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==PAPER 159: THE DECAPOLIS TOUR==

==PAPER 159: THE DECAPOLIS TOUR==

159:0.1 When [[Jesus]] and [[the twelve]] arrived at [http://urantiabook.org/jesus_photos/feeding-five-thousand.html Magadan Park], they found awaiting them a [[group]] of almost one hundred [[evangelists]] and [[disciples]], including the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS women's corps], and they were ready [[immediately]] to begin the [[teaching]] and [[preaching]] tour of the [[cities]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis].

159:0.1 When [[Jesus]] and [[the twelve]] arrived at [https://urantiabook.org/jesus_photos/feeding-five-thousand.html Magadan Park], they found awaiting them a [[group]] of almost one hundred [[evangelists]] and [[disciples]], including the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS women's corps], and they were ready [[immediately]] to begin the [[teaching]] and [[preaching]] tour of the [[cities]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis].

159:0.2 On this Thursday morning, August 18, [[the Master]] called his followers [[together]] and directed that each of [[the apostles]] should [[associate]] himself with one of the twelve [[evangelists]], and that with others of the evangelists they should go out in [[twelve]] [[groups]] to labor in the [[cities]] and villages of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis]. The [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS women's corps] and others of the [[disciples]] he directed to remain with him. [[Jesus]] allotted four weeks to this [[tour]], instructing his followers to return to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magadan] not later than Friday, September 16. He [[promised]] to [[visit]] them often during this time. In the [[course]] of this month these [[twelve]] [[groups]] labored in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerasa Gerasa], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamala Gamala], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zaphon Zaphon], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gadara Gadara], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abila_(Decapolis) Abila], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edrei Edrei], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heshbon Heshbon], Dium, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis], and many other [[cities]]. Throughout this [[tour]] no [[miracles]] of [[healing]] or other extraordinary [[events]] occurred.

159:0.2 On this Thursday morning, August 18, [[the Master]] called his followers [[together]] and directed that each of [[the apostles]] should [[associate]] himself with one of the twelve [[evangelists]], and that with others of the evangelists they should go out in [[twelve]] [[groups]] to labor in the [[cities]] and villages of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis]. The [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_150#150:1._THE_WOMEN.27S_EVANGELISTIC_CORPS women's corps] and others of the [[disciples]] he directed to remain with him. [[Jesus]] allotted four weeks to this [[tour]], instructing his followers to return to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magadan] not later than Friday, September 16. He [[promised]] to [[visit]] them often during this time. In the [[course]] of this month these [[twelve]] [[groups]] labored in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerasa Gerasa], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamala Gamala], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zaphon Zaphon], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gadara Gadara], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abila_(Decapolis) Abila], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edrei Edrei], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heshbon Heshbon], Dium, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis], and many other [[cities]]. Throughout this [[tour]] no [[miracles]] of [[healing]] or other extraordinary [[events]] occurred.

==159:1. THE SERMON ON FORGIVENESS==

==159:1. THE SERMON ON FORGIVENESS==

159:1.1 One evening at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], in answer to a [[disciple]]'s [[question]], [[Jesus]] taught the lesson on [[forgiveness]]. Said [[the Master]]:

159:1.1 One evening at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], in answer to a [[disciple]]'s [[question]], [[Jesus]] taught the lesson on [[forgiveness]]. Said [[the Master]]:

159:1.2 " If a kindhearted man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, does he not [[immediately]] leave the ninety and nine and go out in search of the one that has gone astray? And if he is a [[good]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepherd shepherd], will he not keep up his [[quest]] for the lost sheep until he finds it? And then, when the shepherd has found his lost sheep, he lays it over his shoulder and, going home [[rejoicing]], calls to his [[friends]] and [[neighbors]], `Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' I [[declare]] that there is more [[joy]] in [[heaven]] over one [[sinner]] who [[repents]] than over ninety and nine [[righteous]] [[persons]] who need no repentance.[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_15] Even so, it is not the will of [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven that one of these little ones should go astray, much less that they should perish. In your [[religion]] [[God]] may [[receive]] [[repentant]] sinners; in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] [[the Father]] goes forth to find them even before they have seriously [[thought]] of [[repentance]].

159:1.2 " If a kindhearted man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, does he not [[immediately]] leave the ninety and nine and go out in search of the one that has gone astray? And if he is a [[good]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepherd shepherd], will he not keep up his [[quest]] for the lost sheep until he finds it? And then, when the shepherd has found his lost sheep, he lays it over his shoulder and, going home [[rejoicing]], calls to his [[friends]] and [[neighbors]], `Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' I [[declare]] that there is more [[joy]] in [[heaven]] over one [[sinner]] who [[repents]] than over ninety and nine [[righteous]] [[persons]] who need no repentance.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_15] Even so, it is not the will of [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven that one of these little ones should go astray, much less that they should perish. In your [[religion]] [[God]] may [[receive]] [[repentant]] sinners; in the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] [[the Father]] goes forth to find them even before they have seriously [[thought]] of [[repentance]].

159:1.3 " [[The Father]] in heaven [[loves]] his [[children]], and therefore should you learn to [[love]] one another; [[the Father]] in heaven [[forgives]] you your [[sins]]; therefore should you learn to [[forgive]] one another. If your brother sins against you, go to him and with tact and [[patience]] show him his [[fault]]. And do all this between you and him [[Private|alone]]. If he will [[listen]] to you, then have you won your [[brother]]. But if your brother will not hear you, if he [[persists]] in the [[error]] of his way, go again to him, taking with you one or two [[mutual]] [[friends]] that you may thus have [[two]] or even [[three]] [[witnesses]] to [[confirm]] your [[testimony]] and [[establish]] the [[fact]] that you have dealt justly and [[mercifully]] with your [[offend]]ing [[brother]]. Now if he refuses to hear your brethren, you may tell the [[whole]] [[story]] to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_church congregation], and then, if he refuses to hear the brotherhood, let them take such [[action]] as they deem [[wise]]; let such an unruly member become an [[Exile|outcast]] from [[the kingdom]]. While you cannot pretend to sit in [[judgment]] on the [[souls]] of your fellows, and while you may not [[forgive]] [[sins]] or otherwise presume to [[usurp]] the [[prerogatives]] of [[Ancients of Days|the supervisors]] of the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 heavenly hosts], at the same time, it has been [[committed]] to your hands that you should maintain [[temporal]] order in [[the kingdom]] on [[earth]]. While you may not meddle with the [[divine]] [[decrees]] concerning [[eternal]] life, you shall determine the issues of [[conduct]] as they concern the [[temporal]] welfare of the brotherhood on [[earth]]. And so, in all these matters [[connected]] with the [[discipline]] of the brotherhood, whatsoever you shall [[decree]] on [[earth]], shall be recognized in [[heaven]]. Although you cannot determine the [[eternal]] [[fate]] of the [[individual]], you may [[legislate]] regarding the [[conduct]] of the [[group]], for, where [[two]] or [[three]] of you [[agree]] concerning any of these [[things]] and ask of me, it shall be done for you if your [[petition]] is not inconsistent with the will of [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven. And all this is ever true, for, where two or three believers are gathered [[together]], there am I in the midst of them. "

