I have become an avid Swedenborg follower I truly appreciate the encouragement I get from you. I started searching for the truth and understanding of why I felt things different than the church was teaching I got in a lot of trouble for asking the ministers to show me where they found some of what they taught and I felt very alone I am going on 68 and finally have found the truth and inner peace I searched for. I doubted myself a lot but never stopped believing or giving, Thank you for all you do to help us grow and understand better.
I get the same thing , i had a dream a while ago , and it was groups of Christians looking for other Christians and basically breaking into homes of people that they didnt agree with, and i understood what it meant and there are a lot of Christians grounded im certain beliefs that they are almost militant in mentality towards those beliefs , they get combative spiritually against anything or anyone that questions thier belief, and the Lord told me not to be angry towards them nore be hateful , they have good intentions but they are a little off course, its amazing how God if we listen to him he speaks in love , understanding and wisdom , i see more now that people are not my enemies but like bible states we fight not against flesh and blood but spirtual wickedness and dark powers in high places, i understand that more and more everyday, The lord opened my eyes , he also told me that God does not require nor need me to defend him nor be angry for him , just to love , learn and practice faith and believe, as Jesus constantly states throughout the bible.
Isn't it odd how our generation was made to not question anything in the bible or church teachings. Depressing really. You are not alone,not by a long chalk. Swedenborgs teachings are such a blessing and the off the left eye crew.
@@ER-zm2cz This is beautiful and helpful to me because after learning about Swedenborg's revelations for a couple years now, I am starting to feel like it's time to share some of these videos on Facebook to my friends. I want others to find this wonderful expansion of Truth that has brought me joy and security in a greater measure than the Protestant doctrines I've held for 40 years. But some friends are upset about it....I am learning not to be defensive in a bad way toward them but to just try to explain these new concepts, with God's help.
Be true to yourself, help others, make each day your masterpiece, make friendship a fine art, drink deeply from good books - especially the Bible, build a shelter against a rainy day, give thanks for your blessings and pray for guidance every day...
Two of my daughters had Angels come to teach or heal them when they were young. Later they both recognized an old photo of their great great grandfather as that same Angel.
Curtis. Wow. I just paused at part 5 to tell you how..... I'm at a loss. This just became doctrine and I've never felt this before. Of course this is how the word must be conveyed. I have always tried to follow the symbolism in everything, but never suspected that the Bible held so so much.... I'm amazed at you right now. 😆
Thank you for this information! Over my own journey, I've eventually found the Bible to be as Swedenborg describes. I went from applying it "according to the letter" (as those around me were doing); to rejecting it outright as being a tool for systematic control of the masses; to slowly re-incorporating the parts of it that I find to bring peace, joy, love, and sound instruction. As far as my eventual adaptation, it is interesting to me that some dogmatic, religious, organizations specifically warn against doing that (on fear of hellfire.) They state that we "aren't allowed" to view the Bible as anything other than word-for-word, face-value, directives. They claim that to refuse to take the Bible at face-value is the same as rejecting God. How backwards! There is so much that many religions do to prevent people from full, spiritual, development. That system has to be designed by the dark side, ha.
Shanna, you present many very important notes on the nature of the Bible and how organizations have created barriers to fully investigating its inner life. Thank you for deciding to share this with us!
The more I learn about Swedenborg and his life, the more impressed I am. It's amazing that his mind could rise up and see the reality of spiritual life and the Bible, so far removed from the people of his time. I hope you don't mind my comments from the perspective of my own Faith. Being a Baha'i is what allows me to see the greatness of Swedenborg's mind. I like the way he analyzes the Bible and what he considers "down town", in Rosian terms. I've always wondered why Christians have used Paul as the standard for Christian truth, when Paul was not present when Jesus was teaching. I found the heart and mind synonyms very interesting. Baha'u'llah also often uses two words with about the same meaning, so I'll have to see if the mind/heart relationship is true here also. At the beginning of the program there was the diagram of the "new Church" and the comment that it would be presented rationally rather than just ritually and rote. That is something that Baha'u'llah specifically mentions as one distinguishing characteristic of His own Revelation. People were encouraged to question Him concerning anything they didn't understand. He also teaches that science and religion together are the foundation of the new world divine culture which is evolving. Any belief contrary to scientific fact is superstition. He also speaks of the infinite potential of the Word of God. I can understand why Swedenborg focuses on the Bible and Jesus as the center of history, since that was his world. If he had been born in India, he undoubtedly would have used the Hindu Scriptures and perhaps Krishna as the center. He makes it clear that spiritual reality is universal. Using Hindu Scriptures wouldn't have got him very far in Europe. Baha'u'llah was in a similar position. He addressed the people of the Middle East, Christians, Muslims, Zoroastrians and Jews. There just were no Hindus or Buddhists in His environment, but He made clear that the Hindu and Buddhist religions were inspired by the same Divinity. Love is the core of every Revelation. Baha'u'llah made the rather strong comment, "If your words exceed your deeds, verily your death is better than your life." I now regret writing so many words here.
+Harlan Lang I do very much love every word you wrote!! There could have been more :) Your opinion is very much appreciated. How many religions are there that 'say' If, whatever you believe makes you a better person, believe that!! This is my 'motto' based on my interpretation of Swedenborg. Thanks again!
+Adriaan Braam Thank you for your kind words. Yes, I agree that all religions are good. But they have to be lived out in our lives. Give my love to Adri.
adriaan --when Howard Storm went to heaven --long story but he died as an athiest suddenly but ultimately finally ended up in heaven and he asked which religion is the right one---Jesus told him, the one that brings you closest to God............
Hi Adriaan! We're doing well. Just returned from a visit with our son and family in Ohio. My first time there. I also wish you and your family the best in the New Year!
I am really relearning a lot in this video. And at the same time always felt there was more to the bible than what we were taught to believe in church. I have a dear friend who loves to quote the bible and loves the Lord. But his own interpretations were at times off the mark and judgemental. And I would always tell him as a reminder... Judge not lest ye be judged ( Matthew 7:1 ). You cannot force someone to believe or even believe the way you do. Nor force them, for God never forces, he gives us choice to choose. Not to force the choice in them. But I know he meant well and has a heart to see everyone go to heaven. He also said the Bible is: basic instructions before leaving earth. I would agree and elaborate that it's so much more with layers of wisdom hidden. But to be found when our spirit and heart are open to receiving it. This was a great show, thank you once again. Love and blessings 😇🙏🌺
@@offTheLeftEye , I never use to be judgemental until life happened. Then my judgement become screwed by what was done to me. Yes it is challenging but at least I can say today. I do my best to not judge and understand what the other person does. There are days I wish I could get off this world for awhile when I see the ugliness in the world. Or smack every person whose cause distruction and death with a compassion stick. But that's why we pray and do our best to lead by actions. That are loving, forgiving, kind and learn from our mistakes. Not perpetuate them... Love and blessings 😇🙏🌺
I assume, by your tone, that this is a good thing, Olivia! :) If you're looking for more on Swedenborg's take on the Bible, more is available in our archive! Here's a link to an episode of News From Heaven called, "It Is Damaging to Take the Bible Literally." ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-g2HMeLVgRI4.html If you choose to watch, may it offer you something relevant or useful to life, my friend!
