General Episode 001 Seeing God Through Yeshua's Eyes | The Jesus Way Podcast 01

[Lori Jane]

Clip source: Episode 001 Seeing God Through Yeshua&apos


This is a new podcast I found and it really resonates with me and how my beliefs have shifted. I did an AI summary of it as well and pasted below. I'd love to hear what others think. Does it resonate with you too? If it doesn't what part disagrees with you?

--LJ

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• They believe that physical health is crucial for connecting with God and fulfilling one's purpose, drawing on historical perspectives from early Christians who prioritized their physical well-being.
• The podcast focuses on restoring the true Gospel of Jesus and understanding his teachings from the perspective of his earliest followers.
• Growing up as a third-generation pastor's son in a predominantly Christian environment, the narrator feels a deep connection to his faith but also faces significant internal conflict when he begins to question its foundations. The potential rejection from family and friends adds weight to his decision to leave Christianity for a more authentic representation of Jesus.
• The narrator emphasizes that many of Paul's teachings seem to embrace attitudes of misogyny, narcissism, and boastfulness, which starkly contrast with the inclusive and compassionate messages attributed to Jesus. This realization leads him to question the authenticity of his Christian belief in light of these discrepancies.
• Understanding God's ontology is vital as it informs the foundation of a believer's theology. It allows Christians to define God's eternal, unchanging nature, thereby promoting a more truthful understanding of divine attributes such as omnipotence and omniscience, which can enhance their relationship with God.
• Early Catholic Church fathers saw Jewish Christians as deviating from the emerging orthodox beliefs that centered around Gentile interpretations of Jesus's teachings. This labeling as heretics illustrated the deep division in early Christian communities regarding the interpretation of Jesus's identity and role.
• The "Five O's" refer to God's essential qualities: omnipotent (all-powerful), omniscient (all-knowing), omnipresent (present everywhere), omnibenevolent (all-loving), and one (unique in being). These characteristics shape the understanding of God's nature and attributes.
• The belief in God's omniscience suggests that He knows everything, including future events. Therefore, emotions like anger or surprise imply a lack of knowledge, which is incompatible with the idea that God knows all.
• Prioritizing the kingdom often leads to a natural alignment in other aspects, as trust in God's provision can bring peace and clarity to pursuits outside of spiritual matters.
• God's omniscience ensures that He understands the unique situations each person faces, allowing for tailored guidance and support, which can initiate personal growth and transformation towards a more compassionate life.
• Near-death experiences indicate that judgment is more about how one loved others rather than strictly adhering to specific theological beliefs, suggesting that the essence of life is centered around love and kindness.
• The discussion suggests that God serves as a teaching mechanism by providing signs to help individuals reflect on their life choices and guide them toward a more loving and compassionate path.
• The concept of omni-benevolence posits that a truly loving God cannot harm His creation, raising questions about the necessity of blood atonement for sin and suggesting God does not need to be appeased through violence.
• Jesus teaches that keeping the commandments is essential for attaining eternal life, as he clearly states in the Gospels when asked about it.
• Individuals can practice love and forgiveness by consciously choosing to forgive those who have wronged them, extending kindness to others, and seeking to embody the teachings of Jesus, which emphasize love for neighbors and enemies alike. This creates a flow of love that connects one with God and others in a meaningful way.
• Omnibenevolence means that God is all-good and embodies unconditional love. This concept suggests that God cannot possess anger or a desire to harm, as such emotions would contradict His nature of being all-loving and all-knowing.
• The concept of free will emphasizes that God respects human choices, suggesting that divine love is not controlling but supportive. This understanding means that God's guidance is always available but individuals must choose to follow it, much like a parent's desire to help their children while allowing them the freedom to make their own decisions.
• Evil is characterized as an absence of truth or ignorance of God's nature, rather than a real, opposing force. This understanding shifts the perception of suffering away from viewing it as a result of an evil force, toward seeing it as a consequence of separation from truth, which can eventually lead to enlightenment and redemption.
• Suffering is seen as having a redemptive purpose in God's universe—it leads individuals towards repentance and deeper understanding. The perspective argues that no suffering is without meaning and can ultimately guide people back to a loving relationship with God, much like the story of the prodigal son illustrates.
• The concept suggests that if God were to create souls that never return, it would imply a deficiency in God's ability to maintain complete control over creation. Therefore, ensuring that every soul ultimately returns to God reinforces the belief that God is perfectly self-sufficient and lacking nothing.
• The parable illustrates God's willingness to wait for sinners to return to Him, emphasizing His patience and understanding. Just as the father waits for his wayward son to come home, God patiently observes and allows souls to navigate their paths, confident that they will eventually return to His love and embrace.
• Temptation manifests as internal thoughts and conflicts within our minds, influencing our decisions between good and evil. Recognizing these struggles can empower us to choose paths aligned with love and truth rather than fear.
• Paul's soteriology emphasizes confession and belief in Jesus for salvation, while Jesus's teachings focus on active expressions of love, forgiveness, and adherence to commandments as essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven. This highlights the importance of actions over mere belief.
• The speaker argues that misinterpretations of God’s nature can lead to harmful beliefs, suggesting that understanding God's true characteristics is crucial for a healthy faith.
• The video depicts sin as a significant issue for God, provoking His anger; however, it also highlights that Jesus took on the penalty for sin, revealing the complexity of God’s love and justice.
• The video critiques traditional views of salvation that emphasize punishment and fear, advocating instead for a perspective that reconciles God's love with free will and the nature of human suffering.
• The video promotes the idea of daily meditation on God's characteristics as a means to alleviate anxiety and deepen the relationship with God, ultimately transforming one’s mindset towards faith.
• Individuals can demonstrate love for others by offering support, showing empathy, volunteering in the community, and being present for friends and family during difficult times.
• Practicing love for God can include regular prayer, reading scripture, participating in worship, and living in a way that reflects God's teachings through kindness and integrity.