159:1.3 " [[The Father]] in heaven [[loves]] his [[children]], and therefore should you learn to [[love]] one another; [[the Father]] in heaven [[forgives]] you your [[sins]]; therefore should you learn to [[forgive]] one another. If your brother sins against you, go to him and with tact and [[patience]] show him his [[fault]]. And do all this between you and him [[Private|alone]]. If he will [[listen]] to you, then have you won your [[brother]]. But if your brother will not hear you, if he [[persists]] in the [[error]] of his way, go again to him, taking with you one or two [[mutual]] [[friends]] that you may thus have [[two]] or even [[three]] [[witnesses]] to [[confirm]] your [[testimony]] and [[establish]] the [[fact]] that you have dealt justly and [[mercifully]] with your [[offend]]ing [[brother]]. Now if he refuses to hear your brethren, you may tell the [[whole]] [[story]] to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_church congregation], and then, if he refuses to hear the brotherhood, let them take such [[action]] as they deem [[wise]]; let such an unruly member become an [[Exile|outcast]] from [[the kingdom]]. While you cannot pretend to sit in [[judgment]] on the [[souls]] of your fellows, and while you may not [[forgive]] [[sins]] or otherwise presume to [[usurp]] the [[prerogatives]] of [[Ancients of Days|the supervisors]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_39 heavenly hosts], at the same time, it has been [[committed]] to your hands that you should maintain [[temporal]] order in [[the kingdom]] on [[earth]]. While you may not meddle with the [[divine]] [[decrees]] concerning [[eternal]] life, you shall determine the issues of [[conduct]] as they concern the [[temporal]] welfare of the brotherhood on [[earth]]. And so, in all these matters [[connected]] with the [[discipline]] of the brotherhood, whatsoever you shall [[decree]] on [[earth]], shall be recognized in [[heaven]]. Although you cannot determine the [[eternal]] [[fate]] of the [[individual]], you may [[legislate]] regarding the [[conduct]] of the [[group]], for, where [[two]] or [[three]] of you [[agree]] concerning any of these [[things]] and ask of me, it shall be done for you if your [[petition]] is not inconsistent with the will of [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven. And all this is ever true, for, where two or three believers are gathered [[together]], there am I in the midst of them. "

159:1.4 [[Simon Peter]] was the [[apostle]] in charge of the workers at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], and when he heard [[Jesus]] thus speak, he asked: " Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I [[forgive]] him? Until [[seven]] times? " And [[Jesus]] answered [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]: " Not only [[seven]] times but even to seventy times and seven.[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_18] Therefore may [[the kingdom]] of heaven be likened to a certain [[king]] who ordered a [[financial]] reckoning with his stewards. And when they had begun to conduct this [[examination]] of accounts, one of his chief retainers was brought before him [[confessing]] that he owed his king ten thousand talents. Now this officer of the king's [[court]] pleaded that hard times had come upon him, and that he did not have wherewith to pay this [[obligation]]. And so the [[king]] commanded that his [[property]] be confiscated, and that his [[children]] be sold to pay his [[debt]]. When this chief steward heard this stern [[decree]], he fell down on his face before the [[king]] and implored him to have [[mercy]] and grant him more time, saying, `Lord, have a little more [[patience]] with me, and I will pay you all.' And when the [[king]] looked upon this negligent servant and his [[family]], he was moved with [[compassion]]. He ordered that he should be released, and that the loan should be wholly forgiven.

159:1.4 [[Simon Peter]] was the [[apostle]] in charge of the workers at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippos Hippos], and when he heard [[Jesus]] thus speak, he asked: " Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I [[forgive]] him? Until [[seven]] times? " And [[Jesus]] answered [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]: " Not only [[seven]] times but even to seventy times and seven.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_18] Therefore may [[the kingdom]] of heaven be likened to a certain [[king]] who ordered a [[financial]] reckoning with his stewards. And when they had begun to conduct this [[examination]] of accounts, one of his chief retainers was brought before him [[confessing]] that he owed his king ten thousand talents. Now this officer of the king's [[court]] pleaded that hard times had come upon him, and that he did not have wherewith to pay this [[obligation]]. And so the [[king]] commanded that his [[property]] be confiscated, and that his [[children]] be sold to pay his [[debt]]. When this chief steward heard this stern [[decree]], he fell down on his face before the [[king]] and implored him to have [[mercy]] and grant him more time, saying, `Lord, have a little more [[patience]] with me, and I will pay you all.' And when the [[king]] looked upon this negligent servant and his [[family]], he was moved with [[compassion]]. He ordered that he should be released, and that the loan should be wholly forgiven.

159:1.5 " And this chief steward, having thus received [[mercy]] and [[forgiveness]] at the hands of the [[king]], went about his [[business]], and finding one of his subordinate stewards who owed him a mere hundred [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denarii denarii], he laid hold upon him and, taking him by the throat, said, `Pay me all you owe.' And then did this fellow steward fall down before the chief steward and, beseeching him, said: `Only have [[patience]] with me, and I will presently be able to pay you.' But the chief steward would not show [[mercy]] to his fellow steward but rather had him cast in [[prison]] until he should pay his [[debt]]. When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were so distressed that they went and told their lord and master, the [[king]]. When the king heard of the [[doings]] of his chief steward, he called this ungrateful and unforgiving man before him and said: `You are a [[wicked]] and unworthy steward. When you sought for [[compassion]], I freely [[forgave]] you your entire [[debt]]. Why did you not also show [[mercy]] to your fellow steward, even as I showed [[mercy]] to you?' And the [[king]] was so very angry that he delivered his ungrateful chief steward to the jailers that they might hold him until he had paid all that was due. And even so shall my [[Universal Father|heavenly Father]] show the more [[abundant]] [[mercy]] to those who freely show [[mercy]] to their fellows. How can you come to [[God]] asking [[consideration]] for your shortcomings when you are wont to [[chastise]] your brethren for being [[guilty]] of these same [[human]] frailties? I say to all of you: Freely you have [[received]] the [[good]] things of [[the kingdom]]; therefore freely give to your fellows on [[earth]]. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_18]

159:1.5 " And this chief steward, having thus received [[mercy]] and [[forgiveness]] at the hands of the [[king]], went about his [[business]], and finding one of his subordinate stewards who owed him a mere hundred [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denarii denarii], he laid hold upon him and, taking him by the throat, said, `Pay me all you owe.' And then did this fellow steward fall down before the chief steward and, beseeching him, said: `Only have [[patience]] with me, and I will presently be able to pay you.' But the chief steward would not show [[mercy]] to his fellow steward but rather had him cast in [[prison]] until he should pay his [[debt]]. When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were so distressed that they went and told their lord and master, the [[king]]. When the king heard of the [[doings]] of his chief steward, he called this ungrateful and unforgiving man before him and said: `You are a [[wicked]] and unworthy steward. When you sought for [[compassion]], I freely [[forgave]] you your entire [[debt]]. Why did you not also show [[mercy]] to your fellow steward, even as I showed [[mercy]] to you?' And the [[king]] was so very angry that he delivered his ungrateful chief steward to the jailers that they might hold him until he had paid all that was due. And even so shall my [[Universal Father|heavenly Father]] show the more [[abundant]] [[mercy]] to those who freely show [[mercy]] to their fellows. How can you come to [[God]] asking [[consideration]] for your shortcomings when you are wont to [[chastise]] your brethren for being [[guilty]] of these same [[human]] frailties? I say to all of you: Freely you have [[received]] the [[good]] things of [[the kingdom]]; therefore freely give to your fellows on [[earth]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Matthew#Chapter_18]

159:1.6 Thus did [[Jesus]] teach the [[dangers]] and [[illustrate]] the unfairness of sitting in [[personal]] [[judgment]] upon one's fellows. [[Discipline]] must be [[maintained]], [[justice]] must be [[administered]], but in all these matters the [[wisdom]] of the brotherhood should prevail. [[Jesus]] invested [[legislative]] and [[judicial]] [[authority]] in the [[group]], not in the [[individual]]. Even this investment of [[authority]] in the [[group]] must not be exercised as [[personal]] [[authority]]. There is always [[danger]] that the [[verdict]] of an [[individual]] may be warped by [[prejudice]] or distorted by [[passion]]. [[Group]] [[judgment]] is more likely to remove the [[dangers]] and eliminate the unfairness of [[personal]] bias. [[Jesus]] sought always to minimize the elements of unfairness, retaliation, and [[vengeance]].

