Jesus possessed a well-nigh perfect physical and mental development, portraying a robust and attractive personality that combined both human and divine traits. [1]
The erroneous pictures of Jesus have had a negative impact, as his true nature was dignified, dynamic, and focused on doing good rather than appearing mild and gentle. [2] Jesus' fascinating, authoritative voice captivated all who heard it at the temple. [3]
Throughout Jesus' life, he was known by many names and titles, including the Son of God, Lord of Glory, Ruler of a Universe, and the Captain of our salvation. [4]
Content with seemingly inadequate means and personalities; ignored power of wealth, great men. [12] Emotional ecstasy upon return of the 70. [13] Interested in, loved, all types of people. [14] Interested only in the individual, not the mass. [15] Loved men so much because he placed such a high value upon them. [16] Loved the sinner, hated the sin. [17] Never premeditated anything dramatic. [18] No respecter of persons. [19] Offered mercy to Caligastia and Daligastia. [20] Rare good humor; not man of sorrows. [21] Regular in work habits. [22] Sat at no man’s feet. [23] Saw most men as weak rather than wicked. [24] Seldom corrected misunderstandings. [25] Taught as one having authority. [26] Very fond of doing things for people. [27] Went about doing good. [28]
Experienced doubt. [29] Awareness of preexistence, divinity. [30]
One of Jesus' goals was to avoid such a showy and spectacular career that it would lead future generations to revere the teacher rather than the truth he had lived and taught . [31] He became increasingly discreet, hiding everything that would contribute to being regarded as different from his companions. [32]
Abhorred purely ceremonial practices. [33] Jesus' antagonism to Jewish traditions and servile ceremonials was always positive. [34] He undertook the destruction of something that existed only when he simultaneously offered to his fellows the highest thing that should exist. [35] Was accused of mocking Jewish sacred traditions. [36] Detested the use of religion for commercial purposes. [37] Was repulsed by the spirit of irreverence he observed in the Jerusalem temple. [38] Kept as far away as possible from fasts and forms; Jesus shattered traditions, destroyed dogmas, and invited mankind to realize his highest ideals. [39]
He refused to employ spiritual forces for himself or to gain followers. [40] He refused to use even human powers to save himself. [41]
His heart was broken when he realized that he must leave his apostles and there was no way to escape the final suffering. [42] Jesus cast a look of compassion and love upon Peter such as no mortal man has ever seen in the Master's face. [43] He always maintained a majestic bearing before his accusers. [44] He felt terribly alone before the crucifixion. [45]
His faith was free from presumption. [46] He had faith in people. [47] He had a strong faith in us human beings. [48] Mortal man, when he appropriates the faith of Jesus, can foreshadow in time the realities of eternity. [49] Jesus' faith was fueled by realities beyond even the ultimate. [50] His faith was perfect but never presumptuous. [51]
Jesus' faith pointed to the path to the finality of human salvation, to the highest attainable by mortals in the universe, for it provides the seven levels of salvation. [52] His faith was a sublime experience and a deep conviction that kept him safe. [53]
He did not act as an economic or social reformer. [54] He revealed that He knew the thoughts of His associates. [55] He never did what others could acceptably accomplish. [56] He never seemed to be curious about people, and He never manifested a desire to direct, manage, or investigate them. [57] He did not interfere in affairs between His disciples and John's apostles. [58] He did not answer or confront His accusers. [59] He never resorted to unworthy tactics in dealing with his enemies. [60] He did not reveal his plans to the apostles. [61] He did not seek to become a martyr. [62] He had nothing to do with the choice of his parents. [63] He did not serve evil in order that good might presumably flow from it. [64] He never showed favoritism. [65] He always showed a characteristic reluctance to take unfair advantage of an adversary. [66] He never rejected anyone. [67]
Only about 10% of those who attended the miracle of the loaves and the attempted coronation episode became followers of Jesus. [68] Jesus' exquisite personality caused such admiration that when he was introduced, the exclamation was “Behold the man!”. [69] The common people listened with great pleasure to his words. [70] Even his enemies feared the well-poised presence of Jesus, who was uniquely unified in his divine enthusiasm and practicality. [71] Fear has hindered, not inability, from understanding Jesus throughout history. [72]
Opinions concerning Jesus varied widely, from admiration to fear, but his controlled enthusiasm for the gospel of the kingdom inspired hope and confidence in those who encountered him. [73]
The more we come to know Jesus, the more we love and follow after him as our faithful and unselfish friend, who embodies the ideal of human friendship and love even for sinners. [74] Thousands have proved the promises of Jesus to be true. [75] Even the Emperor Tiberius, upon meeting him, did not hesitate to admire Jesus' regal bearing and affable manners. [76]
The Home at Nazareth: Joseph and Mary prepared intimately and diligently for the arrival of the child of promise in their humble but lovingly maintained stone house. [77] Jesus, despite his own convictions, always conformed to his parents' wishes. [78] Jesus' family came near believing he was beside himself as they struggled to understand his teachings and philosophy. [79] They failed to understand Jesus, unable to grasp his teachings or philosophy, as his focus was on the Father's business and those who did His will. [80] The apostles failed to wish Jesus well, succumbing to pride and resentment, as his family missed the Master's departure. [81] Jesus' failure to make James and Jude apostles sparked a rift with his family that persisted until after his death and resurrection. [82] Jesus' family, feeling disgraced by their embarrassing position, avoided him as they debated and prayed together in Capernaum. [83] Jesus' family hurried to assemble at Zebedee’s house upon receiving alarming news about his impending arrest. [84] Before leaving Capernaum, Jesus asked John Zebedee to watch over his family and manage his funds, which John faithfully did until Jesus returned. [85] Jesus financially supported his family until He left home. [86]
Despite his best efforts, Jesus struggled to retain the affection and confidence of his family, as outside forces made it nearly impossible for them to connect during a planned visit. [87] Jesus' abdication as head of Joseph's house marked the beginning of a new chapter for his family. [88]
Jesus' education was a combination of moral training and spiritual guidance from his family, intellectual and theological learning from the chazan, and a real education gained through interacting with a diverse range of people. [89]
Jesus' relations with siblings improved over time, especially with James, Miriam, and the two younger children, Amos and Ruth, while occasional friction remained with Joseph and Jude. [90] Jesus' family forgathered at the house of Martha and Mary in Bethany to await news of his trial and crucifixion. [91] James, Simon, Joseph, and Jude tried to follow Jesus' teachings on nonresistance, but there was no penalty for violating them in their family. [92] After resurrection, Jesus' family scattered to different residences in Bethsaida, Jerusalem, Bethany, Galilee, and Philadelphia. [93] About the members of Jesus’ family see links at the bottom.