Seeing God Through Yeshua's Eyes | The Jesus Way Podcast 01​

Introduction to the Jesus Way Podcast 00:02​

"Welcome to the Jesus Way Podcast, a series dedicated to restoring the true Gospel of Jesus."

• The Jesus Way Podcast aims to provide insights that align with what the hosts believe is the true teachings of Jesus, inviting listeners to engage in this transformative journey.
• The hosts, Aaron Aby and James Benefico, express their excitement and dedication toward launching the first episode, indicating that significant effort has been put into creating the podcast.

The Concept of "Followers of the Way" 00:56​

"The first followers of Jesus were called 'Followers of the Way,' and we want to go back to their understanding of Jesus's message."

• The podcast seeks to reconnect with the original intentions and teachings of Jesus as understood by his first followers, emphasizing the importance of studying Jewish Christianity from the first century to grasp a more authentic interpretation.
• The hosts are critical of the deviations that have occurred over time since the early days of Jesus's ministry, asserting that modern interpretations often stray from his true teachings, notably those encapsulated in the "red letters" of biblical texts.

Critique of Modern Religions 02:16​

"Man-made religion has lost the plot on Jesus's teachings."

• The hosts argue that contemporary forms of Christianity—be it Catholicism or Protestantism—have often misrepresented or neglected the core messages that Jesus imparted, which they believe are crucial for understanding his true purpose and approach to God.
• They call for a re-examination of these sacred teachings to ensure their preservation and protection against human alterations throughout church history.

Personal Backgrounds of the Hosts 03:38​

"I wish you above all things that you may be healthy and prosper."

• James Benefico shares his journey and passion for health, stemming from his own past struggles with weight and health that disconnected him from his sense of divine purpose.
• The conversation touches on the significance of physical and mental well-being in early Christianity, underscoring that the physical health of believers was viewed as integral to their relationship with God and their ability to serve others.

Realizing the Misalignment with Paul 10:11​

"I'm realizing I'm working at an extremely fundamentalist and misogynistic church."

• The narrator observes a couple in church and recognizes their conventional husband-and-wife roles, which leads him to realize that the church holds fundamental beliefs about gender roles. This sparks an internal conflict as he grapples with whether his belief in God aligns with the apparent inferiority of women as suggested by the church's teachings.
• He struggles with the contradiction between these teachings and his personal understanding of God, concluding that he cannot accept a view of God that deems women as inferior. This prompts him to seek out alternative interpretations within the Bible, particularly the writings of Paul.

Studying Paul's Teachings 11:04​

"To my shock, I just kept finding more things about Paul that are discongruous from Jesus."

• As he dives into the Pauline Epistles, he is increasingly troubled by inconsistencies he finds between Paul's teachings and those of Jesus. This leads him to acknowledge the troubling elements of narcissism, misogyny, and boastfulness in Paul's writings that he had previously overlooked.
• The more he studies, the more he feels disconnected from the Christian faith, leading him to a profound conclusion that his beliefs are more aligned with Paul than Jesus, prompting a reevaluation of his identity as a Christian.

The Difficult Decision to Leave Christianity 12:13​

"I can no longer say I'm a Christian."

• Faced with the realization that the religion he identifies with does not reflect the values represented by Jesus, he makes the difficult decision to renounce his Christianity. This decision is particularly painful because he has deep roots in the faith, being a third-generation pastor's son with no friends outside the Christian sphere.
• He reflects on the internal conflict that grew too overwhelming to ignore, culminating in a willingness to accept potential rejection by friends and family for the sake of following Jesus more faithfully.

Exploring Non-Christian Scholarship 13:23​

"I found a whole field of scholarship that is non-Christian or secular."

• After stepping away from traditional Christian scholarship, he begins to explore secular and contemporary biblical scholarship, discovering insights that support his views on the dissonance between Paul and Jesus. His journey of academic inquiry begins, influenced by scholars he had previously overlooked.
• As he engages with these new perspectives, he feels validated in his beliefs, realizing that he is not alone in recognizing the discrepancies between Paul's writings and the teachings of Jesus.

The Roots of Early Christianity 15:42​

"There was an organic Jewish Jesus movement in the first century."

• The narrative shifts to the historical context of early Christianity, highlighting how the movement initiated by Jesus transitioned into a Gentile-dominated religion. This evolution raises questions about the influence of the Roman Empire on Christianity's change over time.
• The discussion reflects on how the Jewish roots of the movement began to diverge from the teachings and practices followed by the early Christians, particularly in light of the destruction of the temple and the diaspora of Jewish Christians, leading to complex interactions and theological debates within the early church.

Historical Context of Jewish Christianity 20:02​

"The Jewish Christians were opposed by Gentile Christianity and Orthodox Judaism of the day."

