Changes

148:1.2 Each of the apostolic [[teachers]] taught his own view of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. They made no [[effort]] to teach just alike; there was no [[standardized]] or [[dogmatic]] [[formulation]] of [[theologic]] [[doctrines]]. Though they all taught the same [[truth]], each [[apostle]] presented his own [[personal]] [[interpretation]] of [[the Master]]'s teaching. And [[Jesus]] upheld this presentation of the [[diversity]] of personal [[experience]] in the things of [[the kingdom]], unfailingly [[harmonizing]] and [[co-ordinating]] these many and [[divergent]] views of the [[gospel]] at his weekly question hours. Notwithstanding this great [[degree]] of [[personal]] [[liberty]] in matters of [[teaching]], [[Peter, the Apostle|Simon Peter]] tended to [[dominate]] the [[theology]] of the [[school]] of [[evangelists]]. Next to [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James Zebedee]] exerted the greatest [[personal]] [[influence]].

148:1.2 Each of the apostolic [[teachers]] taught his own view of the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. They made no [[effort]] to teach just alike; there was no [[standardized]] or [[dogmatic]] [[formulation]] of [[theologic]] [[doctrines]]. Though they all taught the same [[truth]], each [[apostle]] presented his own [[personal]] [[interpretation]] of [[the Master]]'s teaching. And [[Jesus]] upheld this presentation of the [[diversity]] of personal [[experience]] in the things of [[the kingdom]], unfailingly [[harmonizing]] and [[co-ordinating]] these many and [[divergent]] views of the [[gospel]] at his weekly question hours. Notwithstanding this great [[degree]] of [[personal]] [[liberty]] in matters of [[teaching]], [[Peter, the Apostle|Simon Peter]] tended to [[dominate]] the [[theology]] of the [[school]] of [[evangelists]]. Next to [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James Zebedee]] exerted the greatest [[personal]] [[influence]].

148:1.3 The one hundred and more [[evangelists]] [[trained]] during this five months by the seaside [[represented]] the [[material]] from which (excepting [[Abner]] and [[John the Baptist|John]]'s [[apostles]]) the later [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_163 seventy gospel teachers] and [[preachers]] were drawn. The [[school]] of [[evangelists]] did not have everything in common to the same [[degree]] as did [[the twelve]].

148:1.3 The one hundred and more [[evangelists]] [[trained]] during this five months by the seaside [[represented]] the [[material]] from which (excepting [[Abner]] and [[John the Baptist|John]]'s [[apostles]]) the later [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_163 seventy gospel teachers] and [[preachers]] were drawn. The [[school]] of [[evangelists]] did not have everything in common to the same [[degree]] as did [[the twelve]].

148:1.4 These [[evangelists]], though they taught and [[preached]] the [[gospel]], did not [[baptize]] believers until after they were later [[ordained]] and commissioned by [[Jesus]] as the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_163 seventy messengers] of [[the kingdom]]. Only [[seven]] of the large number healed at the sundown scene at this place were to be found among these evangelistic [[students]]. The [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_146#146:5._BACK_IN_CANA nobleman's son] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] was one of those [[trained]] for [[gospel]] [[service]] in [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s [[school]].

148:1.4 These [[evangelists]], though they taught and [[preached]] the [[gospel]], did not [[baptize]] believers until after they were later [[ordained]] and commissioned by [[Jesus]] as the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_163 seventy messengers] of [[the kingdom]]. Only [[seven]] of the large number healed at the sundown scene at this place were to be found among these evangelistic [[students]]. The [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_146#146:5._BACK_IN_CANA nobleman's son] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] was one of those [[trained]] for [[gospel]] [[service]] in [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]]'s [[school]].

==148:2. THE BETHSAIDA HOSPITAL==

==148:2. THE BETHSAIDA HOSPITAL==

148:2.3 Elman and his associates endeavored to [[teach]] the [[truth]] to these sick ones concerning the " [[Possessed|possession]] of [[evil]] spirits, " but they met with little success. The [[belief]] that [[physical]] [[sickness]] and mental derangement could be caused by the dwelling of a so-called unclean spirit in the [[mind]] or [[body]] of the afflicted person was well-nigh [[universal]].

148:2.3 Elman and his associates endeavored to [[teach]] the [[truth]] to these sick ones concerning the " [[Possessed|possession]] of [[evil]] spirits, " but they met with little success. The [[belief]] that [[physical]] [[sickness]] and mental derangement could be caused by the dwelling of a so-called unclean spirit in the [[mind]] or [[body]] of the afflicted person was well-nigh [[universal]].

148:2.4 In all his [[contact]] with the [[sick]] and afflicted, when it came to the [[technique]] of treatment or the [[revelation]] of the [[unknown]] [[causes]] of [[disease]], [[Jesus]] did not disregard the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#120:2._THE_BESTOWAL_LIMITATIONS instructions] of his [[Paradise]] [[brother]], [[Immanuel]], given [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#PAPER_120:_THE_BESTOWAL_OF_MICHAEL_ON_URANTIA ere he embarked] upon the venture of the [[Urantia]] [[incarnation]]. Notwithstanding this, those who ministered to the [[sick]] learned many helpful lessons by [[observing]] the [[manner]] in which [[Jesus]] [[inspired]] the [[faith]] and [[confidence]] of the [[sick]] and [[suffering]].

148:2.4 In all his [[contact]] with the [[sick]] and afflicted, when it came to the [[technique]] of treatment or the [[revelation]] of the [[unknown]] [[causes]] of [[disease]], [[Jesus]] did not disregard the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#120:2._THE_BESTOWAL_LIMITATIONS instructions] of his [[Paradise]] [[brother]], [[Immanuel]], given [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120#PAPER_120:_THE_BESTOWAL_OF_MICHAEL_ON_URANTIA ere he embarked] upon the venture of the [[Urantia]] [[incarnation]]. Notwithstanding this, those who ministered to the [[sick]] learned many helpful lessons by [[observing]] the [[manner]] in which [[Jesus]] [[inspired]] the [[faith]] and [[confidence]] of the [[sick]] and [[suffering]].

148:2.5 The camp disbanded a short time before the [[season]] for the increase in chills and fever drew on.

148:2.5 The camp disbanded a short time before the [[season]] for the increase in chills and fever drew on.

==148:3. THE FATHER'S BUSINESS==

==148:3. THE FATHER'S BUSINESS==

148:3.1 Throughout this period [[Jesus]] conducted [[public]] services at the encampment less than a dozen times and [[spoke]] only once in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]], the second [[Sabbath]] before their departure with the newly [[trained]] [[evangelists]] upon their [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_149 second public preaching tour] of [[Galilee]].

148:3.1 Throughout this period [[Jesus]] conducted [[public]] services at the encampment less than a dozen times and [[spoke]] only once in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]], the second [[Sabbath]] before their departure with the newly [[trained]] [[evangelists]] upon their [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_149 second public preaching tour] of [[Galilee]].

148:3.2 Not since his [[baptism]] had [[the Master]] been so much [[alone]] as during this period of the [[evangelists]]' [[training]] encampment at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida]. Whenever any one of [[the apostles]] ventured to ask [[Jesus]] why he was absent so much from their midst, he would invariably answer that he was " about [[the Father]]'s business. "

148:3.2 Not since his [[baptism]] had [[the Master]] been so much [[alone]] as during this period of the [[evangelists]]' [[training]] encampment at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida]. Whenever any one of [[the apostles]] ventured to ask [[Jesus]] why he was absent so much from their midst, he would invariably answer that he was " about [[the Father]]'s business. "

148:3.3 During these periods of [[absence]], [[Jesus]] was accompanied by only two of [[the apostles]]. He had released [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James]], and [[John, the Apostle|John]] temporarily from their assignment as his [[personal]] companions that they might also [[participate]] in the work of [[training]] the new [[evangelistic]] [[candidates]], numbering more than one hundred. When [[the Master]] [[desired]] to go to the hills about [[the Father]]'s business, he would summon to accompany him any [[two]] of [[the apostles]] who might be at [[liberty]]. In this way each of the twelve enjoyed an [[opportunity]] for close [[association]] and [[intimate]] contact with [[Jesus]].

148:3.3 During these periods of [[absence]], [[Jesus]] was accompanied by only two of [[the apostles]]. He had released [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]], [[James, the Apostle|James]], and [[John, the Apostle|John]] temporarily from their assignment as his [[personal]] companions that they might also [[participate]] in the work of [[training]] the new [[evangelistic]] [[candidates]], numbering more than one hundred. When [[the Master]] [[desired]] to go to the hills about [[the Father]]'s business, he would summon to accompany him any [[two]] of [[the apostles]] who might be at [[liberty]]. In this way each of the twelve enjoyed an [[opportunity]] for close [[association]] and [[intimate]] contact with [[Jesus]].