Jesus of Nazareth was born into the world on August 21, 7 B.C. in Bethlehem. [94] Some Chaldean priests were informed by midwayers of the impending arrival of Jesus of Nazareth. [95] Vevona heralded “Glory to God in Havona and on earth peace and good will among men” at the birth of Michael. [96]
Jesus of Nazareth was taken to Egypt as a child in recognition of Ikhnaton's remarkable preservation of monotheism. [97] Jesus, at the age of his first moral decision, received the arrival of the Thought Adjuster. [98] Jesus of Nazareth spent much of his spare time studying flowers during the day and stars at night, often staying up past his bedtime in wonder. [99] Jesus fell from the stairs during an unexpected July sandstorm. [100]
During an interesting year at school, Jesus, a diligent pupil in the more progressive third of the class, was excused from attendance for one week each month, spending his time with family or on fishing trips. [101]
Jesus was told to be about his Father's business by an assigned messenger from Salvington, commissioned by Immanuel, on the day before the Passover Sabbath. [102] Jesus' embarrassing questions challenged traditional beliefs and opened minds to a more compassionate view of divinity. [103] Jesus was deeply disturbed by the slaughter of innocent animals required by his heavenly Father. [104]
Jesus, with sagacity, humor, fairness, and consideration, made few comments on elders’ answers, preferring instead to challenge and enlighten through his thought-provoking questions. [105] Jesus and his family experienced financial struggle, yet he faithfully fulfilled his duties and longed for a simpler, country life. [106]
As Jesus entered upon his adolescent years, he found himself the head and sole support of a large family, facing weighty problems and intricate difficulties, yet gaining full knowledge and understanding of the life experience of youth everywhere, forever becoming the understanding refuge for distressed adolescents of all ages and on all worlds throughout the local universe. [107]
Jesus of Nazareth declined to join the Zealots, despite pressure from family and friends, due to his unwavering commitment to his duty to his family and his refusal to engage in political revolt. [108] During his 6 weeks alone with God on Mount Hermon, Jesus transitioned from his purely human career to the more divine phase of his bestowal. [109]
After spending 40 days in the wilderness, Jesus made the final decision to establish the kingdom of heaven in the hearts of mankind by natural, ordinary, difficult, and trying methods, refusing to use his divine powers for selfish gain or worldly glory. [110] Jesus of Nazareth is the greatest of all Urantians, reflecting eternal and living values in his mighty personality. [111] The Father desired natural finish for Jesus' life, as he faced the trials of his earthly mission with unwavering faith and courage. [112]
Jesus of Nazareth lived his human life in the channel of its natural flowing, humbling himself and choosing to endure great anguish and suffering untold sorrow to fulfill his purpose on earth. [113]
Jesus of Nazareth acquired knowledge and wisdom like any other mortal, relying solely on his human abilities until his baptism, without supernatural assistance. [114] Remember his life and proclaim the gospel of the kingdom with love, service, and truth to all people. [115]
Christ Michael, during his time on Urantia, progressed through stages from evolutionary religion to embodying the full sovereignty of supremacy in his local universe. [116]
The midway culture preserves and shares the story of Jesus of Nazareth with humanity, safeguarding it from the forgetfulness that plagues mortal civilization. [117]
It is time to revive the true essence of Jesus of Nazareth, freeing him from centuries of theological interpretations, so that his teachings can be embodied in religious practices. [118] Jesus never experienced serious illness, but did endure minor childhood ailments alongside his siblings this year. [119] Jesus declined the offer of assistant chaplainship in Alexandria, citing that his “hour has not yet come.”. [120] Jesus' social life, though limited, was not entirely forgotten, as he had numerous close friends and loyal supporters in Nazareth. [121]
Jesus sought out Roman religious leaders to prepare the way for the reception of his messengers and enhance their understanding of truth, leading to the rapid spread of Christianity in Rome and beyond. [122] Jesus spent every possible hour with the children, becoming a father figure to them and sharing in their joy and wonderment. [123]
Due to the uncertainties and anxieties in Bethlehem, Mary did not wean Jesus until they arrived safely in Alexandria, where they settled with relatives and Joseph found work as a carpenter, eventually becoming a foreman. Mary vigilantly protected Jesus during his infancy, but allowed him to play with other children, understanding the importance of social interaction. The family stayed in Alexandria for two years, during which Jesus enjoyed good health and received a Greek translation of the Hebrew scriptures from friends. After Herod's death, they returned to Nazareth, where Joseph resumed his work and Jesus grew up in a loving, intellectually stimulating environment. Jesus formed close friendships, particularly with a neighbor boy named Jacob, and experienced normal childhood activities. He began formal education at the synagogue at age seven, excelling in his studies and learning multiple languages. Jesus' inquisitive nature led to many questions about the world, which his parents diligently answered. The family expanded with the birth of more children, and Jesus took on responsibilities at home and in his father's workshop. His early years were marked by a balance of education, play, and family life, setting the foundation for his future mission. [124]
Although Jesus might have had better schooling opportunities in Alexandria, his time in Nazareth provided a unique environment for personal growth and understanding of diverse cultures. He experienced minor childhood ailments but continued to excel in school, balancing education with trips to neighboring cities and his uncle's farm. Jesus faced challenges at school due to his artistic interests, which conflicted with Jewish laws, but he adapted by focusing on other activities. His physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development continued, and he began to understand his unique life mission. Despite occasional conflicts with Jewish customs, Jesus maintained a balance between personal convictions and family obligations, preparing for his future role. [125]
No incident in Jesus' life was more thrilling than his first visit to Jerusalem. He was deeply moved by attending temple discussions alone, marking his first taste of independence. Despite initial excitement, he was disillusioned by the temple's rituals and the irreverence he observed. Jesus questioned the necessity of animal sacrifices and the exclusion of women from certain ceremonies. His profound questions during temple discussions astonished the teachers. After being inadvertently left behind by his parents, he spent three days engaging with temple scholars. When found, he expressed his dedication to his heavenly Father's business. This visit profoundly impacted Jesus, shaping his understanding of his mission and deepening his spiritual insights. [126]
