I’m so glad that my journey led me here. I truly enjoy learning more about Swedenborg’s insights. It has opened my heart and mind to a deeper level understanding about Jesus and His love. 🙏🏼
What a remarkable message! We are truly grateful you were led here and to Swedenborg's insights. And just so you know-- I've passed your message along to each of our team members, so that they can feel just as inspired as I do from your words! God is good :)
@Soldiersforchrist thanks for sharing your thoughts! On this channel we share information written down by Swedish scientist-turned-theologian, Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772), which he learned through direct spiritual experiences and visions, and through his study of and devotion to Bible scripture. Swedenborg's spiritual sight was opened in him mid-50s, after he had been through an intense period of self-examination, repentance, prayer and Bible study. We share a pivotal vision that was a culmination of that inner work, which shifted him into a whole new world of visions: th-cam.com/video/5gxlMnT_U1g/w-d-xo.html After his spiritual sight was opened, Swedenborg was able to see countless scenes and events in the spiritual world over the next 27 years, to talk with thousands of people in the afterlife, and to write many of the experiences down in his diary and books. Much of his work is devoted to sharing what he believed was the inner, spiritual meaning of the Bible, and that is what we share here. The Bible tells us it contains an inner meaning, and here are some quotes that indicate this: “All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them.” -Matthew 13:34 “These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father.” -John 16:25 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12). “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” (John 3:12). “To you it’s been given to know the mysteries of God’s kingdom, but to the rest, in parables, so that seeing, they would not see, and hearing, they would not hear” (Luke 8:10) “Our competence is from God, who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the spirit gives life.” (2 Corinthians 3:5-6) “Give ear, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old” (Psalm 78:1-2). If you would like to learn more about how Swedenborg read and understood the Bible, check out our episode, "What the Bible Is," th-cam.com/video/v0mE8IDLynE/w-d-xo.html , or this short clip, "It Is Damaging To Take The Bible Literally," th-cam.com/video/eXUXZ8BigDk/w-d-xo.html If you'd be at all interested in hearing how the ideas in this show are grounded in the Bible, I recommend the recorded episodes of this Bible study: www.spiritandlifebiblestudy.com/ And, if you’re wondering whether Swedenborg would be useful in your life, check out this blog post: “Why Read Swedenborg? Isn’t the Bible Enough?” swedenborg.com/why-read-swedenborg-isnt-the-bible-enough/?fbclid=IwAR3DIoSOC6BC6q-iu1-v4Y3Mh7uT0spAu4gfidTSUuEXiShM1szOTtfQoUE We share this information for anyone who is interested, but we also respect that everyone is on their own spiritual path, and in their own relationship with the Word and with God. We respect your right to decide for yourself whether to accept what Swedenborg learned, or not. Thank you for sharing your perspective on all this, and we are wishing you well. God bless!
When people say to me who is God or how do I know God exists? I tell them I see God in every selfless act. I see God when I capture a smile between a mother and her child, or a father laughing with his children. I see God when I cry for those I love. I see God when I find Joy in the nature and the goodness of others around me. I literally seek God each day. Even down to a tiny Robin that I talk to in my garden and it sits bobbing about around me. God truly is everywhere, when you have eyes to see, ears to hear, and we can walk with God all day long. If we choose. Many do throughout their day, they just haven't made the connection yet. Blessings ✨💛✨🕊️💫🌱💎🙏🏻🤗
I cried at the important part. I was raised by fear mongers. I feared the end times to the point of being triggered by it. This explanation makes our God sound the way he is, loving, caring, and full of wisdom.
I know the end time fear mongering is false, and what swedenborg said makes sense, but how can a peaceful millennial change happen, where animals dont kill and people dont kill anymore? This seems like it must really happen, not just metaphorical or spiritual alone
This is truly amazing, thanks OTLE for recommending this on my spiritual journey. As a person who has been native to Christianity all my life I am SO disappointed by the narrowness of faith and nastiness in attitude I've often seen and experienced. I've seen everything from a dried up preaching style that wouldn't inspire an earthworm let alone a human being; to fundamentalist evangelism of the leave your brain at the door variety. You know, where the attitude is "you WILL enjoy this or there's something wrong with you !" The most dangerous preachers though are the ones who preach a gospel that is a venere of hatred towards people who are not like themselves and that don't interest them, may even perceive as a threat. Though I have occasionally had spiritual blessings, there just hasn't been enough to move me on and help me through the many difficulties of my life in recent years. My spiritual life has languished for decades. OTLE has changed this TOTALLY. I know it's a long process, but at last spiritual movement and building momentum ! I would therefore implore those from a christian tradition not to dismiss this stuff out of hand. GO ON.... GIVE YOUR SOUL A WATERING ! I think you'd be amazed ! 🌳🤸🙂
I can't tell you how much this means to us! It is one of our greatest hopes that sharing this information can help to heal painful damage to people's quest for spiritual goodness and truth. Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. We feel blessed to be on this journey of learning with you! 💖
@@offTheLeftEye Thank you so much. I've found a pearl of great value here. Do give my best wishes to everybody at OTLE from me. If this isn't doing God's work, I don't know what is ! ♥️
This video did a great job of describing the hidden spiritual meaning. I did notice that it was created about 4 years ago, and 4 years ago I would have taken only this perspective....fast forward to December 2020 and I will say that a literal interpretation may be just as true. There are so many layers to the scriptures. It reminds me of a Mandelbrot set.😊 everything has the fingerprint of God in it....from the simple to the complex and the spiritual to the tangible. It's all intrinsically connected. 💜
I agree, Michele, deeply connected! Have you seen our episode about how those connections can manifest in the everyday? "There Is A Science To Your Connection To Heaven" th-cam.com/video/HNZNOMH4_DE/w-d-xo.html Let me know if it resonates with you! Blessings!
Okay, as they say third time is the charm. I listened with all my being to this again, and this time I think I got it. Thank you to all at Swedenborg Foundation for helping me through this. I went through this myself, thanks to the man led churches I had been exposed to. Now I get it, I understand. And very happy that I can now say the actual word "Jesus" without cringing because I might go to hell, lol. And I truly believe it is diving guidance that led me to this. And for that I can not express enough gratitude.
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.
It's a shame that perhaps the greatest theologian of all time is not studied in the seminaries. Then perhaps we would have better pastors and priests, and not just fear mongers and profiteers. In fact it would help counter the self styled prophets and apostles who have done more harm than anyone in confusing and hurting God's people. But I have noticed in our world, the truth is not popular. Even among so called men of God.
I was raised Lutheran and the LCMS stance is that he simply denies the divinity of God; which couldn't be farther than the truth when you read True Christianity. Such a great piece on the divinity of God.
not exactly ---there are different levels of heaven and different levels of hell----the way to think of it is birds of a feather flock together .....so if one is a nasty, greedy, back biting person he will go to ones like himself--a level in hell.
+Harlan Lang I don't think they change. . if they been that way their whole life and end up in a level if hell... cause they want to be there ..i don't think they will change.
We've all had experiences of feeling like we're in hell, and speaking for myself, I don't want to stay there. Some people never seem to change but I don't think they really want to stay in a state of separation from God, or that feeling of being alone. People who stay depressed don't choose to be that way. They just don't see a way out, or they have a physical condition which they can't change, or they don't see a way to change. Everybody wants to feel happy, to feel loved, to feel that they belong.
Parables are morals to stories that Jesus spoke when He walked this earth. In hopes that with simple understanding and sincerity of our hearts. We would be like minded to learn and lead by our own example. To live and breath it everyday. Though the paths we choose may differ from another. Somehow in God's great and intricate design... Our paths always leads back to Him! I find this comforting in that we are never alone on our journeys. Our lights may dim but all God needs is a spark in our hearts to find us. And our lamps within us replenished with His oil (God's love). To never again run out or be ill prepared. Everytime I watch your videos, I find myself hungry for more wisdom. And how you all present and share it is so inviting, comforting, beautiful and healing. It is food for the spirit and heart. And I am so happy that I came across your programs on TH-cam. There was a purpose for sure... It has brought so much peace to me. I thank God for you all at OTLE. Love and blessings always you all!!!🙏😇🌹
Oh Pamelyn, this is funny, I just linked this episode to you in my last response - nevermind, I see you've watched it! I thought you'd enjoy it. I'm so glad our channel has been useful to you, Pamelyn! We feel like we're lucky to share Divine ideas, and be part of that conversation. It's an honor to be part of, and so wonderful to see these ideas help other people as they have helped us. God bless you and thank you for your profound words!
Watching and listening to this again. I love the Swedenborg Foundation. I love the work they are doing, and I find quality education via the videos and books.
Huh! At 8:59, that passage from ES sounds makes me think of chakras - the crown chakra and up, for example, as the first heaven would fit, because there are many chakras above the head which are cosmic gateways to direct access to God consciousness, which the angels of that level have. The chest (heart chakra) is about love, true unconditional love when that is really operating right. The midsection (solar plexus chakra) is about joy, a very high vibe, when it is clear and running at the right speedy and clarity. And it is usually our lower chakras that get clogged the most - the second tends to get clogged with power issues, selfishness, obsessions, and attachments. The root chakra is about faith and trust but tends to get clogged with fear, anxiety, poor self-esteem, shame, and the depression that can come from those... And the throat chakra isn't just about the ability to speak your truth in a balanced way but about life purpose Swedenborg's worlds sound like a macrocosm of the human energetic body microcosm.
Yes, I really do think that there is a lot in Swedenborg's theology that relates to all the eastern-religion ways of noticing energy flow in the body, and the influences of states of mind on the body. The language is different, but I'm so glad that you are noticing ways to relate the two kinds of philosophies. Swedenborg most certainly does describe the spiritual realm as a macrocosm of the human energetic body.
The crown chakra is the 7th heaven and gives direct access to God consciousness. Any distinctions beyond that are beyond normal human comprehension and I don't know of any authoritative teaching about them.
This video is a helpful tool. Curtis adds to Swedenborg's explanations by putting it into words that convey clarity. All of this helps convey the Bible. They are helpful teachers and God's helpers.
Thank you so much for such explaining Swedenborg's work so well. I am so happy to watch your channel grow and see how many people respond so positively to these truths.
Great insight! It really makes me look inward and examine myself. This foundation is helping me to truly love people and have good motives. Not just a intellectual acknowledgment of God but living a life that is pleaseing to Christ.
Swedenborg's understanding of the end of the world is much like the Baha'i understanding, the end of an era. I like his insight into the end of Christianity where Christian authorities will completely pervert the true meaning of Jesus' teachings. I know so many Christians who reject the idea of loving their enemy and turning the other cheek. And yet they see themselves as very Christian. Strange!!! But if you look at the history of all religions, you see the same pattern. Our advantage today is that we can know about all of the great world religions and even know people who believe in them. I don't agree that the differences found in Christianity is a strength. When people who consider themselves deeply Christian feel that it is a normal Christian practice to group together because of some slight variation of belief, or because of race or class, then I see this as a sign that they don't get the main message of Jesus. As a youth who sincerely wanted to be a good Christian, this bothered me and led me to look for truth elsewhere. I found out that people everywhere in the world practiced various religions and almost universally adopted the religion of their family or culture. I couldn't see this as a valid reason to follow a religion as the "one true faith". It's like saying that the English language is the best language because it's the language of all the good people I know. Swedenborg's interpretations of the metaphorical language of Jesus is interesting. Baha'u'llah' interpretations are somewhat different, but He avers that the Word of God has endless meaning, so I don't automatically reject different interpretations if they make sense. The understanding that the second coming of Christ will be within each of us may have truth to it, but then that would have existed even before Jesus and we wouldn't have needed a physical appearance of Christ. This understanding also leaves open the door to endless religious controversy where people will say that the "Christ" in me knows better than the "Christ" in you. Mentally ill people often have this delusion. The only way to have a spiritually united humanity is for there to be an appearance of Christ in a human person Who then receives a Revelation from God for the new era. The Jews were expecting the return of Elijah at the time of the appearance of the Messiah. Jesus said that John the Baptist was that expected Elijah. John was not named "Elijah" but he somehow was the embodiment of the purpose or qualities of Elijah. This was Jesus' interpretation of "return" concerning Elijah. So why wouldn't the return of Christ happen in much the same way as the return of Elijah? Thanks for the great presentation!
One added thought. I have met reformed Jews who no longer believe that Messiah will appear, but rather see this as the "Messianic Age". This kind of interpretation seems to be akin to Swedenborg's idea that the second coming of Christ will be within each of us.
Regarding "God's kingdom is within you" O SON OF SPIRIT! I created thee rich, why dost thou bring thyself down to poverty? Noble I made thee, wherewith dost thou abase thyself? Out of the essence of knowledge I gave thee being, why seekest thou enlightenment from anyone beside Me? Out of the clay of love I molded thee, how dost thou busy thyself with another? Turn thy sight unto thyself, that thou mayest find Me standing within thee, mighty, powerful and self-subsisting.
Symbolism might be confusing to people (like me) who were taught that so much in the Bible is literal, especially the verses, (paraphrased) "The clouds will part like a scroll, the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend," a majestic and beautiful image I've always loved. I've always thought of it as FINALLY everything will be made right, and we will see the new Heaven and new Earth. Swedenborg's take on the verses is fascinating!
Yes, I know it is quite a transition from understanding these phrases in a literal way to a symbolic way. I admire the fact that you're willing to try shifting your mind! In the spiritual realm, that kind of beautiful imagery can be seen in a very vibrant and real way, so, I'm sure you can still witness that beautiful scene someday, if you want to, in the afterlife.
I don't know if this is the title to which Curtis gives himself or is given by all his parishioners but I was wondering how do I become like a preacher or something of that manner and the swedenborg faith
Hi Robbie, there are a few different Swedenborgian denominations. Each one has a seminary in which students train to become ministers. Are you thinking about this path?
I'm happy to help. There are 2 different seminaries that I know of...I'll send you their websites. brynathyn.edu/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-divinity/ css.gtu.edu/ I'd be happy to continue supporting you after you've explored these! The dean of the first seminary (at Bryn Athyn College) is Andrew Dibb. His email is andrew.dibb@brynathyn.edu The dean of the second is Jim Lawrence. His email is cssinfo@gtu.edu
I like Swedenborg's understanding of the "end times" that we seem to hear so much about. The exacerbation of fear surrounding these little understood biblical themes is, as I understand it, the total opposite of what Jesus was attempting to convey. Fear is a useless emotion.
Fear was useful in the days when we were in danger of being a meal for a lion. I agree that in today's world fear interferes with good decision making and logic.
