's [[heart]]? Do you [[earth]] [[fathers]] take [[pleasure]] in [[torturing]] your [[children]] with uncertainty about their place of abiding [[love]] in your [[human]] [[hearts]]? Neither does y[[our Father]] in heaven leave his [[faith]] children of the [[spirit]] in doubtful uncertainty as to their position in [[the kingdom]]. If you receive [[God]] as y[[our Father]], then indeed and in [[truth]] are you the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God]. And if you are sons, then are you [[secure]] in the position and standing of all that concerns [[eternal]] and [[divine]] sonship. If you believe my [[words]], you thereby believe in Him who sent me, and by thus believing in [[the Father]], you have made your [[status]] in heavenly [[citizenship]] sure. If you [[do the will of the Father]] in heaven, you shall never fail in the [[attainment]] of the [[eternal]] life of [[progress]] in the [[divine]] kingdom.

142:5.3 " The Supreme Spirit shall bear [[witness]] with your spirits that you are truly the [[children]] of [[God]]. And if you are the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God], then have you been [[born]] of the spirit of God; and whosoever has been born of the [[spirit]] has in himself the [[power]] to overcome all [[doubt]], and this is the [[victory]] that overcomes all uncertainty, even your [[faith]].

142:5.3 " The Supreme Spirit shall bear [[witness]] with your spirits that you are truly the [[children]] of [[God]]. And if you are the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God], then have you been [[born]] of the spirit of God; and whosoever has been born of the [[spirit]] has in himself the [[power]] to overcome all [[doubt]], and this is the [[victory]] that overcomes all uncertainty, even your [[faith]].

142:5.4 " Said the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Prophet Isaiah], speaking of these times: `When [[Spirit of Truth|the spirit]] is poured upon us from on high, then shall the [[work]] of [[righteousness]] become [[peace]], [[quietness]], and [[assurance]] forever.' And for all who truly [[believe]] this [[gospel]], I will become surety for their [[reception]] into the [[eternal]] [[mercies]] and the everlasting life of my Father's kingdom. You, then, who hear this [[message]] and [[believe]] this [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] are the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God], and you have life everlasting; and the [[evidence]] to all the world that you have been [[born]] of the [[spirit]] is that you [[sincerely]] [[love]] one another. "

142:5.4 " Said the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Prophet Isaiah], speaking of these times: `When [[Spirit of Truth|the spirit]] is poured upon us from on high, then shall the [[work]] of [[righteousness]] become [[peace]], [[quietness]], and [[assurance]] forever.' And for all who truly [[believe]] this [[gospel]], I will become surety for their [[reception]] into the [[eternal]] [[mercies]] and the everlasting life of my Father's kingdom. You, then, who hear this [[message]] and [[believe]] this [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] are the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God], and you have life everlasting; and the [[evidence]] to all the world that you have been [[born]] of the [[spirit]] is that you [[sincerely]] [[love]] one another. "

142:5.5 The throng of [[listeners]] remained many hours with [[Jesus]], asking him questions and listening [[attentively]] to his [[comforting]] answers. Even [[the apostles]] were emboldened by [[Jesus]]' teaching to [[preach]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] with more [[power]] and [[assurance]]. This [[experience]] at [[Jerusalem]] was a great [[inspiration]] to [[the twelve]]. It was their first [[contact]] with such enormous crowds, and they learned many valuable lessons which proved of great [[assistance]] in their later [[work]].

142:5.5 The throng of [[listeners]] remained many hours with [[Jesus]], asking him questions and listening [[attentively]] to his [[comforting]] answers. Even [[the apostles]] were emboldened by [[Jesus]]' teaching to [[preach]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] with more [[power]] and [[assurance]]. This [[experience]] at [[Jerusalem]] was a great [[inspiration]] to [[the twelve]]. It was their first [[contact]] with such enormous crowds, and they learned many valuable lessons which proved of great [[assistance]] in their later [[work]].