159:1.6 Thus did [[Jesus]] teach the [[dangers]] and [[illustrate]] the unfairness of sitting in [[personal]] [[judgment]] upon one's fellows. [[Discipline]] must be [[maintained]], [[justice]] must be [[administered]], but in all these matters the [[wisdom]] of the brotherhood should prevail. [[Jesus]] invested [[legislative]] and [[judicial]] [[authority]] in the [[group]], not in the [[individual]]. Even this investment of [[authority]] in the [[group]] must not be exercised as [[personal]] [[authority]]. There is always [[danger]] that the [[verdict]] of an [[individual]] may be warped by [[prejudice]] or distorted by [[passion]]. [[Group]] [[judgment]] is more likely to remove the [[dangers]] and eliminate the unfairness of [[personal]] bias. [[Jesus]] sought always to minimize the elements of unfairness, retaliation, and [[vengeance]].

159:1.7 The use of the term seventy-seven as an [[illustration]] of [[mercy]] and forbearance was derived from the [[Scriptures]] referring to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamech Lamech]'s exultation because of the metal weapons of his son [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tubal_Cain Tubal-Cain], who, comparing these superior instruments with those of his [[enemies]], exclaimed: " If [[Cain]], with no weapon in his hand, was avenged [[seven]] times, I shall now be avenged seventy-seven."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.4]

159:1.7 The use of the term seventy-seven as an [[illustration]] of [[mercy]] and forbearance was derived from the [[Scriptures]] referring to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamech Lamech]'s exultation because of the metal weapons of his son [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tubal_Cain Tubal-Cain], who, comparing these superior instruments with those of his [[enemies]], exclaimed: " If [[Cain]], with no weapon in his hand, was avenged [[seven]] times, I shall now be avenged seventy-seven."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.4]

==159:2. THE STRANGE PREACHER==

==159:2. THE STRANGE PREACHER==

159:2.1 [[Jesus]] went over to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamala Gamala] to [[visit]] [[John, the Apostle|John]] and those who worked with him at that place. That evening, after the session of [[questions]] and answers, [[John, the Apostle|John]] said to [[Jesus]]: " Master, yesterday I went over to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashtaroth Ashtaroth] to see a man who was [[teaching]] in your [[name]] and even claiming to be able to cast out [[devils]]. Now this fellow had never been with us, neither does he follow after us; therefore I [[forbade]] him to do such things. " Then said [[Jesus]]: " Forbid him not.[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_9] Do you not [[perceive]] that this [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] shall presently be [[proclaimed]] in all the world? How can you [[expect]] that all who will [[believe]] the [[gospel]] shall be subject to your direction? [[Rejoice]] that already our [[teaching]] has begun to [[manifest]] itself beyond the bounds of our [[personal]] [[influence]]. Do you not see, [[John, the Apostle|John]], that those who profess to do great [[works]] in my [[name]] must [[eventually]] [[support]] our [[cause]]? They certainly will not be quick to [[speak]] [[evil]] of me. My son, in matters of this sort it would be better for you to reckon that he who is not against us is for us. In the [[generations]] to come many who are not wholly [[worthy]] will do many [[strange]] [[things]] in my [[name]], but I will not [[forbid]] them. I tell you that, even when a cup of cold [[water]] is given to a [[thirsty]] [[soul]], [[the Father]]'s [[messengers]] shall ever make [[record]] of such a [[service]] of [[love]]. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Mark#Chapter_9]

159:2.1 [[Jesus]] went over to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamala Gamala] to [[visit]] [[John, the Apostle|John]] and those who worked with him at that place. That evening, after the session of [[questions]] and answers, [[John, the Apostle|John]] said to [[Jesus]]: " Master, yesterday I went over to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashtaroth Ashtaroth] to see a man who was [[teaching]] in your [[name]] and even claiming to be able to cast out [[devils]]. Now this fellow had never been with us, neither does he follow after us; therefore I [[forbade]] him to do such things. " Then said [[Jesus]]: " Forbid him not.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_9] Do you not [[perceive]] that this [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]] shall presently be [[proclaimed]] in all the world? How can you [[expect]] that all who will [[believe]] the [[gospel]] shall be subject to your direction? [[Rejoice]] that already our [[teaching]] has begun to [[manifest]] itself beyond the bounds of our [[personal]] [[influence]]. Do you not see, [[John, the Apostle|John]], that those who profess to do great [[works]] in my [[name]] must [[eventually]] [[support]] our [[cause]]? They certainly will not be quick to [[speak]] [[evil]] of me. My son, in matters of this sort it would be better for you to reckon that he who is not against us is for us. In the [[generations]] to come many who are not wholly [[worthy]] will do many [[strange]] [[things]] in my [[name]], but I will not [[forbid]] them. I tell you that, even when a cup of cold [[water]] is given to a [[thirsty]] [[soul]], [[the Father]]'s [[messengers]] shall ever make [[record]] of such a [[service]] of [[love]]. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Mark#Chapter_9]

159:2.2 This [[instruction]] greatly [[perplexed]] [[John, the Apostle|John]]. Had he not heard [[the Master]] say, " He who is not with me is against me "? And he did not [[perceive]] that in this case [[Jesus]] was referring to [[man]]'s [[personal]] [[relation]] to the [[spiritual]] [[teachings]] of [[the kingdom]], while in the other case [[reference]] was made to the outward and far-flung [[social]] [[relations]] of [[believers]] regarding the questions of [[administrative]] [[control]] and the [[jurisdiction]] of one [[group]] of [[believers]] over the [[work]] of other groups which would [[eventually]] [[compose]] the forthcoming world-wide brotherhood.

159:2.2 This [[instruction]] greatly [[perplexed]] [[John, the Apostle|John]]. Had he not heard [[the Master]] say, " He who is not with me is against me "? And he did not [[perceive]] that in this case [[Jesus]] was referring to [[man]]'s [[personal]] [[relation]] to the [[spiritual]] [[teachings]] of [[the kingdom]], while in the other case [[reference]] was made to the outward and far-flung [[social]] [[relations]] of [[believers]] regarding the questions of [[administrative]] [[control]] and the [[jurisdiction]] of one [[group]] of [[believers]] over the [[work]] of other groups which would [[eventually]] [[compose]] the forthcoming world-wide brotherhood.

159:2.3 But [[John, the Apostle|John]] oftentimes recounted this [[experience]] in [[connection]] with his subsequent [[labors]] in behalf of [[the kingdom]]. Nevertheless, many times did [[the apostles]] take [[offense]] at those who made [[bold]] to [[teach]] in [[the Master]]'s name. To them it always seemed inappropriate that those who had never sat at [[Jesus]]' feet should [[dare]] to [[teach]] in his [[name]].

159:2.3 But [[John, the Apostle|John]] oftentimes recounted this [[experience]] in [[connection]] with his subsequent [[labors]] in behalf of [[the kingdom]]. Nevertheless, many times did [[the apostles]] take [[offense]] at those who made [[bold]] to [[teach]] in [[the Master]]'s name. To them it always seemed inappropriate that those who had never sat at [[Jesus]]' feet should [[dare]] to [[teach]] in his [[name]].

