OT: The Book of Genesis, Chapter 2

Genesis 2:1-25

1:1-3 Upon the completion of the Earth, it was blessed. Creation rested in serenity. 

1:4-6 Life was given to the inanimate Earth in various forms: plants and water.

1:7 Humanity came to the earth and received creation's breath of life. (Adam and Eve are the particular line through would Jesus would come).

1:8 Adam and Eve more than individuals, are a symbol for humanity, particularly at the inception. Their story is a telling of the nature of humanity, a journey we began as souls in spirit. Adam meaning: mankind. Eve meaning: life-giver (as we know women are).

This Garden of Eden is representative of God as a loving provider. Humans lived under His protection, without fallibility and flaw, in innocence. Everything [we] needed was given to us. 

1:9 Let's examine these 3 trees mentioned for they are representative of the pillars of our lives on Earth.

• Tree for Food: Our earthly sustenance. The nourishment of our human body, housing our soul.

• Tree of Life: Our spiritual sustenance. The nourishment of our soul, made in the likeness of God. This nourishment is the ability to give and receive love, compassion, and joy.

• Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil: Our free-will. Humans were given perfect conditions with which to live. This type of living was reliant on complete trust in God, in giving creation autonomy over our lives. Humans did not have the ability to even conceive of evil and therefore we could not commit evil. 

1:10-14 The geographical location of humanity's inception (modern-day northern Africa). 

1:15 So began humanity's sojourn on the Earth, a symbiotic relationship between human and planet.

1:16 Given to humanity in abundance was nourishment. We now understand the chemical mechanisms of our bodies and how to sustain them with our surroundings. (Although it is worth noting that contemporary humans have corrupted much our food sources with pollution and chemical manipulation).

1:17 Our first advice from God: abstain from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. For this tree (entity, even) represents characters who are dissatisfied with the manner of living God first provided. These characters want fame, fortune and the ability to manipulate and deceive to procure and ensure their selfish desires.

This tree is representative of the ability to realize that there can be another option other than goodness. Once we taint ourselves with the ability to know evil, we render ourselves able (and even tempted) to commit it. Adam is warned that he would die if he partook in the "fruit," works, of this tree. For, as we learned in the NT, to partake in evil is to relinquish our right and promise of eternal life.

1:18-19 Humanity's union (acknowledgement and appreciation) with animals. Over ancient generations, humans came to know the earth and the animals on it.

1:20 For humanity on this Earth to truly thrive came the DNA of the female. Remember that Genesis begins a long series of stories (the Old Testament). Although told in story-telling form, these concepts of life are well known and widely taught in classrooms around the globe.

1:21 Rib is an incorrect translation. From the curve, or helix curve that is DNA, came the female. Humans, therefore, male and female are of the same.

1:22-23 The human ability to reproduce.

1:24 The creation of the family unit. 

1:25 Humanity (Adam and Eve) was innocent. Unashamed because humans were not aware of evil o any of its manifestations: shame, lust, etc. 

OT: The Book of Genesis, Chapter 1

Genesis 1:1-31

Welcome to Genesis! The meaning of the word Genesis is: origin of formation; beginning. With a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts from the New Testament, be confident in your journey through the Old Testament. Although both Testaments ultimately corroborate each other, they each have their own personality. 

Through the new Testament, we (and many before us) have come to understand our relationship and communication with God as direct and personal. Yet it took awhile to develop that conception of personalized spirituality and that "awhile" is comprised of the stories within the Old Testament (OT).

As you will soon come to discover, the manifestation of God (spirit, divinity) on earth in the OT came through appointed prophets, souls who had a natural capacity and yearning for this philosophy of compassion. Throughout history, humanity's ability to think has changed in depth and complexity. Therefore, the Old Testament is very much written in a story-telling mode. 

As with all of scripture, the core concepts of the stories of the lives of the individuals written of here can be understood as actual, factual events or as parables and metaphors (depending on the comfort of the student).

The OT makes up the most of the Bible, the books and chapters are lengthier but begin assured, it is a beautiful and informative journey: OT Chapters: 929; NT Chapters: 260.

1:1 This is perhaps one of the most opportune times to speak of God, divinity in a pantheistic form.

Pantheism: a doctrine that identifies God with the universe, or regards the universe as a manifestation of God. Pantheism is a concept which dates back thousands of years, but has been strictly and vehemently rejected by (at least one of) the major religions of the world.

Essentially, the belief in a pantheistic God allows for the conception of divinity to seem more realistic in nature. It is a belief in divinity as science, wisdom, energy and creation. For more, read: Our Pantheistic God.

Much of the world believes (and disbelieves) in an anthropomorphic god. Anthropomorphism: an interpretation of what is not human or personal in terms of human or personal characteristics. Yet in the consideration of the nature of our bodies, earth and universe, it would seem that a much more omnipotent and omniscient entity would be necessary to create such intricate life.

Journey to Proverbs 8 where "Wisdom" is speaking. As we are discussing the creation of the Earth, humanity's home, it is important to know how it was created. The answer: Wisdom. Wisdom is the creative, energetic force of life. Wisdom is all of the things humans have created the field of Science for and more. Wisdom is life-giving energy with divine intention.

Wisdom as we know it on earth is the fundamental life's knowledge we gain through edified experience. Yet at its core in both manifestations: wisdom is sagacious truth. Thus, the Earth was formed with an inarguable, infallible, and interminable element conscious of life and compassion.