@@offTheLeftEye Thank you for the advice Curtis ! I have in fact decided to watch all your videos on the Bible. Right now, I am watching "How to write the Word in your heart". Love it !
@@marysunshine5587 That is a good question. I am not sure if he commented on it specifically. He is absolutely a believer in self examination, and repentance, and if that is what confession means to you, then that is a vital part of spiritual health. Perhaps he would suggest that confessing to God would take precedence over confessing to a priest, but tell me how it feels to you. I have never gone to confession, though self examination is part of my spiritual practice.
All of you were on fire with adorableness in this show... love. this. channel. You bring Swedenborg's material forward in such a great way. Looking forward getting into the books.
I wouldn't have known about his work without you. Another life touched. Never doubt the worth of what you do - the value is beyond measure. Much love... and, of course, goodness and truth ;)
These videos are more and more excellent. Thank you so much for this nuanced integration of elements from the Writings. Oh yippee! I'm just now listening as you announced next week's topic - True Marriage Love. I was going to ask for this, and ask when we would see it. Ok, now I know :D
+Christine Winskowski, so glad you're enjoying the videos! It's great to hear that the format is working for you. I appreciate you taking the time to let us know! We're excited for the marriage topic, too!
I have begun researching Emanuel Swedenborg and reading his writings and receiving many blessings from all the wonderful things the Lord allowed him to see and to write about. I also see much truth in his symbolic interpretation of the Bible or the Divine Scriptures. I can see also that this deep application to our individual lives is one of things that contributes to the amazing power of the Word of the Lord and what makes Divine. I would like to know, did Swedenborg adhere strictly to this standpoint of the Scriptures. Did he ever say the things talked about in Scripture can apply both literally, as external truths or prophecies (for example), and ALSO to us in the spiritual or heavenly sense? I can see many times reading various things in scriptures how this dual layering is active in the intention of the writing.
We are delighted that you are researching Swedenborg, Aaron. Welcome to a wonderful journey! There is much to discover, and ponder. You ask about whether some parts of scripture can be taken literally, as well as figuratively. Swedenborg uses a phrase "hands and face" to describe those parts of the bible that are not obscured by "clothing". The Golden rule is one, and the Two Great Commandments. There is no mystery there. "Love one another as I have loved you." There are other parts, such as laws in Leviticus that can seem confusing. I do not own an ox, and why would I care about laws concerning them? The law describes how if your ox gores a person and never has before you are less responsible than if your ox has a history of hurting others and you do not take steps to control the ox. That is a story about my anger. If I lose my temper once and hurt someone, I am less culpable than if I do it often and have not taken steps to really reign in my anger. Here is a video about the symbolism in a psalm. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-QgG345J67DI.html Let's keep talking and exploring, Aaron.
There is actually a dictionary of correspondences! Here's the link to the book on our website: swedenborg.com/product/dictionary-of-correspondences/ This might be a free e-book version: books.google.com/books/about/A_Dictionary_of_Correspondence_Represent.html?id=FfaO3jELr3oC
You will, Ken! The Lord will keep teaching you more about it to eternity! Plenty of time. As long as there is a longing to learn, the learning will keep happening. Wishing God's blessings to you, too!
wonderful. this is touching my heart, mind and soul..literally best info about the bible ever..I was a geek of these works with the first book I experienced "Heaven and Hell," after my son's death in dec 2016...." this is true, this is good."
I am so touched by your messages, Linda. We are honored by your affirming presence and courage to keep growing, even through some really challenging experiences. Please know that our team holds you in our hearts regarding the passing of your son.
I am humbled by such straightforward information.. I look forward to learning all I can and reading as many of Swedenborg book as I can over and over.. until it is a part of my base of knowledge...about truth and light, and the gift of living a good wholesome life inside and out. I rejoice in the memories of my child's sweet face and words of the early years. I know he is finding his place in heaven, Shane was a good man and helped many people. I do not grieve his loss because he is just away from this earth. I know he lives in another realm. People say to me I must be grieving his loss, I say I am rejoicing in his being here and my being his mother. I am thankful for this experience.
Well welcome to Off The Left Eye, Florida! Hope you enjoy exploring our channel. If you're interested in any particular topics, we can offer suggestions from among our 1000+ videos, and we're always here in the comment section to answer questions. Swedenborg (on whose writings our channel is based) wrote that religion is all about the way we live, and a religious life means doing good in the world. Hope you find some ideas that feel helpful and healing!
Way to go. The physical world as metaphor. We just went through hurricane Matthew. As the trees were being swayed and tossed by the high winds I was remembering the reference to the mind correlating to a tree. I thought :) if my mind is rooted in truth and love of truth then winds and disturbances cannot uproot it, if there are dead or diseased branches they will be removed. In the Bhagavad gita Krishna says, "... of purifiers I am the wind." So yes I am appreciating the presentations very much. Thank you. Everyone stay well.
Curtis & Company :) , I am so very grateful to have found offTheLeftEye, Swedenborg, and your teachings on Swedenborg's teachings on the Word of God !! May we all continue to grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and saviour ! BIG LOVE
Swedenborg must have had a great love for the Bible, and I can see that coming from a religious family. The Bible is a chronology of many things like hardships, Love and trust in a time when there there wasn’t much of that, similar to our time today.
Totally. Swedenborg grew up in a household that was quite religious-- his father was a Lutheran Bishop. Interestingly enough, his father's great success was in writing/publishing a book of hymns, some of which are still utilized today!
Just a quick thing I noticed - at around 35:00 when the scripture reference comes up, that's Judges 7:20-21, not Joshua. Those books are right next to each other, and Joshua does have a very similar story in the Jericho narrative, but Gideon doesn't come up until the Judges. Probably just a simple typo, but I hate to see your expensive graphics ruined ;)
Thank you for catching that! That is indeed a typo. Back in 2016, we had an even smaller staff and an even shorter time to prep the shows, so, mistakes do turn up! Though we can't now go back and correct this, I'm very glad you pointed this out, to alert us and other viewers! Much appreciated!
thank you for this video I have leaned on the word for so long and always felt there was more but I of myself even in pray did not receive all of this I think it was not time but I knew God was real angels were real that we were protected and guided when we ask for help. Being steadfast in our knowledge is so important to give and share that is something we are told to do, to grow is my goal and wish my mind would retain more but that is why we have Swedenborg's books again thank you for the books videos and the feeling of fellowship and that now I can share so others can grow. May the Lord continue to be with you and bless you in all that you do.
Thank you so much, Cheri. I think we have to be patient with ourselves, in taking in and understanding and retaining the information. Because we get to keep learning it all on to eternity, so there is no rush! I'm so glad that Swedenborg's explanations are helping to fill in your understanding of the Bible, and that we get to have you on board with us, learning as we go. God bless!