==142:6. THE VISIT WITH NICODEMUS==

==142:6. THE VISIT WITH NICODEMUS==

142:6.1 One evening at the [[home]] of Flavius there came to see [[Jesus]] one [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], a [[wealthy]] and elderly member of the Jewish [[Sanhedrin]]. He had heard much about the teachings of this [[Galilean]], and so he went one afternoon to hear him as he taught in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple courts]. He would have gone often to hear [[Jesus]] teach, but he [[fear]]ed to be seen by the people in attendance upon his teaching, for already were the rulers of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] so at [[Opposition|variance]] with [[Jesus]] that no member of the [[Sanhedrin]] would want to be identified in any open [[manner]] with him. Accordingly, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] had arranged with [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] to see [[Jesus]] [[private]]ly and after nightfall on this particular evening. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James]], and [[John, the Apostle|John]] were in Flavius's [[garden]] when the interview began, but later they all went into the house where the [[discourse]] continued.

142:6.1 One evening at the [[home]] of Flavius there came to see [[Jesus]] one [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], a [[wealthy]] and elderly member of the Jewish [[Sanhedrin]]. He had heard much about the teachings of this [[Galilean]], and so he went one afternoon to hear him as he taught in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple temple courts]. He would have gone often to hear [[Jesus]] teach, but he [[fear]]ed to be seen by the people in attendance upon his teaching, for already were the rulers of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] so at [[Opposition|variance]] with [[Jesus]] that no member of the [[Sanhedrin]] would want to be identified in any open [[manner]] with him. Accordingly, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] had arranged with [[Andrew, the Apostle|Andrew]] to see [[Jesus]] [[private]]ly and after nightfall on this particular evening. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James]], and [[John, the Apostle|John]] were in Flavius's [[garden]] when the interview began, but later they all went into the house where the [[discourse]] continued.

142:6.2 In receiving [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nidodemus Nicodemus], [[Jesus]] showed no particular [[Favor|deference]]; in talking with him, there was no [[compromise]] or undue persuasiveness. [[The Master]] made no attempt to repulse his [[secret]]ive caller, nor did he employ [[sarcasm]]. In all his dealings with the distinguished [[visitor]], [[Jesus]] was calm, [[earnest]], and [[dignified]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was not an official [[delegate]] of the [[Sanhedrin]]; he came to see [[Jesus]] wholly because of his [[personal]] and [[sincere]] interest in [[the Master]]'s teachings.

142:6.2 In receiving [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nidodemus Nicodemus], [[Jesus]] showed no particular [[Favor|deference]]; in talking with him, there was no [[compromise]] or undue persuasiveness. [[The Master]] made no attempt to repulse his [[secret]]ive caller, nor did he employ [[sarcasm]]. In all his dealings with the distinguished [[visitor]], [[Jesus]] was calm, [[earnest]], and [[dignified]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was not an official [[delegate]] of the [[Sanhedrin]]; he came to see [[Jesus]] wholly because of his [[personal]] and [[sincere]] interest in [[the Master]]'s teachings.

142:6.3 Upon being presented by Flavius, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] said: " [[Rabbi]], we know that you are a teacher sent by [[God]], for no mere man could so teach unless God were with him. And I am desirous of knowing more about your teachings regarding the coming [[The Kingdom|kingdom]]. "

142:6.3 Upon being presented by Flavius, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] said: " [[Rabbi]], we know that you are a teacher sent by [[God]], for no mere man could so teach unless God were with him. And I am desirous of knowing more about your teachings regarding the coming [[The Kingdom|kingdom]]. "

142:6.4 [[Jesus]] answered [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus]: " Verily, verily, I say to you, Nicodemus, except a man be [[born]] from above, he cannot see [[the kingdom]] of God. " Then replied [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus]: " But how can a man be [[born]] again when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his [[mother]]'s [[womb]] to be born. "

142:6.4 [[Jesus]] answered [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus]: " Verily, verily, I say to you, Nicodemus, except a man be [[born]] from above, he cannot see [[the kingdom]] of God. " Then replied [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus]: " But how can a man be [[born]] again when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his [[mother]]'s [[womb]] to be born. "

142:6.5 [[Jesus]] said: " Nevertheless, I [[declare]] to you, except a man be [[born]] of the [[spirit]], he cannot enter into [[the kingdom]] of God. That which is [[born]] of the flesh is [[flesh]], and that which is born of the [[spirit]] is spirit. But you should not [[marvel]] that I said you must be [[born]] from above. When the [[wind]] blows, you [[hear]] the rustle of the leaves, but you do not see the wind—whence it comes or whither it goes—and so it is with everyone [[born]] of the [[spirit]]. With the eyes of the [[flesh]] you can behold the [[manifestations]] of the [[spirit]], but you cannot actually [[discern]] the spirit. "