Proverbs 8:22-31 

22 “The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way,
Before His works of old.
23 I have been established from everlasting,
From the beginning, before there was ever an earth.
24 When there were no depths I was brought forth,
When there were no fountains abounding with water.
25 Before the mountains were settled,
Before the hills, I was brought forth;
26 While as yet He had not made the earth or the fields,
Or the primal dust of the world.
27 When He prepared the heavens, I was there,
When He drew a circle on the face of the deep,
28 When He established the clouds above,
When He strengthened the fountains of the deep,
29 When He assigned to the sea its limit,
So that the waters would not transgress His command,
When He marked out the foundations of the earth,
30 Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman;
And I was daily His delight,
Rejoicing always before Him,
31 Rejoicing in His inhabited world,
And my delight was with the sons of men.

Return to Genesis.

1:2 The proper translation of this verse is that the Earth became (rather than "was") without form and void. In Isaiah 49:19 we learn that the earth was created to be inhabited. Therefore we know that the creation of the Earth was in preparation for humanity. As scientific study has made us aware: the earth is billions of years old. Wisdom works with patience and perfection. The Bible does not challenge science; the earth was not made in merely seven days. The intricate and complex systems of atoms and molecules, elements and compounds is Wisdom and develops at a pace barely tangible to our human conceptions of time.

1:3-4 The manifestation of Light on earth is the distinction between not only luminosity and darkness, but also wisdom from ignorance. Light and Darkness are a dichotomy on Earth among humanity; there is opportunity here for either. Light on the earth established God's presence here. Light is wisdom, life and compassion: the elements of our creator. 

1:5 Remember from the New Testament that time is irrelevant, immeasurable with God, represented by 2 Peter 3:8.

1:6-7 The development of the atmosphere which surrounds and protects the Earth. In just a few verses we are covering billions of years of developments and formations.

1:9-10 The development of the waters and landmasses on Earth. Our planet has undergone a miraculous journey of growth; it has been perfectly tailored to support the vessels here we call our bodies. Our Earth is often taken for granted and its beauty and meticulousness is neglected. If ever a person has difficulty conceiving of God, they need only observe the nature of our planet to find reverence in something bigger than themselves.

1:11-13 Plants developed on the earth; our source of nourishment. The plants around us house all of the vitamins, nutrients and even proteins that we need to survive here. This planet was formed for our benefit, our well being. 

1:14-15 The conditions with which we would create our society were set in place: seasons, days and years.

1:16-19 The creation of the moon and the sun and the stars.

1:20-21 The birth of living creatures, the animals we share this planet with.

1:22-23 The establishment of procreation; a world full of plants and animals able to replenish themselves and continuously produce.

1:24-25 The creation of the animals with which humanity would come to farm.

1:26-27 The creation of humans: body (for earth) and soul (of spirit). Males and females created by God with the ability to think, create, and dream. The beauty of being creation in the likeness of God is that humanity was given the blessed opportunity to be impactful here. The ability to be conscious and aware.

1:28 Humanity is given the ability and permission to procreate. The minds with which to have dominion over the rest of the animals on this planet. A new and complex form of life.

1:29-30 Plants identified as our sustenance. And, metaphorically, this experience given to us as a journey of self-growth and spiritual nourishment.

1:31 Creation observed Earth and decided it was good. A beautiful, temporary home for our souls living in these earthly vessels, our human bodies.

NT: The Epistle of Jude

Jude 1:-25

Jude comes from the word "Jehudah" meaning: He shall be praised.

1:1 Jude is identified as a fellow-worker of God, and also the brother of James. This epistle is written to those who preserve this philosophy, manifesting and producing love, justice and truth among humanity on the earth.

1:2 A prayer for each of us: Mercy, peace and love be multiplied to you.

1:3 Contend earnestly for the faith... Jude's exhort is for us to focus our passion toward this effort of bringing compassion and natural wisdom to the earth.

1:4 It is imperative that we do so because there are opposing forces at work. We are encouraged to accept this blessed responsibility of producing good work: creating joy, patience, opportunity, inspiration, friendship. If workers of unkindness are not taking a day off, neither should workers of kindness.

1:5-7 We are offered this philosophy of compassion and in absorbing it, we absorb spiritual life. By rejecting it, we reject spiritual life and render ourselves mortal. As we will learn in our upcoming study of the Old Testament, there are messengers of God (spiritual workers) who have rejected this philosophy out of desire for power. The assurance from Jude here is that any soul (whether on earth or in spirit) who rejects compassion is thwarted by God.

1:8-9 In the midst of chaos there are always diligent workers of God. Jude references Michael, a most impassioned faithful proponent of this philosophy. Instead of contending with evil, Michael serves as an example to us: he contents evil through his faith. By remaining faithful to this philosophy of compassion, by producing goodness and allowing God to handle what is out of our control.

1:10-11 The evil are the people who pursue their own wealth, fame and power at the cost of the well being of others. Their methods are deception, arrogance, manipulation and injustice. They deprive others to make gains for themselves.

1:12-13 These types of people do not produce anything worthwhile or progressive. Clouds without water, Jude describes. They do not serve a purpose. Their functioning is as chaotic as a random wind. They produce nothing; no fruit with which to nourish others. They have no foundation. They are like ferocious waves, crashing onto and eroding the landscape of lives.

The lesson here for us is to produce. When we have purpose and motivation, unity with nature and compassion, we have joy and direction.

1:14-15 From the beginning of the Bible it is promised to us that the spiritual, compassionate and creative energy and force of God would restore humanity. The evil winnowed out.