Of all Jesus' earth-life experiences, his fourteenth and fifteenth years were the most crucial. During this period, he became self-conscious of his divinity and destiny, facing significant challenges and temptations. After returning from Jerusalem, Jesus spent more time with his father, distancing himself from his mother. He developed a deep love for the Jewish people but resented the hypocritical religious leaders. His exploits in Jerusalem were praised in Nazareth, and he continued to excel in his studies and work. However, tragedy struck when his father, Joseph, died, leaving Jesus to support his family. Despite the hardships, Jesus managed the family's affairs wisely and continued to grow in favor with God and man. He formulated the prayer later known as “The Lord's Prayer” and began to understand his mission on earth. By the end of his fifteenth year, Jesus had transitioned from childhood to young manhood, ready to take on the responsibilities and opportunities ahead. [127]
As Jesus entered his adolescent years, he became the head and sole support of his large family. Over time, he became increasingly aware of his pre-existence and his mission to reveal his Paradise Father to humanity. No youth has faced more complex problems or testing conflicts than Jesus did during these years. He grew physically, intellectually, and spiritually, displaying a blend of human and divine traits. His family struggled to understand him, especially as he denied being the expected Jewish Messiah. Jesus focused on supporting his family, working diligently as a carpenter. He faced social and political pressures, including a nationalist movement, but prioritized his family responsibilities. Despite financial hardships, Jesus maintained a hopeful and optimistic outlook, inspiring his siblings. He continued to develop his moral and spiritual understanding, preparing for his future mission. By the end of this period, Jesus had become a mature, experienced man, ready to reveal God to humanity and lead people to God. [128]
As Jesus of Nazareth entered his early adult years, he continued to live a normal human life, experiencing the same challenges and emotions as others. His primary mission was twofold: to master the human experience and to reveal the Universal Father to humanity. Jesus fully embraced his dual nature as both human and divine, living a life of humility and obedience. He did not use any supernatural powers until after his baptism by John, which marked the beginning of his public ministry.
During this time, Jesus managed his family's affairs, gradually preparing them for his eventual departure. He worked various jobs, including carpentry and metalwork, and took on the responsibility of supporting his siblings. He also engaged in deep meditation and prayer, further developing his spiritual understanding.
Jesus faced numerous temptations and opportunities, such as an offer to lead a school in Damascus, but he remained focused on his mission. He maintained a strong connection with his family, ensuring their well-being before stepping into his public role. By the end of this period, Jesus had successfully prepared his family for his departure and was ready to begin the next phase of his mission. [129]
Jesus gradually separated himself from managing his family's affairs, preparing them for his departure. He continued to support them financially and spiritually until his baptism. Despite his deep love for his family, he knew he had to leave to fulfill his mission. In A.D. 21, Jesus left Nazareth, visiting Tiberias, Magdala, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, where he worked with Zebedee, a boatbuilder. Jesus designed new, safer boats and became well-known among Galilean fishermen. He lived with Zebedee's family, who admired him greatly. Jesus continued to study, teach, and engage with people, preparing for his public ministry. In A.D. 22, he left Capernaum for Jerusalem, entrusting John Zebedee with his family's financial support. Jesus then embarked on a Mediterranean journey, gaining diverse experiences and deepening his understanding of humanity. By the end of his twenty-ninth year, Jesus was ready for the next phase of his mission, having mastered the human experience. [130]
Jesus embarked on a tour of the Roman world with Gonod and his son Ganid from India, starting on April 26, A.D. 22. They traveled from Jerusalem to Caesarea, then sailed to Alexandria, Crete, Carthage, and Naples, stopping at Malta, #10#, and Messina along the way. From Naples, they traveled to Rome via Capua. After Rome, they went to Tarentum, then sailed to Athens, stopping at Nicopolis and Corinth. From Athens, they traveled to Ephesus, then to Cyprus, stopping at Rhodes, and finally to Antioch. They journeyed south to Sidon, then to Damascus, and traveled through Mesopotamia, visiting Babylon, Ur, Susa, and ending in Charax on December 10, A.D. 23. Jesus spent his time teaching Ganid, assisting Gonod, and engaging with locals, deepening his understanding of humanity. [131]
After leaving Gonod and Ganid at Charax in December A.D. 23, Jesus traveled via Ur to Babylon, joining a caravan to Damascus. From there, he went to Nazareth, briefly stopping in Capernaum to visit Zebedee’s family and his brothers James and Jude. In early March A.D. 24, Jesus attended the double wedding of Simon and Jude in Nazareth. In April A.D. 24, Jesus left Nazareth to lead a caravan from Jerusalem to the Caspian Sea region, passing through Damascus, Lake Urmia, Assyria, Media, and Parthia. He returned in April A.D. 25, stopping at Lake Urmia for two weeks before traveling back to Damascus and then to Capernaum. Jesus settled in Capernaum, where his mother Mary and sister Ruth had moved, and made his home with the Zebedees. [132]
Jesus' most crucial and trying earth-life experiences were during his fourteenth and fifteenth years, which should be called the great test, the real temptation. [133]
Mount Hermon marked the transition from Jesus' purely human life to the beginning of his divine phase, as he lived in isolation with God for six weeks on its slopes. [134]
40 days after baptism, Jesus formulated the plans to proclaim the new kingdom of God in the hearts of men, having completed his bestowal on Urantia and received the assurance of his sovereignty from the highest authorities in the universe. [135]
Jesus of Nazareth refrained from utilizing his supernatural power or celestial guidance until his baptism by John, despite being the incarnated Creator Son. [136]
The day of baptism marked the end of Jesus' purely human life, as the divine Son reunited with his Father, the Universal Father finding his incarnated Son, engaged in conversation. [137]
Jesus of Nazareth began his public work at the height of popular interest in John’s preaching and at a time when the Jewish people were eagerly looking for the Messiah, preaching a message of repentance and the kingdom of heaven that brought comfort and joy to a world anticipating a deliverer, even though the concept of the Messiah had evolved over time from a national deliverer to a divine representative of an improved dispensation, causing confusion and differing interpretations among the Jews. [138]