142:6.5 [[Jesus]] said: " Nevertheless, I [[declare]] to you, except a man be [[born]] of the [[spirit]], he cannot enter into [[the kingdom]] of God. That which is [[born]] of the flesh is [[flesh]], and that which is born of the [[spirit]] is spirit. But you should not [[marvel]] that I said you must be [[born]] from above. When the [[wind]] blows, you [[hear]] the rustle of the leaves, but you do not see the wind—whence it comes or whither it goes—and so it is with everyone [[born]] of the [[spirit]]. With the eyes of the [[flesh]] you can behold the [[manifestations]] of the [[spirit]], but you cannot actually [[discern]] the spirit. "

142:6.6 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] replied: " But I do not [[understand]]—how can that be? " Said [[Jesus]]: " Can it be that you are a [[teacher]] in [[Israel]] and yet [[ignorant]] of all this? It becomes, then, the [[duty]] of those who know about the [[realities]] of the [[spirit]] to [[reveal]] these things to those who [[discern]] only the [[manifestations]] of the [[material]] world. But will you [[believe]] us if we tell you of the heavenly [[truths]]? Do you have the [[courage]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], to [[believe]] in one who has [[descended]] from [[heaven]], even the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]? "

142:6.6 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] replied: " But I do not [[understand]]—how can that be? " Said [[Jesus]]: " Can it be that you are a [[teacher]] in [[Israel]] and yet [[ignorant]] of all this? It becomes, then, the [[duty]] of those who know about the [[realities]] of the [[spirit]] to [[reveal]] these things to those who [[discern]] only the [[manifestations]] of the [[material]] world. But will you [[believe]] us if we tell you of the heavenly [[truths]]? Do you have the [[courage]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus], to [[believe]] in one who has [[descended]] from [[heaven]], even the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]? "

142:6.7 And [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] said: " But how can I begin to lay hold upon this [[spirit]] which is to remake me in [[preparation]] for entering into [[the kingdom]]? " [[Jesus]] answered: " Already does [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit]] of [[the Father]] in heaven indwell you. If you would be [[led]] by this [[spirit]] from above, very soon would you begin to see with the eyes of [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit]], and then by the wholehearted [[choice]] of [[spirit]] [[guidance]] would you be [[born]] of the [[spirit]] since your only [[purpose]] in living would be to [[do the will of your Father]] who is in [[heaven]]. And so finding yourself [[born]] of the [[spirit]] and [[happily]] in [[the kingdom]] of God, you would begin to bear in your daily life the [[abundant]] [[fruits of the spirit]]. "

142:6.7 And [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] said: " But how can I begin to lay hold upon this [[spirit]] which is to remake me in [[preparation]] for entering into [[the kingdom]]? " [[Jesus]] answered: " Already does [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit]] of [[the Father]] in heaven indwell you. If you would be [[led]] by this [[spirit]] from above, very soon would you begin to see with the eyes of [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit]], and then by the wholehearted [[choice]] of [[spirit]] [[guidance]] would you be [[born]] of the [[spirit]] since your only [[purpose]] in living would be to [[do the will of your Father]] who is in [[heaven]]. And so finding yourself [[born]] of the [[spirit]] and [[happily]] in [[the kingdom]] of God, you would begin to bear in your daily life the [[abundant]] [[fruits of the spirit]]. "

142:6.8 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was thoroughly [[sincere]]. He was deeply impressed but went away bewildered. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was accomplished in [[self]]-[[development]], in self-restraint, and even in high [[moral]] [[qualities]]. He was refined, [[egoistic]], and [[altruistic]]; but he did not know how to [[Doing the will of God|submit his will to the will of the divine Father]] as a little [[child]] is willing to submit to the [[guidance]] and [[leading]] of a [[wise]] and loving [[earthly]] [[father]], thereby becoming in [[reality]] a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God], a [[progressive]] heir of the [[eternal]] kingdom.

142:6.8 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was thoroughly [[sincere]]. He was deeply impressed but went away bewildered. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] was accomplished in [[self]]-[[development]], in self-restraint, and even in high [[moral]] [[qualities]]. He was refined, [[egoistic]], and [[altruistic]]; but he did not know how to [[Doing the will of God|submit his will to the will of the divine Father]] as a little [[child]] is willing to submit to the [[guidance]] and [[leading]] of a [[wise]] and loving [[earthly]] [[father]], thereby becoming in [[reality]] a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God], a [[progressive]] heir of the [[eternal]] kingdom.