1:16 How do we recognize such directionless and purposeless people? Jude gives us a description in this verse of such misery: "These are the grumblers, complainers, walking according tot heir own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage."

A progressive person is an optimistic person. An inquisitive and inspired person. A person who finds hope and joy in the seemingly simple but profound aspects of life. Be a kind person and a purposeful soul. Instead of complaining, find a way to learn and grow from mistakes and misfortunes. Thrive within humility, happy and willing to take on the opportunity to be impactful here.

1:17-19 There are those who flirt with evil. Their motivations are driven by lust, greed for money, fame and power. People who mock humility and kindness as weakness. Jude forewarns us of these types of people because we must not let them derail or discourage us.

1:20-21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, Jude encourages. For within the protection and wisdom of divine creation, we find an everlasting niche. We find instruction, motivation, inspiration, joy, wisdom, humility, strength and purpose.

1:22-23 Be able to distinguish between authentic goodness and deceptiveness. Develop your ability to be perceptive and observational.  

1:24
"Now to Him who is able to keep your from stumbling,
And to present you faultless
Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy..."

On His charted path of compassion, wisdom and protection, we are safe and joyful.

1:25
"To God our Savior,
Who alone is wise,
Be glory and majesty,
Dominion and power,
Both now and forever.
Amen."

To our creator, our parent, who encompasses wisdom and glory and omnipotence... be, in our lives now and forever.

Jude is the final book of the New Testament before The Book of Revelation. Before the study and completion of the final book, this Bible Study will begin a new journey: The Old Testament, beginning with Genesis. In order to understand the end of the Bible, the beginning must first be explored.

NT: The Third Epistle of John

III John 1:1-14

1:1 This epistle is written to a man named Gaius, meaning "lord." A lowercase "L" indicates that Gaius is likely a leader and representative (a worker) of this philosophy in his community.

1:2 John prays for Gaius to prosper in the endeavors of his life and in health.

1:3-4 John is extremely proud of Gaius, who upholds strong, faithful values in the way that he lives his life. Nothing makes John (or God, for that matter) happier than when a child of God lives their lives in and exuding this natural truth.

1:5 We come to understand that Gauis is a generous and kind soul, giving his (humble and passionate) life's effort toward friends and strangers well-being.

1:6 This is Gauis' objective in life, his purpose given by God: to send people forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God. And truly this is a strong element in the foundation of all of our purposes. We are meant to encourage others to strive toward their greatest potential and fulfill their most impactful purpose. With compassionate motivations, what we produce among humanity is always found worthy of God.

1:7-8 John is thankful for Gauis' helpful nature and generous heart, two necessary elements of being a fellow worker with God.

1:9-10 John speaks of Diotrephes: a man who is quite opposite of Gauis. Diotrephes thwarts the compassionate efforts and truth of this philosophy. He is arrogant, considering himself like a god. Diotrephes does not accept anyone who does not listen to his senseless rules. Remember that God's children are open and accepting of diversity (there are many ways which compassion is celebrated, and divinity revered). Make sure if you choose an institution, it is one which accepts all forms and expressions of life on earth rooted in goodness.

John speaks of his intention to remain aware of this man. God's children are always vigilant for evil will gain control wherever there is lethargy.

1:11 Imitate goodness, never follow match evil. Every kind act is an edification, a strengthening of our soul and ability in life.

1:12 John was confident that what he taught was (is) authentic and true. John was also confident that his words, thoughts and actions all supported each other... that anyone who observed him would find sincerity.

1:13-14 John's farewell: he prays for peace in our lives and encourages us to greet each other in joy.

NT: The Second Epistle of John

II John 1:-13

1:1 John speaks to the children of God, elected to join His mission in bringing compassionate to all forms of life. As members of this spiritual kinship, we are loved and helped and rooted for by even those who have come before us. 

1:2 John chooses the word "truth" to embody all that this philosophy is. It is the way of creation, the sustaining energy of life, continuing beyond limit.

1:3 We are wished 1) Grace, 2) Mercy 3) Peace 4) Truth and 5) Love from God. For it is with those five elements that we construct a beautiful and productive life on earth and in Spirit.

• Grace: Through grace we have the patience and perspective to think, speak and act with serenity and wisdom.

• Mercy: Through mercy we have the space and instruction to work through our short-comings and mistakes toward edification of the character of our souls.

• Peace: Through peace we have the conditions under which to learn and grow, observe and perceive. 

• Truth: Through truth we are able to perceive the nature of the earth, spirit and humanity.

• Love: Through love we have the blessed opportunity of receiving and giving joy, justice and hope.

1:4 John is happy to have observed the absorption of this philosophy into the lives of hearers of this word; he knows that their faithful commitment will produce justice and joy among humanity.

1:5-6 It is reiterated to us to love one another. It is the clearest instruction we are given: be kind. We are taught how to grow ourselves and ultimately it comes down to how well and willing we are to love others, to genuinely care about their well-being and right to justice.

1:7-8 John implores that we remain steadfast in faith. If we are unwavering in our beliefs, we build the best defense against our opposition. We become strong, immovable, and impermeable against the corrupted and unjust influences of the world. We are able to endure and react wisely in situations where strength and wisdom is required to survive and even thrive.

1:9 It important to never be hypocritical. Our actions and behavior must reflects our morals and values at all times, in every moment. If we are not absorbing this philosophy internally, we cannot claim ourselves a part of this spiritual family. Moreover, we must be able to discern when a person claims one thing but contradicts themselves in a deceptive or arrogant manner.