Dear Curtis thank you so much for yet another great video. Could you do a show on physical disease in future seen from Swedenborg's perspective? And on why children are born sick or get sick and also on why very good people often get sick?
Only the good die young ? .. Sometimes , I think of earth as a bad realm and it doesn't like good to stay around. So much in the human world feels built for theives and murderers.
Great Episode! Dr. Rose correctly interpreted the Old Testament has a collection of different books written over time and gradually edited and even interpolated by various authors. I feel Swedenborg was able to pick out the genuine messages and leave the rest out. I strongly feel that the parables of Jesus Christ, witnessed and written down by trusted scribes approximately about 33 BC are the closest descriptions we have to the kingdom of God. I haven’t gotten yet to how Swedenborg may have felt about that. Thanks.
I'm so glad you enjoyed this episode, Jules! Swedenborg wrote that there is a "continuous internal sense", or consistent spiritual thread woven through many books in the Word. Each of these books, certainly including the Gospels, contains a deeper reality that describes our spiritual evolution and also details the Lord's inner life on earth. So I would say that Swedenborg was identifying these books from the Word (Torah, Prophets, with the addition of Psalms, Lamentations, and Daniel in OT; Gospels and Revelation in NT) as fitting a completely divinely inspired corpus, all of which, in the internal sense, reveal the Kingdom of God. It is important to note that Swedenborg did not reject the rest of the books of the Bible. He considered them "good books of the church". However, he saw them as historical, instructional, and doctrinal writings rather than as divinely inspired books of the Word of God. I hope this helps! What do you think?
offTheLeftEye It helps a great deal.....I also believe the the parables of Jesus especially at Matthew 13 reveal the Kingdom of God, but you really have to look at the words to get an “ inner picture.
I totally jive with that! I'm attaching a link to an e-book you may be interested in...it's a reflection on the inner meaning of Jesus' parables with a connection to Swedenborg's teachings. God bless, my friend! swedenborg.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Woofenden_Lee-On_Earth_as_it_is_In_Heaven.pdf
Love V1 If I speak with the tongues of humans and angels, but do not have love, I am a resounding ore and a whining bell. V2 And if I have prophetic gift and know all the secrets and possess all knowledge and have all faith so that I can move mountains but do not have love, I'm nothing. V3 And if I divide all that I own, and give my body to burn, but not love, it benefits me nothing. V4 Love is patient, love is gentle, it does not envy, love does not boast, does not imagine anything. V5 It does nothing unseemly, does not seek its own, does not get up, does not carry nigh. V6 It does not find its joy in injustice, but pleases the truth. V7 It can withstand everything, believe everything, hope all things endures everything. V8 Love never ceases. Prophetic gifts they must perish; Tongues, it must be understood; And knowledge, it must pass away. V9 For we acknowledge paragraphs, and we prophesy bitwise, v10 but when it comes to perfection, it shall pass away. V11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child. But when I grew up, I made it childish. V12 Again, we see in a mirror, in a riddle, but then we face face to face. Now, I acknowledge, but I will know fully, just as I am fully known.
This is SO helpful to merge aspects in our own indivdual beings...and move forward to bringing the light into society (by being the light!) And helps ease cognitive dissonace about literal-only interpretation of the Bible😊
Debra, I'm deeply glad that this view of the Bible makes sense to you! It really makes a huge difference, doesn't it? I hope our channel can continue to support you in this new approach to Scripture, and how it relates to our lives right now. God bless!
I cant get enough of this stuff. Recently Ive been thinking about learning a language. Was originally thinking Hebrew or Greek. Do you think someone would get more nuance by reading Swedenborg in Latin? I know its a HUGE undertaking to learn any of these languages but I'm only 44 and hopefully I have plenty of time...
So glad you've been enjoying it! That's a great question about the Latin. I'm not fluent myself, so I can't vouch for the experience, but I'd be happy to get you in touch with people on the translation team that are. If you're interested, send me an email at offthelefteye@gmail.com and we can go from there.
@@sparklybabe2033 You are welcome to email us at that above at any time! But you might find all you need for reading Swedenborg's writings with the free downloads of his books at our website: swedenborg.com/ Or on this search sight, which provides Swedenborg's writings in a number of translations: newchristianbiblestudy.org/ I hope those resources can be helpful to you!
People can say whatever they want about the bible... I just remember the story of the possessed/demonized guy who was in jail and made it rain and mist inside the jail and then when he got out , he made his friends apartment fill with rain from all different directions ... there were about seven witnesses... police, wardens, medical people who all documented that this happened... then a priest/reverend took out his bible and started praying for the guy in the room filled with rain... the only thing that remained dry was the bible... :) The words of Jesus are in there... I think that's the important thing. Thanks for your work, Curtis.
I haven't read the Bible because it found it confusing. But i want to give it another go. What version of the Bible did Swedenborg use? or what one would Jonathon Rose recommend? Thank you for these videos. Curtis you are a great host!!!
Dear +Lotus Rebecca personally I would recommend the most recent translation of Swedenborg's books about Genesis. It also includes the recommended Bible text. This is the first volume of 12 and is highly recommended. Best wishes and have a great research! www.swedenborg.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/NCE_SecretsofHeaven1_portable.epub
Hi, +Lotus Rebecca! We passed your question onto Dr. Rose and he says, although he regularly reads the King James (KJ) and New King James (NKJ) versions since they are the translations most people are familiar with, the most understandable Bible he's found, i.e., the smoothest, most intelligible translation, is the New Revised Standard Version. He says, "I read it in The New Interpreter's Study Bible, edited by Walter J. Harrelson, published by Abingdon Press (which also has commentary that is quite often helpful). When I want to know what it is actually saying, that's my fave!" It's great to hear you're inspired to give reading the Bible another go!
Thanks for the feedback -- both kinds, Lowlitstudio! This is one of our older videos, and there were lots of comments like yours, so we have adjusted and think our newer videos have a better sound balance. Hopefully you can mute the sound and just read the subtitles if you find another one that is off-balance. Glad you're enjoying the content, anyway!
That sounds right on par with what Swedenborg was shown, Shara! Have you seen our episode, "Is the Devil Real?" ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ljR4_gs0Tek.html Let me know your thoughts!
I have heard it said on your program that in heaven no one is commanded to do anything but here in the 10 Commandments it's a command to Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul, why is that? My thought is it's a protection here, what do you think? For some reason this morning when I thought of it..it irritated me and then I thought of how the devil entered Judas so I push that thought away.
Great question, Shara. I think much of the wording in the Bible reflects the culture that wrote it. In this case, the word "commandments" is coming from a very strict and rigid culture that adhered to a great deal of rules and rituals, so the word "Commandment" probably would have resonated just fine with them. Of course, we know that the 10 Commandments aren't rules we MUST follow - we have the freedom of choice! However, they are rules we SHOULD follow for maximum enjoyment of life. God provides us with a structure that will lead us to heaven, but leaves us with the choice to live within that structure or reject it. Swedenborg learned that, like everything in the Bible, the 10 Commandments all have deeper symbolic meanings. For example, "Thou Shalt Not Murder" seems easy enough - until you learn that the deeper meaning is spiritual murder, which in simple terms is basically hating anyone enough to destroy any part of their lives, reputation included (i.e. gossip). Check out this episode, "The 10 Commandments: What Honoring Your Father and Your Mother Really Means," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-KDEAFuHkhhk.html for more on some of those deeper meanings! Thanks for asking!