142:6.9 But [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] did summon [[faith]] enough to lay hold of [[the kingdom]]. He faintly [[protested]] when his [[colleagues]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] sought to [[condemn]] [[Jesus]] without a hearing; and with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_of_Arimathea Joseph of Arimathea], he later boldly acknowledged his [[faith]] and claimed the [[body]] of [[Jesus]], even when most of the [[disciples]] had fled in [[fear]] from the scenes of [[the Master|their Master]]'s [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_186 final suffering] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_187 death].

142:6.9 But [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] did summon [[faith]] enough to lay hold of [[the kingdom]]. He faintly [[protested]] when his [[colleagues]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] sought to [[condemn]] [[Jesus]] without a hearing; and with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_of_Arimathea Joseph of Arimathea], he later boldly acknowledged his [[faith]] and claimed the [[body]] of [[Jesus]], even when most of the [[disciples]] had fled in [[fear]] from the scenes of [[the Master|their Master]]'s [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_186 final suffering] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_187 death].

==142:7. THE LESSON ON THE FAMILY==

==142:7. THE LESSON ON THE FAMILY==

142:7.1 After the [[busy]] period of teaching and [[personal]] [[work]] of [[Passover]] week in [[Jerusalem]], [[Jesus]] spent the next Wednesday at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] with his [[apostles]], [[resting]]. That afternoon, [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] asked a question which elicited a long and instructive answer. Said Thomas: " Master, on the day we were set apart as [[ambassadors]] of [[the kingdom]], you told us many things, instructed us regarding our [[personal]] mode of life, but what shall we teach the [[multitude]]? How are these people to live after [[the kingdom]] more fully comes? Shall your [[disciples]] own [[slaves]]? Shall your believers court [[poverty]] and shun [[property]]? Shall [[mercy]] alone prevail so that we shall have no more [[law]] and [[justice]]? " [[Jesus]] and [[the twelve]] spent all afternoon and all that evening, after supper, discussing [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]]'s questions. For the [[purposes]] of this [[record]] we present the following summary of [[the Master]]'s instruction:

142:7.1 After the [[busy]] period of teaching and [[personal]] [[work]] of [[Passover]] week in [[Jerusalem]], [[Jesus]] spent the next Wednesday at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] with his [[apostles]], [[resting]]. That afternoon, [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] asked a question which elicited a long and instructive answer. Said Thomas: " Master, on the day we were set apart as [[ambassadors]] of [[the kingdom]], you told us many things, instructed us regarding our [[personal]] mode of life, but what shall we teach the [[multitude]]? How are these people to live after [[the kingdom]] more fully comes? Shall your [[disciples]] own [[slaves]]? Shall your believers court [[poverty]] and shun [[property]]? Shall [[mercy]] alone prevail so that we shall have no more [[law]] and [[justice]]? " [[Jesus]] and [[the twelve]] spent all afternoon and all that evening, after supper, discussing [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]]'s questions. For the [[purposes]] of this [[record]] we present the following summary of [[the Master]]'s instruction:

142:7.2 [[Jesus]] sought first to make plain to his [[apostles]] that he himself was on [[earth]] living a [[unique]] life in the [[flesh]], and that they, [[the twelve]], had been called to [[participate]] in this [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 bestowal experience] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]; and as such coworkers, they, too, must [[share]] in many of the special restrictions and [[obligations]] of the entire [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21#21:4._THE_MICHAEL_BESTOWALS bestowal experience]. There was a veiled intimation that the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] was the only person who had ever lived on [[earth]] who could [[simultaneously]] see into the very [[heart]] of [[God]] and into the very depths of man's [[soul]].

142:7.2 [[Jesus]] sought first to make plain to his [[apostles]] that he himself was on [[earth]] living a [[unique]] life in the [[flesh]], and that they, [[the twelve]], had been called to [[participate]] in this [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 bestowal experience] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man]; and as such coworkers, they, too, must [[share]] in many of the special restrictions and [[obligations]] of the entire [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_21#21:4._THE_MICHAEL_BESTOWALS bestowal experience]. There was a veiled intimation that the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] was the only person who had ever lived on [[earth]] who could [[simultaneously]] see into the very [[heart]] of [[God]] and into the very depths of man's [[soul]].