Evidently, you have not watched a single of these videos but just came here to push the God as Psychopathic Temper Tantrum Anger Management Failure who would be in deep psycho analysis if he were human. Or behind bars for violence against mankind. Your god has more in common with Adolf Hitler than he does with Jesus Christ.
Every end, has a new beginning. Every beginning, has its end. But, all is now, right here, right now. Soo, what do we learn. To Fear not, trust god ❤️🔥 Love him/her with all your body, mind and soul
Hey Richard! You are not missing a link. We link to the volumes of the New Century Edition translations that are available. For Secrets of Heaven, that means only the first two. The currently available translations of the other volumes of Secrets of Heaven are available for download on swedenborg.com under the name Arcana Coelestia. What we used in the show for SH 3489 is the as-of-yet unpublished New Century Edition translation. Here's the text of it for your convenience: "People in the church do not see that the church is like this-despising and opposing everything good and true, and harboring antagonism toward goodness and truth and especially toward the Lord. They go to church, listen to sermons, maintain an air of reverence while there, attend Holy Supper, occasionally talking with each other about these activities in a perfectly appropriate way, regardless of whether they are bad or good; and they live together in polite kindness or friendship. As a result, they never see any evidence of contempt, let alone opposition, least of all hostility, toward what faith values as good and true or toward the Lord. However, these are the outward forms of conduct by which one person misleads another. The inward forms among people in the church are completely different and are even diametrically opposed to the outward ones. . . . The nature of the inward forms is vividly apparent in the heavens, because angels pay attention only to people’s inner depths, or their goals-that is, to their intent and will and their resulting thoughts." --Secrets of Heaven 3489:1
I am just learning about Swedenborg, and I’ve studied Rudolph Steiner for years. Would you be able to compare and contrast their teachings and lives. Thank you so much for these teachings.
Hello Lindsey, and welcome! I (Chara) do know some people who are well-versed in both Swedenborg and Steiner, but I'm afraid none of the folks on the OTLE team fit that description. If you write to me at cdaum@swedenborg.com, I might be able to connect you to someone who could have this conversation with you. I can't promise, but I can try! In any case, I'm so glad you're finding some value in these teachings. Blessings to you!
I really love these videos it gives me more understanding about the world and that its not really gonna end God is just gonna rebuild society in a peaceful solution thank you Swedenborg.
I'm so glad you're finding these videos helpful, Noah. Swedenborg's writings are really something special. Wishing you peace and love today, my friend.
Wow this was beautiful. I feel lighter after listening and learning these awesome truths. Thank you so much bro, keep spreading the good news and God bless 👍
I have always pondered over a certain question.........in order to be accepted by the Kingdom of God or by Jesus, must we be baptized? Speaking of baptism, I’m not sure if I was ever baptized or not. It was so long ago I can’t remember, but even if I was, I haven’t felt the effects of it in my life. Coming from a broken family has really changed my outlook on life. I am a simple person, I believe in helping the neighbor when they ask or I feel they need some assistance🙂🙂❤️🤔
Hi Julian! As I understand it, baptism is a ritual that is symbolic of our "membership" in "the Church," which I think also means, our commitment to our relationship with God and our efforts to live that life on this earth. It's essentially acting out the idea of regeneration, and is neither a guarantee of salvation nor a requirement - in the literal sense. But as you'll see in the final quote below, it can also be attained symbolically - "'one who is baptized' is one who is being regenerated by the Lord by means of those truths. " Anyone who regenerates is cleansed by truths (water) - and is therefore baptized in that sense. The physical ceremony has meaning for us, can carry powerful emotions or instill a sense of purpose. But we are not good or bad for having done it - it's the work of regeneration that saves us. Here is a summary of the purpose and meaning of baptism from the index of Arcana Coelestia (Secrets of Heaven): Arcana Celestia, Index - "Baptism is a sign that a man is of the Church, and a memorial that he is to be regenerated by means of the truths of faith and a life according to them, 10386-10388. The waters of baptism also signify temptations, 10389. Because baptism is a sign and a memorial, therefore a man can be baptised when an infant as well as when an adult, 10390. Baptism does not bestow faith, nor salvation, but it testifies of these, if anyone is being regenerated, 10391. Explanation of Mark 16:16: baptising denotes regeneration by the Lord by means of truths from the Word, 10392." Here are some more detailed quotes on Baptism from Swedenborg, from a section in "Arcana Coelestia" entitled, 'The Doctrine of Baptism': 10388. "This is the Lord's teaching in John, 'Unless a person has been born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.' John 3:5. 'Water' in the spiritual sense is the truth of faith derived from the Word, 'spirit' is a life in keeping with it, and 'being born of these' is being regenerated." 10389: "Since everyone who is being regenerated also undergoes temptations, which are spiritual conflicts against evils and falsities, the water used in baptism also serves to mean those temptations. " 10390. Since baptism serves as a sign and reminder of these things a person may be baptized when he is a young child, or if not then, when he is adult. 10391. Let those who have been baptized therefore recognize that their actual baptism confers neither faith nor salvation on them; rather it bears witness to the truth that they receive faith and are saved if they are regenerated. 10392. This shows what should be understood by the Lord's words in Mark, "One who believes and is baptized will be saved; but one who does not believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16. 'One who believes' is one who acknowledges the Lord and receives Divine Truths from Him through the Word; and 'one who is baptized' is one who is being regenerated by the Lord by means of those truths. So if there is a physical church you value and treasure, and you want to be baptized, that could be a lovely experience! But it doesn't seem necessary to the Lord, nearly as much as it is to receive truths from the Word and regenerate through them! I hope that is helpful! Let me know what you think!
@@offTheLeftEye oh wow, that was definitely something, thank you. ...❤️😊.. Of course I believe in Jesus. Sometimes I have difficulty understanding what he says, but I trust him because I am impressed by what he says. Nobody can talk like him. Even though I still struggle with the pains of the body ( the emotional and the physical) I still believe in him. Sometimes I feel has if “ something” is trying to take me away ( a trial or test?) I may fall down many times, but I always get back up. As far as baptism is concerned, Swedenborg insists that it is symbolic, so I am not too concerned about it. ..,The world isn’t good, it is the center of many problems of all different kinds, as I have witnessed. There is no harmony here, only struggles. FAITH is what is really important! Thank you for that excellent explanation! ... ❤️❤️😊👍🏻
My understanding tells me that the second coming of Christ takes place when you as believer, faithful and lovely human being are ready to accept him and holiness reborn in you.
Hi, Harold! Thank you for sharing your perspective. Swedenborg would agree that belief is part of the picture but that our life -- living our belief through our actions -- is what brings the Lord to life!
There is no end to this earth,only an end to the world we know it,things change,we all change,plants change,evolution of the world, I don't listen to the full video before I give my experience,I'm christian from birth but I've looked at other religions I became a spiritualist but I kept my christian faith,I believe jesus tried to teach people to live a spiritual life so the dark enteties couldn't take over them,but people didn't listen,maybe that's why everything you see happening in the world is what is happening,I believe people who do wrong need to turn their hearts over to jesus christ.We all go to the same god through jesus christ for the righteous.I believe he gives everyone a chance through repentance,but it's our own evil deeds that send us to another place.we came here at this time to help others realise what can happen if they don't change their ways they will die,they won't have eternal life.There are many places in heaven it's up to us where we go,with what we've done in our life.stay blessed.do good,live life the way you want we all have free will but remember that's where you go when you transition. The holy spirit inside you guides you.We don't need a church it's inside you.pray daily.Amen.i have had a dream of been put to sleep and wake up to another world with light beings,maybe we all change through evolution.oh and I live with someone who is catholic we don't see it as a problem because we respect each other views,that's what's important.stronger foundations in ourselves not the church.
Just like Dr. Caroline Leaf, a neuroscientist who studied the brain for 30 years, noticed branches form as emotions take place, Just as Swedenborg mentioned centuries before clinical studies!
Regarding the parable of the lamp and the young virgins: "ye must die to yourselves and to the world, so ye shall be born again and enter the kingdom of heaven. Behold the candle, how it gives light. It weeps its life away drop by drop in order to give forth its flame of light." FINAL ADDRESS TO THE FIRST GROUP OF WESTERN PILGRIMS HAIFA, PALESTINE, 1898 (MAY BE PILGRIMS’ NOTES) Pray that your hearts may be cut from yourselves and from the world, that you may be confirmed by the Holy Spirit and filled with the fire of the love of God. The nearer you are to the light, the further you are from the darkness; the nearer you are to heaven, the further you are from the earth; the nearer you are to God, the further you are from the world. You have come here among the first and your reward is great. There are two visits; the first is for a blessing; then ye come and are blest and are sent forth to work in God’s vineyard; the second ye come with music and banners flying, like soldiers in gladness and triumph to receive your reward. If in times past those who have risen up and gone forth in the Cause of God have been much helped and confirmed by his spirit, even to suffer death for him, how much greater is the flood of life with which ye shall be flooded now! For this is the end and the full revelation, and I say unto you that anyone who will rise up on the Cause of God at this time shall be filled with the spirit of God, and that He will send His hosts from heaven to help you, and that nothing shall be impossible to you if you have faith. and now I give you a commandment which shall be for a covenant between you and Me -- that ye have faith; that your faith be steadfast as a rock that no storms can move, that nothing can disturb, and that it endure through all things even to the end; even should ye hear that your Lord has been crucified, be not shaken in your faith; for I am with you always, whether living or dead, I am with you to the end. As ye have faith so shall your powers and blessings be. This is the balance - this is the balance - this is the balance. Now the time has come when we must part, but the separation is only of our bodies; in spirit we are united. Ye are the lights which shall be diffused; ye are the waves of that sea which shall spread and overflow the world. Each wave is precious to me, and my nostrils shall be gladdened by your remembrance. Another commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another even as I love you. Great mercy and blessings are promised to the people of your land, but on one condition; that their hearts be filled with the fire of love, that they live in perfect harmony and kindness like one soul in different bodies, like one soul in different bodies. Never forget this; look at one another with the eye of perfection; look at me, follow me, be as I am; take no thought for yourselves or your lives, whether ye eat or whether ye sleep, whether ye are comfortable, whether ye are well or ill, whether ye are with friends or foes, whether ye receive praise or blame; for all these things ye must care not at all. Look at me and be as I am; ye must die to yourselves and to the world, so ye shall be born again and enter the kingdom of heaven. Behold the candle, how it gives light. It weeps its life away drop by drop in order to give forth its flame of light. The time has come when we must part, but the separation is only of our bodies; in spirit we are united forever.
I love it when you explain theological concepts with objects like the lamps! I think I'll steal some of your ideas from your most recent shorts to introduce some ideas about God to my 4-year-old daughter :) Thank you, guys!
hi, would you consider posting your episodes to SoundCloud as well? It's easier to listen while traveling, (less data usage, I think, and you can do other functions on a mobile phone while still listening. (youtube won't continue to play if you say, jump on Google, etc. just wondering...Never hurts to ask.
Hi Manuela! We do post the audio of our episodes on a site called Simplecast, and you can download episodes for listening offline, and they can be accessed through iTunes and other podcast sites through an RSS feed. Hopefully this will be a good solution for you! Thanks for listening! swedenborgandlife.simplecast.fm/
My dear friends it frightens the life out of me that the USA and to some extent the UK where I live contain people who will use the Bible to shape foreign policy. In particular the so called ‘end timers” I totally agree that these people will even talk about the destruction of the state of Palestine or the Muslim people’s of our world as a prelude to the second coming of Christ. I worry constantly that such people, I would say reading into ancient Biblical texts something that suits their own lust for power, actually threaten the very future of life on Earth. I would add that the book of Revelation is complex and contains much symbolism common to such writings at the time. It frightens me that the Left Behind books have been read a prophecy and not fiction. It also frightens me that some religious groups pursue a politically right wing and brutal agenda that I see as nothing to do with the loving God I love and am happy to serve. I will happily accept that there will be a time when Christ returns but he has clearly warned us that it is not for us to know when or where. All we must do is Love God, love each other and live as those ready for his reappearing. He does not call us almost seek persecution to prove our love and service to his name. Neither does Christ call us to bring our faith into disrepute by saying things and making claims that are truly ridiculous. I will accept that I live, serve and love by God’s Grace. Every moment of my life is in his hands. As Deitrich Bonhoeffer said before they hung him at Flossenberg Concentration Camp a matter of days before WW2 ended in Europe “Mein Ende ist mein Anfang’ (My end is my beginning’’) I live by God’s Grace and I will be content to die in that same grace.
Thank you, Tony, for this testament to your faith. We try to steer clear of politics on this channel, and we also believe that the return of Christ is something that will happen in individual hearts, not as a physical occurrence in the world. But living in such faith as yours, day to day, is a state devoutly to be wished for. Beautiful quote from Bonhoeffer -- such a fearless view. Thanks for commenting.
When I see mountain, too me mountain symbolize how special you are, do you know everything single mountain is different, shape, sizes, snow or no snow, flower of non-flower, every mountain is different, it's mean you therefor is soul, nobody can be you but only you are you. mountain=soul=god=love
When you think about it, the end of the world is a little bit like death: We all know it's going to come eventually, and as we get older, we feel we see the signs more and more distinctly...
But what is it that is going to die? Is it the planet? It all depends on what you mean by "world". Swedenborg's position is that it is a metaphor for the Christian church. It could also mean the end of an era in history, like the Roman world, the Greek world, etc. All worlds in the sense of civilizations or eras have a beginning and an end. So it's true that Christian civilization will come to an end. Some think that it ended a long time ago. I'm sure that the Romans thought the end of the world happened with the fall of Roman civilization. But look at how happy the Italians are today!
The divine word's chronology makes a lot of sense. I would love to explore more of the direct word and ancient words, sadly as you say much of it has been lost. I also love how Swedenborg uses the analogy of the human anatomy to describe the church, like tubes that carry blood back and forth from the heart and branch into veins, arterioles, and capillaries. This anatomical system of organization or split also reminds me of the diverging branches of religions such as Christianity's Orthodoxy, Protestantism, and the pope's tree-like catholic papacy in Rome that rank bishops into ordinations all the way down to priests, pastors, and deacons. Interestingly, socialism that broke down into materialistic capitalism due to technological advancements that lead to the industrial revolution's mass production also reflects this vascular system of the human anatomy as a way of explaining it.