148:3.4 It has not been [[revealed]] for the [[purposes]] of this [[record]], but we have been led to [[infer]] that [[the Master]], during many of these [[solitary]] [[seasons]] in the hills, was in direct and [[executive]] [[association]] with many of his [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_33#PAPER_33:_ADMINISTRATION_OF_THE_LOCAL_UNIVERSE chief directors] of [[universe]] affairs. Ever since about the time of his [[baptism]] this [[incarnated]] [[Master Son|Sovereign]] of [[Nebadon|our universe]] had become increasingly and consciously [[active]] in the direction of certain [[phases]] of [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|universe administration]]. And we have always held the [[opinion]] that, in some way not [[revealed]] to his [[immediate]] [[associates]], during these weeks of decreased [[participation]] in the affairs of [[earth]] he was [[engaged]] in the direction of those [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_35#PAPER_35:_THE_LOCAL_UNIVERSE_SONS_OF_GOD high spirit intelligences] who were charged with the running of a [[Local Universe|vast universe]], and that the [[human]] [[Jesus]] chose to designate such [[activities]] on his part as being " about [[Universal Father|his Father]]'s business. "

148:3.4 It has not been [[revealed]] for the [[purposes]] of this [[record]], but we have been led to [[infer]] that [[the Master]], during many of these [[solitary]] [[seasons]] in the hills, was in direct and [[executive]] [[association]] with many of his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_33#PAPER_33:_ADMINISTRATION_OF_THE_LOCAL_UNIVERSE chief directors] of [[universe]] affairs. Ever since about the time of his [[baptism]] this [[incarnated]] [[Master Son|Sovereign]] of [[Nebadon|our universe]] had become increasingly and consciously [[active]] in the direction of certain [[phases]] of [[Paper 33 - Administration of the Local Universe|universe administration]]. And we have always held the [[opinion]] that, in some way not [[revealed]] to his [[immediate]] [[associates]], during these weeks of decreased [[participation]] in the affairs of [[earth]] he was [[engaged]] in the direction of those [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_35#PAPER_35:_THE_LOCAL_UNIVERSE_SONS_OF_GOD high spirit intelligences] who were charged with the running of a [[Local Universe|vast universe]], and that the [[human]] [[Jesus]] chose to designate such [[activities]] on his part as being " about [[Universal Father|his Father]]'s business. "

148:3.5 Many times, when [[Jesus]] was [[alone]] for hours, but when two of his [[apostles]] were near by, they [[observed]] his features undergo rapid and multitudinous [[changes]], although they heard him speak no [[words]]. Neither did they [[observe]] any visible [[manifestation]] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] who might have been in [[communication]] with their [[The Master|Master]], such as some of them did [[witness]] on a [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_158 subsequent occasion].

148:3.5 Many times, when [[Jesus]] was [[alone]] for hours, but when two of his [[apostles]] were near by, they [[observed]] his features undergo rapid and multitudinous [[changes]], although they heard him speak no [[words]]. Neither did they [[observe]] any visible [[manifestation]] of [[celestial]] [[beings]] who might have been in [[communication]] with their [[The Master|Master]], such as some of them did [[witness]] on a [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_158 subsequent occasion].

==148:4. EVIL, SIN, AND INIQUITY==

==148:4. EVIL, SIN, AND INIQUITY==

148:4.1 It was the [[habit]] of [[Jesus]] two evenings each week to hold special [[converse]] with [[individuals]] who [[desired]] to talk with him, in a certain [[secluded]] and [[sheltered]] corner of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee] [[garden]]. At one of these evening [[conversations]] in [[private]] [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] asked [[the Master]] this question: " Why is it [[necessary]] for men to be [[born]] of the [[spirit]] in order to enter [[the kingdom]]? Is rebirth [[necessary]] to [[escape]] the [[control]] of the [[evil one]]? Master, what is [[evil]]? " When [[Jesus]] heard these questions, he said to [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]]:

148:4.1 It was the [[habit]] of [[Jesus]] two evenings each week to hold special [[converse]] with [[individuals]] who [[desired]] to talk with him, in a certain [[secluded]] and [[sheltered]] corner of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee] [[garden]]. At one of these evening [[conversations]] in [[private]] [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] asked [[the Master]] this question: " Why is it [[necessary]] for men to be [[born]] of the [[spirit]] in order to enter [[the kingdom]]? Is rebirth [[necessary]] to [[escape]] the [[control]] of the [[evil one]]? Master, what is [[evil]]? " When [[Jesus]] heard these questions, he said to [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]]:

148:4.2 " Do not make the mistake of [[confusing]] [[evil]] with the [[evil one]], more correctly the [[iniquitous one]]. He whom you call the [[evil one]] is the son of [[self]]-[[love]], the [[System Sovereign|high administrator]] who knowingly went into [[deliberate]] [[rebellion]] against the [[Law|rule]] of [[Universal Father|my Father]] and his [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20 loyal Sons]. But I have already [[vanquished]] these [[sinful]] [[rebels]]. Make [[clear]] in your [[mind]] these [[different]] [[attitudes]] toward [[the Father]] and his [[universe]]. Never [[forget]] these [[laws]] of [[relation]] to [[the Father]]'s will:

148:4.2 " Do not make the mistake of [[confusing]] [[evil]] with the [[evil one]], more correctly the [[iniquitous one]]. He whom you call the [[evil one]] is the son of [[self]]-[[love]], the [[System Sovereign|high administrator]] who knowingly went into [[deliberate]] [[rebellion]] against the [[Law|rule]] of [[Universal Father|my Father]] and his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20 loyal Sons]. But I have already [[vanquished]] these [[sinful]] [[rebels]]. Make [[clear]] in your [[mind]] these [[different]] [[attitudes]] toward [[the Father]] and his [[universe]]. Never [[forget]] these [[laws]] of [[relation]] to [[the Father]]'s will:

*1. 148:4.3 " [[Evil]] is the [[unconscious]] or unintended [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Evil]] is likewise the [[measure]] of the imperfectness of [[obedience]] to [[the Father]]'s will.

*1. 148:4.3 " [[Evil]] is the [[unconscious]] or unintended [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Evil]] is likewise the [[measure]] of the imperfectness of [[obedience]] to [[the Father]]'s will.

*2. 148:4.4 " [[Sin]] is the [[conscious]], knowing, and [[deliberate]] [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Sin]] is the [[measure]] of unwillingness to be [[divinely]] [[led]] and [[spiritually]] [[Guidance|directed]].

*2. 148:4.4 " [[Sin]] is the [[conscious]], knowing, and [[deliberate]] [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Sin]] is the [[measure]] of unwillingness to be [[divinely]] [[led]] and [[spiritually]] [[Guidance|directed]].

*3. 148:4.5 " [[Iniquity]] is the willful, [[determined]], and [[persistent]] [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Iniquity]] is the [[measure]] of the continued [[rejection]] of [[the Father]]'s [[loving]] [[plan]] of [[personality]] [[survival]] and [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20 the Sons'] [[merciful]] [[ministry]] of [[salvation]].

*3. 148:4.5 " [[Iniquity]] is the willful, [[determined]], and [[persistent]] [[transgression]] of the [[divine]] [[law]], [[the Father]]'s will. [[Iniquity]] is the [[measure]] of the continued [[rejection]] of [[the Father]]'s [[loving]] [[plan]] of [[personality]] [[survival]] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_20 the Sons'] [[merciful]] [[ministry]] of [[salvation]].

148:4.6 " By [[nature]], before the [[rebirth]] of the [[spirit]], [[mortal]] man is subject to [[inherent]] [[evil]] tendencies, but such natural imperfections of [[behavior]] are neither [[sin]] nor [[iniquity]]. [[Mortal]] man is just beginning his [[Ascension Career|long ascent]] to the [[perfection]] of [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]]. To be imperfect or partial in [[natural]] [[endowment]] is not [[sinful]]. [[Man]] is indeed subject to [[evil]], but he is in no sense the child of the [[evil one]] unless he has knowingly and [[deliberately]] [[chosen]] the [[paths]] of [[sin]] and the life of [[iniquity]]. [[Evil]] is [[inherent]] in the [[natural]] order of this world, but [[sin]] is an [[attitude]] of [[conscious]] [[rebellion]] which was brought to this world by those who fell from [[spiritual]] [[light]] into [[gross]] [[darkness]].