• The relationship between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians, along with the Orthodox Jews of the period, was fraught with tension and opposition.
• Early Catholic Church proponents labeled Jesus's family as heretics, indicating a broader conflict between differing religious interpretations and communities.
• Sources documenting the persecution of Jewish Christians mention daily curses pronounced upon them by Orthodox Jews, highlighting the severity of their marginalization within the broader religious landscape.

The Influence of the Dead Sea Scroll Community 21:27​

"Jesus and the Nazarene, the early Jewish Christian movement, actually emerged out of the Dead Sea Scroll group at Qumran."

• It is believed by some critical scholars that the early Jewish Christian movement, including Jesus and his followers, had connections to the Essene sect tied to the Dead Sea Scrolls.
• While the common label for this group is Essenes, this designation does not appear in their own texts; instead, they referred to themselves as "the Poor Ones."
• Understanding this historical context is crucial for unraveling the beliefs and practices of the early Jewish Christians.

Ontological Understanding of God 22:36​

"Ontology is a segment of philosophy that studies the science of being—essentially, the nature of being."

• Ontology seeks to establish the immutable and eternal qualities of God, which are fundamental in shaping theological beliefs.
• It is essential that our understanding of God’s nature arises from correct epistemology, which studies how knowledge is acquired. This leads to universally agreeable qualities about God's nature, such as omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence.
• The nature of God, as defined by ontology, should serve as the foundation for all theological perspectives, rather than theology dictating one's understanding of God.

The Importance of Scrutinizing Beliefs 28:00​

"A true Christian should be more interested in ensuring that they don’t believe things that aren’t true."

• Individuals are encouraged to approach their beliefs with skepticism and to scrutinize every doctrine they encounter.
• The search for truth should be earnest and unattached to preconceived notions, as true understanding reflects the nature of God.
• Believers are reminded that truths are eternal and cannot be threatened by questions or doubts; thus, seeking genuine knowledge should be seen as a celebration rather than a point of conflict with God.

The Ontological Nature of God 29:57​

"Implying that God doesn't know something means He cannot be surprised or react, which contradicts the idea of omniscience."

• The discussion begins by questioning the compatibility of human emotions, like anger, with the nature of an omniscient God. If God knows everything, then the concept of surprise or anger becomes illogical, as one cannot react emotionally without prior ignorance of an event.
• An analogy is drawn to watching a movie; once the ending is known, no surprise can occur upon a second viewing. If God scripted and has eternally known the story of existence, the idea of God experiencing human emotions becomes a significant contradiction in theology.

Common Misconceptions in Mainstream Christianity 30:58​

"When we let man-made theology and doctrines inform our ontology, we get into all kinds of problems."

• The problem lies in how man-made doctrines shape perceptions of God's nature. The video explores the widespread beliefs about God's omnipotence, omniscience, and the necessity of honoring free will, which leads to theological contradictions regarding God's power and needs.
• Specifically, the assertion that God has a need for atonement, often interpreted as sacrifice, is called a double ontological violation since it implies an omniscient and all-powerful God requires something external to Himself.

The Five O's of God's Ontology 34:50​

"These five qualities of God's nature are: omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, omnibenevolent, and one."

• The presenter emphasizes a meditative approach to understanding God's characteristics. Reflecting on these five attributes can enhance one’s emotional and spiritual state, providing comfort and peace in difficult times.
• These attributes include the all-powerful nature of God, His all-knowing aspect, omnipresence, the intrinsic goodness of God, and the oneness of His being.

Relationship of the Bible to God's Nature 36:05​

"We believe the Bible reflects truth and teaches about God's nature, but we do not derive our ontology solely from it."

• There is a distinction made between the view that the Bible is a divine text and the belief that it serves to convey eternal truths about God. The Bible is considered a guide for understanding God, not the source of God's nature itself.
• The Bible is revered for its spiritual teachings, reflecting the understanding of those inspired by God over various historical contexts. However, it is stated that it should not be idolized as perfect or infallible.

Seeking the Kingdom 40:13​

"When you seek first the kingdom, everything else is added to you because you don't need to know everything."

• The idea of prioritizing the pursuit of the kingdom of God suggests that other aspects of life will fall into place as a result of this focus. It emphasizes trust in God's omniscience and provision, implying that God knows what each individual needs and will provide it at the appropriate time.
• There is a reassuring message that humans do not need to have complete power or knowledge, as God possesses all necessary attributes for guidance and help. This can lead to a more relaxed and faith-driven approach to life's challenges.

The Nature of God’s Knowledge 40:29​

"If God is omniscient, then God knows exactly what it takes for every single person to wake up to the truth."

• This segment highlights the concept of God's omniscience, arguing that God comprehensively understands individual needs and experiences. The argument is supported by biblical references that reflect God's ability to discern human desires and motivations.
• An example given is the story of Ebenezer Scrooge from "A Christmas Carol," illustrating how personalized experiences can lead to transformation and repentance. Scrooge's journey showcases how understanding one's own life can promote compassion and change, paralleling the divine insight of God.

The Process of Regeneration 42:38​

"It’s a beautiful process of regeneration where God’s infinite intelligence is constantly guiding us."