I'd love to explore the ancient word, too, Murtaza Arif! Yes, Swedenborg understood hwo the body corresponds to our spiritual life on earth and spiritually! It's incredible, and has so many far-reaching implications for how we interact in this world! Interesting how it analogs with modern life! You might like some of these episodes about ancient people and ideas: The Spiritual History of the Human Race th-cam.com/video/0IPGEzj9GAg/w-d-xo.html How Ancient People Talked to Angels th-cam.com/video/nPR5UF7dV44/w-d-xo.html The Earliest Source of Ancient Wisdom and How It Was Lost th-cam.com/video/zb5CRXLpfO0/w-d-xo.html Neanderthals and the Breathing of the Ancients th-cam.com/video/D77fjAvncAw/w-d-xo.html Thanks for sharing your thoughts! God bless!
@@offTheLeftEye Yes absolutely. Thank you for the links. I have already watched the Spiritual History video, but I look forward to watching the others. The videos about ancient wisdom and Neanderthals are high on my list to watch.
@@murtazaarif6507 I'm glad there's some you haven't seen! The 'Ancient Wisdom' episode is one of our shorter ones, I believe it's about a half hour. Enjoy, and let us know what you think when you get to them!
Thank you, Christopher. That is our experience as well. There is much to share and much to be joyful about when we are talking about heaven and its impact on our lives now. Here is a video about reunions in the afterlife that I enjoy. th-cam.com/video/wpWrtwlyvE0/w-d-xo.html Take care, Christopher.
@@williamvallespir5509 so glad you like it! Let us know if we can help you navigate our catalogue - any topics that interest you? We're so glad it's resonating with you!
Hello, nice to ear... I have a question... What will happen to those who don't cultivate love as for the 5 fool virgens ? In this world all of us will have the kingdom of God in us ? What for the others who will fignt each other ? Will they (and may be myself) be burnt ?
Swedenborg witnessed that in the afterlife, we will go to heaven or to hell based upon the major direction we have chosen during our life. We are not expected to be perfect, and we can continue learning and developing in the afterlife. But to set our direction toward heaven, we have to develop a basic conscience that tells us that serving God and the neighbor is more important than self-centeredness and materialism. If we have made self-centeredness and materialism the most important goal of our life, then that is the road to hell. If we make the effort to serve something beyond just ourselves, and beyond just material gain, then that is enough for God to work with to continue to lead us on a path to heaven.
Thanks very much for your answer even if.... It was not that I expected... Because I know each or us are going to dy one day and in after lives we will go where we want and prefer : Heaven or hells.... My question concerned these days in this period in this physical world... Because I can ear that the Lord will not come back physicaly but in our hart in the second coming as you explained here ... But it seems to me that we are living the end of time period. With wars and rumours of wars... That is the war of every ones against every one and even men against women and women against men .... Its looks to me as our entire civilisation is going to selfdestruction because we can t listen each others... And also that the story of Abraham and Lot (pleading for the world) and Sodome and Gomhorre and Tsoar and the wife of Lot who was change in ... all of this is going to happened again... Never in the history of humanity we have seen such a thing than in our days.... So my question was more : what about human kind here on earth ? Am I to pessimist ? What will happened to ours civilisations ? What about those (and may be I am one of them) who want to fight and argue for their ego ? Will the civilisation change little by little as the little stone in Daniel prophesy ? I realize i am very pessimistic ... Hard to wish you a good day after this ;-p .... But Have a nice day !!
Oh, I see what you are asking about. Yes, I realize it can be hard to feel hopeful when there is so much strife that we see happening around us. But actually, there is less violence happening in the world than there used to be. It is just that since we now can read and see constant news on the internet, we are able to know about everything happening around the world much, much more than we used to. And it is mostly bad things that get reported on the news. We don't see most of the good things that people are doing all around the world to help one another and make things better. But it is a time on earth when we are getting more aware of evil than ever, and that is actually a good thing, even though it is unpleasant. We are being given the opportunity to see evil more clearly than ever, so that we can truly make a choice to resist evil and stand against it. Here is a short clip, and it offers some thoughts about how to think positively, even during hard times when we are seeing a lot of evil going on: th-cam.com/video/UIMfRE0wmOA/w-d-xo.html
Could you speak and read more slowly, please? The wonderful information given is so packed, that it is hard to take it in quickly. Thank you. I love these videos.
Pause the video and take your time to read each quote. You do not need to rush along with Curtis. Simply pause the video and read each quote slowly to yourself. Problem solved.
Curtis is more like a sweet teenager just that this teen is loaded with wisdom picked up from Swedenborg and conveying it to us in the most simplest way. Following the vids has got me hooked to learn Christianity which would otherwise have been difficult for me thru just verses from the Bible.
What is the correspondence for "Love your neighbor" ? If the meaning is as the words say, then can you clarify the meaning. For example saying no when you think something is wrong, or disciplining for learning, can this be seen as loving your neighbor?
I think you are right. Swedenborg says for example that even a judge who justly punishes is practicing love of the neighbour. It doesn't consist of always being agreeable to others, but of sincerly and selflessly wanting the good of others.
Hi, Ahmed! In this video, called "Why Bad Things Happen," Curtis answers a question about Job in the final segment of the show. I hope it's helpful to you! swedenborg.com/why-bad-things-happen/
I remember in 2012 when the Mayan calendar was about to run down , people feared the world was ending, but it just meant the end of one age and a new age beginning. I think this is the same as what the book of revelations is referring to. Jesus said birth pains is always painful. One age ending and a new one beginning.
Keith, it is the cycle of all of nature, isn't it? The death of winter feeds into the life of spring. The decaying forest trees return to nourish other plants. Compost begets fresh growth. Having given birth a bunch of times it is a rich analogy that the end of pregnancy gives room for a brand new and precious life. May your Easter be full of God's comfort. -Lori
if I could give you a great multitude of "thumbs up" I would. Nevertheless, let me say this episode is extremely helpful and insightful. Deepest thanks....
What show that was coming up that Curtis referenced in his last comments on this video? Thanks! The explanatipn of the lamps and oil was especially meaningful to me. I so appreciate the work you all put into these videos!
Love, do no harm , do not judge...……….I agree with your 2nd coming of Jesus, sooo much and have known it for years. Much of what you say I have learned over my life time as a truth seeker in search of love to learn Love I believe is the new religion.
I have a lot of trouble with correspondences because of their ambiguity. It all just seems too subjective to me. (Question: Does this mean A, B, C or D? Answer: Yes it can but not always)
I can appreciate that. And yet correspondences, as they appear in the Bible, can be quite consistent. Have you seen our short clip on this? th-cam.com/video/dYDmHo2UySQ/w-d-xo.html&t
What Swedenborg said about Christians having hostility toward the lord is still true today. Witness any minister becoming impassioned while waxing poetic about the crucifixion and you will know the truth of it. That is the one thing that has always horrified me about the religion. They talk blithely about compassion for Jesus, but then revel in the taking of his life -- not in its mystery, but in the actual methods of torture used in the doing of it. Here is just one example. A couple of years ago at the request of a couple of young ladies I know, I accompanied them to a Good Friday "celebration" at their church. I was appalled to the point that I had to walk out of the service when the minister first had the congregation enthusiastically repeat over and over again, "Crucify him!" and then had each of them get up one at a time to walk to the front of the church and hammer a nail into a large representation of the cross. How could any person believe that reenacting a murder is an act of love? Yet this is how they commonly do it.
Whoa that sounds intense, Double Dragon! In a few weeks we'll be having a show on what Swedenborg wrote about the trinity. He emphasizes that misconceptions of the trinity have put a fog over something that should shine like a lighthouse for Christians, which I think relates to the experiences you've relayed. I hope you can tune in!
This is just my personal opinion, I love the bible, I dream of verese that then I read, I feel God us with me when I read, I think I can't read it without the holy spirit, it's just reading, I feel blessed when I read it, I just think people take it to literally, but I am very artistic, maby that's why. I love to hear others talk about god because they have a relationship too. But some seem so judgmental. I don't really know much about angels But I have seen a tall one with a fire gold like sword in armor. He was strong. I never see Jesus face he clowds it he said its not the time. Protecting me He announces him self and I am always bowing to him in my sleep. I did see a rock open he walked among us it was I thought a time he came to earth in the future. He was putting his hand on my head and freeing my chains Some people were afraid. Then I was changed, I wept tears of joy because he loves me looked at my husband and gave him plants he loves to garden I then said God loves how much you love his creations I was with my partner risen from what look like jarusalum. There was a grave people rose and he was strong like lightning and gentle too so much love He said I am the alfa and omega biggning and the end. Maby it happenes because I have lurning difficultes and don't always understand things. I feel I have this strong beautiful relationship with him. I am not speshial in any way no big job or smart enough to be rich oh no wait not all rich are smart, I am very introvert. I just don't understand end times, but I see him coming back In my dreams there are people giving kings giving up crowns Heaven was empty for now and he said he was coming then I woke I knew then I had a job to do And what I must do, it's so interesting to listen to others. I trust God will help me understand. I love people so much and pray even for people I don't know Yet I suffer with so much sadness for the world 😞 I personally believe there will be a war, I just don't know how or when, the enamy Trys to scare me, but he can't get out somewhere he is trapped, I might be wrong but I wanted to share
It sounds like you have a vibrant spiritual awareness, Sawa kiwi -- what a beautiful vision/experience you describe! May you receive strength from such encounters, and trust in the Lord's path for you. And may you find something good and useful to focus on that will help keep your mind from being sucked into the sadness and the fear. The Lord is your shepherd, you shall not want!
I think we could understand more about goodness and truth by contemplating the interaction of our heart and lungs, the essential use of oxygenated blood, etc. But I think Swedenborg might say that the only way to actually grow goodness and truth is by turning away from evil and falsity/ hurtfulness and deceit, and asking the Lord to replace them with goodness and truth... That's what the steps of repentance are all about. Check out this episode: Repentance: How to be in Heaven Now -- th-cam.com/video/5_-zxnqG_sg/w-d-xo.html
@@gregglockhart9551 I think he meant that we can all have a personal relationship with God, and live in heaven, any time we want, by looking within our hearts and minds and searching for a loving way to interact with others and the world around us! Check out, "How to Find Your True Self" for more! th-cam.com/video/3m9uAecvftM/w-d-xo.html
Im so happy to watch this video tonight. All most Christians seem to be talking about now is how the world is going to end soon for sure because of what is happening in Isreal. And of course the return of Jesus. I want to tell them they have it all wrong but they are so set in their ways it would just cause arguements.
Yes, Yvonne -- it's not worth having the argument, is it? I'm sitting here right now trying to imagine how that belief would be playing out in my life right now, if I believed it. May the Lord bring something good out of that (what I think to be) erroneous idea -- perhaps lots of love and forgiveness between loved ones if they think it's all about to end?
Thank God, I have been given a channel that engages with the ministry of Swedenborg so sincerely. The spiritual aspect of scripture was killed, but now its resurrection is at hand in the heart of man. I'm curious though how you would interpret this verse in scripture? He causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, so that no one may buy or sell, except he who has the mark or the name of the beast or the number of his name. Revelation 13:16-17 It seems to have a very materialistic/carnal message. Thanks for all your work.
Thank you for your comments, tendai. Here is a video about the book of Revelation that might give some insights to your question. th-cam.com/video/BY22KXdzPgQ/w-d-xo.html Here is another about The Mystery of the 7 Thunders. th-cam.com/video/dy4BWy5i3tU/w-d-xo.html Take care.
I through my life have studied with so many faiths and never been happy in any of them. My fellowship at this point is with your videos for strengthening and growth. I keep looking for people that love in the right way, how do I find anyone here in my small town that know of Swedenborg, I have a couple of really good friends that love and give of themselves freely and I am trying to share what I have learned here but find it hard to get them to sit down and listen and talk with me about the truths here
I'm so glad that you are feeling fellowship with our videos! Many people who like them wish they could find like-minded people in their own physical communities. We are working to try to find ways to connect people with others in their area, but it is challenging. You'll find one idea described here, about creating a "meet-up" online that seeks out local Swedenborg and Life fans to gather together for a watch party: www.swedenborg.com/sl/fan-resources/ It's a good idea to be mentioning the shows to some friends of yours but yes, that can take patience. We continue to try to think of and develop ways for people to connect. In the meantime, we're so glad to know that you are out there in our audience, and are a part of our online community!
I am going to have to watch this one again. When it was over I felt as if I was a kid who had just attended a southern baptist sermon telling me that if I don't follow the rules I will go to hell. And I am hoping that is not what this is saying. But it did feel like it was saying that if you follow Jesus you have a chance, otherwise you are damned. So, I will listen again. It was hard to follow for me because normally Curtis spends more time explaining the words he reads, but this time not so much. Maybe putting too much into one episode? Just in my opinion.
God loves bailey and I think the Holy Spirit,God is trying to save your soul:)Congraulations!! But,(from a friend) according to Swedenborg, God tries to hold on to us with love, not threats. It is what is in your heart that counts to God, is what he learned. S.'s visions show a far more compassionate and loving Father than what we have been traditionally taught. This is not a religion. It is not a cult. It is like a college course on the REAL message of the Bible---one of love for mankind without the unreasonable threat of hellfire. Yes, hell exists. But, evil spirits in hell CHOOSE to be there.God bless~:)
swedenborg says all faiths can go to heaven. its about whether or not one has truth love forgiveness in ones heart. that is what i got out of other vids. i am a newbie to swedenborg so sorry if i got it wrong. much love.
This is amazing insight into the darkness one finds oneself in while believing the self to be good....when true and not projected good is the spiritual goal....my darkness is my own making.....what enlightenment!!
Wow, I love how you have absorbed and applied this information. It really is beautifully amazing and freeing when properly understood! We sure appreciate your presence and comments, Nona!
He does, Anne, but it might be a challenge to really "get." In this video, I see they discussed the fig tree for a couple minutes starting at about 43:25 -- did that help you at all? Here's a quotation from Swedenborg (True Christianity §676) that might give you an idea about why Jesus would want a fruit-bearing tree.... "An outward change without an inward change is like a church building with no worship inside; it is useless to everyone, except perhaps as a stable for animals. An outward change without an inward change is like a field full of stalks and canes that have no grain. It is like a vine that has branches and leaves but no grapes. It is like the fig tree without fruit that the Lord cursed (Matthew 21:19). It is like the lamps in the hands of the foolish young women who had no oil (Matthew 25:3)." (I noticed in the video that that last example of the women with no oil for their lamps was also discussed, near the end.) So having an inner life and love that serves God and the neighbor -- that bears fruit -- is what God wants for us. Of course God would never curse anything or anyone, but it's a picture of how not bearing fruit is really not being fully alive. Ideas or knowledges (the leaves) about spiritual things are one thing, but unless we really love those true ideas and LIVE them, we're not living up to our potential. We're spiritually dead. Does that make any sense?