159:2.4 This man whom [[John, the Apostle|John]] [[forbade]] to [[teach]] and [[work]] in [[Jesus]]' name did not heed the [[apostle]]'s [[injunction]]. He went right on with his [[efforts]] and raised up a considerable company of [[believers]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanata Kanata] before going on into [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Mesopotamia Mesopotamia]. This man, Aden, had been led to [[believe]] in [[Jesus]] through the [[testimony]] of the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_151#151:6._THE_KHERESA_LUNATIC demented man whom Jesus healed near Kheresa], and who so [[confidently]] [[believed]] that the supposed [[evil]] spirits which [[the Master]] cast out of him entered the herd of swine and rushed them headlong over the cliff to their [[Death|destruction]].

159:2.4 This man whom [[John, the Apostle|John]] [[forbade]] to [[teach]] and [[work]] in [[Jesus]]' name did not heed the [[apostle]]'s [[injunction]]. He went right on with his [[efforts]] and raised up a considerable company of [[believers]] at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanata Kanata] before going on into [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Mesopotamia Mesopotamia]. This man, Aden, had been led to [[believe]] in [[Jesus]] through the [[testimony]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_151#151:6._THE_KHERESA_LUNATIC demented man whom Jesus healed near Kheresa], and who so [[confidently]] [[believed]] that the supposed [[evil]] spirits which [[the Master]] cast out of him entered the herd of swine and rushed them headlong over the cliff to their [[Death|destruction]].

==159:3. INSTRUCTION FOR TEACHERS AND BELIEVERS==

==159:3. INSTRUCTION FOR TEACHERS AND BELIEVERS==

159:3.1 At [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edrei Edrei], where [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] and his [[associates]] labored, [[Jesus]] spent a day and a night and, in the [[course]] of the evening's [[discussion]], gave [[expression]] to the [[principles]] which should [[guide]] those who [[preach]] [[truth]], and which should activate all who [[teach]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. Summarized and restated in [[modern]] phraseology, [[Jesus]] taught:

159:3.1 At [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edrei Edrei], where [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] and his [[associates]] labored, [[Jesus]] spent a day and a night and, in the [[course]] of the evening's [[discussion]], gave [[expression]] to the [[principles]] which should [[guide]] those who [[preach]] [[truth]], and which should activate all who [[teach]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. Summarized and restated in [[modern]] phraseology, [[Jesus]] taught:

159:3.2 Always [[respect]] the [[personality]] of man. Never should a [[righteous]] [[cause]] be [[promoted]] by [[force]]; [[spiritual]] [[victories]] can be won only by spiritual [[power]]. This [[injunction]] against the employment of [[material]] [[influences]] refers to [[psychic]] [[force]] as well as to [[physical]] force. Overpowering [[arguments]] and [[mental]] superiority are not to be employed to [[coerce]] [[men]] and [[women]] into [[the kingdom]]. Man's [[mind]] is not to be crushed by the mere [[weight]] of [[logic]] or overawed by shrewd [[eloquence]]. While [[emotion]] as a [[factor]] in human [[decisions]] cannot be wholly eliminated, it should not be directly [[appealed]] to in the [[teachings]] of those who would [[advance]] the [[cause]] of [[the kingdom]]. Make your [[appeals]] directly to the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]] that dwells within the [[minds]] of men. Do not [[appeal]] to [[fear]], [[pity]], or mere sentiment. In [[appealing]] to men, be [[fair]]; [[exercise]] [[self]]-[[control]] and [[exhibit]] due [[restraint]]; show proper [[respect]] for the [[personalities]] of your [[pupils]]. Remember that I have said: " Behold, I stand at the door and knock, and if any man will open, I will come in. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Revelation#Chapter_3]

159:3.2 Always [[respect]] the [[personality]] of man. Never should a [[righteous]] [[cause]] be [[promoted]] by [[force]]; [[spiritual]] [[victories]] can be won only by spiritual [[power]]. This [[injunction]] against the employment of [[material]] [[influences]] refers to [[psychic]] [[force]] as well as to [[physical]] force. Overpowering [[arguments]] and [[mental]] superiority are not to be employed to [[coerce]] [[men]] and [[women]] into [[the kingdom]]. Man's [[mind]] is not to be crushed by the mere [[weight]] of [[logic]] or overawed by shrewd [[eloquence]]. While [[emotion]] as a [[factor]] in human [[decisions]] cannot be wholly eliminated, it should not be directly [[appealed]] to in the [[teachings]] of those who would [[advance]] the [[cause]] of [[the kingdom]]. Make your [[appeals]] directly to the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]] that dwells within the [[minds]] of men. Do not [[appeal]] to [[fear]], [[pity]], or mere sentiment. In [[appealing]] to men, be [[fair]]; [[exercise]] [[self]]-[[control]] and [[exhibit]] due [[restraint]]; show proper [[respect]] for the [[personalities]] of your [[pupils]]. Remember that I have said: " Behold, I stand at the door and knock, and if any man will open, I will come in. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Revelation#Chapter_3]

159:3.3 In bringing men into [[the kingdom]], do not lessen or destroy their [[self]]-[[respect]]. While overmuch self-respect may destroy proper [[humility]] and end in [[pride]], [[conceit]], and [[arrogance]], the loss of self-respect often ends in [[paralysis]] of the [[Free will|will]]. It is the [[purpose]] of this [[gospel]] to restore [[self]]-[[respect]] to those who have lost it and to restrain it in those who have it. Make not the mistake of only [[condemn]]ing the wrongs in the lives of your [[pupils]]; remember also to accord [[generous]] [[recognition]] for the most [[praise]][[worthy]] [[things]] in their lives. Forget not that I will stop at nothing to restore self-[[respect]] to those who have lost it, and who really [[desire]] to regain it.

159:3.3 In bringing men into [[the kingdom]], do not lessen or destroy their [[self]]-[[respect]]. While overmuch self-respect may destroy proper [[humility]] and end in [[pride]], [[conceit]], and [[arrogance]], the loss of self-respect often ends in [[paralysis]] of the [[Free will|will]]. It is the [[purpose]] of this [[gospel]] to restore [[self]]-[[respect]] to those who have lost it and to restrain it in those who have it. Make not the mistake of only [[condemn]]ing the wrongs in the lives of your [[pupils]]; remember also to accord [[generous]] [[recognition]] for the most [[praise]][[worthy]] [[things]] in their lives. Forget not that I will stop at nothing to restore self-[[respect]] to those who have lost it, and who really [[desire]] to regain it.

159:3.6 Sometime the [[children]] of [[the kingdom]] will [[realize]] that strong [[feelings]] of [[emotion]] are not [[equivalent]] to the [[leadings]] of the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]]. To be strongly and strangely impressed to do something or to go to a certain place, does not necessarily mean that such [[impulses]] are the [[leadings]] of the [[indwelling spirit]].

159:3.6 Sometime the [[children]] of [[the kingdom]] will [[realize]] that strong [[feelings]] of [[emotion]] are not [[equivalent]] to the [[leadings]] of the [[Thought Adjuster|divine spirit]]. To be strongly and strangely impressed to do something or to go to a certain place, does not necessarily mean that such [[impulses]] are the [[leadings]] of the [[indwelling spirit]].