1:10-11 We must keep our spiritual defense up against in-genuine and corrupted external factors. For if a person, ideology or thing does not align with the the truth and compassion and justice which is taught to us by this faith, we must not allow entry of it into our lives or minds.

Our spiritual defense arms us with perception,the ability to discern and observe, the tendency to inquire and discover answers and the strength to resist temptations and fears, evil intruders. 

1:12-13 John's farewell, the culmination of this short second epistle. He hopes to make a personal connection with his (our) fellow workers, to be united not only in person but also in joy.

NT: The First Epistle of John, Chapter 5

I John 5:1-21

5:1 The core and essence of this statement is that one must discover and develop their connection with divinity manifested in nature and spirit in order to truly be a child of this philosophy. It is only necessary because we cannot understand or work symbiotically with Spirit until we acknowledge its presence and the nature of its intent.

5:2 We can be identified as authentically faithful when compassionate behavior reflects our thoughts and words. We become representatives of this faith and if we do so properly, the people around us can come to know for themselves this faith as the healing and powerful force that it is.

5:3 It is essential that our good works are done not only out of willingness but also out of joy. We should come to understands our lives here on earth as blessed opportunities to make a just and compassionate impact on humanity. An inner motivation to promote the well-being of others is so much more progressive and valuable than to do a good act begrudgingly or for selfish motive.

5:4-5 This philosophy of life, comprised of love, creation and compassion is everlasting. Love manifested is the definition of our spiritual life. To absorb this philosophy is to be absorbed by eternity as a blessed participant. 

5:6 Spirit manifested itself on the earth in human form, but also does so in all elements of nature. John explains to us that our earth and spirit are tethered. Through the elements of earth come (and came) elements of spirit; our origin and destination of soul.

5:7 Spiritual divinity, philosophy and manifested wisdom are the backbone of creation (divine energy). Just as our soul's behavior, beliefs and actions comprise our spirit.

5:8 Spirit is also able to exist here on earth, within these bodies (as we know). We each have a soul being housed and sustained by our bodies.

5:9-10 To discover Spirit, this compassionate philosophy, is to be a witness of its truth. John is particularly stern on this point because he knows how beautiful life can be when understood on this deeper level... he also knows how detrimental it can be for a human to be lost in chaos without it. It is important to him that this philosophy not die because of scoffers.

9:11-13 The testimony of this philosophy is that eternal life is promised and manifested for all participating souls. Eternal life is achieved through compassionate living: through embodying the patience and perspective, compassion and wisdom within this philosophy.

5:14-15 We are deeply loved. By inviting divinity into our lives, we give Him/It permission to edify our souls, heal our hurts and strengthen us in purpose and potential. Through a mutual relationship of trust, our prayers are heard and also granted. God's children pray for wellness and joy, justice and life and He is zealous to abundantly provide those things.

"Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Through our spiritual development we create and strengthen our trust in Him, we come to understand that He is passionately with and even within us in every moment. He knows what we need and what would bring us joy and He arranges those things to manifest in our lives. He works to eliminate that which inhibits our joy.

5:16-17 Our life is highly valued. God loves us despite our flaws and so when a person kills an innocent person, their relationship with God becomes more complicated. Sins which lead to death do not include self-defense. Sins which lead to death are selfishly motivated actions and plans.

God works with all of us, knowing our shortcomings. To have shortcomings is different from being evil. Those who are evil do not readily or abundantly have God's forgiveness. Yet either way, a repentant heart is required to learn and grow and find renewal. 

5:18 To be born of this philosophy is the be spiritual strong and wise against opposition.

5:19 The world, the system of life that has been created here on the earth, is in many ways corrupted. It is run by consumerism and hierarchical social systems. To be of God is to be invulnerable to the influence and attempted destruction of corruption. We become able to recognize in-authenticity and evil actions, on large and small scales. We grow a wise defense against their reach into our lives.

5:20 The intention of Spirit manifested was the gift humanity this philosophy of life: this way and wisdom through all of the disparity and chaos of the world. Its intention was the give us a truth, a foundation on which to grow.

5:21 Keep yourself from worshiping inanimate things, for example: money. Putting your confidence, comfort and reverence in anything other than creation will only ever destroy you and prevent you from contentment and even true, authentic joy.

NT: The First Epistle of John, Chapter 4

I John 4:1-21

4:1 Within each human is a soul. The character of person's soul is their spirit. John is teaching us to become "street-smart." A common misconception about spirituality (and maybe Christianity especially) is that person must be soft. The truth is that this philosophy teaches us to become strong and wise. We are urged to become perceptive and to be strong enough to winnow falsity and corruption from our lives with strength.

John does not want us to be deceived, influenced or controlled by any person. Therefore, we must always seek truth in people. We must observe their behavior, not just their words.

4:2 There are many false religions and religious teachers in the world (in every religion). Unless a person has adopted a philosophy of compassion, truth and justice, that person is not of God. What does that mean? It means that person contradicts our creative nature and our origin. That person contradicts life's ability to thrive.

4:3 The influences and spawn of evil are abundant in the world: greed, arrogance, manipulation, deception, vengeance, frustration, anger, disparity, lethargy, apathy, pessimism, injustice.

4:4 Through this philosophy we become stronger than all of the aforementioned. We are not controlled by anything but our own informed thoughts and capable hands.

4:5 The motivations of the world encircle consumerism; insatiable greed leads to every injustice committed here. A greedy soul is a product of the world rather than spirit. Although the natural earth is a beautiful, miraculous and blessed place to be, the world humanity has created here is in many ways corrupt. Therefore, a soul of this world communicates only with the desires of this world.