142:7.3 Very plainly [[Jesus]] explained that [[the kingdom]] of heaven was an [[evolutionary]] [[experience]], beginning here on [[earth]] and [[progressing]] up through [[successive]] life stations to [[Paradise]]. In the [[course]] of the evening he definitely stated that at some [[future]] stage of kingdom [[development]] he would revisit this world in [[spiritual]] [[power]] and [[divine]] [[glory]].

142:7.3 Very plainly [[Jesus]] explained that [[the kingdom]] of heaven was an [[evolutionary]] [[experience]], beginning here on [[earth]] and [[progressing]] up through [[successive]] life stations to [[Paradise]]. In the [[course]] of the evening he definitely stated that at some [[future]] stage of kingdom [[development]] he would revisit this world in [[spiritual]] [[power]] and [[divine]] [[glory]].

142:7.4 He next [[explained]] that the " kingdom idea " was not the best way to [[illustrate]] man's [[relation]] to [[God]]; that he employed such [[figures of speech]] because the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish people] were [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism expecting the kingdom], and because [[John the Baptist|John]] had [[preached]] in terms of the coming kingdom. [[Jesus]] said: " The people of another age will better [[understand]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] when it is presented in terms [[expressive]] of the [[family]] [[relationship]]—when man understands [[religion]] as the teaching of the [[fatherhood]] of [[God]] and the brotherhood of man, sonship with God. " Then [[the Master]] [[discoursed]] at some length on the earthly [[family]] as an [[illustration]] of the heavenly family, restating the two [[fundamental]] [[laws]] of living: the first commandment of [[love]] for [[the father]], the head of the [[family]], and the second commandment of [[mutual]] [[love]] among the [[children]], to love your brother as yourself. And then he [[explained]] that such a [[quality]] of brotherly [[affection]] would invariably [[manifest]] itself in [[unselfish]] and loving [[social]] [[service]].

142:7.4 He next [[explained]] that the " kingdom idea " was not the best way to [[illustrate]] man's [[relation]] to [[God]]; that he employed such [[figures of speech]] because the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish people] were [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Messianism expecting the kingdom], and because [[John the Baptist|John]] had [[preached]] in terms of the coming kingdom. [[Jesus]] said: " The people of another age will better [[understand]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] when it is presented in terms [[expressive]] of the [[family]] [[relationship]]—when man understands [[religion]] as the teaching of the [[fatherhood]] of [[God]] and the brotherhood of man, sonship with God. " Then [[the Master]] [[discoursed]] at some length on the earthly [[family]] as an [[illustration]] of the heavenly family, restating the two [[fundamental]] [[laws]] of living: the first commandment of [[love]] for [[the father]], the head of the [[family]], and the second commandment of [[mutual]] [[love]] among the [[children]], to love your brother as yourself. And then he [[explained]] that such a [[quality]] of brotherly [[affection]] would invariably [[manifest]] itself in [[unselfish]] and loving [[social]] [[service]].

142:7.5 Following that, came the memorable [[discussion]] of the [[fundamental]] characteristics of [[family]] life and their application to the [[relationship]] existing between [[God]] and [[man]]. [[Jesus]] stated that a true [[family]] is founded on the following [[seven]] [[facts]]:

142:7.5 Following that, came the memorable [[discussion]] of the [[fundamental]] characteristics of [[family]] life and their application to the [[relationship]] existing between [[God]] and [[man]]. [[Jesus]] stated that a true [[family]] is founded on the following [[seven]] [[facts]]:

*7. 142:7.12 ''Provision for the future''. [[Temporal]] [[fathers]] like to leave an inheritance for their sons. The [[family]] continues from one [[generation]] to another. [[Death]] only ends one [[generation]] to mark the beginning of another. Death terminates an [[individual]] life but not necessarily the [[family]].

*7. 142:7.12 ''Provision for the future''. [[Temporal]] [[fathers]] like to leave an inheritance for their sons. The [[family]] continues from one [[generation]] to another. [[Death]] only ends one [[generation]] to mark the beginning of another. Death terminates an [[individual]] life but not necessarily the [[family]].