• The speaker describes the transformative journey each person undertakes when they turn towards God, showcasing a regenerating process fueled by divine intelligence.
• By emphasizing God's understanding of individual experiences, the dialogue suggests that repentance allows individuals to realize how their lives and choices have shaped their characters. This process leads to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's purpose.

Exploring Cosmology and Its Laws 43:02​

"Everything is governed by immutable laws, the laws of God which are based on God's nature."

• There is a transition into discussing cosmology, focusing on how the universe operates according to God's unchanging laws. These laws are seen not as separate from God but rather as integral expressions of God's nature.
• Understanding these laws leads to insights about existence and moral behavior. The notion is posed that sin is essentially the violation of these laws, and aligning with them through love for God and others leads to harmony within the universe.

The Omniscience of God in Daily Life 45:00​

"God is always working everything together for good when we trust Him."

• The omniscience of God reassures believers that He is aware of every detail of their lives, even including the counting of hairs on their head. This emphasizes God's intimate knowledge and care for each person.
• The speaker explains how divine knowledge allows for a proactive approach in the lives of believers, guiding them through experiences meant to lead them to a greater understanding of truth and God's nature.

God as a Teaching Mechanism 50:02​

"God has given all kinds of signs and little things to help them walk a better path, and they're just ignoring it."

• The discussion highlights the idea that many people come to a realization of their life choices only in extreme circumstances, such as near-death experiences or facing the consequences of their actions.
• It's posited that God serves as a teaching mechanism, providing signs for individuals to reflect upon their behavior and guiding them towards a more positive and loving way of living.
• Interestingly, it seems that the concept of judgment in the afterlife does not focus on one's theological beliefs but rather on the love and kindness shown to others.

Near-Death Experiences and Love 50:10​

"Did you love people like I love them?"

• Near-death experiences (NDEs) often reveal a common theme where individuals recognize that the core message is about love and compassion, rather than adherence to specific dogmas or doctrines.
• Many who have had such experiences report that Jesus' concern was not their religious affiliations but whether they truly loved their neighbors as themselves.
• They come away with an understanding that the essence of life revolves around loving others, which connects directly to the teachings of Jesus about maintaining a loving lifestyle.

The Gospel Verified by Experience 53:41​

"The Gospel message of Jesus is verified by tens of thousands of near-death experiences."

• The sentiment expressed suggests a compelling validation of Jesus' teachings through numerous accounts of near-death experiences, providing a basis for belief in the transformational message of love.
• It emphasizes the importance of sharing God's love through acts of kindness and compassion, asserting that the true meaning of life lies in these principles rather than in mere theological correctness.
• Additionally, the discussion includes a humorous yet poignant reflection on how people who live loving lives, even if they have not heard of Christ, would not likely be condemned for not confessing Him.

The Challenge of Doctrinal Beliefs 55:55​

"Jesus sends people to hell for doing exactly what he says."

• The discussion critiques the notion of dispensationalism where certain teachings of Jesus are thought to no longer apply after his death, thus creating an inconsistency in the application of his message.
• It raises questions about how many individuals may be judged based on a doctrine that they were never made aware of, highlighting a potential unfairness in the interpretation of salvation.
• This perspective serves to spark conversations about the inclusivity of love as the central message of Jesus, rather than the exclusivity of particular belief systems.

The Significance of Jesus' Teachings 59:30​

"Nobody would care about Yeshua the Nazarene if he was merely a crackpot spouting nonsense without profound impact on people's lives."

• The discussion centers on the importance of Jesus' teachings, suggesting that if he had merely preached empty rhetoric, his crucifixion would not have led to his veneration as God.
• Jesus' teachings are positioned as the cornerstone of Christianity; without them, the religion would not exist as we know it today.
• It is noted that despite this significance, the core teachings of Jesus, such as the importance of keeping the commandments for eternal life, are often overlooked or not emphasized in contemporary Christian teachings.

The Misinterpretation of Core Christian Beliefs 59:59​

"You will never hear a Protestant Christian pastor teach that the way to eternal life is to keep the Commandments."

• The speaker emphasizes that the fundamental message of achieving eternal life through adherence to the commandments, as articulated by Jesus in the Gospels, is rarely taught in churches.
• Instead, current Christian doctrine often prioritizes belief in Jesus as the Lord and acknowledgment of his resurrection, neither of which Jesus directly stated as prerequisites for salvation.
• This divergence prompts a reflection on whether the teachings of Jesus have been altered or misinterpreted by subsequent generations of church leaders.

Critique of Religious Hypocrisy and The Need for Genuine Love 01:00:50​

"Many will profess him as Lord, yet Jesus warns that not everyone will enter his kingdom."

• The text raises concerns about individuals who superficially claim to follow Jesus yet fail to embody his teachings; this hypocrisy is criticized as not aligning with the true essence of discipleship.
• Jesus emphasized love for one another as the primary indicator of being his disciple, rather than theological or dogmatic correctness.
• The discussion suggests that Christians have historically been distracted by doctrinal debates rather than focusing on the core teaching of loving one another, which is crucial for a fulfilled Christian life.

Omni-Benevolence and Its Implications for God’s Nature 01:02:54​

"Omni-benevolence means everything the Creator does is towards the flourishing of all Creation."