159:3.7 [[Forewarn]] all [[believers]] regarding the [[fringe]] of [[conflict]] which must be traversed by all who pass from the life as it is lived in the [[flesh]] to the higher life as it is lived in the [[spirit]]. To those who live quite wholly within either realm, there is little [[conflict]] or [[confusion]], but all are [[doomed]] to [[experience]] more or less uncertainty during the times of [[transition]] between the two [[levels]] of living. In entering [[the kingdom]], you cannot [[escape]] its [[responsibilities]] or avoid its [[obligations]], but remember: The [[gospel]] [[yoke]] is easy and the burden of [[truth]] is [[light]].[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_11]

159:3.7 [[Forewarn]] all [[believers]] regarding the [[fringe]] of [[conflict]] which must be traversed by all who pass from the life as it is lived in the [[flesh]] to the higher life as it is lived in the [[spirit]]. To those who live quite wholly within either realm, there is little [[conflict]] or [[confusion]], but all are [[doomed]] to [[experience]] more or less uncertainty during the times of [[transition]] between the two [[levels]] of living. In entering [[the kingdom]], you cannot [[escape]] its [[responsibilities]] or avoid its [[obligations]], but remember: The [[gospel]] [[yoke]] is easy and the burden of [[truth]] is [[light]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_11]

159:3.8 The world is filled with [[hungry]] [[souls]] who [[Hunger|famish]] in the very [[presence]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life]; men die searching for the very [[God]] who lives within them. Men seek for the [[treasures]] of [[the kingdom]] with yearning [[hearts]] and weary feet when they are all within the [[immediate]] grasp of living [[faith]]. Faith is to [[religion]] what sails are to a ship; it is an addition of [[power]], not an added burden of life. There is but one [[struggle]] for those who enter [[the kingdom]], and that is to fight the [[good]] fight of [[faith]]. The [[believer]] has only one battle, and that is against [[doubt]]—unbelief.[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_mark#Chapter_9]

159:3.8 The world is filled with [[hungry]] [[souls]] who [[Hunger|famish]] in the very [[presence]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_of_Life bread of life]; men die searching for the very [[God]] who lives within them. Men seek for the [[treasures]] of [[the kingdom]] with yearning [[hearts]] and weary feet when they are all within the [[immediate]] grasp of living [[faith]]. Faith is to [[religion]] what sails are to a ship; it is an addition of [[power]], not an added burden of life. There is but one [[struggle]] for those who enter [[the kingdom]], and that is to fight the [[good]] fight of [[faith]]. The [[believer]] has only one battle, and that is against [[doubt]]—unbelief.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_mark#Chapter_9]

159:3.9 In [[preaching]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], you are simply [[teaching]] [[friendship]] with [[God]]. And this fellowship will [[appeal]] alike to [[men]] and [[women]] in that both will find that which most truly [[satisfies]] their characteristic longings and [[ideals]]. Tell my [[children]] that I am not only tender of their [[feelings]] and [[patient]] with their frailties, but that I am also ruthless with [[sin]] and intolerant of [[iniquity]]. I am indeed [[meek]] and [[humble]] in the [[presence]] of [[Universal Father|my Father]], but I am [[equally]] and relentlessly inexorable where there is [[deliberate]] evildoing and sinful [[rebellion]] against [[Doing the will of God|the will of my Father]] in heaven.

159:3.9 In [[preaching]] the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]], you are simply [[teaching]] [[friendship]] with [[God]]. And this fellowship will [[appeal]] alike to [[men]] and [[women]] in that both will find that which most truly [[satisfies]] their characteristic longings and [[ideals]]. Tell my [[children]] that I am not only tender of their [[feelings]] and [[patient]] with their frailties, but that I am also ruthless with [[sin]] and intolerant of [[iniquity]]. I am indeed [[meek]] and [[humble]] in the [[presence]] of [[Universal Father|my Father]], but I am [[equally]] and relentlessly inexorable where there is [[deliberate]] evildoing and sinful [[rebellion]] against [[Doing the will of God|the will of my Father]] in heaven.

==159:4. THE TALK WITH NATHANIEL==

==159:4. THE TALK WITH NATHANIEL==

159:4.1 And then went [[Jesus]] over to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abila Abila], where [[Nathaniel]] and his [[associates]] labored. [[Nathaniel]] was much bothered by some of [[Jesus]]' pronouncements which seemed to detract from the [[authority]] of the [[recognized]] [[Hebrew]] [[scriptures]]. Accordingly, on this night, after the usual period of [[questions]] and answers, [[Nathaniel]] took [[Jesus]] away from the others and asked: " Master, could you [[trust]] me to know the [[truth]] about the [[Scriptures]]? I [[observe]] that you [[teach]] us only a portion of the [[sacred]] [[writings]]—the best as I view it—and I [[infer]] that you reject the [[teachings]] of the [[rabbis]] to the [[effect]] that the [[words]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] are the very [[words]] of [[God]], having been with [[God]] in heaven even before the times of [[Abraham]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]. What is the [[truth]] about the [[Scriptures]]? " When [[Jesus]] heard the question of his bewildered [[apostle]], he answered:

159:4.1 And then went [[Jesus]] over to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abila Abila], where [[Nathaniel]] and his [[associates]] labored. [[Nathaniel]] was much bothered by some of [[Jesus]]' pronouncements which seemed to detract from the [[authority]] of the [[recognized]] [[Hebrew]] [[scriptures]]. Accordingly, on this night, after the usual period of [[questions]] and answers, [[Nathaniel]] took [[Jesus]] away from the others and asked: " Master, could you [[trust]] me to know the [[truth]] about the [[Scriptures]]? I [[observe]] that you [[teach]] us only a portion of the [[sacred]] [[writings]]—the best as I view it—and I [[infer]] that you reject the [[teachings]] of the [[rabbis]] to the [[effect]] that the [[words]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] are the very [[words]] of [[God]], having been with [[God]] in heaven even before the times of [[Abraham]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]. What is the [[truth]] about the [[Scriptures]]? " When [[Jesus]] heard the question of his bewildered [[apostle]], he answered:

159:4.2 " [[Nathaniel]], you have rightly [[judged]]; I do not regard the [[Scriptures]] as do the [[rabbis]]. I will talk with you about this matter on condition that you do not [[relate]] these things to your brethren, who are not all [[prepared]] to [[receive]] this teaching. The [[words]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and the teachings of the [[Scriptures]] were not in [[existence]] before [[Abraham]]. Only in recent times have the [[Scriptures]] been gathered together as we now have them. While they contain the best of the higher [[thoughts]] and longings of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish] people, they also contain much that is far from being [[representative]] of the [[character]] and teachings of [[the Father]] in [[heaven]]; wherefore must I [[choose]] from among the better teachings those [[truths]] which are to be [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gleaning gleaned] for the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]].

159:4.2 " [[Nathaniel]], you have rightly [[judged]]; I do not regard the [[Scriptures]] as do the [[rabbis]]. I will talk with you about this matter on condition that you do not [[relate]] these things to your brethren, who are not all [[prepared]] to [[receive]] this teaching. The [[words]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] and the teachings of the [[Scriptures]] were not in [[existence]] before [[Abraham]]. Only in recent times have the [[Scriptures]] been gathered together as we now have them. While they contain the best of the higher [[thoughts]] and longings of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish] people, they also contain much that is far from being [[representative]] of the [[character]] and teachings of [[the Father]] in [[heaven]]; wherefore must I [[choose]] from among the better teachings those [[truths]] which are to be [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gleaning gleaned] for the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]].

159:4.3 " These [[writings]] are the [[work]] of men, some of them [[holy]] men, others not so holy. The teachings of these [[books]] [[represent]] the views and extent of [[enlightenment]] of the times in which they had their [[origin]]. As a [[revelation]] of [[truth]], the last are more dependable than the first. The [[Scriptures]] are faulty and altogether [[human]] in [[origin]], but mistake not, they do [[constitute]] the best collection of [[religious]] [[wisdom]] and [[spiritual]] [[truth]] to be found in all the world at this time.

159:4.3 " These [[writings]] are the [[work]] of men, some of them [[holy]] men, others not so holy. The teachings of these [[books]] [[represent]] the views and extent of [[enlightenment]] of the times in which they had their [[origin]]. As a [[revelation]] of [[truth]], the last are more dependable than the first. The [[Scriptures]] are faulty and altogether [[human]] in [[origin]], but mistake not, they do [[constitute]] the best collection of [[religious]] [[wisdom]] and [[spiritual]] [[truth]] to be found in all the world at this time.