@@offTheLeftEye Oh yes, it does. I never would have put that together on my own. Thank you. That's been bothering me for years. Worth repeating: "...unless we really love those true ideas and LIVE them, we're not living up to our potential. We're spiritually dead."
If the kingdom of God is inside everyone as you say, then does that mean that the Pharisees and Saducees also had the Kingdom of God inside them? Or who has the Kingdom of God inside them in the second coming?
Hello Curtis! Have you ever heard about the Rene Guénon's book ''The Reign of quantity and the signs of times''? I highly recommend it if you want to fathom into the ''end of the times'' subject. Great show by the way! I wish I had discovered Swedenborg long before!
So has the end times already happened? Or has yet to happened? Does it happen more than once? Since you said the second coming of Jesus is already here. Thank you for the video btw!
Kou, great questions! The way I understand the concept of "end times" in Swedenborg is that the world does not end - but rather a spiritual era, or religious epoch, comes to an end. And after that end comes a new beginning, where we can have a new understanding and new relationship with the Divine. So yes, this already happened, in Swedenborg's lifetime, and the new spiritual era is all around us. The Lord's second coming is not Jesus manifest as human again - it's God within us, in our hearts and minds, communicating directly with us through our intuition, instincts, and spiritual experiences. Here are some other episodes that talk about this, if you're interested! From shorter to longer: "When Did the Last Judgment Take Place? And What Happened?" th-cam.com/video/Spl_WXqI1ho/w-d-xo.html "How Soon A New Spiritual Era Is To Be Expected" th-cam.com/video/7fnIXRkX_cs/w-d-xo.html "How to Find True Intuition" th-cam.com/video/UYJBmb1TYR8/w-d-xo.html "Last Judgment" th-cam.com/video/1aatSnt0ahc/w-d-xo.html "The Spiritual Future Of the Human Race" th-cam.com/video/wN0c1q_Ca2M/w-d-xo.html Hope that helps, thanks for asking!
@@offTheLeftEye We're about to hit another judgment. medium.com/@passiak/who-killed-jesus-people-like-trump-7e0cf8007109 www.baltimoresun.com/opinion/op-ed/bs-ed-op-0706-christians-trump-20200706-v4ur6zlmsraj5az27tdqxya33y-story.html
@@Adven4U1 It certainly is important for everyone to go back to looking at Jesus's actual teachings and example! Judgment happens on a spiritual level, which includes in the individual spirit of each and every one of us.
After decades of focusing on becoming an expert in physical sciences, Swedenborg turned to intensive self-examination, repentance, and Bible study which resulted in a spiritual awakening that included a powerful vision of Christ, and a feeling of being called to a mission. After that, Swedenborg was able to see into the spiritual realm daily for almost three decades in order to learn and to write down what he learned. Here are several videos about Swedenborg and his spiritual awakening that you can check out, if you would like: "Who Was Swedenborg?" th-cam.com/video/HEa0e8AcS78/w-d-xo.html "Was Swedenborg Crazy?" th-cam.com/video/K_ZP30NFYf8/w-d-xo.html "10 Early Signs of a Spiritual Awakening" th-cam.com/video/JKl67zV6XP4/w-d-xo.html "5 Kinds of Spiritual Experiences" th-cam.com/video/NFIKSDFrOEI/w-d-xo.html "Splendors of the Spirit" (Documentary) th-cam.com/video/RdzeFKh9_D4/w-d-xo.html
I'm really into your teachings. But, I was always told that after the 6th thousandth year that He would rein here for a thousand years ( the millennium ) of peace.
Yes, Richard -- I think that's what the Bible says. We see an inner, spiritual sense of the Bible transcending the literal message. We come to our own "end times" when we leave our earthly body behind, and then Christ reigns over our eternal life in heaven. A different take, I know!
The world is the “whirl-d” a past tense state of confusion that continues to repeat itself although it is no longer necessary. The end of the world is the end of confusion upon which it is rooted in the collective consensus of what Reality truly is. When all people come to see the Truth as it truly is, the world will end, yet life will continue onward, anew. The Earth shall not end, for it will be remade.
I agree with you that the church will go into agreat schism anf the faithful will loose their true faith so salvation will be in the person with burning oil , for the meantine that ther is a church stay there and pray for them anyway God is good and the love and faith in Him will remain..forever
Hi La'Shay Red! Swedenborg didn't use the term "rapture" but did talk about the second coming, or last judgment. Here is a short clip, "What Will The Second Coming of Jesus Christ Look Like?" th-cam.com/video/8oXBtjoroxw/w-d-xo.html That was taken from our full episode "Last Judgment" - Full-length video here - th-cam.com/video/x65SXTNlhTo/w-d-xo.html You might also like this recorded Bible study by Dr. Jonathan Rose, a frequent contributor on our channel; "The Second Coming," video.ibm.com/recorded/115295725 Hope that is helpful! Thanks for your question! Blessings!
@@offTheLeftEye thank you guys for answering my question! What about this scripture 1 Corinthians 15: 1-52 Behold I shew you a mystery we shall not all sleep but we shall be changed in a moment in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet…
@@PurityWinsInc Dr. Jonathan Rose talks about some of Corinthians 15 in his recorded Bible study, "Spirit and Life Bible Study," in this episode: newchristianbiblestudy.org/exposition/translation/the-nexus-part-3-internal-work/ Sounds to me like a passage about eternal life. A mystery - we shall not all sleep. We stay awake - and alive! Changed in a moment - into a spiritual being! What do you think? How does that chapter strike you?
The claim that Zoroastrianism is perhaps the oldest monotheistic religion and that it had an influence on Judaism, Christianity, or Islam is simply not true. While Zoroastrianism is said to have had its origins in the 6th century BC, it only enters recorded history in the 5th century BC. This is in contrast to the Bible, where most historians and scholars put the writing of the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy written by Moses) between 1446-1406 BC during Israel’s wanderings in the desert. This means the Old Testament pre-dates the Avesta (official religious text of Zoroastrianism) by close to 900 years. While it is not surprising to see antagonists of Christianity on the internet and in books try to discredit Christianity by claiming the Zoroastrian influence on it, it is clear that the concept of one God and the need for a Savior was established much earlier by the Hebrew people. Even the prophet Isaiah spoke of the virgin birth of Christ and recorded it around 701 BC, which still precedes Zoroastrianism by 100 years.
Thanks for sharing these thoughts, Vae07. We don't see these different religions as causing or influencing each other so much as affirming each other. The truth that there is One God, and that God would come as a Savior, is a concept that has permeated different religions in different ways and forms.
To whom are you agreeing? Why have you rejected Jesus the Christ the son of God your Messiah is it because you want to stay on your broad road that leads to destruction? Is it because you don't want to give up your easy comfortable life on the broad Road and not follow through on the narrow path that leads to eternal life? Choose therefore the narrow road for broad is the road that leads to destruction and many are on. Small is the gate and narrow is the path that leads to eternal life and few are they that choose it. If you're not on the narrow road you are choosing idolatry. You can call it whatever you want old fashioned it does not matter. It is the truth! Not too many people in this life are going to be able to enter into the kingdom of heaven because they are not under the sacrificial blood of the Passover from the death angel of God as displayed in the Old Testament as of foreshadowing of the sacrificial lamb of God Jesus the Christ in the New Testament. So keep on listening and rejecting your Messiah the only Messiah of this world and if there's a hell eternal you might find yourself there because you put yourself there. Mister or mrs. It ain't worth it for me baby
Wow, Thank you Curtis, so profound, thought provoking, so much so that I watched it twice .... The lesson I received is "Service to others and self", in other words summed up in the commandments Lord Jesus gave before He ascended, To love God and Love Others ... No duality. Now, question if you don't mind, "Does Swedenborg say anything in regards to Planet Earth example, we know that it's a living Entity, will it change in frequency as its inhabitants draw closer to LOVE ... Also any tips on how to nurture Mother Nature? Thank you for all you do for humankind, truly love ALL of you. Blessings
I loved learning about the insights you've taken away from this episode! You're so spot on, Mary Anne! And Swedenborg wrote extensively on the nature of earth (which he calls the natural world). Earth is a canvas of expression-- the source of that creativity being the spiritual world. Everything around us exists and is materialized because it has a source in the afterlife. Pretty amazing, right? We made an episode that speaks directly to this...do let me know your thoughts! th-cam.com/video/jPC6JxcGk6I/w-d-xo.html
Why am I a Christian? To begin with there are over 300 prophecies that tie together interwoven and proven through a span of 1500 years of authors who didn't know each other from different 66 books come to one conclusion that the real Messiah of this world has fulfilled all these prophecies to prove he was the Messiah and the Incarnate God who was tortured to death for humans. This is one of the many reasons why I am saved from this world under the blood of my savior Jesus the Christ Jesus the son of God. Praise His Holy Spirit that lives in me that can live in you also.
Thank you for sharing why you are a Christian. We agree with you that Jesus Christ fulfilled all the Biblical prophecies. Perhaps instead of attacking us, you could see us as brothers and sisters in Christ and be reconciled with us, as Jesus taught.
All makes sense, and a great education- thanks Curtis, but not sure about the comment where Swedenborg states how there is needs to be the sorting of people in heaven, because of evil, when Swedenborg had also mentioned that people in the hellish realm cannot go to heaven because people in heaven are protected...???? There are some areas that can seem abit condradictory, but maybe it just seems that way because I need to listen again. Otherwise, it's completely understandable, and relatable x
I remember when Reagan’s james watts thought we didn’t need to take care of Mother Earth because the world was coming to an end. 😢. Personally the book of revelation freaks me out and I don’t understand it.
You are certainly not alone in those feelings, LLC. Did you watch this whole episode? Swedenborg learned that the "end times" prophecies have nothing to do with the end of the physical world. Instead, it's about the end of a spiritual era, and that ending would make room for a new spiritual era, which we have now entered. The book of Revelation seems scary when you read the literal text. But when you learn about the deeper meanings, it's amazing and beautiful. It's a prediction about how God would bring order back to the spiritual realm, and make it easier for our minds and hearts to open up to heavenly love and light. First, a lot of blockage in the spiritual world had to be exposed and dealt with. But it all happened long ago! Here are some shows we've made so far about the deeper meanings in the book of Revelation: "Revelation: Vision of God-Centered Life" th-cam.com/video/HiIvETrJ8g4/w-d-xo.html "7 Churches" th-cam.com/video/bVIw0rptRrQ/w-d-xo.html "The Throne Room" th-cam.com/video/1pAbz6Z05Eg/w-d-xo.html "The Four Horsemen" th-cam.com/video/VKGb-oyPQhg/w-d-xo.html "Souls Under the Altar" th-cam.com/video/gpFKwha8y3c/w-d-xo.html "The Four Strangest Creatures in Revelation" th-cam.com/video/XVA1SxDnRgQ/w-d-xo.html
I’m so glad that my journey led me here. I truly enjoy learning more about Swedenborg’s insights. It has opened my heart and mind to a deeper level understanding about Jesus and His love. 🙏🏼
What a remarkable message! We are truly grateful you were led here and to Swedenborg's insights. And just so you know-- I've passed your message along to each of our team members, so that they can feel just as inspired as I do from your words! God is good :)
@Soldiersforchrist thanks for sharing your thoughts! On this channel we share information written down by Swedish scientist-turned-theologian, Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772), which he learned through direct spiritual experiences and visions, and through his study of and devotion to Bible scripture.
Swedenborg's spiritual sight was opened in him mid-50s, after he had been through an intense period of self-examination, repentance, prayer and Bible study.
We share a pivotal vision that was a culmination of that inner work, which shifted him into a whole new world of visions: th-cam.com/video/5gxlMnT_U1g/w-d-xo.html
After his spiritual sight was opened, Swedenborg was able to see countless scenes and events in the spiritual world over the next 27 years, to talk with thousands of people in the afterlife, and to write many of the experiences down in his diary and books. Much of his work is devoted to sharing what he believed was the inner, spiritual meaning of the Bible, and that is what we share here.
The Bible tells us it contains an inner meaning, and here are some quotes that indicate this: “All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them.” -Matthew 13:34
“These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father.” -John 16:25
“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12).
“If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” (John 3:12).
“To you it’s been given to know the mysteries of God’s kingdom, but to the rest, in parables, so that seeing, they would not see, and hearing, they would not hear” (Luke 8:10)
“Our competence is from God, who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the spirit gives life.” (2 Corinthians 3:5-6)
“Give ear, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old” (Psalm 78:1-2).
If you would like to learn more about how Swedenborg read and understood the Bible, check out our episode, "What the Bible Is," th-cam.com/video/v0mE8IDLynE/w-d-xo.html , or this short clip, "It Is Damaging To Take The Bible Literally," th-cam.com/video/eXUXZ8BigDk/w-d-xo.html
If you'd be at all interested in hearing how the ideas in this show are grounded in the Bible, I recommend the recorded episodes of this Bible study: www.spiritandlifebiblestudy.com/
And, if you’re wondering whether Swedenborg would be useful in your life, check out this blog post: “Why Read Swedenborg? Isn’t the Bible Enough?” swedenborg.com/why-read-swedenborg-isnt-the-bible-enough/?fbclid=IwAR3DIoSOC6BC6q-iu1-v4Y3Mh7uT0spAu4gfidTSUuEXiShM1szOTtfQoUE
We share this information for anyone who is interested, but we also respect that everyone is on their own spiritual path, and in their own relationship with the Word and with God. We respect your right to decide for yourself whether to accept what Swedenborg learned, or not. Thank you for sharing your perspective on all this, and we are wishing you well. God bless!
When people say to me who is God or how do I know God exists?
I tell them I see God in every selfless act.
I see God when I capture a smile between a mother and her child, or a father laughing with his children.
I see God when I cry for those I love.
I see God when I find Joy in the nature and the goodness of others around me.
I literally seek God each day.
Even down to a tiny Robin that I talk to in my garden and it sits bobbing about around me.
God truly is everywhere, when you have eyes to see, ears to hear, and we can walk with God all day long. If we choose.
Many do throughout their day, they just haven't made the connection yet.
Blessings ✨💛✨🕊️💫🌱💎🙏🏻🤗
Thanks for this inspiration, Heart2Heart!
I cried at the important part. I was raised by fear mongers. I feared the end times to the point of being triggered by it. This explanation makes our God sound the way he is, loving, caring, and full of wisdom.
So glad it strikes you that way, Erica! That's the kind of God I'd like to be in heaven with!