Jesus, active in universe administration after his baptism, was in direct association with his chief directors of universe affairs during solitary seasons in the hills. [139] At his baptism, Jesus united his human and divine minds, reaching the pinnacle of his personal spiritual growth as the Son of Man. [140]
Jesus, having recalled Immanuel’s instructions at baptism, experienced great spiritual growth and recognition of his divine identity during his Mediterranean journey. [141] Jesus was baptized not as a rite of repentance, but as a consecration to the will of the heavenly Father. [142] Jesus of Nazareth's spirit transit was completed at baptism, transitioning him from life in the flesh to life in the morontia. [143] Jesus of Nazareth made great decisions during his mountain wilderness solitude, no longer relying on a personal seraphic guardian angel after baptism. [144] Through constant communion with his Personalized Adjuster, Jesus of Nazareth carried out all his earthly labors. [145]
After making great decisions regarding his future actions and the proclamation of the kingdom of heaven, Jesus chose to adhere steadfastly to the will of his Father, rejecting worldly power and the use of miracles for personal gain, thus setting a noble example of moral and spiritual integrity for all mankind. [146]
Jesus' first pronouncement of divine nature was made to Nalda, a Samaritan woman of questionable character, but seen by the divine eye as a soul sincerely desiring salvation. [147]
The king-making episode at the feeding of the five thousand led to Jesus rejecting the people's earthly kingship in favor of the spiritual brotherhood of the kingdom of heaven. [148] Jesus of Nazareth rebuked the Sanhedrin and warned of impending spiritual doom but offered mercy and forgiveness. [149]
Jesus wept at Lazarus' tomb out of genuine sympathy for Martha and Mary, perturbed by the crowd of mourners, and hesitant to bring Lazarus back to mortal life. [150] Jesus stood on Mount Olivet, beholding Jerusalem for the first time, filled with emotion as he gazed upon the city that would soon reject him. [151] Jesus wept over family in boat before departing for Jerusalem. [152]
Jesus' transfiguration on Mount Hermon marked the acceptance of his bestowal mission and the satisfaction of the Infinite Spirit, propelling him towards the final phase of his earthly ministry as the Son of God and the Son of Man. [153]
Jesus ascended Mount Hermon to receive the endowment for his earthly mission, choosing to fulfill the mandate of the Eternal Son and the will of his Paradise Father, declining full universe authority at the transfiguration. [154]
The memory of transfiguration sustained Jesus as he accomplished things through his death that could never have been achieved in his life, nerving his apostles to enter Jerusalem. [155]
Jesus, betrayed by Judas, calmly faced his captors and accepted his fate, willing to fulfill the Father's will even in the midst of cruelty and injustice. [156] Judas stepped out in front of the armed soldiers to easily identify Jesus for arrest, making a show of betrayal to secure a great reward. [157] Jesus of Nazareth was spat upon and struck in the face during the unjust and illegal Sanhedrist trial. [158] Struck by enemies, endured humiliation with love and patience, revealing his selfless and forgiving nature. [159] Jesus of Nazareth was arrested and accused without evidence, adjudged without witnesses, punished without a verdict, and condemned to die unjustly. [160] Jesus was not legally convicted on any charges after being brought from the praetorium by Pilate. [161]
The soldiers divided Jesus' clothes among them, leaving the tunic to be cast lots for, as Jesus silently observed his followers and the crowd jeering at him. [162]
Jesus of Nazareth died in 5-1/2 hours due to overwhelming emotional agony and acute spiritual anguish, much to the surprise of the soldiers who found him already dead upon arrival at Golgotha. [163]
Before leaving the courtyard of the praetorium, Jesus was compelled to carry the crossbeam to Golgotha, where he was crucified as “Jesus of Nazareth—the King of the Jews.”. [164] The humiliation and crucifixion of Jesus serve as the greatest evidence of his humanity before his resurrection and ultimate reveal of divinity. [165] Physically exhausted before, Jesus succumbed to the weight of the crossbeam on the way to Golgotha, as his suffering reached its peak. [166] Jesus' side was pierced with a spear, marking the end of his mortal life in less than five and a half hours. [167] Those who witnessed Jesus' crucifixion were awestruck by the sight, standing in silence as the Creator died the death of a condemned criminal. [168] Jesus was buried in Joseph's new family tomb, with the centurion and other disciples standing by to prevent interference. [169]
Jesus accomplished things by death he could not in life, such as nerving the apostles to enter Jerusalem with the resurrection of Lazarus and sustaining himself during his bestowal with the memory of the transfiguration, all while being accepted as the Messiah by believers who did not comprehend the concept of a suffering Messiah. [170] Christianity was built up around Jesus' death, rather than his life and teachings on the value of women's souls. [171]
Earth's greatest tragedy was soon to take place, leaving many bewildered and unable to reconcile the impending disaster with Jesus' optimistic demeanor and his references to the future heavenly kingdom. [172]
The bestowal of a Paradise Son on your world was inherent in the Father’s will concerning the closing of a planetary age, not made necessary to win God's favor, but as the final personal act of a Creator Son in earning experiential sovereignty. [173] Jesus foretold his crucifixion, death, and resurrection, warning his disciples to be ready and to follow his teachings with wholehearted dedication. [174] Jesus made plain the certainty of survival for all beings throughout the universe. [175]
Jesus of Nazareth, who belonged to Joseph of Arimathea, was buried in a new family tomb with the belief that he would rise from the dead. [176] Jesus of Nazareth was buried in Joseph's new family tomb across from Golgotha. [177] The discovery of the empty tomb on that early Sunday morning signaled the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth to come. [178] Jesus was in the tomb from 3 PM Friday to 3 AM Sunday, a mysterious and little-known chapter in his earthly journey. [179] Jesus of Nazareth's tomb was sealed by two stones and guarded by twenty men, ten Jewish guards and ten Roman soldiers. [180] When Jesus emerged from the tomb, his physical body remained untouched and the seals were unbroken. [181]
Seven Paradise personalities surrounded the tomb, but did not participate in Jesus' awakening. [182] The mortal body of Jesus was dissolved by celestial beings, sparing the hosts of heaven from witnessing the slow decay of the Creator's human form. [183]
The Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus is not solely based on the fact of the empty tomb, but on the spiritual truth of sonship with God, proclaimed in the gospel of the kingdom. [184] The grave cloths, apparently intact and thrown over a cliff, left them greatly surprised at the empty tomb. [185] Just before the greatest revelation of Jesus' divinity, must now come the greatest proofs of his mortal nature. [186] The heralds of the resurrection, dispatched by David Zebedee, proclaimed the risen Savior before the apostles could believe. [187] Jesus foretold his death and resurrection, urging his disciples to prepare for the trials ahead. [188]
Knowledge of Jesus' resurrection avails nothing without spiritual rebirth, for salvation is the free gift of God bestowed upon all who believe they are his sons and bear the fruits of a spirit-filled life. [189] No creatures assisted in the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth; he achieved it through his own inherent power. [190]
Upon the resurrection of Jesus (of Nazareth) on the third day, he ascended to the right hand of the Universal Father and received the assurance of the acceptance of his bestowal mission. [191]
After the resurrected Jesus emerged from his burial tomb, his physical body remained undisturbed, for it was a discarded outer covering with no connection to his resurrected morontia personality. [192] The resurrected Jesus was seen by almost one thousand people, providing spiritual evidence of his resurrection. [193] Jesus revealed a new revelation of life overthrowing death. [194] Jesus of Nazareth inaugurated dispensational resurrection on Sunday morning, summoning the archangels to his side. [195]
List of the morontial appearances of Jesus by chronological order:
The Master appeared within places with closed doors. [215] Jesus was able to break bread and pass it to the apostles to whom he appeared. [216]
They were unable to perceive that Jesus was no longer mortal, for he appeared in appearance like a mortal, although they had difficulty recognizing the old Jesus, as did the brothers at Emmaus. [217] Despite the difficulty in recognizing Jesus' form, his voice and personality were unmistakable to his disciples. [218] Jesus' morontia appearances became increasingly difficult to visualize as he advanced in his morontia life. [219]
From the morontia transit to the ascension, Christ Michael traversed the phases of mortal transition, mastering the experience of Supremacy and attaining the sovereignty of his local universe. [220]
Jesus made nineteen separate visible appearances to his believers on earth, excluding enemies and those incapable of making spiritual use of his manifestation. [221] His morontia body was devoid of nail marks in his hands, just as Thomas had expected as proof that the one appearing was his Master. [222]
Jesus ascended to his Father on the Mount of Olives, bidding farewell to his apostles and beginning his journey to receive formal confirmation of his complete universal sovereignty. [223]
Jesus asked his disciples not to be ashamed of his teachings. [224] We should not be discouraged by our failure to fully grasp the meaning of the gospel. [225] Jesus denounced pride, cruelty, oppression, and hypocrisy. [226]
Jesus was completely outraged by discrimination against women and maintained that women should attend school just as men. Jesus's boldest act was to select a group of twelve women as gospel instructors. [227] Today's economy, motivated solely by profit, is incompatible with Jesus' teachings. [228]
When studying Jesus' life, with regard to prayer or anything else characteristic of his religious life, we should not so much look for what he taught as for what he did. [229]
The essence of Jesus' teaching was love and service, the loving worship that a created son voluntarily offers in recognition of and in response to the loving ministry of his Father God. [230]
A revival of true teachings is needed of Jesus, to be reexposed in such a way as to nullify the effect of the work of his early followers, who set about creating a sociophilosophical system of belief about Michael's sojourn on Earth. [231]
The Master taught these apostles the essential elements of truth for an entire Earth age. They often listened to his teachings, though what he said was really intended to inspire and edify other worlds. [232] Jesus came with a new message of self-forgetfulness and self-mastery, not of soul-searching and self-denial. [233] He did not teach from the learning of the rabbis. [234] He used the term Elohim for God, the plural God, the Trinity, and not Yahweh, the ancient tribal god of the Jews. [235]
Jesus taught not to interpret his message literally, but to discern the spirit of his teaching and live according to his spiritual ideals, rather than applying them directly to material affairs. [571]
His teachings applied to the individual, not the state. Jesus taught to love one's enemies, emphasized individual responsibility, and warned against political entanglements. [572]
Jesus' teachings are truly applicable in a world of mortals who have had the preliminary training of the pre-bestowal Sons, with their dispensations to ennoble character and enhance culture. [573]
Many intelligent and well-intentioned men maintain that modern civilization could not have been built on Jesus' teachings—and they are partly right. But all these skeptics forget that a far better civilization could have been built upon his teachings, and that it will someday be built. This world has never seriously attempted to put Jesus' teachings into practice on a large scale. [574]
The teachings of Jesus constituted the first Urantian religion so fully embracing a harmonious coordination of knowledge, wisdom, faith, truth, and love that it totally and simultaneously provided temporal tranquility, intellectual certainty, moral enlightenment, philosophical stability, ethical sensitivity, God-consciousness, and the firm assurance of personal survival. [575]
Had his teachings been handed down as he presented them, with no commentary other than the inspiring interpretation provided by his earth life, all nations and all the religions of the world would have quickly embraced the gospel of the kingdom. [576]
Jesus did not want the reconstruction of such outstanding human history to divert attention from his teachings. He recognized early on that his followers would be tempted to formulate a religion around him, one that might compete with the gospel of the kingdom he intended to proclaim to the world. [577]
Jesus often taught by questioning, enticing, and guiding toward the path of love and service. [578]
He was bold and forceful in his statements that he had deliberately decided to ignore the “great ones of the earth” and focus on the poor precisely because they had always been ignored by most previous religions. [579] He constantly turned to the Scriptures in his efforts to improve the practices of all these social practices, such as marriage and divorce. [580]
The method he used to instruct was never to attack their errors, nor to mention the defects in their teachings. In each case, he selected the truth contained in what they taught, and then proceeded to beautify and illuminate this truth in their minds. [581]