159:4.4 " Many of these [[books]] were not [[written]] by the [[persons]] whose [[names]] they bear, but that in no way detracts from the [[value]] of the [[truths]] which they contain. If the [[story]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonah Jonah] should not be a [[fact]], even if [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Jonah Jonah] had never lived, still would the [[profound]] [[truth]] of this [[narrative]], the [[love]] of [[God]] for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninevah Nineveh] and the so-called [[heathen]], be none the less precious in the eyes of all those who love their fellow men. The [[Scriptures]] are [[sacred]] because they present the [[thoughts]] and [[acts]] of men who were searching for [[God]], and who in these [[writings]] left on [[record]] their highest [[concepts]] of [[righteousness]], [[truth]], and [[holiness]]. The [[Scriptures]] contain much that is true, very much, but in the [[light]] of your present [[teaching]], you know that these [[writings]] also contain much that is misrepresentative of [[the Father]] in heaven, the loving [[God]] I have come to [[reveal]] to all the worlds.

159:4.4 " Many of these [[books]] were not [[written]] by the [[persons]] whose [[names]] they bear, but that in no way detracts from the [[value]] of the [[truths]] which they contain. If the [[story]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonah Jonah] should not be a [[fact]], even if [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Jonah Jonah] had never lived, still would the [[profound]] [[truth]] of this [[narrative]], the [[love]] of [[God]] for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninevah Nineveh] and the so-called [[heathen]], be none the less precious in the eyes of all those who love their fellow men. The [[Scriptures]] are [[sacred]] because they present the [[thoughts]] and [[acts]] of men who were searching for [[God]], and who in these [[writings]] left on [[record]] their highest [[concepts]] of [[righteousness]], [[truth]], and [[holiness]]. The [[Scriptures]] contain much that is true, very much, but in the [[light]] of your present [[teaching]], you know that these [[writings]] also contain much that is misrepresentative of [[the Father]] in heaven, the loving [[God]] I have come to [[reveal]] to all the worlds.

159:4.5 " [[Nathaniel]], never [[permit]] yourself for one [[moment]] to [[believe]] the [[Scripture]] [[records]] which tell you that the [[God]] of [[love]] directed your [[forefathers]] to go forth in [[battle]] to slay all their [[enemies]]—men, women, and children. Such [[records]] are the [[words]] of men, not very [[holy]] men, and they are not the [[word]] of [[God]]. The [[Scriptures]] always have, and always will, [[reflect]] the [[intellectual]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[status]] of those who [[create]] them. Have you not noted that the [[concepts]] of [[Yahweh]] [[grow]] in [[beauty]] and [[glory]] as the [[prophets]] make their [[records]] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel Samuel] to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]? And you should [[remember]] that the [[Scriptures]] are [[intended]] for [[religious]] instruction and [[spiritual]] [[guidance]]. They are not the [[works]] of either [[historians]] or [[philosophers]].

159:4.5 " [[Nathaniel]], never [[permit]] yourself for one [[moment]] to [[believe]] the [[Scripture]] [[records]] which tell you that the [[God]] of [[love]] directed your [[forefathers]] to go forth in [[battle]] to slay all their [[enemies]]—men, women, and children. Such [[records]] are the [[words]] of men, not very [[holy]] men, and they are not the [[word]] of [[God]]. The [[Scriptures]] always have, and always will, [[reflect]] the [[intellectual]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[status]] of those who [[create]] them. Have you not noted that the [[concepts]] of [[Yahweh]] [[grow]] in [[beauty]] and [[glory]] as the [[prophets]] make their [[records]] from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel Samuel] to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah Isaiah]? And you should [[remember]] that the [[Scriptures]] are [[intended]] for [[religious]] instruction and [[spiritual]] [[guidance]]. They are not the [[works]] of either [[historians]] or [[philosophers]].

159:4.6 " The [[thing]] most deplorable is not merely this [[erroneous]] [[idea]] of the [[absolute]] [[perfection]] of the [[Scripture]] [[record]] and the [[infallibility]] of its teachings, but rather the [[confusing]] misinterpretation of these [[sacred]] [[writings]] by the [[tradition]]-enslaved [[scribes]] and [[Pharisees]] at [[Jerusalem]]. And now will they employ both the [[doctrine]] of the [[inspiration]] of the [[Scriptures]] and their misinterpretations thereof in their [[determined]] [[effort]] to withstand these newer [[teachings]] of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Nathaniel]], never forget, [[the Father]] does not [[limit]] the [[revelation]] of [[truth]] to any one [[generation]] or to any one people. Many [[earnest]] [[seekers]] after the [[truth]] have been, and will continue to be, [[confused]] and disheartened by these [[doctrines]] of the [[perfection]] of the [[Scriptures]].

159:4.6 " The [[thing]] most deplorable is not merely this [[erroneous]] [[idea]] of the [[absolute]] [[perfection]] of the [[Scripture]] [[record]] and the [[infallibility]] of its teachings, but rather the [[confusing]] misinterpretation of these [[sacred]] [[writings]] by the [[tradition]]-enslaved [[scribes]] and [[Pharisees]] at [[Jerusalem]]. And now will they employ both the [[doctrine]] of the [[inspiration]] of the [[Scriptures]] and their misinterpretations thereof in their [[determined]] [[effort]] to withstand these newer [[teachings]] of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. [[Nathaniel]], never forget, [[the Father]] does not [[limit]] the [[revelation]] of [[truth]] to any one [[generation]] or to any one people. Many [[earnest]] [[seekers]] after the [[truth]] have been, and will continue to be, [[confused]] and disheartened by these [[doctrines]] of the [[perfection]] of the [[Scriptures]].

==159:5. THE POSITIVE NATURE OF JESUS' RELIGION==

==159:5. THE POSITIVE NATURE OF JESUS' RELIGION==

159:5.1 At Philadelphia, where James was working, Jesus taught the disciples about the positive nature of the gospel of the kingdom. When, in the course of his remarks, he intimated that some parts of the Scripture were more truth-containing than others and admonished his hearers to feed their souls upon the best of the spiritual food, James interrupted the Master, asking: " Would you be good enough, Master, to suggest to us how we may choose the better passages from the Scriptures for our personal edification? " And Jesus replied: " Yes, James, when you read the Scriptures look for those eternally true and divinely beautiful teachings, such as:

159:5.1 At [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amman Philadelphia], where [[James, the Apostle|James]] was working, [[Jesus]] taught the [[disciples]] about the [[positive]] [[nature]] of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. When, in the [[course]] of his remarks, he intimated that some [[parts]] of the [[Scripture]] were more [[truth]]-containing than others and [[admonished]] his hearers to feed their [[souls]] upon the best of the spiritual food, [[James, the Apostle|James]] interrupted [[the Master]], asking: " Would you be good enough, Master, to suggest to us how we may [[choose]] the better passages from the [[Scriptures]] for our [[personal]] edification? " And [[Jesus]] replied: " Yes, James, when you [[read]] the [[Scriptures]] look for those [[eternally]] true and [[divine]]ly [[beautiful]] teachings, such as:

*1. 159:5.2 " Create in me a clean heart, O Lord.

*1. 159:5.2 " Create in me a clean heart, O Lord.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_51]

*2. 159:5.3 " The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

*2. 159:5.3 " The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_23]

*3. 159:5.4 " You should love your neighbor as yourself.

*3. 159:5.4 " You should love your neighbor as yourself.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_10]

*4. 159:5.5 " For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying, fear not; I will help you.