So it feels like the time when the Bible will come to me is near. My question is, how do I know it's a good copy? In my mind I feel like it may be possible to miss out on hidden meanings if the translation has drifted away far enough from the original text. Now I know the Bible is more about its "spirit" rather than its "body" but I still want to know the body is alright, you know? If you were to look for a new copy of the Bible right now, what would be the key factors you'd consider? Thanks a lot for the video, it helps a lot!
Good question, Metamorphosis! I'd have to do some reading on different translations, and which are the truest to the original text! I recall hearing somewhere that Swedenborg used a certain German translation of the Bible, because of its accuracy, but I'm having trouble finding that reference. And I suspect you'd need to speak German for that to be useful. I recommend this blog post from Lee and Annette Woofenden's blog - it's actually about why Paul isn't part of Swedenborg's canon, but it's also just a great explanation on the Canon Swedenborg uses and which books he learned where fully written in "the language of correspondences." leewoof.org/2019/05/31/why-isnt-paul-in-swedenborgs-canon/ That blog is full of knowledge, from a Swedenborgian perspective, and may be a great jumping off point to finding the right Bible for you. As far as I know, there is no Bible published with JUST the books Swedenborg said were divine, but I think standard Bibles contain more content, not less, so that won't be an issue. As far as translation issues - it's something to be aware of, but if you read while keeping in mind that God is love, that these ideas are for spiritual development and how to love each other, you will get truth from it no matter who translated it! See this clip, "Only Love Can Reveal Truth in Bible Scripture," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PoTQ7pBX26Q.html
Anybody that cant stand Emmanuel Swedenborg will have to learn more about the WORD. That is, reflect more, learn how rain is formed or listen to young Sheldon Cooper.
I am looking at more of his studies but I don't know that he was not trying to explain away the theory of evolution because it seemed so overwhelming at the time. I was not living then, but I came to life and found that documentary when my 18 year old grandson said that he doesn't believe in Jesus Christ but evolution 🙏. I shared one of your videos with him. But we will talk about it also
+Jilles Burg That's right, just as any other material or item. Water can save or kill us, as can fire and even guns. It is all about why and how they are used.
Something odd... I have had an experience where I ate something my mother wanted to save for later..i had no clue she wanted it ..so when she saw nothing in its place she snapped at me and stayed angry for quite some while..which I too have done when I was younger..then I came to realize I have taken something the spirits outside desired and when they could not consume they went into a rage and between all of this my mother acted as an intermediary..this shows that spirits are putting their desires, thoughts and wants into us..or it is pouring into us from outside..I'm eager to hear your thoughts on it.
Spirits definitely influence what we want and what interests us. This is something Swedenborg talks of often, and I'm sure our anger about not getting something we want has its basis in spiritual influence! In other words, you and whatever spirits were with you all REALLY WANTED that thing, and when you don't get it, all of you are angry! Fascinating thought. You might like "Three Kinds of Evil Spirits," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-o21lGQMyllw.html which goes into detail about specific groups of spirits and what they want us to feel and do, based on their loves!
Glad to hear you enjoyed it, +Lisa Garcia! Swedenborg claims that all his insight about the Bible came from the Lord by way of angels in heaven. He was writing from the context of his own time and place, but it's pretty astounding how often his ideas seem to be able to transcend the culture of his day. But of course, it's up to each one of us to decide whether to believe that what he saw and wrote was true! Hope this helps!
One of my typical personal rants ahead!... had to stop the video. The wording all makes logical sense, but good luck treading the path (if you even care to! Personal bunny trails galore, as always) :P @ 33:00 "...so, sorry to the Creation Museum". OUCH!!!! -- with a bit of chuckle thrown in :P -- (I've been to it a couple times). Several years ago, I went on a DEEP, DEEP personal journey into the whole "college induced" (well, among many other "life things", since I was already significantly older at that time than traditional college students) "is there REALLY a God, vs. purely atheistic materialism" question, and had what I considered to be (because of the very nature of "how it happened"..one of those "WOW" things in life) answer from God toward that deep questioning (it all was also deeply rooted in my... and there's not a "deep" enough word to describe the personally realized/felt nature of this.... desperate need to understand how my personal sexuality fit into the real truth of all the "why me's?" that whooole deep topic incurred(incurs!) in my life... Talk about sending someone DEEPLY hiding within their own heart, as protection from what even my own self does not understand!!). Even within what was already a lifetime of typical evangelical Christian life-understanding (with actually MUCH questioning in my mind and heart concerning the multiple natures of "doctrine"), that "God answer" to the whole God vs. atheism came the very next morning, after a night of "end of my rope" desperate pleading with the "supposed God" to LET ME KNOW... SOMEthing toward resolution of my deep, desperate dilemma. There he was (as controversial as I now know him to be)... Kent Hovind, right there on the TV, the very morning after I woke from that desperately "pleadful" night, giving answers to the VERY QUESTIONS that plagued me in the debate (this was all far pre-Swedenborg realization in life, however I had many realizations and considerations already toward a "higher, spiritual nature and reason for the whole of 'existence'"). Then came Ken Ham (wallah... Creation Museum!). And along came Chuck Missler (oh my, oh my.... look him up on youtube if unfamiliar. He's THE MOST profound, ultra-intelligent, mathematics/physics/sciences/buisness/HEAD OF THE U.S. DEPT OF GUIDED MISSILES type smart(!)/Bible-loving teacher the planet has ever seen! 'Learn the Bible in 24 Hours' on youtube ... ok, commercial finished :P Oh, by the way... doubting Missler knew much about Swedenborg, a huge part of even Missler's realization of Scripture is that EVERY WORD has deeper significance than merely appears on the surface. Watch the videos I mentioned! VERY INTERESTING that even this deep, profound, typical evangelical teacher who lies along my own life-journey-growth path speaks things that line up exactly with Swedenborg... could this all be.... TRUE??!!)... and add ALL OF THAT to my own dear ol dearly now-departed (wow, I still can't fathom that you're "not here", Unc!) Uncle Dave's VERY SWEDENBORG-like experiences he had in his life, that he and I spoke about for YEARS (all far before my own relatively recent intro to Swedenborg), and you come out.. after AAAALL of that blabbing... with a verion of "me" that's utterly, utterly, utterly flabbergasted with growing and growing and growing realization that my Uncle Dave, indeed, had it right, when part of what he "came back here" with is that we basically.... HAVE IT ALL WRONG! It's NOT "religion". It's NOT "psychology". It's NOT my "fear of my sexuality ostracizing me, from people seeing me how they now perceive me to be (people like me! yay! :) ) were they to find out my deep "secret" (...oops, I think I let the cat out :P ), and it's NOT even about me "trying to figure it ALL OUT, everything we could conceivable speak of in the realm of existence". It's about......... and alas, there's no earthly words. But it seems, more and more fuzzily clearly (HUH?? :P ) that a clearer and clearer picture of... LIFE... is developing before my "heart's eye". It has NOTHING to do with figuring it out, from this mere physical perspective that we're experiencing on the "surface" (which is apparently where most of us live, realize, and stay within, our entire lifetime... WHY, I do not know). My Ultimate Day is coming. Each of our Day is coming. I expect my uncle Dave (among many others) will be right there... saying... "You see!!! It IS! HE Is!" :) I hope I'm learning to love... truly love... more and more, while I'm "here". Oh that my (Swedenborg defined) "Love" would in fact be... Love! Lord, help me in that!! Blessings to all!!