148:4.6 " By [[nature]], before the [[rebirth]] of the [[spirit]], [[mortal]] man is subject to [[inherent]] [[evil]] tendencies, but such natural imperfections of [[behavior]] are neither [[sin]] nor [[iniquity]]. [[Mortal]] man is just beginning his [[Ascension Career|long ascent]] to the [[perfection]] of [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]]. To be imperfect or partial in [[natural]] [[endowment]] is not [[sinful]]. [[Man]] is indeed subject to [[evil]], but he is in no sense the child of the [[evil one]] unless he has knowingly and [[deliberately]] [[chosen]] the [[paths]] of [[sin]] and the life of [[iniquity]]. [[Evil]] is [[inherent]] in the [[natural]] order of this world, but [[sin]] is an [[attitude]] of [[conscious]] [[rebellion]] which was brought to this world by those who fell from [[spiritual]] [[light]] into [[gross]] [[darkness]].

148:4.7 " You are [[confused]], [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], by the [[doctrines]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_ancient_Greece Greeks] and the [[errors]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persian_religion#Antiquity Persians]. You do not [[understand]] the [[relationships]] of [[evil]] and [[sin]] because you view [[mankind]] as beginning on [[earth]] with a [[perfect]] [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_73 Adam] and rapidly [[degenerating]], through [[sin]], to man's present deplorable estate. But why do you refuse to [[comprehend]] the [[meaning]] of the [[record]] which [[discloses]] how [[Cain]], the son of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_74 Adam], went over into the [[land]] of [[Nod]] and there got himself a [[wife]]?[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.4] And why do you refuse to [[interpret]] the [[meaning]] of the [[record]] which portrays the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.6 sons of God finding wives for themselves among the daughters of men]?

148:4.7 " You are [[confused]], [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], by the [[doctrines]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_ancient_Greece Greeks] and the [[errors]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persian_religion#Antiquity Persians]. You do not [[understand]] the [[relationships]] of [[evil]] and [[sin]] because you view [[mankind]] as beginning on [[earth]] with a [[perfect]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_73 Adam] and rapidly [[degenerating]], through [[sin]], to man's present deplorable estate. But why do you refuse to [[comprehend]] the [[meaning]] of the [[record]] which [[discloses]] how [[Cain]], the son of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_74 Adam], went over into the [[land]] of [[Nod]] and there got himself a [[wife]]?[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.4] And why do you refuse to [[interpret]] the [[meaning]] of the [[record]] which portrays the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_genesis#Chapter_.6 sons of God finding wives for themselves among the daughters of men]?

148:4.8 " [[Men]] are, indeed, by [[nature]] [[evil]], but not necessarily [[sinful]]. The new [[birth]]—the [[baptism]] of the [[spirit]]—is [[essential]] to [[deliverance]] from [[evil]] and [[necessary]] for entrance into [[the kingdom]] of heaven, but none of this detracts from the [[fact]] that man is the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God]. Neither does this [[inherent]] [[presence]] of [[potential]] [[evil]] mean that man is in some [[mysterious]] way [[estranged]] from [[the Father]] in heaven so that, as an alien, foreigner, or stepchild, he must in some [[manner]] seek for [[legal]] [[adoption]] by [[the Father]]. All such notions are [[born]], first, of your misunderstanding of [[the Father]] and, second, of your [[ignorance]] of the [[origin]], [[nature]], and [[destiny]] of [[man]].

148:4.8 " [[Men]] are, indeed, by [[nature]] [[evil]], but not necessarily [[sinful]]. The new [[birth]]—the [[baptism]] of the [[spirit]]—is [[essential]] to [[deliverance]] from [[evil]] and [[necessary]] for entrance into [[the kingdom]] of heaven, but none of this detracts from the [[fact]] that man is the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE son of God]. Neither does this [[inherent]] [[presence]] of [[potential]] [[evil]] mean that man is in some [[mysterious]] way [[estranged]] from [[the Father]] in heaven so that, as an alien, foreigner, or stepchild, he must in some [[manner]] seek for [[legal]] [[adoption]] by [[the Father]]. All such notions are [[born]], first, of your misunderstanding of [[the Father]] and, second, of your [[ignorance]] of the [[origin]], [[nature]], and [[destiny]] of [[man]].

148:4.9 " The [[Greeks]] and others have taught you that man is [[descending]] from godly [[perfection]] steadily down toward oblivion or destruction; I have come to show that man, by entrance into [[the kingdom]], is [[ascending]] certainly and surely up to [[God]] and [[divine]] [[perfection]]. Any [[being]] who in any [[manner]] falls short of the [[divine]] and [[spiritual]] [[ideals]] of the [[Universal Father|eternal Father]]'s will is [[potentially]] [[evil]], but such [[beings]] are in no sense [[sinful]], much less [[iniquitous]].

148:4.9 " The [[Greeks]] and others have taught you that man is [[descending]] from godly [[perfection]] steadily down toward oblivion or destruction; I have come to show that man, by entrance into [[the kingdom]], is [[ascending]] certainly and surely up to [[God]] and [[divine]] [[perfection]]. Any [[being]] who in any [[manner]] falls short of the [[divine]] and [[spiritual]] [[ideals]] of the [[Universal Father|eternal Father]]'s will is [[potentially]] [[evil]], but such [[beings]] are in no sense [[sinful]], much less [[iniquitous]].

148:4.10 " [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], have you not [[read]] about this in the [[Scriptures]], where it is written: `You are the children of the Lord your God.' `I will be his Father and he shall be my son.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Hosea#Chapter_.1] `I have [[chosen]] him to be my son—I will be his Father.' `Bring my sons from far and my daughters from the ends of the [[earth]]; even every one who is called by my [[name]], for I have created them for my [[glory]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.43] `You are the sons of the living God.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Hosea#Chapter_.1] `They who have [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit of God]] are indeed the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God].' While there is a [[material]] part of the [[human]] [[father]] in the [[natural]] child, there is a [[spiritual]] part of the [[heavenly Father]] in every [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD faith son] of [[the kingdom]]. "

148:4.10 " [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], have you not [[read]] about this in the [[Scriptures]], where it is written: `You are the children of the Lord your God.' `I will be his Father and he shall be my son.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Hosea#Chapter_.1] `I have [[chosen]] him to be my son—I will be his Father.' `Bring my sons from far and my daughters from the ends of the [[earth]]; even every one who is called by my [[name]], for I have created them for my [[glory]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.43] `You are the sons of the living God.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Hosea#Chapter_.1] `They who have [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit of God]] are indeed the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:5._MORTALS_OF_TIME_AND_SPACE sons of God].' While there is a [[material]] part of the [[human]] [[father]] in the [[natural]] child, there is a [[spiritual]] part of the [[heavenly Father]] in every [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_40#40:6._THE_FAITH_SONS_OF_GOD faith son] of [[the kingdom]]. "

148:4.11 All this and much more [[Jesus]] said to [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], and much of it the [[apostle]] [[comprehended]], although [[Jesus]] [[admonished]] him to " speak not to the others concerning these matters until [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_193 after I shall have returned] to [[the Father]]. " And [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] did not mention this interview until after [[the Master]] had departed from this world.

148:4.11 All this and much more [[Jesus]] said to [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]], and much of it the [[apostle]] [[comprehended]], although [[Jesus]] [[admonished]] him to " speak not to the others concerning these matters until [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_193 after I shall have returned] to [[the Father]]. " And [[Thomas, the Apostle|Thomas]] did not mention this interview until after [[the Master]] had departed from this world.

==148:5. THE PURPOSE OF AFFLICTION==

==148:5. THE PURPOSE OF AFFLICTION==

148:5.4 " [[Nathaniel]], it is our [[mission]] to help men solve their [[spiritual]] [[problems]] and in this way to quicken their [[minds]] so that they may be the better [[prepared]] and [[inspired]] to go about solving their manifold [[material]] [[problems]]. I know of your [[confusion]] as you have read the [[Scriptures]]. All too often there has prevailed a [[tendency]] to ascribe to [[God]] the [[responsibility]] for [[everything]] which [[ignorant]] man fails to [[understand]]. [[The Father]] is not personally [[responsible]] for all you may fail to [[comprehend]]. Do not [[doubt]] the [[love]] of [[the Father]] just because some just and [[wise]] [[law]] of his [[ordaining]] [[chances]] to [[afflict]] you because you have [[innocently]] or deliberately [[transgressed]] such a [[divine]] ordinance.

148:5.4 " [[Nathaniel]], it is our [[mission]] to help men solve their [[spiritual]] [[problems]] and in this way to quicken their [[minds]] so that they may be the better [[prepared]] and [[inspired]] to go about solving their manifold [[material]] [[problems]]. I know of your [[confusion]] as you have read the [[Scriptures]]. All too often there has prevailed a [[tendency]] to ascribe to [[God]] the [[responsibility]] for [[everything]] which [[ignorant]] man fails to [[understand]]. [[The Father]] is not personally [[responsible]] for all you may fail to [[comprehend]]. Do not [[doubt]] the [[love]] of [[the Father]] just because some just and [[wise]] [[law]] of his [[ordaining]] [[chances]] to [[afflict]] you because you have [[innocently]] or deliberately [[transgressed]] such a [[divine]] ordinance.