• The concept of omni-benevolence is introduced, arguing that a truly benevolent God would not harm his creation but would ensure its flourishing.
• The speaker challenges the notion that God needs blood sacrifice for forgiveness, questioning whether God's eternal nature requires such acts of violence to interact with sin.
• This line of reasoning leads to an exploration of conflicting doctrines within Christianity regarding atonement and repentance, suggesting that these differing views cannot co-exist harmoniously.

Rethinking Atonement: Blood Sacrifice vs. Repentance 01:06:39​

"There are two distinct and competing atonement doctrines in the Bible: repentance for the remission of sins and animal sacrifice."

• The speaker posits that one cannot accept both the need for repentance and the necessity of sacrifice; one must prevail over the other.
• It raises critical questions about the character of God—whether He requires something as gruesome as a blood sacrifice to forgive sins.
• The discussion critiques the portrayal of God needing to be appeased through suffering and examines how this view aligns with the nature of a loving deity.

God's Omnibenevolence 01:09:19​

"God can only be loving; there is no other metaphysical option for God."

• The video discusses the nature of God as omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent, implying that God possesses everything and has no needs. This leads to the conclusion that God can only embody love, as any anger or desire to hurt would be contradictory to His nature.
• With this understanding, the speaker emphasizes that God's nature is fundamentally one of unconditional love or omnibenevolence. If God knows everything and holds all power, He cannot require anything from humanity, and thus can only act in ways that reflect love.
• The speaker highlights a biblical reference, 1 John 4:8, which states that "anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love." This signifies that stepping away from love is akin to stepping away from the knowledge of God.

Emulating God's Love 01:10:20​

"The moment you stop extending love, you cut yourself off from the source of God's love."

• The speaker reflects on the importance of loving others as an expression of being a child of God. This connection to love is essential for nurturing one's faith and is related to the concept of theosis, which involves becoming more like God through daily practices of love and forgiveness.
• The teachings of Jesus, such as loving one's neighbor and forgiving enemies, underline the call to embody love in all situations as a reflection of God's character.
• The speaker notes that the act of extending love not only connects one to God but also contributes to a communal sense of support and positivity—everyone benefits when love is shared.

The Challenge of Forgiveness 01:14:30​

"It's not easy to forgive people; it's a daily practice of love and forgiveness."

• The video acknowledges the challenges of forgiving those who may have wronged us, emphasizing that practicing forgiveness expands one’s capacity to experience and share love.
• The speaker encourages viewers to see these challenges as opportunities to deepen their understanding of love and compassion, suggesting that individuals are meant to be stretched by their experiences with others.
• In discussing the nature of God's love enduring forever, the speaker argues against the notion of eternal damnation, positing that a just and loving God would not punish indefinitely for temporal sins.

The Nature of Free Will and God's Love 01:19:15​

"There's truth to the idea that God never violates free will, but this does not mean God just leaves us to our own consequences."

• The video explores the false dilemma presented by some interpretations of Christianity about free will and divine intervention. It argues that while God respects free will, He wouldn’t abandon those who are unable to perceive their own best interests. Just like a good father would intervene to protect his children from danger, it’s suggested that God would similarly seek to guide and protect humanity.
• The narrative reminds us that individuals often turn to harmful behaviors like substance abuse due to unresolved trauma and pain. Such behaviors are a cry for help rather than a rejection of divine love. It challenges the judgmental attitudes some Christians adopt toward these individuals, emphasizing that true love aligns with God's heart, which cares deeply for even the "least of these."

Redemption and Suffering in God’s Universe 01:20:40​

"All punishment in God's Universe serves a redemptive purpose; all suffering leads us to repentance."

• The discussion continues to emphasize that in God’s universe, suffering is never meaningless. Instead, it serves as a pathway to spiritual awakening and redemption. The speaker argues that there’s no justification for the idea of eternal damnation since an omni-benevolent God would not want any of His children to suffer endlessly.
• Drawing on biblical imagery, the idea is presented that just as a father rejoices at the return of a lost child, God is always ready to embrace those who come back to Him. This metaphor highlights the concept that God actively seeks to restore and redeem His children rather than leaving them to eternal suffering.

The Illusion of Evil 01:24:50​

"Evil is not ontologically real; it’s an absence of something rather than the presence of something."

• The dialogue shifts to the nature of evil, suggesting that it doesn’t exist as an independent force opposing God. Instead, evil is described as an absence of truth and a manifestation of ignorance towards God’s nature. This distinction serves to provide an understanding of suffering and evil in the world, presenting them as shadows cast by ignorance rather than as separate realities empowered to oppose God.
• There is a mention of the necessity of opposites in existence, where good and evil are seen as two polarities. The implication is that understanding one enhances the comprehension of the other, reinforcing that true reality belongs to the realm of good while evil is a construct resulting from ignorance.

The Nature of God's Creation and Return 01:28:59​

God creates souls that could not return to God, because that would imply God is lacking something; God cannot lack for anything.

• The idea presented is that if God creates souls that do not eventually return, it would indicate a deficiency in God's nature. This notion contradicts the fundamental understanding of God as an all-sufficient being. Therefore, it is posited that every creation must ultimately return to God, emphasizing the completeness of God's creation and the necessity of every soul's journey back home.

While people may suffer consequences for their actions, all suffering leads back to God; God is patient and kind.