@@offTheLeftEye me too
I am new to Swedenborg, and his message is so sweet.
It does bring me to joy.
I know the end time fear mongering is false, and what swedenborg said makes sense, but how can a peaceful millennial change happen, where animals dont kill and people dont kill anymore? This seems like it must really happen, not just metaphorical or spiritual alone
swedenborg is amazing. he makes a lot of sense. its as good an explanation as any I've heard.
The truth will set u free... Thank you for helping me release all my fears, doubts, and anxieties on this subject! 💓💗❤️
This is truly amazing, thanks OTLE for recommending this on my spiritual journey. As a person who has been native to Christianity all my life I am SO disappointed by the narrowness of faith and nastiness in attitude I've often seen and experienced. I've seen everything from a dried up preaching style that wouldn't inspire an earthworm let alone a human being; to fundamentalist evangelism of the leave your brain at the door variety. You know, where the attitude is "you WILL enjoy this or there's something wrong with you !" The most dangerous preachers though are the ones who preach a gospel that is a venere of hatred towards people who are not like themselves and that don't interest them, may even perceive as a threat. Though I have occasionally had spiritual blessings, there just hasn't been enough to move me on and help me through the many difficulties of my life in recent years. My spiritual life has languished for decades. OTLE has changed this TOTALLY. I know it's a long process, but at last spiritual movement and building momentum ! I would therefore implore those from a christian tradition not to dismiss this stuff out of hand. GO ON.... GIVE YOUR SOUL A WATERING ! I think you'd be amazed ! 🌳🤸🙂
I can't tell you how much this means to us! It is one of our greatest hopes that sharing this information can help to heal painful damage to people's quest for spiritual goodness and truth. Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. We feel blessed to be on this journey of learning with you! 💖
@@offTheLeftEye Thank you so much. I've found a pearl of great value here. Do give my best wishes to everybody at OTLE from me. If this isn't doing God's work, I don't know what is ! ♥️
This video did a great job of describing the hidden spiritual meaning. I did notice that it was created about 4 years ago, and 4 years ago I would have taken only this perspective....fast forward to December 2020 and I will say that a literal interpretation may be just as true. There are so many layers to the scriptures. It reminds me of a Mandelbrot set.😊 everything has the fingerprint of God in it....from the simple to the complex and the spiritual to the tangible. It's all intrinsically connected. 💜
I agree, Michele, deeply connected! Have you seen our episode about how those connections can manifest in the everyday? "There Is A Science To Your Connection To Heaven" th-cam.com/video/HNZNOMH4_DE/w-d-xo.html
Let me know if it resonates with you! Blessings!
Okay, as they say third time is the charm. I listened with all my being to this again, and this time I think I got it. Thank you to all at Swedenborg Foundation for helping me through this. I went through this myself, thanks to the man led churches I had been exposed to. Now I get it, I understand. And very happy that I can now say the actual word "Jesus" without cringing because I might go to hell, lol. And I truly believe it is diving guidance that led me to this. And for that I can not express enough gratitude.
I have woke right up I follow Jesus in ALL my thoughts
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.
Such a powerful prayer. Thank you for posting it here!
It's a shame that perhaps the greatest theologian of all time is not studied in the seminaries. Then perhaps we would have better pastors and priests, and not just fear mongers and profiteers. In fact it would help counter the self styled prophets and apostles who have done more harm than anyone in confusing and hurting God's people. But I have noticed in our world, the truth is not popular. Even among so called men of God.
Who is this theologian?
Emmanuel Swedenborg
I was raised Lutheran and the LCMS stance is that he simply denies the divinity of God; which couldn't be farther than the truth when you read True Christianity. Such a great piece on the divinity of God.
His writings fully compliment the bible. If only more cared to read.
chilu46 very true I mean to be a pastor but I probably will have people walk out on me because I tell the truth
What the caterpillar calls the end of the world the master calls a butterfly...
A great analogy! We're all going to get our wings.
not exactly ---there are different levels of heaven and different levels of hell----the way to think of it is birds of a feather flock together .....so if one is a nasty, greedy, back biting person he will go to ones like himself--a level in hell.
You're right. But eventually the wings await! Some of us just need more time to mature, but how important is "time" in the next world?
+Harlan Lang I don't think they change. . if they been that way their whole life and end up in a level if hell... cause they want to be there ..i don't think they will change.
We've all had experiences of feeling like we're in hell, and speaking for myself, I don't want to stay there. Some people never seem to change but I don't think they really want to stay in a state of separation from God, or that feeling of being alone. People who stay depressed don't choose to be that way. They just don't see a way out, or they have a physical condition which they can't change, or they don't see a way to change. Everybody wants to feel happy, to feel loved, to feel that they belong.
Parables are morals to stories that Jesus spoke when He walked this earth. In hopes that with simple understanding and sincerity of our hearts. We would be like minded to learn and lead by our own example. To live and breath it everyday. Though the paths we choose may differ from another. Somehow in God's great and intricate design... Our paths always leads back to Him! I find this comforting in that we are never alone on our journeys. Our lights may dim but all God needs is a spark in our hearts to find us. And our lamps within us replenished with His oil (God's love). To never again run out or be ill prepared. Everytime I watch your videos, I find myself hungry for more wisdom. And how you all present and share it is so inviting, comforting, beautiful and healing. It is food for the spirit and heart. And I am so happy that I came across your programs on TH-cam. There was a purpose for sure... It has brought so much peace to me. I thank God for you all at OTLE. Love and blessings always you all!!!🙏😇🌹
Oh Pamelyn, this is funny, I just linked this episode to you in my last response - nevermind, I see you've watched it! I thought you'd enjoy it.
I'm so glad our channel has been useful to you, Pamelyn! We feel like we're lucky to share Divine ideas, and be part of that conversation. It's an honor to be part of, and so wonderful to see these ideas help other people as they have helped us. God bless you and thank you for your profound words!
Thank you so much Curtis &Co - this was amazingly powerful. The rejection of God in character - we have all witnessed this. Swedenborg is awesome!
Watching and listening to this again. I love the Swedenborg Foundation. I love the work they are doing, and I find quality education via the videos and books.
Me too!! ❤🌈🙏✊😁
Huh! At 8:59, that passage from ES sounds makes me think of chakras - the crown chakra and up, for example, as the first heaven would fit, because there are many chakras above the head which are cosmic gateways to direct access to God consciousness, which the angels of that level have. The chest (heart chakra) is about love, true unconditional love when that is really operating right. The midsection (solar plexus chakra) is about joy, a very high vibe, when it is clear and running at the right speedy and clarity. And it is usually our lower chakras that get clogged the most - the second tends to get clogged with power issues, selfishness, obsessions, and attachments. The root chakra is about faith and trust but tends to get clogged with fear, anxiety, poor self-esteem, shame, and the depression that can come from those... And the throat chakra isn't just about the ability to speak your truth in a balanced way but about life purpose Swedenborg's worlds sound like a macrocosm of the human energetic body microcosm.
Yes, I really do think that there is a lot in Swedenborg's theology that relates to all the eastern-religion ways of noticing energy flow in the body, and the influences of states of mind on the body. The language is different, but I'm so glad that you are noticing ways to relate the two kinds of philosophies. Swedenborg most certainly does describe the spiritual realm as a macrocosm of the human energetic body.
The seven Seals may actually BE the seven chakras...
The crown chakra is the 7th heaven and gives direct access to God consciousness. Any distinctions beyond that are beyond normal human comprehension and I don't know of any authoritative teaching about them.
This video is a helpful tool. Curtis adds to Swedenborg's explanations by putting it into words that convey clarity. All of this helps convey the Bible. They are helpful teachers and God's helpers.
So glad you found the video helpful, Helene!
false prophet
Thank you so much for such explaining Swedenborg's work so well. I am so happy to watch your channel grow and see how many people respond so positively to these truths.
We feel truly blessed for such a wonderful community of people who continue to affirm this work and keep us energized. Thank you so much, my friend!
Great insight! It really makes me look inward and examine myself. This foundation is helping me to truly love people and have good motives. Not just a intellectual acknowledgment of God but living a life that is pleaseing to Christ.
It means a lot to us to know this affect the information is having on your life, Gabe. Thank you for your presence in our audience!
enjoy all the videos, thanks so much for sharing Swedenborgs writings.
Brother curtis, thx for your service to our LORD JESUS !! Seeya in the wine garden in heaven !!
You're very welcome, Steve. Thank you for the kind words!
Very good message and graphics, thank you all.
I really liked the emphasis on the Lord Jesus's teachings and how He lived...the real Jesus.
Thanks, Keith! Great to hear you enjoyed the show!
Swedenborg's understanding of the end of the world is much like the Baha'i understanding, the end of an era. I like his insight into the end of Christianity where Christian authorities will completely pervert the true meaning of Jesus' teachings. I know so many Christians who reject the idea of loving their enemy and turning the other cheek. And yet they see themselves as very Christian. Strange!!! But if you look at the history of all religions, you see the same pattern. Our advantage today is that we can know about all of the great world religions and even know people who believe in them. I don't agree that the differences found in Christianity is a strength. When people who consider themselves deeply Christian feel that it is a normal Christian practice to group together because of some slight variation of belief, or because of race or class, then I see this as a sign that they don't get the main message of Jesus. As a youth who sincerely wanted to be a good Christian, this bothered me and led me to look for truth elsewhere. I found out that people everywhere in the world practiced various religions and almost universally adopted the religion of their family or culture. I couldn't see this as a valid reason to follow a religion as the "one true faith". It's like saying that the English language is the best language because it's the language of all the good people I know. Swedenborg's interpretations of the metaphorical language of Jesus is interesting. Baha'u'llah' interpretations are somewhat different, but He avers that the Word of God has endless meaning, so I don't automatically reject different interpretations if they make sense. The understanding that the second coming of Christ will be within each of us may have truth to it, but then that would have existed even before Jesus and we wouldn't have needed a physical appearance of Christ. This understanding also leaves open the door to endless religious controversy where people will say that the "Christ" in me knows better than the "Christ" in you. Mentally ill people often have this delusion. The only way to have a spiritually united humanity is for there to be an appearance of Christ in a human person Who then receives a Revelation from God for the new era. The Jews were expecting the return of Elijah at the time of the appearance of the Messiah. Jesus said that John the Baptist was that expected Elijah. John was not named "Elijah" but he somehow was the embodiment of the purpose or qualities of Elijah. This was Jesus' interpretation of "return" concerning Elijah. So why wouldn't the return of Christ happen in much the same way as the return of Elijah?
Thanks for the great presentation!
One added thought. I have met reformed Jews who no longer believe that Messiah will appear, but rather see this as the "Messianic Age". This kind of interpretation seems to be akin to Swedenborg's idea that the second coming of Christ will be within each of us.
if youre worried about it, dont worry about it.
Regarding "God's kingdom is within you"
O SON OF SPIRIT! I created thee rich, why dost thou bring thyself down to poverty? Noble I made thee, wherewith dost thou abase thyself? Out of the essence of knowledge I gave thee being, why seekest thou enlightenment from anyone beside Me? Out of the clay of love I molded thee, how dost thou busy thyself with another? Turn thy sight unto thyself, that thou mayest find Me standing within thee, mighty, powerful and self-subsisting.
A beautiful Baha'i passage. Thank you!
this is an awesome clear explanation of end times. I love the videos and being able to continue to grow in understanding.
Symbolism might be confusing to people (like me) who were taught that so much in the Bible is literal, especially the verses, (paraphrased) "The clouds will part like a scroll, the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend," a majestic and beautiful image I've always loved. I've always thought of it as FINALLY everything will be made right, and we will see the new Heaven and new Earth. Swedenborg's take on the verses is fascinating!
Yes, I know it is quite a transition from understanding these phrases in a literal way to a symbolic way. I admire the fact that you're willing to try shifting your mind! In the spiritual realm, that kind of beautiful imagery can be seen in a very vibrant and real way, so, I'm sure you can still witness that beautiful scene someday, if you want to, in the afterlife.
I don't know if this is the title to which Curtis gives himself or is given by all his parishioners but I was wondering how do I become like a preacher or something of that manner and the swedenborg faith
Hi Robbie, there are a few different Swedenborgian denominations. Each one has a seminary in which students train to become ministers. Are you thinking about this path?
offTheLeftEye yes I am. I just don't know what to do?
I'm happy to help. There are 2 different seminaries that I know of...I'll send you their websites. brynathyn.edu/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-divinity/
css.gtu.edu/
I'd be happy to continue supporting you after you've explored these!
The dean of the first seminary (at Bryn Athyn College) is Andrew Dibb. His email is andrew.dibb@brynathyn.edu
The dean of the second is Jim Lawrence. His email is cssinfo@gtu.edu
offTheLeftEye thank you so much.
Thank you Curtis. I’m glad I watched your channel. ❤️
We're glad you found us, too, Rowena! We hope it continues to give you good food for thought!
offTheLeftEye Thank you
Feeling Bummed out that I missed the live stream. Although The great thing about You Tube is that I get to watch in my own time!
Wow! Someone is finally gonna tell me what the "abomination of desolation" is? I am all ears!
What did you think?
Awesome and informative once again. Keep them coming!
We sure will! Thank you for the kind and encouraging words!
I like Swedenborg's understanding of the "end times" that we seem to hear so much about. The exacerbation of fear surrounding these little understood biblical themes is, as I understand it, the total opposite of what Jesus was attempting to convey. Fear is a useless emotion.
Fear was useful in the days when we were in danger of being a meal for a lion. I agree that in today's world fear interferes with good decision making and logic.
Thurible 1977 we are to fear sinning against god he does have a wrath and will discipline his people if we don't repent with our hearts
Evidently, you have not watched a single of these videos but just came here to push the God as Psychopathic Temper Tantrum Anger Management Failure who would be in deep psycho analysis if he were human. Or behind bars for violence against mankind. Your god has more in common with Adolf Hitler than he does with Jesus Christ.
So what about Yahweh, then? bit of am mixed temperment there.
Every end, has a new beginning.
Every beginning, has its end.
But, all is now, right here, right now.
Soo, what do we learn.
To
Fear not, trust god ❤️🔥
Love him/her with all your body, mind and soul
Yes, Massimo, trusting God is the heart of living well. He asks us not to fear, because He has our eternal happiness in hand.
@@offTheLeftEye true
Yes friend
Was trying to copy and paste Secret of Heaven 3489,1 could only find PDF for Vol 1 & 2 Am I missing a link?