142:7.13 For hours [[the Master]] [[discussed]] the application of these features of [[family]] life to the [[relations]] of man, the [[earth]] child, to [[God]], the [[Paradise Father]]. And this was his conclusion: " This entire [[relationship]] of a son to [[the Father]], I know in [[perfection]], for all that you must [[attain]] of sonship in the eternal [[future]] I have now already [[attained]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] is [[prepared]] to [[ascend]] to the right hand of [[the Father]], so that in me is the way now open still wider for all of you to see [[God]] and, ere you have finished the [[glorious]] [[progression]], to become [[perfect]], even as your Father in heaven is perfect. "

142:7.13 For hours [[the Master]] [[discussed]] the application of these features of [[family]] life to the [[relations]] of man, the [[earth]] child, to [[God]], the [[Paradise Father]]. And this was his conclusion: " This entire [[relationship]] of a son to [[the Father]], I know in [[perfection]], for all that you must [[attain]] of sonship in the eternal [[future]] I have now already [[attained]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] is [[prepared]] to [[ascend]] to the right hand of [[the Father]], so that in me is the way now open still wider for all of you to see [[God]] and, ere you have finished the [[glorious]] [[progression]], to become [[perfect]], even as your Father in heaven is perfect. "

142:7.14 When [[the apostles]] heard these startling [[words]], they recalled the pronouncements which [[John the Baptist|John]] made at the [[time]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_136#136:2._THE_BAPTISM_OF_JESUS Jesus' baptism], and they also vividly recalled this [[experience]] in [[connection]] with their [[preaching]] and teaching subsequent to [[the Master[['s [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_187 death] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_189 resurrection].

142:7.14 When [[the apostles]] heard these startling [[words]], they recalled the pronouncements which [[John the Baptist|John]] made at the [[time]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_136#136:2._THE_BAPTISM_OF_JESUS Jesus' baptism], and they also vividly recalled this [[experience]] in [[connection]] with their [[preaching]] and teaching subsequent to [[the Master[['s [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_187 death] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_189 resurrection].

==142:8. IN SOUTHERN JUDEA==

==142:8. IN SOUTHERN JUDEA==

142:8.1 By the end of April the [[opposition]] to [[Jesus]] among the [[Pharisees]] and [[Sadducees]] had become so pronounced that [[the Master]] and his [[apostles]] [[decided]] to leave [[Jerusalem]] for a while, going south to work in [[Bethlehem]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebron Hebron]. The entire month of May was spent in doing [[personal]] work in these [[cities]] and among the people of the surrounding villages. No [[public]] [[preaching]] was done on this trip, only house-to-house [[visitation]]. A part of this time, while [[the apostles]] taught the [[gospel]] and ministered to the sick, [[Jesus]] and [[Abner]] spent at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ein_Gedi Engedi], visiting the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazarite Nazarite] colony. [[John the Baptist]] had gone forth from this place, and [[Abner]] had been head of this [[group]]. Many of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazarite Nazarite] brotherhood became believers in [[Jesus]], but the [[majority]] of these [[ascetic]] and eccentric men refused to [[accept]] him as a [[teacher]] sent from [[heaven]] because he did not teach [[fasting]] and other forms of self-denial.

142:8.1 By the end of April the [[opposition]] to [[Jesus]] among the [[Pharisees]] and [[Sadducees]] had become so pronounced that [[the Master]] and his [[apostles]] [[decided]] to leave [[Jerusalem]] for a while, going south to work in [[Bethlehem]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebron Hebron]. The entire month of May was spent in doing [[personal]] work in these [[cities]] and among the people of the surrounding villages. No [[public]] [[preaching]] was done on this trip, only house-to-house [[visitation]]. A part of this time, while [[the apostles]] taught the [[gospel]] and ministered to the sick, [[Jesus]] and [[Abner]] spent at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ein_Gedi Engedi], visiting the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazarite Nazarite] colony. [[John the Baptist]] had gone forth from this place, and [[Abner]] had been head of this [[group]]. Many of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazarite Nazarite] brotherhood became believers in [[Jesus]], but the [[majority]] of these [[ascetic]] and eccentric men refused to [[accept]] him as a [[teacher]] sent from [[heaven]] because he did not teach [[fasting]] and other forms of self-denial.

142:8.2 The people living in this region did not know that [[Jesus]] had been [[born]] in [[Bethlehem]]. They always supposed [[the Master]] had been born at [[Nazareth]], as did the vast [[majority]] of his [[disciples]], but [[the twelve]] knew the [[facts]].