148:5.5 " But, [[Nathaniel]], there is much in the [[Scriptures]] which would have instructed you if you had only [[read]] with [[discernment]]. Do you not remember that it is written: `My son, despise not the [[chastening]] of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction, for whom the Lord [[loves]] he corrects, even as the [[father]] corrects the son in whom he takes delight.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Proverbs#Proverb_.3] `The Lord does not afflict willingly.' `Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now do I keep the [[law]]. Affliction was [[good]] for me that I might thereby [[learn]] the [[divine]] statutes.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_119] `I know your [[sorrows]].[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.3] The [[eternal]] [[God]] is your [[refuge]], while underneath are the everlasting arms.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.33] `The Lord also is a refuge for the oppressed, a haven of rest in times of trouble.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_9] `The Lord will [[strengthen]] him upon the bed of [[affliction]]; the Lord will not [[forget]] the sick.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_41] `As a [[father]] shows [[compassion]] for his children, so is the Lord [[compassionate]] to those who fear him. He knows your [[body]]; he remembers that you are dust.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_103] `He [[heals]] the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_147] `He is the [[hope]] of the [[poor]], the [[strength]] of the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, and a shadow from the devastating heat.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.25] `He gives [[power]] to the faint, and to them who have no might he increases [[strength]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.40] `A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax he will not quench.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.42] `When you pass through the waters of [[affliction]], I will be with you, and when the [[rivers]] of [[adversity]] overflow you, I will not forsake you.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.43] `He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to [[proclaim]] [[liberty]] to the [[captives]], and to [[comfort]] all who [[mourn]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.61] `There is correction in [[suffering]]; affliction does not spring forth from the dust.' "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.5]

148:5.5 " But, [[Nathaniel]], there is much in the [[Scriptures]] which would have instructed you if you had only [[read]] with [[discernment]]. Do you not remember that it is written: `My son, despise not the [[chastening]] of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction, for whom the Lord [[loves]] he corrects, even as the [[father]] corrects the son in whom he takes delight.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Proverbs#Proverb_.3] `The Lord does not afflict willingly.' `Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now do I keep the [[law]]. Affliction was [[good]] for me that I might thereby [[learn]] the [[divine]] statutes.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_119] `I know your [[sorrows]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.3] The [[eternal]] [[God]] is your [[refuge]], while underneath are the everlasting arms.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Deutoronomy#Chapter_.33] `The Lord also is a refuge for the oppressed, a haven of rest in times of trouble.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_9] `The Lord will [[strengthen]] him upon the bed of [[affliction]]; the Lord will not [[forget]] the sick.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Psalms#Psalm_41] `As a [[father]] shows [[compassion]] for his children, so is the Lord [[compassionate]] to those who fear him. He knows your [[body]]; he remembers that you are dust.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_103] `He [[heals]] the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_147] `He is the [[hope]] of the [[poor]], the [[strength]] of the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, and a shadow from the devastating heat.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.25] `He gives [[power]] to the faint, and to them who have no might he increases [[strength]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.40] `A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax he will not quench.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.42] `When you pass through the waters of [[affliction]], I will be with you, and when the [[rivers]] of [[adversity]] overflow you, I will not forsake you.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.43] `He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to [[proclaim]] [[liberty]] to the [[captives]], and to [[comfort]] all who [[mourn]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.61] `There is correction in [[suffering]]; affliction does not spring forth from the dust.' "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.5]

==148:6. THE MISUNDERSTANDING OF SUFFERING—DISCOURSE ON JOB==

==148:6. THE MISUNDERSTANDING OF SUFFERING—DISCOURSE ON JOB==

148:6.1 It was this same evening at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] that [[John, the Apostle|John]] also asked [[Jesus]] why so many apparently [[innocent]] people [[suffered]] from so many [[diseases]] and [[experienced]] so many afflictions. In answering [[John, the Apostle|John]]'s questions, among many other things, [[the Master]] said:

148:6.1 It was this same evening at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] that [[John, the Apostle|John]] also asked [[Jesus]] why so many apparently [[innocent]] people [[suffered]] from so many [[diseases]] and [[experienced]] so many afflictions. In answering [[John, the Apostle|John]]'s questions, among many other things, [[the Master]] said:

148:6.2 " My son, you do not [[comprehend]] the [[meaning]] of [[adversity]] or the [[mission]] of [[suffering]]. Have you not [[read]] that [[masterpiece]] of [[Semitic]] [[literature]]—the [[Scripture]] [[story]] of the afflictions of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]? Do you not recall how this [[wonderful]] [[parable]] begins with the [[recital]] of the [[material]] [[prosperity]] of the Lord's servant? You well remember that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was [[blessed]] with [[children]], [[wealth]], [[dignity]], position, [[health]], and everything else which men [[value]] in this [[temporal]] life. According to the [[time]]-honored teachings of the [http://books.google.com/books?id=Zu6EAAAACAAJ&dq=children+of+abraham&hl=en&ei=BiufTfaaJ8TAtgfz7KH1Ag&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ children of Abraham] such [[material]] [[prosperity]] was all-sufficient [[evidence]] of [[divine]] [[favor]]. But such material [[possessions]] and such [[temporal]] [[prosperity]] do not indicate [[God]]'s [[favor]]. [[Universal Father|My Father]] in heaven loves the [[poor]] just as much as the [[rich]]; he is no respecter of persons[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Wisdom_of_Jesus,_Son_of_Sirach#Sirach_35].

148:6.2 " My son, you do not [[comprehend]] the [[meaning]] of [[adversity]] or the [[mission]] of [[suffering]]. Have you not [[read]] that [[masterpiece]] of [[Semitic]] [[literature]]—the [[Scripture]] [[story]] of the afflictions of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]? Do you not recall how this [[wonderful]] [[parable]] begins with the [[recital]] of the [[material]] [[prosperity]] of the Lord's servant? You well remember that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was [[blessed]] with [[children]], [[wealth]], [[dignity]], position, [[health]], and everything else which men [[value]] in this [[temporal]] life. According to the [[time]]-honored teachings of the [http://books.google.com/books?id=Zu6EAAAACAAJ&dq=children+of+abraham&hl=en&ei=BiufTfaaJ8TAtgfz7KH1Ag&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ children of Abraham] such [[material]] [[prosperity]] was all-sufficient [[evidence]] of [[divine]] [[favor]]. But such material [[possessions]] and such [[temporal]] [[prosperity]] do not indicate [[God]]'s [[favor]]. [[Universal Father|My Father]] in heaven loves the [[poor]] just as much as the [[rich]]; he is no respecter of persons[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Wisdom_of_Jesus,_Son_of_Sirach#Sirach_35].

148:6.3 " Although [[transgression]] of [[divine]] [[law]] is sooner or later followed by the [[harvest]] of [[punishment]], while men certainly [[eventually]] do reap what they sow, still you should know that human [[suffering]] is not always a [[punishment]] for antecedent [[sin]]. Both [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] and his [[friends]] failed to find the true answer for their [[perplexities]]. And with the [[light]] you now enjoy you would hardly assign to either [[Satan]] or [[God]] the parts they [[play]] in this [[unique]] [[parable]]. While [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] did not, through [[suffering]], find the resolution of his [[intellectual]] troubles or the solution of his [[philosophical]] [[difficulties]], he did [[achieve]] great [[victories]]; even in the very face of the breakdown of his [[theological]] [[defenses]] he [[ascended]] to those [[spiritual]] heights where he could [[sincerely]] say, `I abhor myself'; then was there granted him the [[salvation]] of a [[vision]] of [[God]]. So even through misunderstood [[suffering]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] [[ascended]] to the [[superhuman]] [[plane]] of [[moral]] [[understanding]] and [[spiritual]] [[insight]]. When the [[suffering]] servant obtains a [[vision]] of [[God]], there follows a [[soul]] [[peace]] which passes all [[human]] [[understanding]].