Hey Richard! You are not missing a link. We link to the volumes of the New Century Edition translations that are available. For Secrets of Heaven, that means only the first two. The currently available translations of the other volumes of Secrets of Heaven are available for download on swedenborg.com under the name Arcana Coelestia. What we used in the show for SH 3489 is the as-of-yet unpublished New Century Edition translation. Here's the text of it for your convenience: "People in the church do not see that the church is like this-despising and opposing everything good and true, and harboring antagonism toward goodness and truth and especially toward the Lord. They go to church, listen to sermons, maintain an air of reverence while there, attend Holy Supper, occasionally talking with each other about these activities in a perfectly appropriate way, regardless of whether they are bad or good; and they live together in polite kindness or friendship. As a result, they never see any evidence of contempt, let alone opposition, least of all hostility, toward what faith values as good and true or toward the Lord. However, these are the outward forms of conduct by which one person misleads another. The inward forms among people in the church are completely different and are even diametrically opposed to the outward ones. . . . The nature of the inward forms is vividly apparent in the heavens, because angels pay attention only to people’s inner depths, or their goals-that is, to their intent and will and their resulting thoughts." --Secrets of Heaven 3489:1
Thanks so much!
I am just learning about Swedenborg, and I’ve studied Rudolph Steiner for years.
Would you be able to compare and contrast their teachings and lives.
Thank you so much for these teachings.
Hello Lindsey, and welcome! I (Chara) do know some people who are well-versed in both Swedenborg and Steiner, but I'm afraid none of the folks on the OTLE team fit that description. If you write to me at cdaum@swedenborg.com, I might be able to connect you to someone who could have this conversation with you. I can't promise, but I can try! In any case, I'm so glad you're finding some value in these teachings. Blessings to you!
I really love these videos it gives me more understanding about the world and that its not really gonna end God is just gonna rebuild society in a peaceful solution thank you Swedenborg.
I'm so glad you're finding these videos helpful, Noah. Swedenborg's writings are really something special. Wishing you peace and love today, my friend.
Resembles the super government concept of the Restored COG videos.
Yes - a peaceful solution without an unjust money system.
Church are Humans, children of God, not a building.
Peace 🕊🐑❣
Amen, Jasen! And Peace be to you, too!
Wow this was beautiful. I feel lighter after listening and learning these awesome truths. Thank you so much bro, keep spreading the good news and God bless 👍
So glad it affected your spirit like that, MDNZ! Thanks for your kind affirmation -- we'll keep spreading the good news, and hope you will too!
I have always pondered over a certain question.........in order to be accepted by the Kingdom of God or by Jesus, must we be baptized? Speaking of baptism, I’m not sure if I was ever baptized or not. It was so long ago I can’t remember, but even if I was, I haven’t felt the effects of it in my life. Coming from a broken family has really changed my outlook on life. I am a simple person, I believe in helping the neighbor when they ask or I feel they need some assistance🙂🙂❤️🤔
Hi Julian! As I understand it, baptism is a ritual that is symbolic of our "membership" in "the Church," which I think also means, our commitment to our relationship with God and our efforts to live that life on this earth. It's essentially acting out the idea of regeneration, and is neither a guarantee of salvation nor a requirement - in the literal sense. But as you'll see in the final quote below, it can also be attained symbolically - "'one who is baptized' is one who is being regenerated by the Lord by means of those truths. "
Anyone who regenerates is cleansed by truths (water) - and is therefore baptized in that sense. The physical ceremony has meaning for us, can carry powerful emotions or instill a sense of purpose. But we are not good or bad for having done it - it's the work of regeneration that saves us.
Here is a summary of the purpose and meaning of baptism from the index of Arcana Coelestia (Secrets of Heaven): Arcana Celestia, Index - "Baptism is a sign that a man is of the Church, and a memorial that he is to be regenerated by means of the truths of faith and a life according to them, 10386-10388. The waters of baptism also signify temptations, 10389. Because baptism is a sign and a memorial, therefore a man can be baptised when an infant as well as when an adult, 10390. Baptism does not bestow faith, nor salvation, but it testifies of these, if anyone is being regenerated, 10391. Explanation of Mark 16:16: baptising denotes regeneration by the Lord by means of truths from the Word, 10392."
Here are some more detailed quotes on Baptism from Swedenborg, from a section in "Arcana Coelestia" entitled, 'The Doctrine of Baptism':
10388. "This is the Lord's teaching in John, 'Unless a person has been born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.' John 3:5.
'Water' in the spiritual sense is the truth of faith derived from the Word, 'spirit' is a life in keeping with it, and 'being born of these' is being regenerated."
10389: "Since everyone who is being regenerated also undergoes temptations, which are spiritual conflicts against evils and falsities, the water used in baptism also serves to mean those temptations. "
10390. Since baptism serves as a sign and reminder of these things a person may be baptized when he is a young child, or if not then, when he is adult.
10391. Let those who have been baptized therefore recognize that their actual baptism confers neither faith nor salvation on them; rather it bears witness to the truth that they receive faith and are saved if they are regenerated.
10392. This shows what should be understood by the Lord's words in Mark,
"One who believes and is baptized will be saved; but one who does not believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16.
'One who believes' is one who acknowledges the Lord and receives Divine Truths from Him through the Word; and 'one who is baptized' is one who is being regenerated by the Lord by means of those truths.
So if there is a physical church you value and treasure, and you want to be baptized, that could be a lovely experience! But it doesn't seem necessary to the Lord, nearly as much as it is to receive truths from the Word and regenerate through them! I hope that is helpful! Let me know what you think!
@@offTheLeftEye oh wow, that was definitely something, thank you. ...❤️😊.. Of course I believe in Jesus. Sometimes I have difficulty understanding what he says, but I trust him because I am impressed by what he says. Nobody can talk like him. Even though I still struggle with the pains of the body ( the emotional and the physical) I still believe in him. Sometimes I feel has if “ something” is trying to take me away ( a trial or test?) I may fall down many times, but I always get back up. As far as baptism is concerned, Swedenborg insists that it is symbolic, so I am not too concerned about it. ..,The world isn’t good, it is the center of many problems of all different kinds, as I have witnessed. There is no harmony here, only struggles. FAITH is what is really important! Thank you for that excellent explanation! ... ❤️❤️😊👍🏻
@@julianbristow4793 You're very welcome! And I have learned that we will have a video about baptism sometime next year!
This was so good, you guys!! So good!
Thanks for the kind words! I'm really glad you enjoyed it.
My understanding tells me that the second coming of Christ takes place when you as believer, faithful and lovely human being are ready to accept him and holiness reborn in you.
Hi, Harold! Thank you for sharing your perspective. Swedenborg would agree that belief is part of the picture but that our life -- living our belief through our actions -- is what brings the Lord to life!
There is no end to this earth,only an end to the world we know it,things change,we all change,plants change,evolution of the world, I don't listen to the full video before I give my experience,I'm christian from birth but I've looked at other religions I became a spiritualist but I kept my christian faith,I believe jesus tried to teach people to live a spiritual life so the dark enteties couldn't take over them,but people didn't listen,maybe that's why everything you see happening in the world is what is happening,I believe people who do wrong need to turn their hearts over to jesus christ.We all go to the same god through jesus christ for the righteous.I believe he gives everyone a chance through repentance,but it's our own evil deeds that send us to another place.we came here at this time to help others realise what can happen if they don't change their ways they will die,they won't have eternal life.There are many places in heaven it's up to us where we go,with what we've done in our life.stay blessed.do good,live life the way you want we all have free will but remember that's where you go when you transition. The holy spirit inside you guides you.We don't need a church it's inside you.pray daily.Amen.i have had a dream of been put to sleep and wake up to another world with light beings,maybe we all change through evolution.oh and I live with someone who is catholic we don't see it as a problem because we respect each other views,that's what's important.stronger foundations in ourselves not the church.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts here. Yes, the true church, and the kingdom of God, is inside us, if we choose to find it!
The kingdom of God is pure divinity and guides us everyday.great videos.😆
I just listened to this one again. great episode, thank you
You're so welcome :)
Just like Dr. Caroline Leaf, a neuroscientist who studied the brain for 30 years, noticed branches form as emotions take place, Just as Swedenborg mentioned centuries before clinical studies!
Regarding the parable of the lamp and the young virgins:
"ye must die to yourselves and to the world, so ye shall be born again and enter the kingdom of heaven. Behold the candle, how it gives light. It weeps its life away drop by drop in order to give forth its flame of light."
FINAL ADDRESS
TO THE FIRST GROUP OF WESTERN PILGRIMS
HAIFA, PALESTINE, 1898
(MAY BE PILGRIMS’ NOTES)
Pray that your hearts may be cut from yourselves and from the world, that you may be confirmed by the Holy Spirit and filled with the fire of the love of God. The nearer you are to the light, the further you are from the darkness; the nearer you are to heaven, the further you are from the earth; the nearer you are to God, the further you are from the world. You have come here among the first and your reward is great. There are two visits; the first is for a blessing; then ye come and are blest and are sent forth to work in God’s vineyard; the second ye come with music and banners flying, like soldiers in gladness and triumph to receive your reward.
If in times past those who have risen up and gone forth in the Cause of God have been much helped and confirmed by his spirit, even to suffer death for him, how much greater is the flood of life with which ye shall be flooded now! For this is the end and the full revelation, and I say unto you that anyone who will rise up on the Cause of God at this time shall be filled with the spirit of God, and that He will send His hosts from heaven to help you, and that nothing shall be impossible to you if you have faith. and now I give you a commandment which shall be for a covenant between you and Me -- that ye have faith; that your faith be steadfast as a rock that no storms can move, that nothing can disturb, and that it endure through all things even to the end; even should ye hear that your Lord has been crucified, be not shaken in your faith; for I am with you always, whether living or dead, I am with you to the end. As ye have faith so shall your powers and blessings be. This is the balance - this is the balance - this is the balance.
Now the time has come when we must part, but the separation is only of our bodies; in spirit we are united. Ye are the lights which shall be diffused; ye are the waves of that sea which shall spread and overflow the world. Each wave is precious to me, and my nostrils shall be gladdened by your remembrance. Another commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another even as I love you. Great mercy and blessings are promised to the people of your land, but on one condition; that their hearts be filled with the fire of love, that they live in perfect harmony and kindness like one soul in different bodies, like one soul in different bodies. Never forget this; look at one another with the eye of perfection; look at me, follow me, be as I am; take no thought for yourselves or your lives, whether ye eat or whether ye sleep, whether ye are comfortable, whether ye are well or ill, whether ye are with friends or foes, whether ye receive praise or blame; for all these things ye must care not at all. Look at me and be as I am; ye must die to yourselves and to the world, so ye shall be born again and enter the kingdom of heaven. Behold the candle, how it gives light. It weeps its life away drop by drop in order to give forth its flame of light. The time has come when we must part, but the separation is only of our bodies; in spirit we are united forever.
Thanks again for sharing these Baha'i parallels!
I love it when you explain theological concepts with objects like the lamps! I think I'll steal some of your ideas from your most recent shorts to introduce some ideas about God to my 4-year-old daughter :) Thank you, guys!
Wonderful, Nadia! Symbols and metaphors (and correspondences!) can be so potent!
hi, would you consider posting your episodes to SoundCloud as well?
It's easier to listen while traveling, (less data usage, I think, and you can do other functions on a mobile phone while still listening. (youtube won't continue to play if you say, jump on Google, etc.
just wondering...Never hurts to ask.
Hi Manuela! We do post the audio of our episodes on a site called Simplecast, and you can download episodes for listening offline, and they can be accessed through iTunes and other podcast sites through an RSS feed. Hopefully this will be a good solution for you! Thanks for listening! swedenborgandlife.simplecast.fm/
My dear friends it frightens the life out of me that the USA and to some extent the UK where I live contain people who will use the Bible to shape foreign policy. In particular the so called ‘end timers” I totally agree that these people will even talk about the destruction of the state of Palestine or the Muslim people’s of our world as a prelude to the second coming of Christ. I worry constantly that such people, I would say reading into ancient Biblical texts something that suits their own lust for power, actually threaten the very future of life on Earth. I would add that the book of Revelation is complex and contains much symbolism common to such writings at the time. It frightens me that the Left Behind books have been read a prophecy and not fiction. It also frightens me that some religious groups pursue a politically right wing and brutal agenda that I see as nothing to do with the loving God I love and am happy to serve. I will happily accept that there will be a time when Christ returns but he has clearly warned us that it is not for us to know when or where. All we must do is Love God, love each other and live as those ready for his reappearing. He does not call us almost seek persecution to prove our love and service to his name. Neither does Christ call us to bring our faith into disrepute by saying things and making claims that are truly ridiculous. I will accept that I live, serve and love by God’s Grace. Every moment of my life is in his hands. As Deitrich Bonhoeffer said before they hung him at Flossenberg Concentration Camp a matter of days before WW2 ended in Europe
“Mein Ende ist mein Anfang’ (My end is my beginning’’) I live by God’s Grace and I will be content to die in that same grace.
Thank you, Tony, for this testament to your faith. We try to steer clear of politics on this channel, and we also believe that the return of Christ is something that will happen in individual hearts, not as a physical occurrence in the world. But living in such faith as yours, day to day, is a state devoutly to be wished for. Beautiful quote from Bonhoeffer -- such a fearless view. Thanks for commenting.
When I see mountain, too me mountain symbolize how special you are, do you know everything single mountain is different, shape, sizes, snow or no snow, flower of non-flower, every mountain is different, it's mean you therefor is soul, nobody can be you but only you are you.
mountain=soul=god=love
I wonder what Swedenborg would have thought of the Nag Hammadi Codices, especially the Gospel of Thomas ?
Try asking him. He's still around ......somewhere. Put him to the test.
:) :) :)
Regarding the hostile feelings in 34:50, I think that hostilities can arise from evil intentions and agendas or distrust towards everyone.
I agree, yahia!
Houston Yu...the way to God is Love, it has many ways 💖
When you think about it, the end of the world is a little bit like death: We all know it's going to come eventually, and as we get older, we feel we see the signs more and more distinctly...
But what is it that is going to die? Is it the planet? It all depends on what you mean by "world". Swedenborg's position is that it is a metaphor for the Christian church. It could also mean the end of an era in history, like the Roman world, the Greek world, etc. All worlds in the sense of civilizations or eras have a beginning and an end. So it's true that Christian civilization will come to an end. Some think that it ended a long time ago. I'm sure that the Romans thought the end of the world happened with the fall of Roman civilization. But look at how happy the Italians are today!