4:6 Our spirituality creates communication between ourselves and nature, divinity even. Through our perception and intuition, we discover often-overlooked wisdom and understanding. Spirituality enables our thoughts and hopes to be heard and in the most inexplicable way, answered. We learn to discern truth from error in every person and situation.

4:7-8 We must cultivate a vested interest in the well-being of humanity. Love is the energy and material of creation; it is the most crucial element of life. To be devoid of love is the be devoid of everything.

4:9-10 Humanity came into existence through and out of love. The earth does not need us. Certainly the universe does not need us... yet here we are. We are here because were are wanted and cherished. We are here to be loved. We have to understand the energy and the intention of the our divine universe because within it are the truths were brought us about. Divinity has selflessly manifested itself to come to us to share its wisdom and offer its love.

4:11 The inspiration to love others can come from the realization that we are loved even for just being. Nature is our example: we are provided for without selfish motives and it is hoped that we do the same.

4:12 It is imperative that we realize God's description, everything He/It is made of is alive, present and tangible in our actions of love.

4:13 Divinity has given life to us but also lives within us if we become a host for it. The conditions it thrives under: love. When we become a host for love, we join in a symbiotic relationship: we provide an outlet for its generous work and it provides our wisdom, comfort and strength.

4:14-16 We must think deeper and broader than the man. Jesus as a Messiah, as a prophet, as a kind human, as a bright soul, as a manifestation of love is a teacher to humanity. We are taught this philosophy of love and those so absorb it and project it abide within God... and God abides within them.

4:17 This philosophy works to make our souls strong and confident in our personal objectives and values. It works so hard so that at the culmination of our lives here, we are happy with the work we completed. So that we can define our lives to have been productive and impactful.

4:18 The foundation of this faith is in love, and truth and trust. In order to have the symbiotic relationship, the two parties must communicate on some level (even an energetic level of having the same intentions for humanity). There is no need for fear. When you work together with God, the light of His love disintegrates anything threatening to cause you harm.

4:19 Through the development of our faith, we come to love divinity for a multitude of reasons. Our first step can be this: to return love which has been freely given to us. Gratitude for a bold, consistent and fierce love.

4:20-21 Without love, you cannot be a host for this philosophy. Plain and simple. The symbiotic relationship cannot be sustained without love, appreciation for the lives of others. 

NT: The First Epistle of John, Chapter 3

I John 3:1-24

3:1 John marvels at our blessed privileged of being claimed as children by God. For creation and love and wisdom manifested to care intricately about our individual lives is beautiful. In the development of our faith, we become increasingly spiritual; our thoughts and motivations align more contentedly with things of spirit than of the world.

3:2-3 We do not yet know what spiritual life will look like; it is likely that we, as humans, do not yet even have the ability to conceive of its nature. But what we do know, is enough: we know that it will be love, manifested, light and joy and wisdom. We know that as we envelop ourselves in spirituality, it envelops itself within us (for that is tangible even here on Earth). 

3:4-6 There is no other way to be of this faith than to be completely invested. The core and intention of this faith is for us to realize we can learn and grow and create ourselves. We can refine and edify our souls and the expressions it produces: thought, speech, behavior. Therefore we must make the commitment. Our positive impact on the world requires that we are firmly established as individuals. We are fellow workers with God, 1 Corinthians 3:9, but before we begin our work on the earth we must begin the work of our souls: building and sustaining perseverance, courage, humility, a strong sense and determination of justice.

We cannot be hypocrites. If, through this faith we wish to accomplish peace, patience, wisdom, truth, compassion and humility on the people around us, we must be peaceful, patience, wise, truthful, compassionate and humble.

3:7-8 Jesus and the apostles have implored us to become perceptive individuals, able to discern truth from deception. We must cultivate the ability to see the authentic core of ideas, things and people. There are two camps of children: children of compassion and children of selfishness. Through compassion comes justice, patience, love and truth. Through selfishness comes greed, vengeance, deception, and arrogance. We want to be able to clearly discern members of each camp.

3:9 Only a soul filled with good intentions can claim itself as born of God. This verse serves perfectly as a reminder of our responsibility; if we are going to represent this faith, we must do so without malice. Every moment requires our patience and compassion (which can be easier said than done in certain circumstances).

We are able to do so through the understanding that our positive energy abounds, rebounds and rectifies. What we produce in the Earth truly does construct our world (individually and globally).

3:10-12 From Genesis through Revelation we are taught to have compassion for one another. Our insistence on (or refusal to) loving others is the ultimate distinguishing and defining trait. 

3:13 John foresees a possible circumstance of our life in faith and encourages us to persevere through it: as we become more committed to spiritual objectives, we are less understood by the nature of the world. Our faith edifies our lives in various ways, perhaps removing us from certain people, habits or situations... and those things/people might lament or resent our separation from them.

John wants us to know and remember that we are never alone in faith, no matter how drastically our lives might change. Through every growth pain we have a comforter:

The Book of John, 16:33

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

The Book of John, 14:26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

3:14 If we love our fellow souls, we ensure our life continued beyond this Earth. For the next phase of our life is love, manifested. 

3:15 There is no capacity for malice in Spirit. Hate is damaging. Negative energy, words, and actions contribute to the detriment of our world. Hate disables people's ability to grow and thrive. When a person or situation rejects us, we are meant to move on from them... not to remain in a festering hatred, Matthew 10:14.