Wow, Steve. There's a lot in here. I really like your vision of your Uncle Dave's welcoming words to you on the other side -- "It IS! HE is!" That about says it all! My heart goes out to you for your journey of trying to understand how you fit in with everything. And thanks for the link to Lee Woofenden's article -- I'll check it out! Blessings to you!
If The Bible is the sum total of its contradictions, isn't that Life, isn't that Love, isn't that us? Aren't we all, as is Life and Love, the sum total of our contradictions? Therefore, is not The Bible a testament of Life and a treasury of Love?
+Phillip Wilcher Roses are blue, Violets are red... If Ths sentence is the sum total of its contradictions, isn't that Life, isn't that Love, isn't that us? Aren't we all, as is Life and Love, the sum total of our contradictions? Therefore, is not This sentence a testament of Life and a treasury of Love?
Hi Phillip, I think you are somewhat very right. The bible doesn't show only the contradictions but the complete journey of the souls in discovering themselves to reach the ultimate truth, wisdom and divine love of God. It's the testimony of the living word ( living bible) because that is what is happening in our lives like you mentioned. However, all roads and all paths for each individual, meaning probably incorporating all religions or beliefs, will lead you to the ultimate truth of God. It all depends how quickly you want to get there. Limitless love to you always, Talia.
+Talia Yes, I believe that to be true. The ultimate truth of God, the Divine Love of God, transcends all denominations and beliefs. It all transcends all transgressions. Blessings and limitless love to you also, Talia.
The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:14
Yes, very true! There's an earthly level of the human mind that cannot comprehend spiritual concepts, so, we need to open up to a spiritual level of the mind, where the Lord can teach us about spiritual things!
Swedenborg says they do have good things to offer, though, Light 77. But he learned there was a distinction between the epistles, which don't have a "continuous internal sense," and those books of the Bible that DO -- the books that are more story-like, with much symbolism and correspondence at play. The epistles are more doctrinal, at the start of a new church following Jesus. You might be interested in the recorded Bible study sessions with our friend Dr. Jonathan Rose, who appeared in this video. He described his approach as "looking at the Bible through a Swedenborgian lens" -- and he finds much in the epistles and in ALL of the Bible that holds the truth that Swedenborg reflects in his writings. www.spiritandlifebiblestudy.com. Thanks for watching and commenting, and blessings to you on your spiritual path!
@@offTheLeftEye thank you for the explanation....still I only believe in the 5 books of the new testament swedenborg mentioned in his list of the WORD....cheers
@@offTheLeftEye thank you, BTW I love your channel and swedenborg teachings....I have his 4 or 5 books including secrets of heaven and I love them,...such higher realm knowledge is not available anywhere else....Curtis is also very nice and well read....thank you all...love you all my soul family, we ll meet each other in higher realms....sending you love and hugs 💞💞💞
@@cosmicproductionsone7112 I'm so glad to hear it's been useful to you! We love Swedenborg also! Such kind words for Curtis and all, thank you so much, Light 77! If you enjoy reading Swedenborg, you might want to check out what the Swedenborg Foundation has available for free download! Most of Swedenborg's books, as well as commentary and books from other authors! Check it out here: swedenborg.com/bookstore/free-ebooks-downloads/ Love, hugs, and blessings to you too!
If the Old Testament is all about love and faith and truth and wisdom why is there so many wars?I guess it seems the Good taking down the Falsities and I can see where the wars come from within my own self. I guess it is the Lord taking down the false gods. I see this happening everywhere.
You're onto something, Shara. Swedenborg was led to observe that everything in the Bible relates to the states within us-- that warfare is an allegory the truth battling our selfishness-- something that can bring about more love and wisdom into our life.
Hi - I was really blown away by Swedenborg's understanding of the Bible..but have to say that sadly my enthusiasm came to a grinding halt when you said he believed Genesis 1-11 is just made-up narrative and not literal world history. The first thing that comes to mind is the fact that Jesus Himself refers to Noah and the flood in a literal sense (Matthew 24:37-39) - "As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before THE FLOOD, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day NOAH entered THE ARK. And they were oblivious, until THE FLOOD came and swept them all away. So will be the coming of the Son of Man." This is also confirmed in other NT passages as a LITERAL occurrence, such as Luke 17:26,27, Hebrews 11:6, 1 Peter 3:20, 2 Peter 2:5, and 2 Peter 3:6. (Sorry).
I appreciate your honesty here, David, and that you feel free to question any concepts that don't resonate with you. What Swedenborg offers about this is that Jesus, too, was speaking in symbolic language. "All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them" (Matthew 13:34).
Thanks for your reply - I do admire the way you handle these things, but unfortunately it still doesn't resolve the issue for me as Jesus is here (Matthew 24) responding to questions His disciples raised concerning the signs that will precede His return... signs we're all familiar with, such as - Wars and rumors of wars, Nation against nation, earthquakes, famine, plagues, religious persecution, false teachers and prophets etc, etc...till He refers, and makes the comparison to the time before the flood when we know that God was very disappointed with the state of humanity, as it says in Genesis, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." It seems to me that this is all something VERY literal rather than a parable or made-up narrative.. (Out of interest, I wonder if Swedenborg also considers the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as made-up narrative..? ) Thanks.
..just to add, concerning the verse you quoted, "...without a parable He did not speak to them." After Jesus refers to Noah, He says (verse 32), "Now learn the parable of the fig tree: When its branches become tender and it puts forth leaves, you know that the summer is near, so also, when you see all these things (signs of the times), know that He is near, right at the door." so...yes, while Jesus always taught with the use of parables, and while His words are certainly without limitations when it comes to depth of meaning - yet this does in no way change or confirm to me that somehow the Genesis account of the flood is a made-up narrative - yes Jesus spoke in parables, but He also referred to many other OT people (Moses, David, Elijah etc) in the same literal sense that He here speaks of Noah. Thanks again.