The Pharisees had formulated a systematic and dogmatic theology. Jesus was an instructor who taught as the occasion arose; he was not a systematic educator. Jesus taught in parables, basing his message more on life than on law. When he used a parable to illustrate his message, he intended to use a single feature of history for that purpose. Many misconceptions about Jesus' teachings can be gained when attempts are made to transform his parables into allegories. [582] Jesus constantly reiterated his message to make himself understood. [583] He never provoked resentment or antagonism. [584] He never resorted to unworthy tactics to confront the constant pressure of his enemies. [585] He did not appeal to human authority; he spoke directly to consciences and souls; he did not resort to logic, legal quibbles, or clever assertions. [586] Jesus moved people not so much by what he said as by his kind look and his sympathetic smile. [587]
Jesus taught the most to those to whom he spoke the least. Jesus' message was always about the love and mercy of the heavenly Father, and he taught most effectively through compassionate listening and practical guidance. [588]
Through a series of unexplained healings, over 100 individuals were beneficiaries of unconscious healing by Jesus during his earthly ministry, adding to his fame despite his instructions of secrecy. [589]
Adjuster reminded Jesus that while time manifestations are unlimited for universe hosts attending him, his own activities are restricted only to space control. [590] Approach Jesus through miracles, not miracles through Jesus; for He is the only founder of a religion who performed supermaterial acts on earth. [591]
Jesus' personal presence on Earth was inseparable from his Creator prerogatives, allowing him to perform miracles and healings throughout his incarnation. [592] The incarnated Creator Son possessed almost unlimited healing powers. [593]
The miracles and healings of Jesus, though not planned in his kingdom proclamation, brought him trouble by generating unwanted attention and notoriety. [594]
The wonder-seeking generation of central and southern Galilee believed in signs, regarding Jesus' healings of emotional disturbances as miraculous cures. [595]
It is impossible to limit the spiritual power of Michael, the Son of Man, which allows for the manifestation of miracles and healings through strong and living faith. [596] The incarnations of Paradise Sons are the most intriguing miracles to us citizens of the local universe. [597]
Jesus deliberately chose to live in accordance with natural law and to refrain from performing miracles or wonders, deciding against the spectacular and the overawing in favor of the Father's will. [598] The healing sought by individuals through strong faith was desired for spiritual benefits rather than just physical restoration. [599]
Jesus did not perform miracles or healings for his earth family or immediate followers, as he chose not to engage in supernatural ministration towards them. [600] Miraculous healings effected by Jesus were actually transformations of mind and spirit occurring in expectant, faith-dominated individuals. [601] Jesus perceived that living energy had gone forth from him as a woman touched his garment and was healed of her affliction. [602] The Sanhedrin accused Jesus of performing miracles through the power of Beelzebub, the prince of devils. [603]
The unique and extraordinary situation surrounding the miracles and healings of Jesus can never again occur in this universe, as he embodied both creative energy and spiritual endowments beyond mortal limitations. [604] The miracles and healings of Jesus were used not to tempt people into the kingdom, but to reveal the Father to those already in. [605]
Developing a strong and unified personality along the lines of Jesus' symmetry and balance is possible for every believer, despite the unattainable perfection of his character. [636]
In transferring veneration from human to divine, allow the indwelling divine spirit to shorten idolatrous hesitation influenced by concepts of Deity, so as not to overlook the courageous hero, Joshua ben Joseph. [637]
A reformation in the Christian church may bring us back to the unadulterated teachings of Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, urging us to live out his religion rather than simply preach about it. [638]
God became man in the person of Jesus, demonstrating a unified personality of God and man, offering a revelation of divine attributes for the human race to comprehend and follow. [639]
Jesus recognized his human nature and embraced his mortal existence, while gradually realizing and fully embracing his divine nature through faith and divine experiences. [640]
Jesus' mind reflected the thoughts and experiences of a first-century human, embodying genuine humanity shaped by the time and place in which he lived. [641] Jesus of Nazareth was a miraculous person, embodying the incarnational bestowal of a divine Son through apparently natural processes. [642] Jesus, not the Eternal Son, embodies the divine attributes and powers of the Father in his local universe. [643]
It is possible for mortal believers to develop a strong and unified personality akin to Jesus of Nazareth, characterized not by perfection but by exquisite symmetry and balanced unification. [644]
Jesus, our elder brother, taught that all should see God as a Father-friend and emphasized love as the greatest relationship, establishing a divine family where God is a loving Father, not a king. [645]
The Eternal Son incarnate in the human nature of Jesus reveals the fullness of God's character and attributes, managing the spiritual government of the universe. [646]
Jesus was the personification of the Father's will, bringing together the faith of the creature and the life of the Creator in healing acts recognized by his divine nature. [647]
To see Jesus is to experience a revelation of the Father to the soul, for he is the spiritual lens in human likeness that makes visible the invisible God, our Father in heaven. [648] Rodan confessed Jesus as the personal revelation of the Father, satisfying all unsatisfied factors of logic. [649]
Jesus is truly a savior, bringing eternal salvation and divine love that destroys sin and evil, offering forgiveness and redemption for eternal survival. [650]
Jesus, in human likeness, serves as the spiritual lens revealing the invisible Father, leading to personal spiritual experiences and understanding of God. [651] Jesus was a teacher sent from heaven to present spiritual truth to the material mind, speaking directly to men's souls and living with them. [652] Focus on Jesus' righteousness and loving service, not simply his sinlessness, in the study of his religious life. [653]
Jesus inherited his unusual gentleness from Joseph and his gift as a teacher from Mary, resulting in a unique blend of traits that guided his impactful adult life. [654]
Jesus was unreservedly dedicated to the Father's business, exuding controlled enthusiasm and contagious optimism in the face of human sorrow and the realities of existence. [655] About the expression “Word made flesh” see link “word of God”.