148:6.3 " Although [[transgression]] of [[divine]] [[law]] is sooner or later followed by the [[harvest]] of [[punishment]], while men certainly [[eventually]] do reap what they sow, still you should know that human [[suffering]] is not always a [[punishment]] for antecedent [[sin]]. Both [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] and his [[friends]] failed to find the true answer for their [[perplexities]]. And with the [[light]] you now enjoy you would hardly assign to either [[Satan]] or [[God]] the parts they [[play]] in this [[unique]] [[parable]]. While [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] did not, through [[suffering]], find the resolution of his [[intellectual]] troubles or the solution of his [[philosophical]] [[difficulties]], he did [[achieve]] great [[victories]]; even in the very face of the breakdown of his [[theological]] [[defenses]] he [[ascended]] to those [[spiritual]] heights where he could [[sincerely]] say, `I abhor myself'; then was there granted him the [[salvation]] of a [[vision]] of [[God]]. So even through misunderstood [[suffering]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] [[ascended]] to the [[superhuman]] [[plane]] of [[moral]] [[understanding]] and [[spiritual]] [[insight]]. When the [[suffering]] servant obtains a [[vision]] of [[God]], there follows a [[soul]] [[peace]] which passes all [[human]] [[understanding]].

148:6.4 " The first of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s [[friends]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliphaz_%28Job%29 Eliphaz], exhorted the sufferer to [[exhibit]] in his [[afflictions]] the same [[fortitude]] he had prescribed for others during the days of his [[prosperity]]. Said this false comforter: `[[Trust]] in your [[religion]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]; [[remember]] that it is the [[wicked]] and not the [[righteous]] who [[suffer]]. You must deserve this [[punishment]], else you would not be afflicted. You well know that no man can be [[righteous]] in [[God]]'s [[sight]]. You know that the [[wicked]] never really prosper. Anyway, man seems [[predestined]] to trouble, and perhaps the Lord is only chastising you for your own [[good]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.4] No [[wonder]] poor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] failed to get much [[comfort]] from such an [[interpretation]] of the [[problem]] of [[human]] [[suffering]].

148:6.4 " The first of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s [[friends]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliphaz_%28Job%29 Eliphaz], exhorted the sufferer to [[exhibit]] in his [[afflictions]] the same [[fortitude]] he had prescribed for others during the days of his [[prosperity]]. Said this false comforter: `[[Trust]] in your [[religion]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]; [[remember]] that it is the [[wicked]] and not the [[righteous]] who [[suffer]]. You must deserve this [[punishment]], else you would not be afflicted. You well know that no man can be [[righteous]] in [[God]]'s [[sight]]. You know that the [[wicked]] never really prosper. Anyway, man seems [[predestined]] to trouble, and perhaps the Lord is only chastising you for your own [[good]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.4] No [[wonder]] poor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] failed to get much [[comfort]] from such an [[interpretation]] of the [[problem]] of [[human]] [[suffering]].

148:6.5 " But the [[counsel]] of his second [[friend]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad], was even more [[depressing]], notwithstanding its soundness from the [[standpoint]] of the then accepted [[theology]]. Said [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad]: `[[God]] cannot be unjust. Your [[children]] must have been [[sinners]] since they perished; you must be in [[error]], else you would not be so [[afflicted]]. And if you are really [[righteous]], [[God]] will certainly deliver you from your [[afflictions]]. You should [[learn]] from the [[history]] of [[God]]'s dealings with [[man]] that the [[Almighty]] destroys only the [[wicked]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.8]

148:6.5 " But the [[counsel]] of his second [[friend]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad], was even more [[depressing]], notwithstanding its soundness from the [[standpoint]] of the then accepted [[theology]]. Said [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad]: `[[God]] cannot be unjust. Your [[children]] must have been [[sinners]] since they perished; you must be in [[error]], else you would not be so [[afflicted]]. And if you are really [[righteous]], [[God]] will certainly deliver you from your [[afflictions]]. You should [[learn]] from the [[history]] of [[God]]'s dealings with [[man]] that the [[Almighty]] destroys only the [[wicked]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.8]

148:6.6 " And then you [[remember]] how [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] replied to his [[friends]], saying: `I well know that [[God]] does not hear my [[cry]] for help. How can [[God]] be [[just]] and at the same time so utterly disregard my [[innocence]]? I am [[learning]] that I can get no [[satisfaction]] from [[appealing]] to the [[Almighty]]. Cannot you [[discern]] that [[God]] [[tolerates]] the [[persecution]] of the [[good]] by the [[wicked]]? And since [[man]] is so weak, what [[chance]] has he for [[consideration]] at the hands of an [[omnipotent]] [[God]]? God has made me as I am, and when he thus turns upon me, I am [[defenseless]]. And why did [[God]] ever [[create]] me just to [[suffer]] in this miserable [[Manner|fashion]]?'

148:6.6 " And then you [[remember]] how [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] replied to his [[friends]], saying: `I well know that [[God]] does not hear my [[cry]] for help. How can [[God]] be [[just]] and at the same time so utterly disregard my [[innocence]]? I am [[learning]] that I can get no [[satisfaction]] from [[appealing]] to the [[Almighty]]. Cannot you [[discern]] that [[God]] [[tolerates]] the [[persecution]] of the [[good]] by the [[wicked]]? And since [[man]] is so weak, what [[chance]] has he for [[consideration]] at the hands of an [[omnipotent]] [[God]]? God has made me as I am, and when he thus turns upon me, I am [[defenseless]]. And why did [[God]] ever [[create]] me just to [[suffer]] in this miserable [[Manner|fashion]]?'

148:6.7 " And who can [[challenge]] the [[attitude]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] in view of the [[counsel]] of his [[friends]] and the [[erroneous]] [[ideas]] of [[God]] which occupied his own [[mind]]? Do you not see that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] longed for a [[human]] [[God]], that he [[hungered]] to [[commune]] with a [[divine]] [[Being]] who [[knows]] man's [[mortal]] estate and [[understands]] that the [[just]] must often [[suffer]] in [[innocence]] as a [[part]] of this first life of the long [[Ascension Career|Paradise ascent]]? Wherefore has the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] come forth from [[the Father]] to live such a life in the [[flesh]] that he will be able to [[comfort]] and succor all those who must henceforth be called upon to [[endure]] the [[afflictions]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job].

148:6.7 " And who can [[challenge]] the [[attitude]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] in view of the [[counsel]] of his [[friends]] and the [[erroneous]] [[ideas]] of [[God]] which occupied his own [[mind]]? Do you not see that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] longed for a [[human]] [[God]], that he [[hungered]] to [[commune]] with a [[divine]] [[Being]] who [[knows]] man's [[mortal]] estate and [[understands]] that the [[just]] must often [[suffer]] in [[innocence]] as a [[part]] of this first life of the long [[Ascension Career|Paradise ascent]]? Wherefore has the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] come forth from [[the Father]] to live such a life in the [[flesh]] that he will be able to [[comfort]] and succor all those who must henceforth be called upon to [[endure]] the [[afflictions]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job].

148:6.8 " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s third [[friend]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zophar Zophar], then [[spoke]] still less [[comforting]] [[words]] when he said: `You are [[foolish]] to claim to be [[righteous]], seeing that you are thus [[afflicted]]. But I admit that it is impossible to [[comprehend]] [[God]]'s ways. Perhaps there is some hidden [[purpose]] in all your miseries.' And when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] had [[listened]] to all [[three]] of his [[friends]], he [[appealed]] directly to [[God]] for help, pleading the [[fact]] that `man, born of woman, is few of days and full of [[trouble]].'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.11]

148:6.8 " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s third [[friend]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zophar Zophar], then [[spoke]] still less [[comforting]] [[words]] when he said: `You are [[foolish]] to claim to be [[righteous]], seeing that you are thus [[afflicted]]. But I admit that it is impossible to [[comprehend]] [[God]]'s ways. Perhaps there is some hidden [[purpose]] in all your miseries.' And when [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] had [[listened]] to all [[three]] of his [[friends]], he [[appealed]] directly to [[God]] for help, pleading the [[fact]] that `man, born of woman, is few of days and full of [[trouble]].'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.11]

148:6.9 " Then began the second session with his friends. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliphaz_(Job) Eliphaz] grew more stern, [[accusing]], and [[sarcastic]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad] became [[indignant]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s contempt for his [[friends]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zophar Zophar] reiterated his [[melancholy]] [[advice]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] by this time had become disgusted with his [[friends]] and [[appealed]] again to [[God]], and now he [[appealed]] to a [[just]] [[God]] against the God of injustice embodied in the [[philosophy]] of his [[friends]] and enshrined even in his own [[religious]] [[attitude]]. Next [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] took [[refuge]] in the [[consolation]] of a [[future]] life in which the inequities of [[mortal]] [[existence]] may be more justly rectified. Failure to [[receive]] help from man drives [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] to [[God]]. Then ensues the great [[struggle]] in his [[heart]] between [[faith]] and [[doubt]]. Finally, the [[human]] sufferer begins to see the [[light]] of life; his [[tortured]] [[soul]] [[ascends]] to new heights of [[hope]] and [[courage]]; he may [[suffer]] on and even [[die]], but his [[enlightened]] [[soul]] now utters that cry of [[triumph]], `My Vindicator lives!'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.19]