David, I hope you feel free to disagree with Swedenborg on this topic if it just doesn't resonate with you, and to continue to connect with the concepts that do resonate. The last thing I'll offer is that according to what Swedenborg learned, Jesus was speaking to people in the spiritual realm as well as to people on earth, so his language was spanning both worlds. At the same time, truth had to be phrased in cryptic ways because there was still a lot of danger of deep information falling into evil hands. That makes the set-up and meanings of the text very complex and layered. But again, I want you to feel free to NOT have to accept everything that we offer here on this channel if it really doesn't make sense to you. It's very important for everyone to use their own discernment, and always think the information over for themselves!
ok - then I'd say that's something I can't accept..but, on the positive side, it is heartening to see the degree of importance, meaning, and esteem Swedenborg gives to Scripture.. (sort of a rare thing these days).
2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Mark 13:31 Luke 21:33 Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. Revelation 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. 20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
38:35 I live in the uk and find the whole concept of monarchy completely wrong and unspiritual. They like to dominate, they are not as kind as people think, and they take the best care in the world while others suffer. " I am important, you are not" that is just wrong and I am surprised people still fall for it.
I wonder about that, Devon35. It doesn't seem like a very happy life for them, or very useful for anyone else. How hard to have a real, human connection behind the guards and castle walls. Swedenborg wrote a lot about "the love of dominion," which I guess we'd call love of power today. It's not a good situation for anyone, and it sure seems like a pretty obvious one playing out on the world stage, everywhere! Seems to me, that real happiness comes from living a smaller life, caring for those who need and want it, and focusing on love and service. It's nice to know that while some in this life may cling to earthly and material goods, and seem to be wealthy and successful while we regular folks are not, that spiritual riches far surpass those of earth AND come with a clear conscience and a will to love and be loved! We have lots to look forward to, and I guess we can just send a little love and compassion to those who believe that all the things they've attained are more important than human relationships. And perhaps Harry and Megan's departure will free the country up to make some changes? Here's some episodes that talk more about material wealth vs. spiritual - I bet they'll resonate with what you're saying, Devon! Let me know what you think! From shortest to longest: What Does Swedenborg Say About Money? ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-UUEH4d_a6bk.html There's a Reason You're Not Rich, ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-x96LU0ahY08.html Evil People Can be More Useful to God? ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-NQ_yzfC2wVk.html
The Catholic Church under The. Guidance of The Holy Spirit selected the Books of the Bible and. Luther did not have the ,Authority to remove books! which Protestants used long before Luther!!
I didn't know Swedenborg thought himself so high above the authority of the whole Bible (original KJV) that he left out whole books of it! As much as I love Swedenborg, this is a total red flag to me for a cult.
I appreciate your concern, but I would challenge you to dig a little more deeply before labeling Swedenborg as cult-ish. Here's a good article that provides more context as to why Swedenborg saw certain books of the Bible as sacred, while others not to the same degree. I should also note that different denominations have held differing perspectives on what makes Canon, too. For example, Catholics have different books than Protestants. Here's that article...do let me know your thoughts! leewoof.org/2019/05/31/why-isnt-paul-in-swedenborgs-canon/
@@kmastanz if you can jump out of the course of human history to look at it， it.will be more understandable and acceptible if swedenborg s theology will be regarded (allowed by God) as another milestone of development of christianity，but sure not at this time which seems more like just the beginning of the spiritually awakening era as he prophesied，or maybe u are right swendenborg could be mistaken by being excessively relying on his subjective experience to make this decision，with all the possibilities said above, I personally partially agree with you to be cautious with anything coming up different with traditional one, but at the same time，its not a bad idea to stay open minded as long as we stick to our faith our god who is love, wisdom and the truth itself. although swedenborg is enlightening and inspring，either no or all is a protective mindset，on this point I am with you，god bless
The spiritual must be multi dimensional and the celestial must be omni present and timless. that's what I get with my understanding. like the spiritual multi dimensional reality encompasses
I believe we will all have our Christ moment, right up to the cross. All games have a guide book on how to play. Many journeys have guide books to show us the way. The bible is like the guide book for life as being human. Christ's story becomes our story. ✨💛✨🕊️🤗🙏🏻
The hidden meaning of the Bible, according to Swedenborg, is tied to spiritual correspondences. Is the term "correspondence" familiar to you? We did a show on the topic that you may find helpful: "There is a Science To Your Connection to Heaven." ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-HNZNOMH4_DE.html
Regarding the commandments, what of the one that says no other gods before me. If all religions are alive and well in heaven, hindu's and others will worship other gods... What's up with that one?
but the Bible said whoever wants to come to God must come through Jesus. and it means Jesus is the only way right? believing in Jesus is being a Christian right?
Yes +summer autumn believing in Jesus means we are a Christian. But for all to come through Jesus to God, means that Jesus and God are one and the same. It does not mean that God and Jesus are two different persons, or that only Christians go to heaven.
-when Howard Storm went to heaven --long story but he died as an athiest suddenly but ultimately finally ended up in heaven and he asked which religion is the right one---Jesus told him, the one that brings you closest to God............you can find Howard Storms review here on this channel ---listen to it ---its amazing
Yes ***** that's why, as New Christians we believe that every good person, of whatever, or no religion, will go to heaven. In fact, as the Lord said "heaven is within us," we should live a good life now, in order to wake up in heaven when our body dies.
God is the Word❤️..... I’m assuming that when an event happens in real time, it remains GOOD and TRUE for awhile until it passes from one generation to the next ( oral tradition) and then it becomes corrupted by evil and imperfection. Unless it is recorded in stone or clay tablets and is unearthed by an archeologist, it becomes lost to the ages. There isn’t any reliable source except the symbolism of the Bible. Unfortunately, people can make errors or intentionally redact or destroy the evidence, then it’s lost. So outside of symbolism, all we have are oral traditions ( people drawing on an earlier persons story) . I suppose Biblical symbolism is Gods way of protecting his Word❤️😊 .
Julian, I can see by your use of emojis that you are touched by God as the Word! I, too, cherish God in His Divine Truth. Have you ever read Swedenborg's little booklet called, The Lord? You may find it useful, as it illuminates more of what is covered in this video! swedenborg.com/product/lord-nce/
That's a cool way of framing that, Lyda! Enlightenment is the state we enter into when we live a life reflective of love and wisdom. It's "walking the walk", not simply talking the talk...if you get what I'm saying.
So why all this confusion in ES works?? I know his works are revelations from the Lord, but it also say's God is not the author of confusion. So, how does this relate to what ES is saying? Pls explain these things, cuz I need to know what he's saying here or maybe it's something the Lord will have to show me.
Please watch this episode, "Jesus Wants Us to Seek the Deeper Meaning of His Words" ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-qUW0wNluf60.html It's not about trying to bring confusion. It's about inviting us to re-learn the sacred language of symbolism. Jesus always spoke in parable, and he wants us to learn that language.
Many people use the Bible in many different ways. It seems that using the Bible to promote a higher spiritual life should be more important than memorizing the cook book. Remove your spin and see what is being said by the Word.
I love how you have put this, Bill. If we stop using the Bible to look for what we already think ("spin"), and instead open up to something deeper, amazing insights can emerge!
"Not everyone who says "Lord, Lord!" will enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven." What IS the will of the Father, is the question? Could it be done by people of all faith traditions?