The divine word's chronology makes a lot of sense. I would love to explore more of the direct word and ancient words, sadly as you say much of it has been lost. I also love how Swedenborg uses the analogy of the human anatomy to describe the church, like tubes that carry blood back and forth from the heart and branch into veins, arterioles, and capillaries. This anatomical system of organization or split also reminds me of the diverging branches of religions such as Christianity's Orthodoxy, Protestantism, and the pope's tree-like catholic papacy in Rome that rank bishops into ordinations all the way down to priests, pastors, and deacons. Interestingly, socialism that broke down into materialistic capitalism due to technological advancements that lead to the industrial revolution's mass production also reflects this vascular system of the human anatomy as a way of explaining it.
I'd love to explore the ancient word, too, Murtaza Arif! Yes, Swedenborg understood hwo the body corresponds to our spiritual life on earth and spiritually! It's incredible, and has so many far-reaching implications for how we interact in this world! Interesting how it analogs with modern life!
You might like some of these episodes about ancient people and ideas:
The Spiritual History of the Human Race th-cam.com/video/0IPGEzj9GAg/w-d-xo.html
How Ancient People Talked to Angels th-cam.com/video/nPR5UF7dV44/w-d-xo.html
The Earliest Source of Ancient Wisdom and How It Was Lost th-cam.com/video/zb5CRXLpfO0/w-d-xo.html
Neanderthals and the Breathing of the Ancients th-cam.com/video/D77fjAvncAw/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! God bless!
@@offTheLeftEye Yes absolutely. Thank you for the links. I have already watched the Spiritual History video, but I look forward to watching the others. The videos about ancient wisdom and Neanderthals are high on my list to watch.
@@murtazaarif6507 I'm glad there's some you haven't seen! The 'Ancient Wisdom' episode is one of our shorter ones, I believe it's about a half hour. Enjoy, and let us know what you think when you get to them!
So glad to have found this channel. Very rich.
Thank you, Christopher. That is our experience as well. There is much to share and much to be joyful about when we are talking about heaven and its impact on our lives now. Here is a video about reunions in the afterlife that I enjoy.
th-cam.com/video/wpWrtwlyvE0/w-d-xo.html
Take care, Christopher.
More people need to hear about Swedenborg.
I take it that means you find these ideas helpful, William? We're doing our best to get the word out!
@@offTheLeftEye thanks for responding yeah I had never heard of this man or his ideas till I recently came across your channel your content is great.
@@williamvallespir5509 so glad you like it! Let us know if we can help you navigate our catalogue - any topics that interest you? We're so glad it's resonating with you!
Hello, nice to ear... I have a question... What will happen to those who don't cultivate love as for the 5 fool virgens ? In this world all of us will have the kingdom of God in us ? What for the others who will fignt each other ? Will they (and may be myself) be burnt ?
Swedenborg witnessed that in the afterlife, we will go to heaven or to hell based upon the major direction we have chosen during our life. We are not expected to be perfect, and we can continue learning and developing in the afterlife. But to set our direction toward heaven, we have to develop a basic conscience that tells us that serving God and the neighbor is more important than self-centeredness and materialism. If we have made self-centeredness and materialism the most important goal of our life, then that is the road to hell. If we make the effort to serve something beyond just ourselves, and beyond just material gain, then that is enough for God to work with to continue to lead us on a path to heaven.
Thanks very much for your answer even if.... It was not that I expected... Because I know each or us are going to dy one day and in after lives we will go where we want and prefer : Heaven or hells.... My question concerned these days in this period in this physical world... Because I can ear that the Lord will not come back physicaly but in our hart in the second coming as you explained here ... But it seems to me that we are living the end of time period. With wars and rumours of wars... That is the war of every ones against every one and even men against women and women against men .... Its looks to me as our entire civilisation is going to selfdestruction because we can t listen each others... And also that the story of Abraham and Lot (pleading for the world) and Sodome and Gomhorre and Tsoar and the wife of Lot who was change in ... all of this is going to happened again... Never in the history of humanity we have seen such a thing than in our days.... So my question was more : what about human kind here on earth ? Am I to pessimist ? What will happened to ours civilisations ? What about those (and may be I am one of them) who want to fight and argue for their ego ? Will the civilisation change little by little as the little stone in Daniel prophesy ? I realize i am very pessimistic ... Hard to wish you a good day after this ;-p .... But Have a nice day !!
Oh, I see what you are asking about. Yes, I realize it can be hard to feel hopeful when there is so much strife that we see happening around us. But actually, there is less violence happening in the world than there used to be. It is just that since we now can read and see constant news on the internet, we are able to know about everything happening around the world much, much more than we used to. And it is mostly bad things that get reported on the news. We don't see most of the good things that people are doing all around the world to help one another and make things better.
But it is a time on earth when we are getting more aware of evil than ever, and that is actually a good thing, even though it is unpleasant. We are being given the opportunity to see evil more clearly than ever, so that we can truly make a choice to resist evil and stand against it. Here is a short clip, and it offers some thoughts about how to think positively, even during hard times when we are seeing a lot of evil going on: th-cam.com/video/UIMfRE0wmOA/w-d-xo.html
Could you speak and read more slowly, please? The wonderful information given is so packed, that it is hard to take it in quickly. Thank you. I love these videos.
Thanks for the feedback, B. C.!
Pause the video and take your time to read each quote. You do not need to rush along with Curtis. Simply pause the video and read each quote slowly to yourself. Problem solved.
Curtis is more like a sweet teenager just that this teen is loaded with wisdom picked up from Swedenborg and conveying it to us in the most simplest way. Following the vids has got me hooked to learn Christianity which would otherwise have been difficult for me thru just verses from the Bible.
What is the correspondence for "Love your neighbor" ? If the meaning is as the words say, then can you clarify the meaning. For example saying no when you think something is wrong, or disciplining for learning, can this be seen as loving your neighbor?
I think you are right. Swedenborg says for example that even a judge who justly punishes is practicing love of the neighbour. It doesn't consist of always being agreeable to others, but of sincerly and selflessly wanting the good of others.
Curtis please do you have a teaching on the book of job
Hi, Ahmed! In this video, called "Why Bad Things Happen," Curtis answers a question about Job in the final segment of the show. I hope it's helpful to you! swedenborg.com/why-bad-things-happen/
never heard of swedenborg until tonight and have watched a few videos. good stuff!
Cool, JEZOZ! Great to hear from you. I'm glad to hear you're enjoying the content!
I remember in 2012 when the Mayan calendar was about to run down , people feared the world was ending, but it just meant the end of one age and a new age beginning. I think this is the same as what the book of revelations is referring to. Jesus said birth pains is always painful. One age ending and a new one beginning.
Keith, it is the cycle of all of nature, isn't it? The death of winter feeds into the life of spring. The decaying forest trees return to nourish other plants. Compost begets fresh growth. Having given birth a bunch of times it is a rich analogy that the end of pregnancy gives room for a brand new and precious life. May your Easter be full of God's comfort. -Lori
You explain things so well...thank you!
You are very welcome, Debra! Glad to know it!
if I could give you a great multitude of "thumbs up" I would. Nevertheless, let me say this episode is extremely helpful and insightful. Deepest thanks....
Nancy your words bring me and the team joy!! May you continue to feel closer to God and understand His love for you.
I like the scripture that says, "an end, the end, is come". God himself describes that their are many ends.
What show that was coming up that Curtis referenced in his last comments on this video? Thanks! The explanatipn of the lamps and oil was especially meaningful to me. I so appreciate the work you all put into these videos!
I think it was this one, Carol: "Three Kinds of Evil Spirits" th-cam.com/video/o21lGQMyllw/w-d-xo.html
That was the next one aired!
The annointed, he who is consecrated, dedicated to thr Lord, The Christ.
Love, do no harm , do not judge...……….I agree with your 2nd coming of Jesus, sooo much and have known it for years. Much of what you say I have learned over my life time as a truth seeker in search of love to learn Love I believe is the new religion.
Beautifully said, ellinor. Thank you!
I have a lot of trouble with correspondences because of their ambiguity. It all just seems too subjective to me. (Question: Does this mean A, B, C or D? Answer: Yes it can but not always)
I can appreciate that. And yet correspondences, as they appear in the Bible, can be quite consistent. Have you seen our short clip on this? th-cam.com/video/dYDmHo2UySQ/w-d-xo.html&t
What Swedenborg said about Christians having hostility toward the lord is still true today. Witness any minister becoming impassioned while waxing poetic about the crucifixion and you will know the truth of it. That is the one thing that has always horrified me about the religion. They talk blithely about compassion for Jesus, but then revel in the taking of his life -- not in its mystery, but in the actual methods of torture used in the doing of it. Here is just one example. A couple of years ago at the request of a couple of young ladies I know, I accompanied them to a Good Friday "celebration" at their church. I was appalled to the point that I had to walk out of the service when the minister first had the congregation enthusiastically repeat over and over again, "Crucify him!" and then had each of them get up one at a time to walk to the front of the church and hammer a nail into a large representation of the cross. How could any person believe that reenacting a murder is an act of love? Yet this is how they commonly do it.
Whoa that sounds intense, Double Dragon! In a few weeks we'll be having a show on what Swedenborg wrote about the trinity. He emphasizes that misconceptions of the trinity have put a fog over something that should shine like a lighthouse for Christians, which I think relates to the experiences you've relayed. I hope you can tune in!
Double Dragon I go to church if they did that in my church I would not go back and I would walk out that is horrendous practice heck no
This is just my personal opinion, I love the bible, I dream of verese that then I read, I feel God us with me when I read, I think I can't read it without the holy spirit, it's just reading, I feel blessed when I read it, I just think people take it to literally, but I am very artistic, maby that's why.
I love to hear others talk about god because they have a relationship too.
But some seem so judgmental.
I don't really know much about angels
But I have seen a tall one with a fire gold like sword in armor.
He was strong.
I never see Jesus face he clowds it he said its not the time.
Protecting me
He announces him self and I am always bowing to him in my sleep.
I did see a rock open he walked among us it was I thought a time he came to earth in the future.
He was putting his hand on my head and freeing my chains
Some people were afraid.
Then I was changed, I wept tears of joy because he loves me looked at my husband and gave him plants he loves to garden I then said God loves how much you love his creations I was with my partner risen from what look like jarusalum.
There was a grave people rose and he was strong like lightning and gentle too so much love
He said I am the alfa and omega biggning and the end.
Maby it happenes because I have lurning difficultes and don't always understand things.
I feel I have this strong beautiful relationship with him.
I am not speshial in any way no big job or smart enough to be rich oh no wait not all rich are smart, I am very introvert. I just don't understand end times, but I see him coming back
In my dreams there are people giving kings giving up crowns
Heaven was empty for now and he said he was coming then I woke
I knew then I had a job to do
And what I must do, it's so interesting to listen to others.
I trust God will help me understand.
I love people so much and pray even for people I don't know
Yet I suffer with so much sadness for the world 😞
I personally believe there will be a war, I just don't know how or when, the enamy Trys to scare me, but he can't get out somewhere he is trapped, I might be wrong but I wanted to share
It sounds like you have a vibrant spiritual awareness, Sawa kiwi -- what a beautiful vision/experience you describe! May you receive strength from such encounters, and trust in the Lord's path for you. And may you find something good and useful to focus on that will help keep your mind from being sucked into the sadness and the fear. The Lord is your shepherd, you shall not want!
Is it possible that we can grow goodness and truth In ourselves by focusing our awareness on our heart and lungs?
I think we could understand more about goodness and truth by contemplating the interaction of our heart and lungs, the essential use of oxygenated blood, etc. But I think Swedenborg might say that the only way to actually grow goodness and truth is by turning away from evil and falsity/ hurtfulness and deceit, and asking the Lord to replace them with goodness and truth... That's what the steps of repentance are all about.
Check out this episode:
Repentance: How to be in Heaven Now -- th-cam.com/video/5_-zxnqG_sg/w-d-xo.html
@@offTheLeftEye what would you say that Jesus meant when he said,”The Kingdom of God is within you.”?
@@gregglockhart9551 I think he meant that we can all have a personal relationship with God, and live in heaven, any time we want, by looking within our hearts and minds and searching for a loving way to interact with others and the world around us! Check out, "How to Find Your True Self" for more! th-cam.com/video/3m9uAecvftM/w-d-xo.html
Thank you.it's time well spent.
Thanks for the kind words, Ali, and thanks for watching!
Im so happy to watch this video tonight. All most Christians seem to be talking about now is how the world is going to end soon for sure because of what is happening in Isreal. And of course the return of Jesus. I want to tell them they have it all wrong but they are so set in their ways it would just cause arguements.
Yes, Yvonne -- it's not worth having the argument, is it? I'm sitting here right now trying to imagine how that belief would be playing out in my life right now, if I believed it. May the Lord bring something good out of that (what I think to be) erroneous idea -- perhaps lots of love and forgiveness between loved ones if they think it's all about to end?
56:33 "during the end times....fueled by selfish worldly pursuits."wanna ask is Neville Goddard and the book:"the secret" one of them?
Thank God, I have been given a channel that engages with the ministry of Swedenborg so sincerely. The spiritual aspect of scripture was killed, but now its resurrection is at hand in the heart of man.
I'm curious though how you would interpret this verse in scripture?
He causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, so that no one may buy or sell, except he who has the mark or the name of the beast or the number of his name.
Revelation 13:16-17
It seems to have a very materialistic/carnal message.
Thanks for all your work.
Thank you for your comments, tendai. Here is a video about the book of Revelation that might give some insights to your question.
th-cam.com/video/BY22KXdzPgQ/w-d-xo.html
Here is another about The Mystery of the 7 Thunders.
th-cam.com/video/dy4BWy5i3tU/w-d-xo.html
Take care.
I through my life have studied with so many faiths and never been happy in any of them. My fellowship at this point is with your videos for strengthening and growth. I keep looking for people that love in the right way, how do I find anyone here in my small town that know of Swedenborg, I have a couple of really good friends that love and give of themselves freely and I am trying to share what I have learned here but find it hard to get them to sit down and listen and talk with me about the truths here
I'm so glad that you are feeling fellowship with our videos! Many people who like them wish they could find like-minded people in their own physical communities. We are working to try to find ways to connect people with others in their area, but it is challenging. You'll find one idea described here, about creating a "meet-up" online that seeks out local Swedenborg and Life fans to gather together for a watch party: www.swedenborg.com/sl/fan-resources/
It's a good idea to be mentioning the shows to some friends of yours but yes, that can take patience. We continue to try to think of and develop ways for people to connect. In the meantime, we're so glad to know that you are out there in our audience, and are a part of our online community!
you cant put a date on it! its just not possible!