148:6.9 " Then began the second session with his friends. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliphaz_(Job) Eliphaz] grew more stern, [[accusing]], and [[sarcastic]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bildad Bildad] became [[indignant]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job]'s contempt for his [[friends]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zophar Zophar] reiterated his [[melancholy]] [[advice]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] by this time had become disgusted with his [[friends]] and [[appealed]] again to [[God]], and now he [[appealed]] to a [[just]] [[God]] against the God of injustice embodied in the [[philosophy]] of his [[friends]] and enshrined even in his own [[religious]] [[attitude]]. Next [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] took [[refuge]] in the [[consolation]] of a [[future]] life in which the inequities of [[mortal]] [[existence]] may be more justly rectified. Failure to [[receive]] help from man drives [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] to [[God]]. Then ensues the great [[struggle]] in his [[heart]] between [[faith]] and [[doubt]]. Finally, the [[human]] sufferer begins to see the [[light]] of life; his [[tortured]] [[soul]] [[ascends]] to new heights of [[hope]] and [[courage]]; he may [[suffer]] on and even [[die]], but his [[enlightened]] [[soul]] now utters that cry of [[triumph]], `My Vindicator lives!'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.19]

148:6.10 " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was altogether right when he [[challenged]] the [[doctrine]] that [[God]] [[afflicts]] [[children]] in order to punish their [[parents]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was ever ready to admit that [[God]] is [[righteous]], but he longed for some [[soul]]-[[satisfying]] [[revelation]] of the [[personal]] [[character]] of the [[Eternal]]. And that is our [[mission]] on [[earth]]. No more shall [[suffering]] [[mortals]] be denied the [[comfort]] of [[knowing]] the  of [[God]] and [[understanding]] the [[mercy]] of [[the Father]] in heaven. While the [[speech]] of [[God]] spoken from the whirlwind[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.38] was a [[majestic]] [[concept]] for the day of its utterance, you have already [[learned]] that [[the Father]] does not thus [[reveal]] himself, but rather that he [[speaks]] within the [[human]] [[heart]] as a still, small [[voice]][http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=First_Book_of_Kings#Chapter_19], saying, `This is the way; walk therein.'[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.30] Do you not [[comprehend]] that [[God]] dwells within you, that he has become what you are that he may make you what he is! "

148:6.10 " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was altogether right when he [[challenged]] the [[doctrine]] that [[God]] [[afflicts]] [[children]] in order to punish their [[parents]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] was ever ready to admit that [[God]] is [[righteous]], but he longed for some [[soul]]-[[satisfying]] [[revelation]] of the [[personal]] [[character]] of the [[Eternal]]. And that is our [[mission]] on [[earth]]. No more shall [[suffering]] [[mortals]] be denied the [[comfort]] of [[knowing]] the  of [[God]] and [[understanding]] the [[mercy]] of [[the Father]] in heaven. While the [[speech]] of [[God]] spoken from the whirlwind[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.38] was a [[majestic]] [[concept]] for the day of its utterance, you have already [[learned]] that [[the Father]] does not thus [[reveal]] himself, but rather that he [[speaks]] within the [[human]] [[heart]] as a still, small [[voice]][https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=First_Book_of_Kings#Chapter_19], saying, `This is the way; walk therein.'[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.30] Do you not [[comprehend]] that [[God]] dwells within you, that he has become what you are that he may make you what he is! "

148:6.11 Then [[Jesus]] made this final [[statement]]: " [[The Father]] in heaven does not willingly [[afflict]] the [[children]] of men. Man [[suffers]], first, from the [[accidents]] of time and the imperfections of the [[evil]] of an immature [[physical]] [[existence]]. Next, he suffers the inexorable [[consequences]] of [[sin]]—the [[transgression]] of the [[laws]] of life and [[light]]. And finally, man reaps the [[harvest]] of his own [[iniquitous]] [[persistence]] in [[rebellion]] against the [[righteous]] rule of [[heaven]] on [[earth]]. But man's miseries are not a [[personal]] [[visitation]] of [[divine]] [[judgment]]. Man can, and will, do much to lessen his [[temporal]] [[sufferings]]. But once and for all be delivered from the [[superstition]] that [[God]] afflicts man at the behest of the [[evil one]]. [[Study]] the [[Book of Job]] just to [[discover]] how many wrong [[ideas]] of [[God]] even [[good]] men may [[honestly]] entertain; and then note how even the [[painfully]] afflicted [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] found the [[God]] of [[comfort]] and [[salvation]] in spite of such [[erroneous]] teachings. At last his [[faith]] pierced the clouds of [[suffering]] to [[discern]] the [[light]] of life pouring forth from [[the Father]] as [[healing]] [[mercy]] and everlasting [[righteousness]]. "

148:6.11 Then [[Jesus]] made this final [[statement]]: " [[The Father]] in heaven does not willingly [[afflict]] the [[children]] of men. Man [[suffers]], first, from the [[accidents]] of time and the imperfections of the [[evil]] of an immature [[physical]] [[existence]]. Next, he suffers the inexorable [[consequences]] of [[sin]]—the [[transgression]] of the [[laws]] of life and [[light]]. And finally, man reaps the [[harvest]] of his own [[iniquitous]] [[persistence]] in [[rebellion]] against the [[righteous]] rule of [[heaven]] on [[earth]]. But man's miseries are not a [[personal]] [[visitation]] of [[divine]] [[judgment]]. Man can, and will, do much to lessen his [[temporal]] [[sufferings]]. But once and for all be delivered from the [[superstition]] that [[God]] afflicts man at the behest of the [[evil one]]. [[Study]] the [[Book of Job]] just to [[discover]] how many wrong [[ideas]] of [[God]] even [[good]] men may [[honestly]] entertain; and then note how even the [[painfully]] afflicted [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Job_%28Biblical_figure%29 Job] found the [[God]] of [[comfort]] and [[salvation]] in spite of such [[erroneous]] teachings. At last his [[faith]] pierced the clouds of [[suffering]] to [[discern]] the [[light]] of life pouring forth from [[the Father]] as [[healing]] [[mercy]] and everlasting [[righteousness]]. "

148:6.12 John pondered these sayings in his [[heart]] for many days. His entire [[afterlife]] was markedly changed as a result of this [[conversation]] with [[the Master]] in the [[garden]], and he did much, in later times, to cause the other [[apostles]] to [[change]] their [[viewpoints]] regarding the [[source]], [[nature]], and [[purpose]] of commonplace [[human]] [[afflictions]]. But [[John, the Apostle|John]] never spoke of this [[conference]] until after [[the Master]] had [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_193 departed].

148:6.12 John pondered these sayings in his [[heart]] for many days. His entire [[afterlife]] was markedly changed as a result of this [[conversation]] with [[the Master]] in the [[garden]], and he did much, in later times, to cause the other [[apostles]] to [[change]] their [[viewpoints]] regarding the [[source]], [[nature]], and [[purpose]] of commonplace [[human]] [[afflictions]]. But [[John, the Apostle|John]] never spoke of this [[conference]] until after [[the Master]] had [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_193 departed].

==148:7. THE MAN WITH THE WITHERED HAND==

==148:7. THE MAN WITH THE WITHERED HAND==

148:7.1 The second [[Sabbath]] before the departure of [[the apostles]] and the new corps of [[evangelists]] on the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_149 second preaching tour] of [[Galilee]], [[Jesus]] spoke in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]] on the " [[Joys]] of [[Righteous]] Living. " When [[Jesus]] had finished speaking, a large [[group]] of those who were maimed, halt, [[sick]], and afflicted crowded up around him, seeking [[healing]]. Also in this [[group]] were the [[apostles]], many of the new [[evangelists]], and the [[Pharisees|Pharisaic]] [[spies]] from [[Jerusalem]]. Everywhere that [[Jesus]] went (except when in the hills about [[the Father]]'s business) the six [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] were sure to follow.

148:7.1 The second [[Sabbath]] before the departure of [[the apostles]] and the new corps of [[evangelists]] on the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_149 second preaching tour] of [[Galilee]], [[Jesus]] spoke in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] [[synagogue]] on the " [[Joys]] of [[Righteous]] Living. " When [[Jesus]] had finished speaking, a large [[group]] of those who were maimed, halt, [[sick]], and afflicted crowded up around him, seeking [[healing]]. Also in this [[group]] were the [[apostles]], many of the new [[evangelists]], and the [[Pharisees|Pharisaic]] [[spies]] from [[Jerusalem]]. Everywhere that [[Jesus]] went (except when in the hills about [[the Father]]'s business) the six [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] were sure to follow.