• The belief expressed argues that while individuals may face severe consequences for violating divine laws, all suffering ultimately serves a purpose by guiding them back to God. This perspective highlights God's patience and willingness to allow souls to find their way back, drawing parallels to the parable of the Prodigal Son, which illustrates the return of a wayward soul to the safety and love of the Father.

Scriptural References Supporting Omni-benevolence 01:30:36​

"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness."

• This quote from Jeremiah emphasizes God's enduring love and kindness, supporting the argument that God's nature is inherently good and benevolent. The assurance of being drawn by love reflects the fundamental relationship between God and humanity.

"Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them."

• This verse from 1 John underscores the core message that love is central to God's nature and that living in love is synonymous with being in communion with God. It reaffirms the interconnectedness of God and humanity through love.

Understanding Oneness in God 01:33:00​

Oneness means that God is indivisible and self-sufficient, existing eternally without change.

• The concept of Oneness asserts that God is singular and cannot be divided. This understanding aligns with philosophical views that reality must be unchanging and self-sufficient, suggesting that true reality is not contingent upon other factors. God, as a self-existing entity, exemplifies this perfect unity.

"I am the Lord, and there is none else; there is no God beside me."

• This declaration from Isaiah reinforces the non-dualistic perspective of God, indicating that no other power exists outside of God. The assertion that God is the singular source of all existence dismantles the notion of duality between good and evil, offering a clear understanding of God's comprehensive sovereignty.

Misinterpretation of Scripture and Temptation 01:39:18​

"Utterly nowhere in scripture is the idea that the devil was a worship leader in heaven taught; it's a complete misunderstanding."

• The concept that the devil was a worship leader in heaven and fell from grace, taking a third of the angels, is not found in the Bible. This interpretation is a misunderstanding of various Old Testament passages.
• Temptation is a significant theme, demonstrated in the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, where he faces various challenges to his identity and mission. These temptations are portrayed as thoughts in Jesus's own mind rather than whispers from an external being.
• This narrative can serve as an analogy for the psychological struggles individuals face, often referred to as "The Dark Night of the Soul." The intense testing Jesus undergoes in the wilderness can be viewed as a high initiation, which many of his contemporaries likely understood in relation to their spiritual experiences.

The Nature of Temptation and the Human Experience 01:41:31​

"God has not given us a spirit of fear but of love, power, and a sound mind."

• Temptation occurs within our minds and is a battlefield where individuals are often lured away from God's truth.
• The pursuit of a sound mind is essential, as it is considered a gift from God. The ability to maintain mental clarity and focus on divine love is crucial in overcoming temptations.
• Malachi 2:10 highlights the shared connection of humanity under one divine creation, emphasizing the absurdity of hatred among individuals created by the same God. Overcoming differences and fostering love and compassion, even for animals, reflects a deeper understanding of divine teachings.

Understanding Soteriology in Christianity 01:43:21​

"Soteriology is the study of salvation."

• Soteriology addresses the questions of what salvation means and how one can achieve it. In Christianity, particularly through Paul’s writings, the notion of confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection is viewed as the pathway to salvation.
• However, in examining Jesus's own teachings, it becomes clear that simply confessing belief is insufficient without accompanying actions rooted in love, forgiveness, and adherence to commandments.
• True salvation, according to Jesus, involves embodying His teachings, recognizing that love and forgiveness for others are prerequisites for receiving God's love in return.

Free Will and Salvation 01:46:51​

"Salvation becomes a wedding proposal with a gun to the bride's temple."

• The idea of free will in the context of salvation is often contradicted by proposals that service only two outcomes: confessing Jesus or facing eternal damnation. This binary choice negates the essence of free will.
• Genuine choices should be afforded to individuals every day, allowing them to choose between love and fear or good and evil.
• The notion of hell as a consequence of separation from God is based on daily choices rather than eternal punishment, suggesting that true freedom comes from authentic decision-making rather than coercive beliefs or threats.

The Impact of Sin on God's Nature 01:49:08​

"Anger at sin really pisses God off and gets under God's skin."

• The discussion emphasizes how serious sin is in the eyes of God. It illustrates God's anger towards sin, suggesting that this anger is an innate part of His nature that must find expression.
• The concept is introduced that God’s need to act on His rage is alleviated by the intercession of Jesus, who 'stepped in' to take on the penalty that humanity deserves for their sins.
• The realization of this dynamic from a young age can lead to confusion about God’s love—it's a juxtaposition between understanding God’s punitive tendencies and His willingness to show mercy through Christ’s sacrifice.

Misconceptions About Salvation 01:50:25​

"There has to be a soteriology that takes into account free will and sin and suffering."

• The video challenges traditional Christian beliefs regarding salvation (soteriology), arguing that the common narratives can lead to contradictions, particularly the idea that individuals can truly reject God.
• It suggests that a more suitable understanding of salvation would reconcile God's love with human free will and the problem of suffering without resorting to fear-based motivations or punitive measures.
• The speaker portrays the notion of rejecting God as rooted in a false understanding rather than as a genuine rejection, arguing that if God embodies all goodness, rejecting Him becomes impossible as people can only turn away from misrepresentations of His character.

The Nature of God and Human Misunderstanding 01:52:35​

"The nature of God is real; only the nature of God is reliable."