3:16 Our purpose and potential here is all given in the effort to ensure healthy and joyous life for all of humanity. Both prophets and nature exemplify to us that life is to be sustained. Our planet is perfectly tailored to support the life in us, the prophets devoted their entire lives to others' well-being and thus they are our examples for our own directives while we are here.

3:17 If we have the opportunity or the material (whatever it may be) to fill a person's need, we have the responsibility to do so. To whom much is given, much is expected, Luke 12:48. Remember this passage from Matthew 25:31-46:

31 “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 

37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 

41 “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’

44 “Then they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

3:18 Let us show our love and our faith through what we produce, what we do and manifest on the earth in the lives of others. Let us be more than empty talkers. 

3:19-20 Our motivations and intentions are known. Let us be impactful here because we are compassionate and believe in everyone's right to freedom and justice and truth.

3:21-23 If we absorb this philosophy into our souls, our expressions and behavior with truthfully reflect our authentic character. We may have confidence in the fact that God is working as diligently toward our hopes as we are working for His. 

3:24 Our love and faith in spirit is a mutual commitment. Just as we devote our efforts to its ideals (bringing and ensuring compassion for all souls) It devotes itself to our personal ideals. It becomes passionate and diligent in helping us to accomplish our goals and to ensure love and justice and health within our lives.

NT: The First Epistle of John, Chapter 2

I John 2:1-29

2:1-2 The adoption of this philosophy into our lives and the absorption of it into our souls grants to us a mercy and a grace. When we are constantly working to be more patience and generous souls, we receive propitiation because it is understood that we a living with good-intention. 

2:3-4 A hypocrite cannot hide. God and children of Him are observant and intuitive. A hypocrite cannot hide from themselves, either. A soul is discontent until it is truthful to itself.

2:5-6 Conversely, if we live with this faith in our every moment, thought, word and action, we may truly claim this faith as ours. We may do so because we have remained committed to representing all of its values; we do not just believe it, we also live it.

2:7 The New Testament does not change or negate the Old Testament. John writes to us just as the prophets before him wrote. This philosophy has never changed; in fact, the values, intentions and motivations of this faith have remained in place since even before humanity.

2:8 The New Testament supplements the old in that it presses us in urgency to awaken to our truth: our purpose and our potential. We are taught quite specifically to take responsibility for ourselves and also for the well-being of others. Our sojourning-lives are impactful and have the blessed opportunity right now to bring light to the world: wisdom, justice, hope, joy and love.

2:9 There is no way to partially commit to this lifestyle, this faithful philosophy. For within it we are taught to have appreciation for all of our neighbors (humanity), and therefore if we do not make the same effort on behalf of all people, we are not of this faith.

2:10 The soul who is generous, compassionate and patient with all people, is a contented but also purposeful and progressive soul. Such a soul has direction, motivation and opportunity to accomplish.

2:11 The natural truth of life here is that a greedy, violent, evil, selfish and/or vengeful soul never finds rest. Such traits disable a soul from realizing the natural truths and joys of life... and causes them to pursue further fruitless and debilitating gains. But the only thing this type of person gains is an ever-increasing discontentment.

2:12 John writes to us in order to encourage us, to establish our ability to create ourselves: to learn and grow, to discover and fulfill our purpose here. John, as apostles before him have done, explains to us that whatever it is we cannot forgive ourselves for or however we think we have fallen short, our slate is clean and all possibilities become well... possible (for the first time or all over again).

2:13 It is in complete faith and trust that John writes to us. Trust in God's existence and ability and more importantly, His love for us. John writes to us about having overcome "the wicked one" for he has experienced that strength against temptations and tribulations produces joy and the ability to persevere. 

2:14 John writes to us because he has faith in our ability to learn and grow as he has because of this compassionate and instructive faith. In case you needed a reminder today, John impresses upon us that we are strong and that, if we allow it to, this faith lives in and with us throughout our lives.

2:15-16 We have spoken about the distinction between things of spirit and things of the world. The world teaches us that we require ruthlessness to succeed, arrogance and perhaps deceitfulness to accomplish. Spirit teaches us that success is in manifesting humility and gratitude, generosity and patience. The world teaches us that material wealth is the ultimate. Spirit teaches us that love is the ultimate. Whether consciously or not, we each decide which way of life to "love" to follow and commit to.

2:17 A reminder from John: one of the aforementioned ways of life is finite and the other is infinite. Our lives in the world are temporary; committing to the world renders our lives temporary. 

2:18-19 We must always be vigilant. There are ideas, people and institutions around us working deceptively to manipulate our objectives in life. History has shown us that a single person with a convincing ideology (good or bad) can lead an entire fleet of people. We must be able to discern the authentic from the inauthentic. The selfishly motivated and unjust from the humble and just. 

2:20-21 John writes to us because he knows that we understand. He knows that we are developing our faith and thus, our commitment to truth and justice. His writing is meant to secure our faith, to keep it from wavering amid the temptation of the world. When we become an authentic member of this faith, we gain access to all of its natural power and ability (for it becomes understood that we are working with creation to accomplish compassion for all life).

2:22-23 Think more broadly than the man because Messiah or not, Jesus is the manifestation of this philosophy. This philosophy is one of compassion, wisdom, truth and justice... to deny such things is to be evil. On small scales and large we are expected to exemplify those qualities and to refuse or neglect to do is to oppose the natural intention of life.

2:24-25 Therefore delve into truth: commit to the development of your soul through faith in compassion and justice, truth and joy. Truth is eternal, likely to most infinite concept we can grasp as humans. To become part of infinite truth is to become infinite.