*4. 159:5.5 " For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying, fear not; I will help you.[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.41]

*5. 159:5.6 " Neither shall the nations learn war any more. "

*5. 159:5.6 " Neither shall the nations learn war any more. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.2][https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Micah#Chapter_.4]

159:5.7 And this is illustrative of the way Jesus, day by day, appropriated the cream of the Hebrew scriptures for the instruction of his followers and for inclusion in the teachings of the new gospel of the kingdom. Other religions had suggested the thought of the nearness of God to man, but Jesus made the care of God for man like the solicitude of a loving father for the welfare of his dependent children and then made this teaching the cornerstone of his religion. And thus did the doctrine of the fatherhood of God make imperative the practice of the brotherhood of man. The worship of God and the service of man became the sum and substance of his religion. Jesus took the best of the Jewish religion and translated it to a worthy setting in the new teachings of the gospel of the kingdom.

159:5.7 And this is [[illustrative]] of the way [[Jesus]], day by day, appropriated the cream of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanakh Hebrew scriptures] for the instruction of his followers and for inclusion in the teachings of the new [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. Other [[religions]] had suggested the [[thought]] of the nearness of [[God]] to [[man]], but [[Jesus]] made the [[care]] of God for man like the [[solicitude]] of a loving [[father]] for the welfare of his dependent [[children]] and then made this teaching the cornerstone of his [[religion]]. And thus did the [[doctrine]] of the [[fatherhood]] of [[God]] make [[imperative]] the [[practice]] of the brotherhood of man. The [[worship]] of [[God]] and the [[service]] of man became the sum and substance of his [[religion]]. [[Jesus]] took the best of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism Jewish religion] and [[translated]] it to a [[worthy]] setting in the new teachings of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]].

159:5.8 Jesus put the spirit of positive action into the passive doctrines of the Jewish religion. In the place of negative compliance with ceremonial requirements, Jesus enjoined the positive doing of that which his new religion required of those who accepted it. Jesus' religion consisted not merely in believing, but in actually doing, those things which the gospel required. He did not teach that the essence of his religion consisted in social service, but rather that social service was one of the certain effects of the possession of the spirit of true religion.

159:5.8 [[Jesus]] put the [[spirit]] of [[positive]] [[action]] into the passive [[doctrines]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism Jewish religion]. In the place of [[negative]] compliance with [[ceremonial]] requirements, [[Jesus]] enjoined the [[positive]] doing of that which his new religion required of those who [[accepted]] it. [[Jesus]]' [[religion]] consisted not merely in [[believing]], but in [[actually]] doing, those things which the [[gospel]] required. He did not teach that the [[essence]] of his [[religion]] consisted in [[social]] [[service]], but rather that social [[service]] was one of the certain [[effects]] of the [[possession]] of the [[spirit]] of true [[religion]].

159:5.9 Jesus did not hesitate to appropriate the better half of a Scripture while he repudiated the lesser portion. His great exhortation, " Love your neighbor as yourself, " he took from the Scripture which reads: " You shall not take vengeance against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. " Jesus appropriated the positive portion of this Scripture while rejecting the negative part. He even opposed negative or purely passive nonresistance. Said he: " When an enemy smites you on one cheek, do not stand there dumb and passive but in positive attitude turn the other; that is, do the best thing possible actively to lead your brother in error away from the evil paths into the better ways of righteous living. " Jesus required his followers to react positively and aggressively to every life situation. The turning of the other cheek, or whatever act that may typify, demands initiative, necessitates vigorous, active, and courageous expression of the believer's personality.

159:5.9 [[Jesus]] did not [[hesitate]] to appropriate the better half of a [[Scripture]] while he repudiated the lesser portion. His great [[exhortation]], " [[Love]] your [[neighbor]] as yourself, " he took from the [[Scripture]] which reads: " You shall not take [[vengeance]] against the [[children]] of your people, but you shall [[love]] your [[neighbor]] as yourself. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Leviticus#Chapter_.19] [[Jesus]] appropriated the [[positive]] portion of this [[Scripture]] while rejecting the [[negative]] part. He even [[opposed]] [[negative]] or purely passive [[nonresistance]]. Said he: " When an enemy smites you on one cheek, do not stand there dumb and [[passive]] but in [[positive]] [[attitude]] turn the other; that is, do the best thing possible actively to [[lead]] your brother in [[error]] away from the [[evil]] paths into the better ways of [[righteous]] living. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_5] [[Jesus]] required his followers to [[react]] positively and aggressively to every life situation. The turning of the other cheek, or whatever [[act]] that may typify, demands [[initiative]], necessitates [[vigorous]], [[active]], and [[courageous]] [[expression]] of the [[believer]]'s [[personality]].

159:5.10 Jesus did not advocate the practice of negative submission to the indignities of those who might purposely seek to impose upon the practitioners of nonresistance to evil, but rather that his followers should be wise and alert in the quick and positive reaction of good to evil to the end that they might effectively overcome evil with good. Forget not, the truly good is invariably more powerful than the most malignant evil. The Master taught a positive standard of righteousness: " Whosoever wishes to be my disciple, let him disregard himself and take up the full measure of his responsibilities daily to follow me. " And he so lived himself in that " he went about doing good. " And this aspect of the gospel was well illustrated by many parables which he later spoke to his followers. He never exhorted his followers patiently to bear their obligations but rather with energy and enthusiasm to live up to the full measure of their human responsibilities and divine privileges in the kingdom of God.

159:5.10 [[Jesus]] did not [[advocate]] the [[practice]] of [[negative]] submission to the indignities of those who might [[purposely]] seek to impose upon the practitioners of [[nonresistance]] to [[evil]], but rather that his followers should be [[wise]] and alert in the quick and [[positive]] [[reaction]] of [[good]] to [[evil]] to the end that they might [[effectively]] overcome [[evil]] with [[good]]. Forget not, the truly [[good]] is invariably more [[powerful]] than the most malignant [[evil]]. [[The Master]] taught a positive [[standard]] of [[righteousness]]: " Whosoever wishes to be my [[disciple]], let him disregard himself and take up the full [[measure]] of his [[responsibilities]] daily to follow me. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_9] And he so lived himself in that " he went about doing [[good]]. " And this aspect of the [[gospel]] was well [[illustrated]] by many [[parables]] which he later spoke to his followers. He never exhorted his followers [[patiently]] to bear their [[obligations]] but rather with [[energy]] and [[enthusiasm]] to live up to the full measure of their [[human]] [[responsibilities]] and divine [[privileges]] in [[the kingdom]] of [[God]].

159:5.11 When Jesus instructed his apostles that they should, when one unjustly took away the coat, offer the other garment, he referred not so much to a literal second coat as to the idea of doing something positive to save the wrongdoer in the place of the olden advice to retaliate—" an eye for an eye " and so on. Jesus abhorred the idea either of retaliation or of becoming just a passive sufferer or victim of injustice. On this occasion he taught them the three ways of contending with, and resisting, evil:

159:5.11 When [[Jesus]] instructed his [[apostles]] that they should, when one unjustly took away the coat, offer the other garment, he referred not so much to a [[literal]] second coat as to the [[idea]] of doing something [[positive]] to save the wrongdoer in the place of the olden advice to retaliate—" an eye for an eye "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deuteronomy#Chapter_.19] and so on. [[Jesus]] abhorred the [[idea]] either of retaliation or of becoming just a [[passive]] sufferer or [[victim]] of injustice. On this occasion he taught them the [[three]] ways of contending with, and resisting, [[evil]]:

*1. To return evil for evil—the positive but unrighteous method.

*1. To return evil for evil—the [[positive]] but unrighteous [[method]].

*2. To suffer evil without complaint and without resistance—the purely negative method.