During his time in Rome, Jesus engaged in numerous human contacts, seeking to understand their lives and make them richer with his teachings, preparing them for discipleship in the upcoming kingdom. [656] Jesus came to reveal the Father and embody the supreme wisdom, so that we may have abundant life. [657] Jesus was not the expected Messiah for the Jews, but he was destined to be the world's deliverer. [658] Jesus was on earth solely to comfort minds, liberate spirits, and save souls, not to legislate or establish rules of government or social behavior. [659] Michael completed the required experience in creature understanding to assume complete sovereignty and reveal God. [660] The mortal incarnation of Machiventa Melchizedek ended pretensions of Lucifer and greatly diminished his power to disturb human affairs. [661] Jesus came not to provide comfort and ease, but to proclaim spiritual liberty, teach eternal truth, and foster living faith. [662] The Bestowal Plan of Jesus is to reveal God and lead men to become Son-conscious. [663] The apostles may have misunderstood Jesus' teaching, but they understood the profound impact of his beautiful life. [664]
The personality of the Eternal Son shines brightly only after spiritizing and ascending, as the Creator Son compensates for our inability to grasp Him. [665]
The successive teachers of Israel accomplished the greatest feat in the evolution of religion ever to be effected on Urantia by transforming the barbaric concept of the savage demon Yahweh to the exalted concept of the loving and merciful Father of all mankind, which was later enlarged and amplified in the highest human visualization of the Universal Father through the teachings and life example of Jesus. [666]
The fact of God becoming man has forever changed and altered all values of human personality, emphasizing mutual regard and intelligent action within the spiritual endowment of the mortal mind through sincere and unselfish love. [667] Jesus' earthly life serves as a fixed point for the anchor of time, while the Spirit of Truth guides the endless growth and expansion of his religion. [668] The effectiveness of the Spirit of Truth in sanctification is dependent on how fully one receives the substance of Jesus' life. [669] God's revelation in the life of Jesus transforms man into the likeness of God. [670]
The gospel was founded on the fact of the life of Jesus, who declared to his chosen ambassadors the revelation of spiritual reality and divine sonship as the foundation of the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing the union of human nature with divine nature and commissioning them to love and serve all mankind in the living experience of the Father's love. [671] The most valuable human knowledge lies in understanding and embodying the religious life and selfless service exemplified by Jesus. [672]
Jesus' life reflects the attainable spiritual values created from his commonplace existence, now embodied in the inscrutable nature of his mighty personality. [673]
Jesus’ life is the best revelation of God's nature and personality, serving as the ultimate demonstration of the potential of spirit personality in human experience. [674] Jesus lived on Earth to inspire and liberate the spiritual nature of all beings across the universe for all time. [675] Jesus lived not as an example but as inspiration for all beings across the universe. [676] Jesus lived and embodied the saving truth with unfailing kindness and stalwart strength. [677]
The beautiful expression of divinity found in the lives of bestowal Sons on earth reflects the attenuated and qualified nature of Paradise Deity for the understanding of evolving creatures of time and space. [678]
Through the appropriation of the faith of Jesus, mortal man can foretaste in time the realities of eternity in the new and living way revealed by Jesus from man to God, from the partial to the perfect. [679] To truly grasp Jesus' teachings, one must look to his perfected life on Urantia, where his divine character and loving personality are most revealed. [680]
Jesus, the revelation of the highest religious living, taught that “God is love”, not fear or miracles. [681]
Through Jesus, man discovers his truest self by reflecting the divine nature that was so imbued in Jesus' life, revealing man at his best to himself and others. [682] Jesus lived a life revealing submission to the Father's will, not to be imitated literally, but to convey essential truths about God and humanity. [683] In his life, Jesus revealed divinity to humanity and humanity to divinity, achieving a profound unity between man and God. [684] Meditating on the revelation of the merciful nature of the Eternal Son allows for a deeper understanding of His character. [685] The mortal destiny of Jesus on Earth is essential to understanding the evolution of a local universe. [686]
Recognize your place in the family of divine sonship and avail yourselves of the advantages provided in and by the enhanced Paradise plan for mortal survival, illuminated by the life experience of a bestowal Son, ensuring your ultimate attainment of the goal of divine perfection. [687]
Jesus, accused of being in league with devils, artfully avoided unfair advantage over his enemies, ultimately turning their snare upon themselves in a manner that revealed the true authority behind his mission. [688] The Sanhedrin brought charges against Jesus for perverting the nation, inciting rebellion, and claiming to be a king. [689] The Sanhedrin unanimously decreed Jesus' death at midnight on April 4, A.D. 30, in response to his last appeal in the temple. [690]
The Nebadon Melchizedeks predict that significant changes will only occur in world administration upon Jesus' second coming. [691]
Believers’ best attitude toward the possible return of the Son of Man is to continue their work with faith and dedication, ensuring continual spiritual growth and fruit-bearing in the Father's service. [692] Jesus' second coming will be discernible only by spiritual faith, as he promised to return in power and in the spirit. [693]
The distorted teachings of the early Christians regarding Jesus' second coming were influenced by their belief in his imminent return to establish the kingdom. [694] Jesus' promise to return remains a mystery even to the angels in heaven. [695]
The misconception that Jesus' second coming is related to the establishment of his kingdom led to the distortion of his teachings in the New Testament. [696] The timing of Jesus' second coming is known only on Paradise. [697]
Jesus, skilled in animal husbandry, learned to care for animals and make cheese and weave before becoming an expert loom operator by the age of ten. [698]
Jesus displayed exceptional financial acumen and astute business acumen in managing his father's estate, ensuring smooth economic affairs for the family. [699] Jesus' camel-driving abilities left Ganid in awe on their caravan trip to the ancient city of Ur. [700] By his fourteenth birthday, Jesus excelled in canvas and leather work, becoming a skilled yoke maker while also mastering carpentry and cabinetmaking. [701] Jesus of Nazareth, an expert carpenter and boatmaker, revolutionized the methods of boatbuilding with his innovative designs. [702] Before eight, Jesus was known for cheese-making skills; by ten, he was already an expert loom operator. [703] Jesus became an expert fisherman before attaining manhood, impressing his uncle during a two-month fishing experience on the Sea of Galilee. [704] Jesus, an accomplished harpist at eleven, exchanged dairy products for harp lessons and fostered a love for music among his peers. [705]