148:7.2 The [[leader]] of the spying [[Pharisees]], as [[Jesus]] stood talking to the people, induced a [[man]] with a withered hand to approach him and ask if it would be lawful to be [[healed]] on the [[Sabbath]] day or should he seek help on another day. When [[Jesus]] saw the man, heard his [[words]], and [[perceived]] that he had been sent by the [[Pharisees]], he said: " Come forward while I ask you a question. If you had a sheep and it should fall into a pit on the [[Sabbath]] day, would you reach down, lay hold on it, and lift it out? Is it [[lawful]] to do such things on the [[Sabbath]] day? " And the man answered: " Yes, Master, it would be lawful thus to do well on the [[Sabbath]] day. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6] Then said [[Jesus]], speaking to all of them: " I know wherefore you have sent this man into my [[presence]]. You would find [[cause]] for [[offense]] in me if you could [[tempt]] me to show [[mercy]] on the [[Sabbath]] day. In [[silence]] you all [[agreed]] that it was [[lawful]] to lift the unfortunate sheep out of the pit, even on the [[Sabbath]], and I call you to [[witness]] that it is lawful to [[exhibit]] [[loving]]-[[kindness]] on the [[Sabbath]] day not only to animals but also to men. How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! I [[proclaim]] that it is lawful to do [[good]] to men on the [[Sabbath]] day. " And as they all stood before him in [[silence]], [[Jesus]], addressing the man with the withered hand, said: " Stand up here by my side that all may see you. And now that you may know that it is [[Universal Father|my Father]]'s will that you do [[good]] on the Sabbath day, if you have the [[faith]] to be [[healed]], I bid you stretch out your hand. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6]

148:7.2 The [[leader]] of the spying [[Pharisees]], as [[Jesus]] stood talking to the people, induced a [[man]] with a withered hand to approach him and ask if it would be lawful to be [[healed]] on the [[Sabbath]] day or should he seek help on another day. When [[Jesus]] saw the man, heard his [[words]], and [[perceived]] that he had been sent by the [[Pharisees]], he said: " Come forward while I ask you a question. If you had a sheep and it should fall into a pit on the [[Sabbath]] day, would you reach down, lay hold on it, and lift it out? Is it [[lawful]] to do such things on the [[Sabbath]] day? " And the man answered: " Yes, Master, it would be lawful thus to do well on the [[Sabbath]] day. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6] Then said [[Jesus]], speaking to all of them: " I know wherefore you have sent this man into my [[presence]]. You would find [[cause]] for [[offense]] in me if you could [[tempt]] me to show [[mercy]] on the [[Sabbath]] day. In [[silence]] you all [[agreed]] that it was [[lawful]] to lift the unfortunate sheep out of the pit, even on the [[Sabbath]], and I call you to [[witness]] that it is lawful to [[exhibit]] [[loving]]-[[kindness]] on the [[Sabbath]] day not only to animals but also to men. How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! I [[proclaim]] that it is lawful to do [[good]] to men on the [[Sabbath]] day. " And as they all stood before him in [[silence]], [[Jesus]], addressing the man with the withered hand, said: " Stand up here by my side that all may see you. And now that you may know that it is [[Universal Father|my Father]]'s will that you do [[good]] on the Sabbath day, if you have the [[faith]] to be [[healed]], I bid you stretch out your hand. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_6]

148:7.3 And as this man stretched forth his withered hand, it was made [[whole]]. The people were [[minded]] to turn upon the [[Pharisees]], but [[Jesus]] bade them be calm, saying: " I have just told you that it is [[lawful]] to do [[good]] on the [[Sabbath]], to save life, but I did not instruct you to do harm and give way to the [[desire]] to [[kill]]. " The [[anger]]ed [[Pharisees]] went away, and notwithstanding it was the [[Sabbath]] day, they hastened forthwith to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiberias Tiberias] and took [[counsel]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod], doing [[everything]] in their [[power]] to arouse his [[prejudice]] in order to secure the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herodians Herodians] as allies against [[Jesus]]. But [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod] refused to take [[action]] against [[Jesus]], advising that they carry their [[complaint]]s to [[Jerusalem]].

148:7.3 And as this man stretched forth his withered hand, it was made [[whole]]. The people were [[minded]] to turn upon the [[Pharisees]], but [[Jesus]] bade them be calm, saying: " I have just told you that it is [[lawful]] to do [[good]] on the [[Sabbath]], to save life, but I did not instruct you to do harm and give way to the [[desire]] to [[kill]]. " The [[anger]]ed [[Pharisees]] went away, and notwithstanding it was the [[Sabbath]] day, they hastened forthwith to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiberias Tiberias] and took [[counsel]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod], doing [[everything]] in their [[power]] to arouse his [[prejudice]] in order to secure the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herodians Herodians] as allies against [[Jesus]]. But [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod] refused to take [[action]] against [[Jesus]], advising that they carry their [[complaint]]s to [[Jerusalem]].

148:8.1 The last week of the [[sojourn]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] the [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] became much divided in their [[attitude]] toward [[Jesus]] and his teachings. [[Three]] of these [[Pharisees]] were tremendously impressed by what they had seen and heard. Meanwhile, at [[Jerusalem]], Abraham, a young and [[influential]] member of the [[Sanhedrin]], publicly espoused the teachings of [[Jesus]] and was [[baptized]] in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pool_of_Siloam pool of Siloam] by [[Abner]]. All [[Jerusalem]] was agog over this [[event]], and [[messengers]] were immediately dispatched to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] recalling the six [[Spies|spying]] [[Pharisees]].

148:8.1 The last week of the [[sojourn]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] the [[Jerusalem]] [[spies]] became much divided in their [[attitude]] toward [[Jesus]] and his teachings. [[Three]] of these [[Pharisees]] were tremendously impressed by what they had seen and heard. Meanwhile, at [[Jerusalem]], Abraham, a young and [[influential]] member of the [[Sanhedrin]], publicly espoused the teachings of [[Jesus]] and was [[baptized]] in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pool_of_Siloam pool of Siloam] by [[Abner]]. All [[Jerusalem]] was agog over this [[event]], and [[messengers]] were immediately dispatched to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] recalling the six [[Spies|spying]] [[Pharisees]].

148:8.2 The [[Greek]] [[philosopher]] who had been won for [[the kingdom]] on the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_146 previous tour of Galilee] returned with certain [[wealthy]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Jews_in_Egypt#Ptolemaic_and_Roman_.28400_BC_to_641_AD.29 Jews of Alexandria], and once more they [[invited]] [[Jesus]] to come to their [[city]] for the [[purpose]] of [[establishing]] a joint [[school]] of [[philosophy]] and [[religion]] as well as an [[infirmary]] for the [[sick]]. But [[Jesus]] courteously declined the [[invitation]].

148:8.2 The [[Greek]] [[philosopher]] who had been won for [[the kingdom]] on the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_146 previous tour of Galilee] returned with certain [[wealthy]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Jews_in_Egypt#Ptolemaic_and_Roman_.28400_BC_to_641_AD.29 Jews of Alexandria], and once more they [[invited]] [[Jesus]] to come to their [[city]] for the [[purpose]] of [[establishing]] a joint [[school]] of [[philosophy]] and [[religion]] as well as an [[infirmary]] for the [[sick]]. But [[Jesus]] courteously declined the [[invitation]].

148:8.3 About this time there arrived at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] encampment a [[trance]] [[prophet]] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagdad Bagdad], one Kirmeth. This supposed [[prophet]] had peculiar [[visions]] when in [[trance]] and dreamed [[fantastic]] [[dreams]] when his [[sleep]] was disturbed. He created a considerable disturbance at the camp, and [[Simon Zelotes]] was in [[favor]] of dealing rather roughly with the [[self]]-[[deceived]] pretender, but [[Jesus]] [[intervened]] and allowed him entire [[freedom]] of [[action]] for a few days. All who heard his [[preaching]] soon [[recognized]] that his teaching was not sound as [[judged]] by the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. He shortly returned to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagdad Bagdad], taking with him only a half dozen unstable and erratic [[souls]]. But before [[Jesus]] interceded for the Bagdad [[prophet]], [[David Zebedee]], with the [[assistance]] of a self-appointed committee, had taken Kirmeth out into the lake and, after repeatedly plunging him into the [[water]], had advised him to depart hence—to [[organize]] and build a camp of his own.