2:26 John writes to us because he understands the nature of life on earth: it is abundant with opportunities, temptations and experiences which constantly require us to make decisions. John encourages to always make the right (righteous) decisions. We are taught that if we become inquisitive, observant and perception we will have complete control over our own minds and decisions; truth and authenticity will always be discernible to us.

2:27 This philosophy teaches us how to be strong and courageous, wise and compassionate... essentially, it becomes our armor, our motivation, and our guide. We become self-sufficient and independent in faith. It becomes our natural truth and source of eternal life.

2:28 Develop your soul and character to the point where you appreciate and respect yourself. To a point where you are confident in what your values, words, and behavior produces. When the culmination of this earth takes place, you want to be in a position of contentment: knowing you gave your best, most compassionate effort.

2:29 In practicing righteousness... in actually, tangibly, manifesting righteousness we claim our place as divinity's children. We cannot just say it or think it... we must be it. We must be this, this philosophy of life.

NT: The First Epistle of John, Chapter 1

I John 1:1-10

1:1 The apostles have done everything in their power to impress upon us the truth of their testimony. The dedicated their lives to progressing the circumstances of their witness of the birth of this faith, the manifestation of it through Jesus. 

1:2 In a different way, it is possible for us to feel and absorb the truth and substance of this faith. Our personal connection with divinity through our spirituality allows us to feel and see the truth as clearly as if we were standing beside the apostles during its inception.

1:3 The apostles write to us for two mains reasons, which John highlights here for us:

• That we may have fellowship with them in this philosophy: that in the development of our personal connection with spirituality, we are able to remember that we are not alone or pioneering this journey of endurance.

1:4

• That our joy may be full: that our lives may be filled with joy... that we may have hope, strength and optimism within and around us, propelling us forward in purpose and potential.

1:5 God is the light. Light is comprised of: life, creation, joy, wisdom, truth, and love.

1:6 We are held to our responsibility of being authentic: what we think, say and do must at all times be unified. If we proclaim ourselves as children of the light, we are expected to give light... to be a light: inspiring, nourishing, creating, promoting justice and compassion.

1:7 When we think, say and do with good-intention, we render ourselves blameless. Our focused and compassionate effort toward trying to be good is counted as being good. Live earnestly and thereby receive understanding and mercy.

1:8 We must be humble in accepting that we are fallible beings. We do not always have the upper hand on our less admirable emotions and reactions. Being a member of this faith does not make a person perfect and therefore divest yourself of any arrogance (if it exists within you at any level). For the apostles and even Jesus proclaimed themselves as servants of this faith rather than kings.

1:9-10 The acknowledgement of our short-comings is not a punishment from a sneering God... rather it is an opportunity to realize the places within ourselves we can grow. This faith is about growth and life, edification and earnest. We are able to do our most efficient and focused growing when we are able to target the specific areas of ourselves which require it.

NT: The Second Book of Peter, Chapter 3

II Peter 3:1-18

3:1-2 Peter states his intent for writing these two epistles: to reiterate the principles of our faith and hopefully further solidify all that it is comprised of: our commitment to compassion, justice and truth. As we near the end of the New Testament, it is summarily important that we remember and retain all that has been taught to us through the words and experiences of the prophets and apostles within this text.

3:3-4 For our commitment to this faith and these truths will be tested... not necessarily by God but by our opposition, those who commit evil and unjust acts. Our faith will, even regularly, face nihilism. The belief that life is meaningless. And as faith and divine creation are physically intangible, we cannot over proof of our truths. Rather we must express them through our behavior, undeterred by doubters and sneering. 

The faith we have in this philosophy and also the faith we have for ourselves only remains strong and healthy if we able to maintain it ourselves. We cannot be dependent on validation from others. Our faith must be impermeable to negative energy and opposition. We have the blessed opportunity to grow and develop our faith and our doing so is fundamental, instrumental to our purpose and potential.

3:5-6 Peter delves deeply into our history as souls. Although we may not realize or acknowledge the journey our souls and earth have taken, divine creation has been here, there all along wielding life. Forming and reforming the earth (we know a little bit of this because of humanities scientific studies of the earth and universe). This is a profoundly ancient world. God's presence here will not be new... no, life is quite familiar with His creative, curative and restorative hand.

3:7 Life as we know it and even life beyond this world is continuing in its finite journey. Our souls meet our maker (quite literally) and honestly, this should be perceived as a blessing. After a lifetime lived here, we should be happy with our personal contributions here: the friendships we cultivated, the opportunities for justice we created, accomplished and inspired. Always remember that fire burns off the fat, the unhealthiness and the weak (weak in compassion) but refines the strong and healthy. God's fire is a pleasant warmth to His compassionate children. God's fire eliminates (not eternally tortures) evil.

3:8 There are people who interpret this verse literally but the message is for us to understand that time is irrelevant, an obsolete concept with God.

3:9 God is everything He encourages us to be: vigilant and devoted. His intent for this stint of life on Earth is for humanity to develop their spiritual souls within a classroom of experience. Yet He keeps Himself abreast of the goings-on here, even though it requires much patience and endurance. It is not easy to let your children roam and make mistakes (hurting themselves and sometimes others)... but it necessary for their development. 

3:10 Nobody knows the date of the culmination of life on Earth and that should never concern us so much that it takes away from our personal, spiritual responsibility while we are here. As has been done before, the earth will go through a progress of restoration. Yet at that time, so will we.