142:8.2 The people living in this region did not know that [[Jesus]] had been [[born]] in [[Bethlehem]]. They always supposed [[the Master]] had been born at [[Nazareth]], as did the vast [[majority]] of his [[disciples]], but [[the twelve]] knew the [[facts]].

142:8.3 This [[sojourn]] in the south of [[Judea]] was a [[restful]] and fruitful [[season]] of [[labor]]; many [[souls]] were added to [[the kingdom]]. By the first days of June the [[agitation]] against [[Jesus]] had so [[quieted]] down in [[Jerusalem]] that [[the Master]] and [[the apostles]] returned to instruct and [[comfort]] believers.

142:8.3 This [[sojourn]] in the south of [[Judea]] was a [[restful]] and fruitful [[season]] of [[labor]]; many [[souls]] were added to [[the kingdom]]. By the first days of June the [[agitation]] against [[Jesus]] had so [[quieted]] down in [[Jerusalem]] that [[the Master]] and [[the apostles]] returned to instruct and [[comfort]] believers.

142:8.4 Although [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] spent the entire month of June in or near [[Jerusalem]], they did no [[public]] teaching during this period. They lived for the most part in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tents tents], which they pitched in a shaded park, or [[garden]], known in that day as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane]. This park was situated on the western slope of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] not far from the brook [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kidron_Valley Kidron]. The [[Sabbath]] week ends they usually spent with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. [[Jesus]] entered within the walls of [[Jerusalem]] only a few times, but a large number of interested [[inquirers]] came out to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to [[visit]] with him. One Friday evening [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] and one [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_of_Arimathea Joseph of Arimathea] ventured out to see [[Jesus]] but turned back through [[fear]] even after they were standing before the entrance to [[the Master]]'s tent. And, of [[course]], they did not [[perceive]] that [[Jesus]] knew all about their doings.

142:8.4 Although [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]] spent the entire month of June in or near [[Jerusalem]], they did no [[public]] teaching during this period. They lived for the most part in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tents tents], which they pitched in a shaded park, or [[garden]], known in that day as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane]. This park was situated on the western slope of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] not far from the brook [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kidron_Valley Kidron]. The [[Sabbath]] week ends they usually spent with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and his sisters at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. [[Jesus]] entered within the walls of [[Jerusalem]] only a few times, but a large number of interested [[inquirers]] came out to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane Gethsemane] to [[visit]] with him. One Friday evening [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] and one [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_of_Arimathea Joseph of Arimathea] ventured out to see [[Jesus]] but turned back through [[fear]] even after they were standing before the entrance to [[the Master]]'s tent. And, of [[course]], they did not [[perceive]] that [[Jesus]] knew all about their doings.

142:8.5 When the [[Sanhedrin|rulers of the Jews]] learned that [[Jesus]] had returned to [[Jerusalem]], they [[prepared]] to [[arrest]] him; but when they [[observed]] that he did no [[public]] [[preaching]], they concluded that he had become frightened by their previous [[agitation]] and decided to allow him to carry on his teaching in this [[private]] manner without further molestation. And thus affairs moved along [[quietly]] until the last days of June, when one Simon, a member of the [[Sanhedrin]], [[public]]ly espoused the teachings of [[Jesus]], after so declaring himself before the [[rulers of the Jews]]. [[Immediately]] a new [[agitation]] for [[Jesus]]' apprehension sprang up and grew so strong that [[the Master]] decided to retire into the cities of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria] and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis].

142:8.5 When the [[Sanhedrin|rulers of the Jews]] learned that [[Jesus]] had returned to [[Jerusalem]], they [[prepared]] to [[arrest]] him; but when they [[observed]] that he did no [[public]] [[preaching]], they concluded that he had become frightened by their previous [[agitation]] and decided to allow him to carry on his teaching in this [[private]] manner without further molestation. And thus affairs moved along [[quietly]] until the last days of June, when one Simon, a member of the [[Sanhedrin]], [[public]]ly espoused the teachings of [[Jesus]], after so declaring himself before the [[rulers of the Jews]]. [[Immediately]] a new [[agitation]] for [[Jesus]]' apprehension sprang up and grew so strong that [[the Master]] decided to retire into the cities of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis].

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