@@offTheLeftEye the will of the Father is to believe on His Son, that's why Jesus said to them, I Never knew you, depart from me (mathew 7:23). By faith not work's, not trying to earn it, but receiving by grace through faith as a free gift. Jesus alone paid the price for sin with His blood, it's by faith in His blood that saves.
@@offTheLeftEye with love and respect, there is one God and one mediator between God and man, the Lord Jesus and what He did at the cross for all, isn't a path it's the path to eternal life ... peace+love>
Whenever i watch or read something about someone having an experience of seeing heaven and they describe the scenery with earthly made things like.. wooden church seats or books.. a red flag comes up. we learned how to make these things as we evolved in our species on earth. Im sure heavenly places would have a different substance or material for creating a place to sit or an object to read from.. so in heaven is there spirits that cut down trees, mill them into boards and carpenters to shape them into seats?
Great question, Nick! Swedenborg witnessed that the environments that people find themselves in in the afterlife have to fit into what can make sense to that person's mind at the time. Especially when someone is just having a quick glimpse of heaven, or when a person first arrives in the afterlife, the surroundings will take a form that can feel familiar enough to the person to make sense of. Swedenborg saw that in the "world of spirits" where everyone goes right after death, and also in the lowest levels of heaven, things work very much like they did on earth, because that is what people on those levels can handle mentally and emotionally. The higher up you go in spiritual evolvement, the more you can see things as they really are. Houses appear instantly, granted by God. Surroundings can be fantastical, very different than on earth, and indescribable in earthly terms. So, it is very linked to the people's own state of mind and development.
@@offTheLeftEye thanks for clearing that up for me. I wrote that 8 months ago.. and still have so many questions. Reading the comments it really shows how much you guys are changing lives!
@@buck_maize111 you're very welcome. We are constantly humbled by the way that God uses these concepts to really reach people's hearts, often in ways we couldn't have imagined! We're glad that you're here and willing to post questions. It's an ongoing journey of learning for all of us!
the Word of God was BREATHED into man by the Holy Spirit. 2 Timothy 3:16, Paul states, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” This is the only use in the Bible of the Greek word theopneustos, which means “God-breathed, inspired by God, due to the inspiration of God,” but other scriptural passages support the basic premise of Scripture being inspired by God. The power of the breath of God in divine inspiration pervades Scripture. God breathed “the breath of life” into Adam (Genesis 2:7), and Jesus “breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 20:22). In 2 Peter 1:21 we are told that “prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” Here we see the truths of Scripture described as coming directly from God, not from the will of the writers He used to record them. Peter notes that Paul writes “with the wisdom that God gave him” and that failure to take heed to these messages is done at the peril of the readers (2 Peter 3:15-16). Scripture comes from the Holy Spirit, who gives it to us “in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words” (1 Corinthians 2:13). In fact, the Berean believers faithfully used the inspired Word of God to check Paul’s adherence to the Word as they “examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17:11). gotquestions.com who you gonna listen to? MAN or GOD?
We agree with you on all these points, princesszelda. And we believe part of that "breathing in" was a spiritual meaning, deeper than the literal words. And God is still breathing into every one of us, and we all get a unique message when we read his Word! Thanks so much for sharing that Greek word -- theopneustos. I love it!
People use the bible for their own personal goal. Hence comes the different religion they created. For good or bad. The stories in the bible was put together by men and if you know about human beings, can you remember everything in your memory to tell the truth of stories and pass it down from generation to generation without it getting diluted or embellished. I believe the bible is purposely missing parts and unfinished. We all have the hidden gift to connect with the Lord or a higher spirit to get the answer.
He said that people have thought that they are remembering past lives, when actually they were tapping into the memories of spirits who are near them. And he explains that we have to start out in an earthly body in order to establish an individual consciousness that will then last forever. So, it can't make sense to do that more than once and still be the same soul or person.
@@TammyLoveLife Swedenborg witnessed that our minds are very connected to the minds of many other people in the afterlife. Sometimes, the memories of those other people flow into our minds and seem like our own memories. Does that help make it more clear?
Also it does not say there is no reincarnation. Remember reincarnation is not something that happens over and over...we have opportunity to not return to earth.
Here is an episode called, "The Levels of Heaven," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jEbuYAqhyEc.html and here is one about the world of spirits, ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-qoaPwhzDHWM.html Essentially, the world of spirits is in between heaven and hell, a place where we learn and change and become our most authentic selves before we go on to heaven or hell. The episodes have much more detail about that! Thanks for your question, Shara!
At the Altars of the Catholic Church in the Tabernacle Dwells The Body, The Blood, The Soul and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ! Visit and Experience the Peace there in! Mass goes on daily in every Catholic Church in every country of the World! Interesting! Compare the Doctrine of the CC with ES! )
Nice, the bible is intense, Curtis you look so young in your Swedenborg minute video, good job! Do u think humans were first created for slavery by an alien race, who now feeds off the energy of those humans who are blind to their control and remain trapped in a matrix for the mind, is the bible a part of the matrix but a key to freedom becuz once free to realize ones own thoughts you must still find your way, like a maze and this world is sold out to Satan, isn't the bible a balance between the dark and light in all humans we must balance by acknowledging the dark and raising it through the use of the word, living word of God, the sword....i am thinking this but am challenged to walk the walk every day. Bless u for your good work. Thanku for the sharing of honest knowledge encased in obvious golden goodness, I feel I can trust and share your ideas.
Thank you for the kind words, Terri! This channel focuses on what Swedenborg wrote, and he doesn't have anything in his books about the human race on earth being created as a slave race for alien beings. He indicates that God created every planet for the sake of having people live on that planet, so I see our race as created by God to be the stewards of planet earth. However, Swedenborg did see that evil spirits do want to try to enslave our minds to negative and addictive thoughts, feelings and behavior so that they can feed off of our negative emotions. The Bible is an amazing document because it actually provides a link between heaven and earth through the symbolism. And rightly understood, it's a document that can help us distinguish between good and evil, and how to live our lives. I love your phrase, that you are "challenged to walk the walk every day." That's the way to get closer to God, heaven, and goodness: step by step!
Thank you for clarifying, I am working on debunking my distractions and your ability to be clear through Swedenborg is keeping me grounded. I do share your clarity with others. I believe the people I live around need clarity and something believable to give them hope. Everyone has a different reason for doing the same job or task and for feeling a certain way about the unknown. I will attempt to read my first Swedenborg text now, along with my bible because I believe all that you do is bible orientated and this blesses my life, thank you. I believe through Jesus humans that are children of God are not threatened by an Alien existence......weird stuff to deal with, these kinds of ideas. We are all so different but I will hold my bible in my hand to be united with others realistically, authentically believing in the words of Christ and their symbolic meaning for this time.