• A significant theme is the portrayal of God in various religious texts and how human interpretation can lead to misunderstandings of His character, such as the ancient practices observed in the Jewish tradition.
• The discussion points out that misinterpretations can lead to harmful beliefs and practices, portraying a God who seeks to punish rather than one who desires a relationship with humanity.
• The importance of recognizing the true characteristics of God is stressed, suggesting that the true nature of God includes traits that bring about love, goodness, and beauty, thus enhancing the overall understanding of faith.

Contemplation on God’s Qualities 01:55:02​

"Imagine if you started your day with that kind of contemplative prayer."

• The speaker advocates integrating daily meditation focused on God's attributes, such as His omniscience and love, into one's life. This practice could help individuals build a deeper relationship with God.
• The idea is that reflecting on these qualities can transform anxiety and doubt into peace and confidence, reaffirming one's trust in God's omnipotence and reliability.
• This approach encourages listeners to start each day grounded in the truth of God's nature, suggesting that such practices can significantly influence one's spiritual journey and mindset.

Love God, Love People 01:58:59​

"Love God, love people, and we'll see you on the next episode of the Jesus Way podcast."

• The core message emphasizes the importance of loving God and loving others as fundamental principles.
• This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the central tenets of Christian faith, suggesting that love should be the guiding principle in interactions with God and fellow human beings.
• The phrase also indicates an ongoing journey, inviting listeners to engage with future content in the series, reinforcing a sense of community and shared purpose around these values.

 

[Outcast]

This is an enormous amount of statements to unpack. Reading the first half and making notes let me know, however, that I didn't need to read the rest to see where these statements come from.

As I read, I am reminded of the lessons of seminary that not all professors agree with each other. I think that is why the tests given for those classes were the "essay" type rather than multiple choice. We had to explain the logic for our answers using scripture.

I imagine that these writers are using the same logic techniques that are used in Law School that leads politicians today to become either "the Constitution as written or amended" or the "living constitution that is changed by legal interpretation."

All that being said, I realize that their education for scriptural interpretation did not come from Yahweh. Not only that, they started out really well with great ideas (meaning: I agree) and then meandered to personal trifling with interpretations.

One major thing that they do understand - the first century church is corrupted.

Even these writer attempt to judge Yahweh. Statements like:

"The concept suggests that if God were to create souls that never return, it would imply a deficiency in God's ability to maintain complete control over creation. Therefore, ensuring that every soul ultimately returns to God reinforces the belief that God is perfectly self-sufficient and lacking nothing."

They do not even understand the concept of a "soul."

" Paul's soteriology emphasizes confession and belief in Jesus for salvation, while Jesus's teachings focus on active expressions of love, forgiveness, and adherence to commandments as essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven. This highlights the importance of actions over mere belief."

Paul's understanding of salvation emphasized the word of Yeshua. It did not conflict with Him. Nor do they understand that "believe" causes actions. Therefore: Jesus teaches that keeping the commandments is essential for attaining eternal life, as he clearly states in the Gospels when asked about it.
Major point: The podcast seeks to reconnect with the original intentions and teachings of Jesus as understood by his first followers, emphasizing the importance of studying Jewish Christianity from the first century to grasp a more authentic interpretation.

Then they strayed into modern theological thinking: The narrator observes a couple in church and recognizes their conventional husband-and-wife roles, which leads him to realize that the church holds fundamental beliefs about gender roles. This sparks an internal conflict as he grapples with whether his belief in God aligns with the apparent inferiority of women as suggested by the church's teachings.
Here is where they contradict themselves. Are we to understand the "church" as it existed in the first century was already wrong? Are we to believe that roles assigned by Yahweh shows that females are "inferior" to males? That is purely an attitude of the last couple hundred years - not that of God.

However, the writer than chooses to: "to seek out alternative interpretations within the Bible, particularly the writings of Paul."

So, here we have it. Instead of depending on Yahweh to teach them, they behave as seminary professors and straighten out the mistakes given in scripture that define God and His Son.

The problem lies in how man-made doctrines shape perceptions of God's nature. The video explores the widespread beliefs about God's omnipotence, omniscience, and the necessity of honoring free will, which leads to theological contradictions regarding God's power and needs.

Specifically, the assertion that God has a need for atonement, often interpreted as sacrifice, is called a double ontological violation since it implies an omniscient and all-powerful God requires something external to Himself.

This is not as "assertion," it is a requirement of Yahweh. By now, it was apparent what these writers were doing.

I do thank you for posting this, though. It is good to know that there are those who recognize the failure of the first century church to grow visibly. It did not - that church of individuals are now simply individuals who prefer truth as given by Yahweh and His Son - even though those who do so are often insulted, persecuted or killed because they won't agree with "mainstream christianity."

Perhaps it is the fear of being shunned that stops the growth of the true church : those who are taught by God as scripture tells us.

 

[LeeB]

Acts 17:25 GOD doesn’t need us, we need HIM. Yes it is HIS will to have other beings that are as righteous and agape as HE is, HE establishes the criteria to accomplish this. It seems that universal salvation is mentioned as well which is untrue. Perhaps these people are oneness Pentecostals. It also seems they are legalistic and do not understand what Jesus was meaning about the commandments thinking that Jesus desires us to be under the law.

 

[LeeB]

If the FATHER wants a person to understand HIS truth then nothing can get in the way of stopping HIM. Nothing.

 

[Outcast]

If the FATHER wants a person to understand HIS truth then nothing can get in the way of stopping HIM. Nothing.