Jesus displayed his skills of interpreting and translating during his time with the merchant and bankers who wanted to support a new school, but ultimately chose not to accept their offer due to his prior obligations and mission on earth. [706] Jesus became an expert loom operator before he was ten years of age. [707] Jesus honed his metal working skills during his time at the caravan repair shop in Sepphoris. [708] Jesus honed his mining skills while working in the mineral mines of Iron, where his healing ministry also brought relief to the sick and afflicted. [709] Jesus, fluent in Aramaic, Greek, and Hebrew, began his formal education at seven, mastering languages and scriptural teachings. [710]
Jesus captivated his companions with his masterful storytelling and musical talent as he shared tales of his early life in Galilee, revealing a depth beyond his rearing in Galilee rather than Jerusalem or Damascus. [711]
Jesus honed his skills as a tentmaker in Antioch, where he lived and observed human existence for over two months, ministering, studying, and learning from those around him. [712] Jesus, skilled in yoke making, became an expert carpenter and cabinetmaker by his fourteenth birthday. [713]
Jesus achieved all of sonship we will one day attain, paving the way for us to become perfect like our Father in heaven. [714] Jesus achieved status of light and life on Urantia, transcending environmental limitations and advancing personal attainment. [715] Jesus spiritual accomplishments include all power given to him, not for glorification but for humble obedience to execute the Father's will on earth. [716]
Jesus broke the hold of sin and evil through his personal love, offering freedom to choose a better path and promising a triumphant future through forgiveness and divine love. [717]
Jesus' spiritual accomplishments divested Caligastia of all authority, curtailing his power to disturb human affairs and ultimately shoring him of any authority on Urantia. [718]
Jesus' spiritual accomplishments are profound, having been “in all points tried and tested” throughout his earthly life, embodying the understanding and sympathy of a sovereign and friend to all beings in the universe. [719] Christ Michael's 4th epochal revelation on Urantia centered on the concept of God as the Universal Father, emphasizing love, service, and worship. [720]
Jesus established a secret pact with his brother James, which they later signed, entrusting him with full financial responsibility for the family in exchange for the repair shop. [721] Jesus' writings were destroyed after his baptism in his childhood home, leaving his companions bewildered but deeply impressed by his actions. [722]
Jesus left no permanent writings, but his teachings were bequeathed to the universe as an inspirational and idealistic legacy for spiritual guidance and moral instruction. [723] Jesus, writing in the sand before Hildana's husband, arranged for a speedy departure and the woman's final redemption. [724]
Despite the persistent efforts of a merchant who wished to see Jesus become the headmaster of a school, Jesus refused to accept the offered honor and took his leave after completing some translation work. He knew that his mission on earth was not to be supported by institutions of learning. [725]
Establishing personal and eternal relationship with Jesus takes precedence over all other human relationships, offering spiritual joy, divine communion, and eternal life. [726]
The religion of Jesus emphasizes living the spiritual reality of his gospel, over the accumulation of doctrines and dogmas about him from centuries of religious evolution. [727] The apostles believed Jesus was not only the Son of Man, but also the Son of God, recognizing his unquestioned divinity. [728] Believers are destined to attain perfection in Jesus, the divine Son who comprehends and embodies perfection. [729]
Jesus chose his “birthday text from Isaiah” to guide him throughout his teachings, emphasizing liberty, comfort, and salvation for all who seek righteousness. [730] Through his teachings, Jesus can bestow eternal life upon those who believe in him and know God as the only true Father. [731]
During solitary communion with God, Jesus made great decisions that would shape his earthly mission, seeking wisdom and strength for the challenges ahead. [732] Jesus' unique performances were possible because he could, at will, self-limit his divinity consciousness. [733]
The divine nature of Jesus is the foundation upon which he will build the brotherhood of the kingdom of heaven, revealing the spirit of the Father to all who enter the bonds of this spiritual fellowship. [734]
Do not depict Jesus as a man of sorrows, but rather as a source of joy, good will, and inspiration that transforms and brings happiness to all who embrace his teachings. [735]
Jesus obtained his real education by mingling with his fellow men, thoroughly understanding and loving them, which ultimately prepared him for his life's work as a public teacher of truth. [736] Jesus is either what he professes or the greatest hypocrite. [737] Everyone yielding to Adjuster eventually comes to the true bread of life, Jesus. [738]
The teachings of Jesus foretold the destruction of Jerusalem with great emotion and tearful voice, warning of the impending doom for rejecting the Son of Peace and the gospel of salvation. [739]
The guardianship of Jesus by Adjuster and seraphim was destined to rest in their keeping throughout his human life, from his thirteenth year to his baptism, with only these celestial personalities guiding him up to his final mortal struggle alone. [740]
Jesus' hard sayings were personal expressions of faith and devotion rather than strict commands, reflecting his unwavering dedication to doing his Father's will. [741] He who believes in Jesus has eternal life, for the Father in heaven gives not the spirit by measure to his own Son. [742] He who has seen a Creator Son has seen the Father. [743] He who rejects Jesus rejects the Father; preach the kingdom of heaven and minister to all, for those who hear you hear Him who sent you. [744] The modern age demands a rediscovery of the real life and teachings of Jesus to bring Christianity into alignment with truth, beauty, and goodness. [745]
Jesus, a combination of humanity and divinity, self-limited his divine consciousness to undergo earthly experiences, all while displaying extraordinary compassion, wisdom, and perfect righteousness in his interactions with humanity. [746] Exchange your human mind for the mind of Jesus, who always serves you well, as he humbly lived his human life in the natural flow of existence. [747] For information on Jesus' “brotherhood of believers,” see the links “faith sons of God” and “fellowship of believers”. Let the mind in Christ also be in us through the consciousness of other-mindness. [748] When Jesus is lifted up, he will draw all men to himself, offering life that is more than age-abiding. [749] The Spirit of Truth helps believers witness to Jesus' teachings and his life, living anew in each spirit-filled believer. [750] The teachings of Jesus are most needed now to bring about a spiritual revival and transformation in modern culture. [751] Jesus answered Thomas: “I am the way, the truth, and the life - no man goes to the Father except through me.”. [752]
Through the teachings of Jesus, we understand that he has the power to lay down his life and take it up again, given to him by the Father before the world was. [753] The teachings of Jesus unify life, ennoble character, and simplify experience, transforming and transfiguring those who have him within them. [754]
Jesus declared that the works he did in his Father's name bore witness for him, attracting only those who hungered for truth and thirsted for righteousness. [755] The teachings of Jesus involve working together with us to spread the love of God and serve others, resulting in divine joy. [756]
See also: UB 196; UB 100:7.7; UB 189; UB 196:1.11; UB 189; UB 190; UB 191; UB 192; UB 193.