*2. To [[suffer]] [[evil]] without complaint and without [[resistance]]—the [[purely]] [[negative]] [[method]].

*3. To return good for evil, to assert the will so as to become master of the situation, to overcome evil with good—the positive and righteous method.

*3. To return [[good]] for evil, to [[assert]] the [[Free will|will]] so as to become master of the situation, to overcome evil with good—the [[positive]] and [[righteous]] [[method]].

159:5.12 One of the apostles once asked: " Master, what should I do if a stranger forced me to carry his pack for a mile? " Jesus answered: " Do not sit down and sigh for relief while you berate the stranger under your breath. Righteousness comes not from such passive attitudes. If you can think of nothing more effectively positive to do, you can at least carry the pack a second mile. That will of a certainty challenge the unrighteous and ungodly stranger. "

159:5.12 One of [[the apostles]] once asked: " Master, what should I do if a stranger forced me to carry his pack for a mile? " [[Jesus]] answered: " Do not sit down and sigh for relief while you berate the stranger under your [[breath]]. [[Righteousness]] comes not from such [[passive]] [[attitudes]]. If you can [[think]] of nothing more effectively [[positive]] to do, you can at least carry the pack a second mile. That will of a certainty [[challenge]] the unrighteous and ungodly stranger. "

159:5.13 The Jews had heard of a God who would forgive repentant sinners and try to forget their misdeeds, but not until Jesus came, did men hear about a God who went in search of lost sheep, who took the initiative in looking for sinners, and who rejoiced when he found them willing to return to the Father's house. This positive note in religion Jesus extended even to his prayers. And he converted the negative golden rule into a positive admonition of human fairness.

159:5.13 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jews] had heard of a [[God]] who would [[forgive]] [[repentant]] sinners and try to forget their misdeeds, but not until [[Jesus]] came, did men hear about a [[God]] who went in search of lost sheep, who took the [[initiative]] in looking for [[sinners]], and who [[rejoiced]] when he found them willing to return to [[the Father]]'s house. This [[positive]] note in [[religion]] [[Jesus]] extended even to his [[prayers]]. And he [[converted]] the [[negative]] [[golden rule]] into a [[positive]] [[admonition]] of [[human]] [[fairness]].

159:5.14 In all his teaching Jesus unfailingly avoided distracting details. He shunned flowery language and avoided the mere poetic imagery of a play upon words. He habitually put large meanings into small expressions. For purposes of illustration Jesus reversed the current meanings of many terms, such as salt, leaven, fishing, and little children. He most effectively employed the antithesis, comparing the minute to the infinite and so on. His pictures were striking, such as, " The blind leading the blind. " But the greatest strength to be found in his illustrative teaching was its naturalness. Jesus brought the philosophy of religion from heaven down to earth. He portrayed the elemental needs of the soul with a new insight and a new bestowal of affection.

159:5.14 In all his teaching [[Jesus]] unfailingly avoided distracting details. He shunned flowery [[language]] and avoided the mere [[poetic]] imagery of a play upon [[words]]. He [[habitually]] put large [[meanings]] into small [[expressions]]. For [[purposes]] of [[illustration]] [[Jesus]] reversed the current [[meanings]] of many terms, such as salt, leaven, fishing, and little children. He most effectively employed the [[antithesis]], [[comparing]] the minute to the [[infinite]] and so on. His pictures were striking, such as, " The blind leading the blind. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6] But the greatest [[strength]] to be found in his [[illustrative]] teaching was its [[natural]]ness. [[Jesus]] brought the [[philosophy]] of [[religion]] from [[heaven]] down to [[earth]]. He portrayed the elemental needs of the [[soul]] with a new [[insight]] and a new [[bestowal]] of [[affection]].

==159:6. THE RETURN TO MAGADAN==

==159:6. THE RETURN TO MAGADAN==

159:6.1 The mission of four weeks in the Decapolis was moderately successful. Hundreds of souls were received into the kingdom, and the apostles and evangelists had a valuable experience in carrying on their work without the inspiration of the immediate personal presence of Jesus.

159:6.1 The [[mission]] of four weeks in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis] was moderately successful. Hundreds of [[souls]] were [[received]] into [[the kingdom]], and [[the apostles]] and [[evangelists]] had a valuable [[experience]] in carrying on their [[work]] without the [[inspiration]] of the [[immediate]] [[personal]] [[presence]] of [[Jesus]].

159:6.2 On Friday, September 16, the entire corps of workers assembled by prearrangement at Magadan Park. On the Sabbath day a council of more than one hundred believers was held at which the future plans for extending the work of the kingdom were fully considered. The messengers of David were present and made reports concerning the welfare of the believers throughout Judea, Samaria, Galilee, and adjoining districts.

159:6.2 On Friday, September 16, the entire corps of workers assembled by prearrangement at [https://urantiabook.org/jesus_photos/feeding-five-thousand.html Magadan Park]. On the [[Sabbath]] day a [[council]] of more than one hundred [[believers]] was held at which the [[future]] [[plans]] for extending the [[work]] of [[the kingdom]] were fully [[considered]]. The [[messengers]] of [[David Zebedee|David]] were present and made reports concerning the welfare of the believers throughout [[Judea]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria], [[Galilee]], and adjoining districts.

159:6.3 Few of Jesus' followers at this time fully appreciated the great value of the services of the messenger corps. Not only did the messengers keep the believers throughout Palestine in touch with each other and with Jesus and the apostles, but during these dark days they also served as collectors of funds, not only for the sustenance of Jesus and his associates, but also for the support of the families of the twelve apostles and the twelve evangelists.

159:6.3 Few of [[Jesus]]' followers at this time fully [[appreciated]] the great [[value]] of the [[services]] of the [[messenger]] corps. Not only did the messengers keep the [[believers]] throughout [[Palestine]] in [[touch]] with each other and with [[Jesus]] and [[the apostles]], but during these [[dark]] days they also served as collectors of [[funds]], not only for the sustenance of [[Jesus]] and his [[associates]], but also for the support of the [[families]] of the [[twelve apostles]] and the twelve [[evangelists]].

159:6.4 About this time Abner moved his base of operations from Hebron to Bethlehem, and this latter place was also the headquarters in Judea for David's messengers. David maintained an overnight relay messenger service between Jerusalem and Bethsaida. These runners left Jerusalem each evening, relaying at Sychar and Scythopolis, arriving in Bethsaida by breakfast time the next morning.

159:6.4 About this time [[Abner]] moved his base of operations from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebron Hebron] to [[Bethlehem]], and this latter place was also the [[headquarters]] in [[Judea]] for [[David Zebedee|David]]'s [[messengers]]. David maintained an overnight relay [[messenger]] service between [[Jerusalem]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida]. These runners left [[Jerusalem]] each evening, relaying at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sychar Sychar] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis], arriving in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] by breakfast time the next morning.

159:6.5 Jesus and his associates now prepared to take a week's rest before they made ready to start upon the last epoch of their labors in behalf of the kingdom. This was their last rest, for the Perean mission developed into a campaign of preaching and teaching which extended right on down to the time of their arrival at Jerusalem and of the enactment of the closing episodes of Jesus' earth career.

159:6.5 [[Jesus]] and his [[associates]] now [[prepared]] to take a week's [[rest]] before they made ready to start upon the last [[epoch]] of their [[labors]] in behalf of [[the kingdom]]. This was their last [[rest]], for the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_165 Perean mission] [[developed]] into a [[campaign]] of [[preaching]] and [[teaching]] which extended right on down to the time of their arrival at [[Jerusalem]] and of the enactment of the closing [[episodes]] of [[Jesus]]' [[earth]] [[career]].

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

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