Perhaps you should rephrase this, brother? I think you meant something else.

 

[LeeB]

Perhaps you should rephrase this, brother? I think you meant something else.

Please, rephrase as you think it should be.

 

[Outcast]

Please, rephrase as you think it should be.

If the FATHER wants a person to understand HIS truth then nothing can get in the way of His teaching that person. Nothing.

My intent was only to point out the double negative "nothing can get in the way of stopping" and not be a theological issue.

 

[LeeB]

I never was very good in English class. Thanks for pointing out my error.

 

[LeeB]

This is an enormous amount of statements to unpack. Reading the first half and making notes let me know, however, that I didn't need to read the rest to see where these statements come from.

As I read, I am reminded of the lessons of seminary that not all professors agree with each other. I think that is why the tests given for those classes were the "essay" type rather than multiple choice. We had to explain the logic for our answers using scripture.

I imagine that these writers are using the same logic techniques that are used in Law School that leads politicians today to become either "the Constitution as written or amended" or the "living constitution that is changed by legal interpretation."

All that being said, I realize that their education for scriptural interpretation did not come from Yahweh. Not only that, they started out really well with great ideas (meaning: I agree) and then meandered to personal trifling with interpretations.

One major thing that they do understand - the first century church is corrupted.

Even these writer attempt to judge Yahweh. Statements like:

"The concept suggests that if God were to create souls that never return, it would imply a deficiency in God's ability to maintain complete control over creation. Therefore, ensuring that every soul ultimately returns to God reinforces the belief that God is perfectly self-sufficient and lacking nothing."

They do not even understand the concept of a "soul."

" Paul's soteriology emphasizes confession and belief in Jesus for salvation, while Jesus's teachings focus on active expressions of love, forgiveness, and adherence to commandments as essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven. This highlights the importance of actions over mere belief."

Paul's understanding of salvation emphasized the word of Yeshua. It did not conflict with Him. Nor do they understand that "believe" causes actions. Therefore: Jesus teaches that keeping the commandments is essential for attaining eternal life, as he clearly states in the Gospels when asked about it.
Major point: The podcast seeks to reconnect with the original intentions and teachings of Jesus as understood by his first followers, emphasizing the importance of studying Jewish Christianity from the first century to grasp a more authentic interpretation.

Then they strayed into modern theological thinking: The narrator observes a couple in church and recognizes their conventional husband-and-wife roles, which leads him to realize that the church holds fundamental beliefs about gender roles. This sparks an internal conflict as he grapples with whether his belief in God aligns with the apparent inferiority of women as suggested by the church's teachings.
Here is where they contradict themselves. Are we to understand the "church" as it existed in the first century was already wrong? Are we to believe that roles assigned by Yahweh shows that females are "inferior" to males? That is purely an attitude of the last couple hundred years - not that of God.

However, the writer than chooses to: "to seek out alternative interpretations within the Bible, particularly the writings of Paul."

So, here we have it. Instead of depending on Yahweh to teach them, they behave as seminary professors and straighten out the mistakes given in scripture that define God and His Son.

The problem lies in how man-made doctrines shape perceptions of God's nature. The video explores the widespread beliefs about God's omnipotence, omniscience, and the necessity of honoring free will, which leads to theological contradictions regarding God's power and needs.

Specifically, the assertion that God has a need for atonement, often interpreted as sacrifice, is called a double ontological violation since it implies an omniscient and all-powerful God requires something external to Himself.

This is not as "assertion," it is a requirement of Yahweh. By now, it was apparent what these writers were doing.

I do thank you for posting this, though. It is good to know that there are those who recognize the failure of the first century church to grow visibly. It did not - that church of individuals are now simply individuals who prefer truth as given by Yahweh and His Son - even though those who do so are often insulted, persecuted or killed because they won't agree with "mainstream christianity."

Perhaps it is the fear of being shunned that stops the growth of the true church : those who are taught by God as scripture tells us.

By examining their statements I think he is a Oneness Pentecostal. They are preaching universalism, that iHe says reflects poorly on GOD if HE can’t give everybody salvation thereby ignoring that GOD is not after quantity but quality. There is a sin that will not be forgiven in this age and in the age to com, blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, which only those who have the Holy Spirit can commit. As far as the law, Christ confirmed what Paul said, love is the fulfillment of the law. The two commandments of love are greater than the Ten Commandments.

The issue about women is that they are not inferior concerning salvation but only as to the role they have been assigned by GOD. It is as in Adam all sin, sin with knowledge but Eve sinned through deception. The order of things is this; 1 Corinthians 11:3 A woman did not die on the cross, a woman did not sin with knowledge, Adam was first formed then Eve however she was saved by child bearing, a woman gave birth to GODS son the savior of both man and woman. The fruit of the woman not the seed because a woman has no seed and the Hebrew word “zera” Strongs #H2233 Malachi 2:15 Hosea 10:12 Isaiah 53:10 Genesis 3:16

Women are not inferior, they just have a different role assigned to them by GOD. Genesis 3:16 Ephesians 5:22,23,24 Colossians 3:18,19 Proverbs 31:10,11,12 This rule has never changed but in the kingdom it does as there is no male or female and while humans on earth both genders are judged by GOD and Christ partly on how well each performs in their assigned roles. This is only one proof there are only two genders.