In speaking for the age of the body, in the OT ppl lived to be a couple hundred yrs and the way I see it our bodies change and sin causes our body to deterierate so we don't live that long. But back in those day's, life was new, so they lived so much longer. Look at Moses, he was still strong and his eye's were not dim, that's scriptural. I see it that the Lord kept these ppl strong, he spoke to them almost face to face. So, why couldn't God talk to them and keep the body strong so they lived a few hundred yrs. Tell me, was Jacob real? was Isaac real? and what abt Abraham and Sarah? I believe they were cuz God caused Sarah to receive strength to conceive and bare Isaac when she was, what, 90 yrs old. This is a testament to the age of all these ppl. I believe there is the correspondences also, but, there was also the live human being's.
Hi Shara, it is very difficult to know what from the Bible can be taken as real, historical fact. This is something many scholars have devoted lives and careers to with still inconclusive answers! Swedenborg tells us that the Bible's inner meaning can tell us a lot about the spiritual history of the human race, and I feel confident when I say that Genesis is almost entirely mythical, layered with hidden meanings. As for the rest of the New Testament, I think many of those people are real, but as many numbers in the Bible have spiritual meanings, I am not sure I would read the ages given for figures such as Moses or Abraham as literal truth. I guess in general, I don't have a confident answer for you, but if you are interested in more about the meaning of Biblical numbers or how Swedenborg interpreted the Bible's retelling of spiritual history, you would probably enjoy the following episodes: Short clips - "The Spiritual Meaning of Numbers 1-3," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-6N_JLBGaYS8.html "The Spiritual Meaning of Numbers 7-9" ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-_1_FDKJ38UU.html Full length - "The Spiritual Meaning of Numbers," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-_G1tmJSt1bo.html "The Spiritual History of the Human Race," ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-0IPGEzj9GAg.html Let me know what you think!
These words are Spirit, and they are life...The Son of God, Immanuel, God with us, will Pray to the Father, for us to have the Spirit of God, for a Teacher, and Comforter, Forever, in the bible book of John, chapter 14, verse 26... The Messiah wants us to be Comforted, and Taught, Forever.......
Galatians 1:8 if we or an angel of Heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, a curse be on him! Telling people that they don't need Jesus, that all they need to do is be some nebulous form of 'good' is utter heresy. Being 'good' can only be defined by God, not ourselves. Jesus said he is the way, the truth, and the life, that no one comes to the Father except through him. Entire books of the Bible were written to demonstrate that you cannot save yourself no matter how 'good' you are. There is so much life in Jesus and knowing him directly, but by some poser who couldn't figure out what books actually belong in the Bible. Trust the real Jesus and the entire Bible.
The book of Enoch is not is the list of books that Swedenborg learned are part of the true Word. The books of the true Word are those that contain a continuous deeper meaning that tells a complete story about God and humanity. But Swedenborg learned that there are other books that were written in "the style of the ancients", meaning, were written in symbolism that has deeper meanings. He mentions the book of Job as one of those, and maybe the book of Enoch is, too. Swedenborg does not mention the book of Enoch, but he has interesting things to say about the character of Enoch that is mentioned a few times in the book of Genesis. Swedenborg learned that the name Enoch in Genesis symbolizes a group of people who gathered the sacred knowledge of correspondences and preserved it in written form, at a time when humanity was losing the ability to know truth directly through the heart.
Thank you so much for your response. I really appreciate your efforts. Our Church talked about the Bible stories of the Old Testament not being literal, "Banned from the Bible II" talked about how Constantine messed up the process of Canonization. I am thrilled to hear a different perspective on how we should view God, the Bible and the organized Church. Keep up the good work. I don't have money to support you, but I say good things about your organization to whoever will listen - in Grand Haven Michigan.
I enjoyed this show so much. I sent it to a person I thought would enjoy it too. Their question is if genesis is made up then how did the earth start? Then that person went on about big bang theory. Any road I said that even as a child I thought genisis was a bunch of bull and was rewarded with a slap across the face and told the bible is to read and believed word for word. Needless to say I learned to say nothing and question nothing in the bible and came to dislike it very much. So how did earth begin?
I believe there are many, many people who grew up struggling with the Bible because it was presented as literal information that didn't make sense! Swedenborg's information, presenting the Bible as a document written in symbolic language about spiritual (not physical) reality can do so much to heal that dissonance. Swedenborg did learn things about the creation of the physical universe, but it seems that it is hard to explain, and we would have to do more study in order to try to understand and present some info about that. Here are a few paragraphs from his book "True Christianity" to give you a flavor for the perspective he had on this topic: "I became aware of the futility of drawing any conclusions about the creation of the universe without first knowing several facts: There are two worlds: the one in which there are angels, and the other in which there are people. Through death people cross over from their own world into the other world. Then I also saw that there are two suns. All spiritual things flow forth from one of them; all physical things from the other. The sun that all spiritual things flow from consists of pure love from Jehovah God; he is within that sun. The sun that all physical things flow from consists of pure fire. After I realized this, on one occasion when I was in a state of enlightenment I was granted the insight that the universe was created by Jehovah God through the sun that surrounds him. Because love does not exist apart from wisdom, I could also see that the universe was created by Jehovah God from his love through his wisdom. Since then, everything I have seen in the world where you are and everything I have seen in the world where I am in my body convinces me of the truth of this. It would take too long to lay out the way creation progressed from the very beginning; but when I was in a state of enlightenment I saw that there were spiritual atmospheres that were created by means of the heat and light from the sun in your world. At their core those atmospheres are substantial. Each one led to the next. Because there were three of these atmospheres, and therefore three levels of them, three heavens were made - one for angels who are at the highest level of love and wisdom, another for angels at the second level, and a third for angels at the lowest level. This spiritual universe could not exist, however, without a physical universe in which it could accomplish its useful effects. Therefore at the same time a sun was created as the source of all things physical. Through this sun by means of its heat and light three atmospheres were created to surround those prior atmospheres the way a nutshell surrounds a kernel or the inner bark of a tree surrounds the wood. Finally, through these atmospheres the globe of lands and seas was created. Here people, animals, and fish, and trees, bushes, and plants were created out of earthly materials consisting of soils, stones, and minerals. This is only a very general sketch of creation and its stages. The particular and individual stages could not be explained without filling volumes of books. They would all come to the following conclusion, though: that God did not create the universe out of nothing. As you said, nothing is made out of nothing. God created the universe through the sun in the angelic heaven - a sun that comes from his underlying reality and is therefore pure love together with wisdom. The universe, meaning both worlds (the spiritual and the physical), was created out of divine love through divine wisdom, as every single thing in it witnesses and attests. If you consider phenomena in the universe in a coherent and sequential way and set them in the light you already possess in your intellectual perceptions, you will see this clearly. You must keep in mind, though, that the love and the wisdom that become one in God are not love and wisdom in the abstract. Think of them as a substance in him. God is the absolute, the first, and the only substance or essence that exists in itself and subsists of itself. That everything is created out of divine love and wisdom is the meaning of the following words in John: The Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were made by it, and the world was made by it (John 1:1, 3, 10). God there means divine love and the Word means divine truth or divine wisdom. In that passage the Word is called light. Light, when it is said of God, means divine wisdom." -True Christianity 76:2-5