148:8.3 About this time there arrived at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida] encampment a [[trance]] [[prophet]] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagdad Bagdad], one Kirmeth. This supposed [[prophet]] had peculiar [[visions]] when in [[trance]] and dreamed [[fantastic]] [[dreams]] when his [[sleep]] was disturbed. He created a considerable disturbance at the camp, and [[Simon Zelotes]] was in [[favor]] of dealing rather roughly with the [[self]]-[[deceived]] pretender, but [[Jesus]] [[intervened]] and allowed him entire [[freedom]] of [[action]] for a few days. All who heard his [[preaching]] soon [[recognized]] that his teaching was not sound as [[judged]] by the [[gospel]] of [[the kingdom]]. He shortly returned to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagdad Bagdad], taking with him only a half dozen unstable and erratic [[souls]]. But before [[Jesus]] interceded for the Bagdad [[prophet]], [[David Zebedee]], with the [[assistance]] of a self-appointed committee, had taken Kirmeth out into the lake and, after repeatedly plunging him into the [[water]], had advised him to depart hence—to [[organize]] and build a camp of his own.

148:9.1 On Friday afternoon, October 1, when [[Jesus]] was holding his last meeting with [[the apostles]], [[evangelists]], and other [[leaders]] of the disbanding encampment, and with the six [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]] seated in the front row of this assembly in the spacious and enlarged front room of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee] [[home]], there occurred one of the strangest and most [[unique]] [[episodes]] of all [[Jesus]]' [[earth]] life. [[The Master]] was, at this time, [[speaking]] as he stood in this large room, which had been built to [[accommodate]] these gatherings during the rainy [[season]]. The house was entirely [[surrounded]] by a vast concourse of people who were straining their ears to catch some part of [[Jesus]]' [[discourse]].

148:9.1 On Friday afternoon, October 1, when [[Jesus]] was holding his last meeting with [[the apostles]], [[evangelists]], and other [[leaders]] of the disbanding encampment, and with the six [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]] seated in the front row of this assembly in the spacious and enlarged front room of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee] [[home]], there occurred one of the strangest and most [[unique]] [[episodes]] of all [[Jesus]]' [[earth]] life. [[The Master]] was, at this time, [[speaking]] as he stood in this large room, which had been built to [[accommodate]] these gatherings during the rainy [[season]]. The house was entirely [[surrounded]] by a vast concourse of people who were straining their ears to catch some part of [[Jesus]]' [[discourse]].

148:9.2 While the house was thus thronged with people and entirely [[surrounded]] by eager [[listeners]], a man long afflicted with [[paralysis]] was carried down from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] on a small couch by his [[friends]]. This paralytic had heard that [[Jesus]] was about to leave [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], and having talked with Aaron the stone mason, who had been so recently made [[whole]], he resolved to be carried into [[Jesus]]' [[presence]], where he could seek [[healing]]. His [[friends]] tried to gain entrance to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee]'s house by both the front and back doors, but too many people were crowded [[together]]. But the paralytic refused to [[accept]] defeat; he directed his [[friends]] to procure ladders by which they [[ascended]] to the roof of the room in which [[Jesus]] was speaking, and after loosening the tiles, they boldly lowered the sick man on his couch by ropes until the afflicted one rested on the floor [[immediately]] in front of [[the Master]]. When [[Jesus]] saw what they had done, he ceased [[speaking]], while those who were with him in the room [[marveled]] at the [[perseverance]] of the sick man and his [[friends]]. Said the paralytic: " Master, I would not disturb your [[teaching]], but I am [[determined]] to be made [[whole]]. I am not like those who [[received]] [[healing]] and [[immediately]] forgot your teaching. I would be made whole that I might serve in [[the kingdom]] of heaven. " Now, notwithstanding that this man's affliction had been brought upon him by his own misspent life, [[Jesus]], seeing his [[faith]], said to the paralytic: " Son, fear not; your sins are [[forgiven]]. Your [[faith]] shall save you. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5]

148:9.2 While the house was thus thronged with people and entirely [[surrounded]] by eager [[listeners]], a man long afflicted with [[paralysis]] was carried down from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] on a small couch by his [[friends]]. This paralytic had heard that [[Jesus]] was about to leave [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethsaida Bethsaida], and having talked with Aaron the stone mason, who had been so recently made [[whole]], he resolved to be carried into [[Jesus]]' [[presence]], where he could seek [[healing]]. His [[friends]] tried to gain entrance to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebedee Zebedee]'s house by both the front and back doors, but too many people were crowded [[together]]. But the paralytic refused to [[accept]] defeat; he directed his [[friends]] to procure ladders by which they [[ascended]] to the roof of the room in which [[Jesus]] was speaking, and after loosening the tiles, they boldly lowered the sick man on his couch by ropes until the afflicted one rested on the floor [[immediately]] in front of [[the Master]]. When [[Jesus]] saw what they had done, he ceased [[speaking]], while those who were with him in the room [[marveled]] at the [[perseverance]] of the sick man and his [[friends]]. Said the paralytic: " Master, I would not disturb your [[teaching]], but I am [[determined]] to be made [[whole]]. I am not like those who [[received]] [[healing]] and [[immediately]] forgot your teaching. I would be made whole that I might serve in [[the kingdom]] of heaven. " Now, notwithstanding that this man's affliction had been brought upon him by his own misspent life, [[Jesus]], seeing his [[faith]], said to the paralytic: " Son, fear not; your sins are [[forgiven]]. Your [[faith]] shall save you. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5]

148:9.3 When the [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]], together with other [[scribes]] and lawyers who sat with them, heard this pronouncement by [[Jesus]], they began to say to themselves: " How dare this man thus speak? Does he not understand that such words are blasphemy? Who can forgive sin but God? "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5] [[Jesus]], [[perceiving]] in his [[spirit]] that they thus reasoned within their own [[minds]] and among themselves, spoke to them, saying: " Why do you so [[reason]] in your [[hearts]]? Who are you that you sit in [[judgment]] over me? What is the [[difference]] whether I say to this paralytic, your [[sins]] are [[forgiven]], or arise, take up your bed, and walk? But that you who [[witness]] all this may finally know that the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] has [[authority]] and [[power]] on [[earth]] to [[forgive]] [[sins]], I will say to this afflicted man, Arise, take up your bed, and go to your own house. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5] And when [[Jesus]] had thus spoken, the paralytic arose, and as they made way for him, he walked out before them all. And those who saw these [[things]] were [[amazed]]. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] dismissed the assemblage, while many [[prayed]] and [[glorified]] [[God]], [[confessing]] that they had never before seen such [[strange]] happenings.

148:9.3 When the [[Pharisees]] from [[Jerusalem]], together with other [[scribes]] and lawyers who sat with them, heard this pronouncement by [[Jesus]], they began to say to themselves: " How dare this man thus speak? Does he not understand that such words are blasphemy? Who can forgive sin but God? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5] [[Jesus]], [[perceiving]] in his [[spirit]] that they thus reasoned within their own [[minds]] and among themselves, spoke to them, saying: " Why do you so [[reason]] in your [[hearts]]? Who are you that you sit in [[judgment]] over me? What is the [[difference]] whether I say to this paralytic, your [[sins]] are [[forgiven]], or arise, take up your bed, and walk? But that you who [[witness]] all this may finally know that the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_Man Son of Man] has [[authority]] and [[power]] on [[earth]] to [[forgive]] [[sins]], I will say to this afflicted man, Arise, take up your bed, and go to your own house. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_5] And when [[Jesus]] had thus spoken, the paralytic arose, and as they made way for him, he walked out before them all. And those who saw these [[things]] were [[amazed]]. [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] dismissed the assemblage, while many [[prayed]] and [[glorified]] [[God]], [[confessing]] that they had never before seen such [[strange]] happenings.

148:9.4 And it was about this time that the [[messengers]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] arrived to bid the six [[spies]] return to [[Jerusalem]]. When they heard this [[message]], they fell to [[earnest]] [[debate]] among themselves; and after they had finished their [[discussions]], the [[leader]] and two of his [[associates]] returned with the [[messengers]] to [[Jerusalem]], while three of the spying [[Pharisees]] [[confessed]] [[faith]] in [[Jesus]] and, going [[immediately]] to the lake, were [[baptized]] by [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] and fellowshipped by [[the apostles]] as [[children]] of [[the kingdom]].

148:9.4 And it was about this time that the [[messengers]] of the [[Sanhedrin]] arrived to bid the six [[spies]] return to [[Jerusalem]]. When they heard this [[message]], they fell to [[earnest]] [[debate]] among themselves; and after they had finished their [[discussions]], the [[leader]] and two of his [[associates]] returned with the [[messengers]] to [[Jerusalem]], while three of the spying [[Pharisees]] [[confessed]] [[faith]] in [[Jesus]] and, going [[immediately]] to the lake, were [[baptized]] by [[Peter, the Apostle|Peter]] and fellowshipped by [[the apostles]] as [[children]] of [[the kingdom]].

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

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