I am going to have to watch this one again. When it was over I felt as if I was a kid who had just attended a southern baptist sermon telling me that if I don't follow the rules I will go to hell. And I am hoping that is not what this is saying. But it did feel like it was saying that if you follow Jesus you have a chance, otherwise you are damned. So, I will listen again. It was hard to follow for me because normally Curtis spends more time explaining the words he reads, but this time not so much. Maybe putting too much into one episode? Just in my opinion.
God loves bailey and I think the Holy Spirit,God is trying to save your soul:)Congraulations!! But,(from a friend) according to Swedenborg, God tries to hold on to us with love, not threats. It is what is in your heart that counts to God, is what he learned. S.'s visions show a far more compassionate and loving Father than what we have been traditionally taught. This is not a religion. It is not a cult. It is like a college course on the REAL message of the Bible---one of love for mankind without the unreasonable threat of hellfire. Yes, hell exists. But, evil spirits in hell CHOOSE to be there.God bless~:)
swedenborg says all faiths can go to heaven. its about whether or not one has truth love forgiveness in ones heart. that is what i got out of other vids. i am a newbie to swedenborg so sorry if i got it wrong.
much love.
This is amazing insight into the darkness one finds oneself in while believing the self to be good....when true and not projected good is the spiritual goal....my darkness is my own making.....what enlightenment!!
Wow, I love how you have absorbed and applied this information. It really is beautifully amazing and freeing when properly understood! We sure appreciate your presence and comments, Nona!
I've always felt confused about the story of Jesus cursing the fig tree and its dying as a result. Does Swedenborg have any insight into this?
He does, Anne, but it might be a challenge to really "get." In this video, I see they discussed the fig tree for a couple minutes starting at about 43:25 -- did that help you at all?
Here's a quotation from Swedenborg (True Christianity §676) that might give you an idea about why Jesus would want a fruit-bearing tree....
"An outward change without an inward change is like a church building with no worship inside; it is useless to everyone, except perhaps as a stable for animals. An outward change without an inward change is like a field full of stalks and canes that have no grain. It is like a vine that has branches and leaves but no grapes. It is like the fig tree without fruit that the Lord cursed (Matthew 21:19). It is like the lamps in the hands of the foolish young women who had no oil (Matthew 25:3)."
(I noticed in the video that that last example of the women with no oil for their lamps was also discussed, near the end.)
So having an inner life and love that serves God and the neighbor -- that bears fruit -- is what God wants for us. Of course God would never curse anything or anyone, but it's a picture of how not bearing fruit is really not being fully alive. Ideas or knowledges (the leaves) about spiritual things are one thing, but unless we really love those true ideas and LIVE them, we're not living up to our potential. We're spiritually dead.
Does that make any sense?
@@offTheLeftEye Oh yes, it does. I never would have put that together on my own. Thank you. That's been bothering me for years.
Worth repeating: "...unless we really love those true ideas and LIVE them, we're not living up to our potential. We're spiritually dead."
If the kingdom of God is inside everyone as you say, then does that mean that the Pharisees and Saducees also had the Kingdom of God inside them? Or who has the Kingdom of God inside them in the second coming?
Hello Curtis! Have you ever heard about the Rene Guénon's book ''The Reign of quantity and the signs of times''? I highly recommend it if you want to fathom into the ''end of the times'' subject.
Great show by the way! I wish I had discovered Swedenborg long before!
Thanks for the book recommendation, Samuel! And we're really glad you found Swedenborg!
So has the end times already happened? Or has yet to happened? Does it happen more than once? Since you said the second coming of Jesus is already here.
Thank you for the video btw!
Kou, great questions! The way I understand the concept of "end times" in Swedenborg is that the world does not end - but rather a spiritual era, or religious epoch, comes to an end. And after that end comes a new beginning, where we can have a new understanding and new relationship with the Divine. So yes, this already happened, in Swedenborg's lifetime, and the new spiritual era is all around us. The Lord's second coming is not Jesus manifest as human again - it's God within us, in our hearts and minds, communicating directly with us through our intuition, instincts, and spiritual experiences.
Here are some other episodes that talk about this, if you're interested! From shorter to longer:
"When Did the Last Judgment Take Place? And What Happened?" th-cam.com/video/Spl_WXqI1ho/w-d-xo.html
"How Soon A New Spiritual Era Is To Be Expected" th-cam.com/video/7fnIXRkX_cs/w-d-xo.html
"How to Find True Intuition" th-cam.com/video/UYJBmb1TYR8/w-d-xo.html
"Last Judgment" th-cam.com/video/1aatSnt0ahc/w-d-xo.html
"The Spiritual Future Of the Human Race" th-cam.com/video/wN0c1q_Ca2M/w-d-xo.html
Hope that helps, thanks for asking!
@@offTheLeftEye
We're about to hit another judgment.
medium.com/@passiak/who-killed-jesus-people-like-trump-7e0cf8007109
www.baltimoresun.com/opinion/op-ed/bs-ed-op-0706-christians-trump-20200706-v4ur6zlmsraj5az27tdqxya33y-story.html
@@Adven4U1 It certainly is important for everyone to go back to looking at Jesus's actual teachings and example! Judgment happens on a spiritual level, which includes in the individual spirit of each and every one of us.
While I love much of what is said here, I'm left wondering, how did Swedenborg come to these conclusions?
After decades of focusing on becoming an expert in physical sciences, Swedenborg turned to intensive self-examination, repentance, and Bible study which resulted in a spiritual awakening that included a powerful vision of Christ, and a feeling of being called to a mission. After that, Swedenborg was able to see into the spiritual realm daily for almost three decades in order to learn and to write down what he learned. Here are several videos about Swedenborg and his spiritual awakening that you can check out, if you would like:
"Who Was Swedenborg?" th-cam.com/video/HEa0e8AcS78/w-d-xo.html
"Was Swedenborg Crazy?" th-cam.com/video/K_ZP30NFYf8/w-d-xo.html
"10 Early Signs of a Spiritual Awakening" th-cam.com/video/JKl67zV6XP4/w-d-xo.html
"5 Kinds of Spiritual Experiences" th-cam.com/video/NFIKSDFrOEI/w-d-xo.html
"Splendors of the Spirit" (Documentary) th-cam.com/video/RdzeFKh9_D4/w-d-xo.html
Curtis, do you believe Jesus is the only way to God? X
I'm really into your teachings. But, I was always told that after the 6th thousandth year that He would rein here for a thousand years ( the millennium ) of peace.
Yes, Richard -- I think that's what the Bible says. We see an inner, spiritual sense of the Bible transcending the literal message. We come to our own "end times" when we leave our earthly body behind, and then Christ reigns over our eternal life in heaven. A different take, I know!
Thank you so much for this wonderful video
The world is the “whirl-d” a past tense state of confusion that continues to repeat itself although it is no longer necessary.
The end of the world is the end of confusion upon which it is rooted in the collective consensus of what Reality truly is.
When all people come to see the Truth as it truly is, the world will end, yet life will continue onward, anew.
The Earth shall not end, for it will be remade.
That's a really great way to think about it. Thanks!
I agree with you that the church will go into agreat schism anf the faithful will loose their true faith so salvation will be in the person with burning oil , for the meantine that ther is a church stay there and pray for them anyway God is good and the love and faith in Him will remain..forever
Amen, wald vlog, God is good and love and faith will always remain!
Did Swedenborg mention anything about the rapture of the church?
Hi La'Shay Red! Swedenborg didn't use the term "rapture" but did talk about the second coming, or last judgment. Here is a short clip, "What Will The Second Coming of Jesus Christ Look Like?" th-cam.com/video/8oXBtjoroxw/w-d-xo.html
That was taken from our full episode "Last Judgment" - Full-length video here - th-cam.com/video/x65SXTNlhTo/w-d-xo.html
You might also like this recorded Bible study by Dr. Jonathan Rose, a frequent contributor on our channel; "The Second Coming," video.ibm.com/recorded/115295725
Hope that is helpful! Thanks for your question! Blessings!
@@offTheLeftEye thank you guys for answering my question! What about this scripture 1 Corinthians 15: 1-52 Behold I shew you a mystery we shall not all sleep but we shall be changed in a moment in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet…
@@PurityWinsInc Dr. Jonathan Rose talks about some of Corinthians 15 in his recorded Bible study, "Spirit and Life Bible Study," in this episode: newchristianbiblestudy.org/exposition/translation/the-nexus-part-3-internal-work/
Sounds to me like a passage about eternal life. A mystery - we shall not all sleep. We stay awake - and alive! Changed in a moment - into a spiritual being! What do you think? How does that chapter strike you?
@@offTheLeftEye so how will we be able to go to the new heaven and new earth if we aren’t raptured? 🤔
@@offTheLeftEye so what about when God destroy the earth and create a new earth and heaven? How will we be on that earth if we’re not raptured?
Awesome - loved it.
The claim that Zoroastrianism is perhaps the oldest monotheistic religion and that it had an influence on Judaism, Christianity, or Islam is simply not true. While Zoroastrianism is said to have had its origins in the 6th century BC, it only enters recorded history in the 5th century BC. This is in contrast to the Bible, where most historians and scholars put the writing of the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy written by Moses) between 1446-1406 BC during Israel’s wanderings in the desert. This means the Old Testament pre-dates the Avesta (official religious text of Zoroastrianism) by close to 900 years.
While it is not surprising to see antagonists of Christianity on the internet and in books try to discredit Christianity by claiming the Zoroastrian influence on it, it is clear that the concept of one God and the need for a Savior was established much earlier by the Hebrew people. Even the prophet Isaiah spoke of the virgin birth of Christ and recorded it around 701 BC, which still precedes Zoroastrianism by 100 years.
Thanks for sharing these thoughts, Vae07. We don't see these different religions as causing or influencing each other so much as affirming each other. The truth that there is One God, and that God would come as a Savior, is a concept that has permeated different religions in different ways and forms.
I'm not agreeing with this part of his teachings, sounds like old-fashioned Christianity to me. Wow, Swedenborg is so good on the spirit stuff.
To whom are you agreeing? Why have you rejected Jesus the Christ the son of God your Messiah is it because you want to stay on your broad road that leads to destruction? Is it because you don't want to give up your easy comfortable life on the broad Road and not follow through on the narrow path that leads to eternal life? Choose therefore the narrow road for broad is the road that leads to destruction and many are on. Small is the gate and narrow is the path that leads to eternal life and few are they that choose it. If you're not on the narrow road you are choosing idolatry. You can call it whatever you want old fashioned it does not matter. It is the truth! Not too many people in this life are going to be able to enter into the kingdom of heaven because they are not under the sacrificial blood of the Passover from the death angel of God as displayed in the Old Testament as of foreshadowing of the sacrificial lamb of God Jesus the Christ in the New Testament. So keep on listening and rejecting your Messiah the only Messiah of this world and if there's a hell eternal you might find yourself there because you put yourself there. Mister or mrs. It ain't worth it for me baby
Wow, Thank you Curtis, so profound, thought provoking, so much so that I watched it twice .... The lesson I received is "Service to others and self", in other words summed up in the commandments Lord Jesus gave before He ascended, To love God and Love Others ... No duality. Now, question if you don't mind, "Does Swedenborg say anything in regards to Planet Earth example, we know that it's a living Entity, will it change in frequency as its inhabitants draw closer to LOVE ... Also any tips on how to nurture Mother Nature? Thank you for all you do for humankind, truly love ALL of you. Blessings
I loved learning about the insights you've taken away from this episode! You're so spot on, Mary Anne! And Swedenborg wrote extensively on the nature of earth (which he calls the natural world). Earth is a canvas of expression-- the source of that creativity being the spiritual world. Everything around us exists and is materialized because it has a source in the afterlife. Pretty amazing, right? We made an episode that speaks directly to this...do let me know your thoughts! th-cam.com/video/jPC6JxcGk6I/w-d-xo.html
@@offTheLeftEyeThank you so much, will watch asap and will certainly comment ... :)
Another really great presentation....explains a lot
I'm glad it was clarifying! Thank you for your feedback, William!
Why am I a Christian? To begin with there are over 300 prophecies that tie together interwoven and proven through a span of 1500 years of authors who didn't know each other from different 66 books come to one conclusion that the real Messiah of this world has fulfilled all these prophecies to prove he was the Messiah and the Incarnate God who was tortured to death for humans. This is one of the many reasons why I am saved from this world under the blood of my savior Jesus the Christ Jesus the son of God. Praise His Holy Spirit that lives in me that can live in you also.
Thank you for sharing why you are a Christian. We agree with you that Jesus Christ fulfilled all the Biblical prophecies. Perhaps instead of attacking us, you could see us as brothers and sisters in Christ and be reconciled with us, as Jesus taught.
All makes sense, and a great education- thanks Curtis, but not sure about the comment where Swedenborg states how there is needs to be the sorting of people in heaven, because of evil, when Swedenborg had also mentioned that people in the hellish realm cannot go to heaven because people in heaven are protected...???? There are some areas that can seem abit condradictory, but maybe it just seems that way because I need to listen again. Otherwise, it's completely understandable, and relatable x
I remember when Reagan’s james watts thought we didn’t need to take care of Mother Earth because the world was coming to an end. 😢. Personally the book of revelation freaks me out and I don’t understand it.
You are certainly not alone in those feelings, LLC. Did you watch this whole episode? Swedenborg learned that the "end times" prophecies have nothing to do with the end of the physical world. Instead, it's about the end of a spiritual era, and that ending would make room for a new spiritual era, which we have now entered.
The book of Revelation seems scary when you read the literal text. But when you learn about the deeper meanings, it's amazing and beautiful. It's a prediction about how God would bring order back to the spiritual realm, and make it easier for our minds and hearts to open up to heavenly love and light. First, a lot of blockage in the spiritual world had to be exposed and dealt with. But it all happened long ago! Here are some shows we've made so far about the deeper meanings in the book of Revelation:
"Revelation: Vision of God-Centered Life" th-cam.com/video/HiIvETrJ8g4/w-d-xo.html
"7 Churches" th-cam.com/video/bVIw0rptRrQ/w-d-xo.html
"The Throne Room" th-cam.com/video/1pAbz6Z05Eg/w-d-xo.html
"The Four Horsemen" th-cam.com/video/VKGb-oyPQhg/w-d-xo.html
"Souls Under the Altar" th-cam.com/video/gpFKwha8y3c/w-d-xo.html
"The Four Strangest Creatures in Revelation" th-cam.com/video/XVA1SxDnRgQ/w-d-xo.html