3:11-12 We should allow the constant change and fluctuation of life and earth inspire us. In understanding this life as a temporary classroom, we are able to understand how valuable this time and opportunity of experience and growth is. 

3:13 Yet keeping in mind that the earth as we know it currently is temporary, we must also remember that new life is to be formed. Life comprised of and surrounded by righteousness. 

3:14 Look forward to the future laid out before you, God has promised that it only gets ever-increasingly better from here. Be diligent and peaceful. Think, speak and behave with good intention always, rendering yourself innocent. 

3:15 Recognize your life and all life on earth as a blessed and generous chance given by God. Imagine the patience and perseverance any entity would have to have to let humans reign freely (we're fallible, unreliable, unpredictable... we're brave, and kind and strong). We are a complex bundle of joys and contradictions but we are given to and loved for exactly who we are.

3:16 The apostles have devoted a lot of time to our well-being in order to strengthen us against manifested forms of destruction (opposition, doubt, wavering). They have encouraged us to be strong, observant, brave, and firmly entrenched in the power and comfort of faith.

The words in this text are often manipulated, twisted to corroborate corrupt motives. That is why it is important for even a non-believer to be familiar with the words in this book. There are several major religions in the world which influence and impact humanity in monumental ways. Knowing what these texts actually say can only benefit an individual. Knowledge is our best armor and defense. Never let anyone manipulate you; shed all weakness that is ignorance.

An except from Born Under a Million Shadows, Andrea Busfield

“Education is the key to [a] successful future... because it fights ignorance and intolerance and brings the blessing of opportunity. When a man has knowledge he has power- the power to make informed decisions; the power to distinguish truth from lies; and the power to shape his own destiny in accordance with God's wills. He is stronger than the ignorant man, who can do nothing but blindly accept the supposed learning of another.”

3:17 As an informed soul, devote yourself without wavering to your personal truths and faith. In life, your faith will be tested and tempted to sway, it is imperative in those moments to realize and disallow it from happening. 

3:18 From Peter's own words: Grow in grace and knowledge.

NT: The Second Book of Peter, Chapter 2

II Peter 2:1-22

2:1 One of the most important messages the New Testament heralds is that we have the blessed opportunity to be responsible for ourselves. That we need to be vigilant and focused, observant and in-tune with our spirit (gut feelings, and natural intuition). For deception exists around us, and sometimes most especially in the places we least expect.

We've spoken about there being many types of teachers in the world; sprinkled throughout lives are continuous series of people teaching us through their actions... and influencing us with their words. Realizing this, it then becomes our responsibility to discern their authenticity and truthfulness. The false teachers spoken of in this verse can influence us in two kinds of ways 1) intentionally and 2) unintentionally.

• 1) Intentional: This type of person is deceptive. They manipulate people, ideas and situations to accomplish self-interested motives. The danger this type of person poses on us is that they target the aloof. They are easily able to direct or redirect a person who is not firmly established in personal principles and values. 
• 2) Unintentional: This type of person has not developed their character. Their actions, words and motives in life are (at best) unfocused and therefore chaotic and (at worst) destructive due to selfishness and apathy. The danger with this type of person is that in allowing ourselves to be influenced by them, we lose our individuality: our purpose and potential is wasted. 

2:2 Untruth leads to destruction. Therefore it is our responsibility to be alert. To participate in this world; to be able to discern truth from untruth. To confront injustice, reject it, diminish it, and most importantly: to recognize it.

2:3 Greed is the root of deception. To satisfy their own gain, a false person will construct any false reality they can, any way they can, to get you to unknowingly participate in their scheme. This exists on all levels: (from) "Try this ice cream, it's delicious..." just to trick someone into sharing your taste-bud's misery (to) "If you don't come to this pew every week you will burn in hell*" just to scare a family in to donating to the pockets of a church leader's pocket.

We need to develop an ability to have a personal spirituality. To develop our faith and establish our values separate from what other people say and do. That way, we do not need to follow anyone but ourselves and our faith. We cannot be led into deception if we are the sole leader of our own path.

Meaning that, we need to be observant enough to notice the grimace on the face of the ice cream eater before they made their request; we need to develop the common sense logic that our donations are not helping the less fortunate but are actually building faithless-gold and jewel studded churches (if and when such is the case).

2:4 This is a stern inevitability that evil will have to confront: it's own corrupt actions standing before an all-powerful manifestation of life and compassion, our Creator. Essentially Peter is telling us that if even angels are responsible for their corrupt actions (Lucifer was/is an angel, more on that when we study the Old Testament), than so are the false souls here on earth.

Hell, rather than pit of eternal fire (a loving God of life does not endlessly torture souls; evil souls just cease existing) is a holding place for the unjust until God confronts us all together (as He has promised to do, Hebrews 11:39-40). Fire is symbolic for eliminating what is weak (corruption) and refining what is strong (compassion). It is not a literal fire.

2:5-6 Throughout history evil has been allowed to self-destruct. The story of Noah and Sodom and Gomorrah are examples to us that even if complete or near-complete rejuvenation is necessary, God is always going to extract evil from His children's lives.

2:7-9 Moreover, God is always gone to deliver (lead, inspire, support) those who work in justice and compassion and truth... no matter how encircled by oppression they are. He perfectly winnows the evil from the good.

2:10-11 Pure evil such as is referenced in this verse, cannot be reasoned with even by the angels. Therefore it becomes our duty to create justice and through out faith sustain and promote it. 

2:12-13 Evil always and inevitably perishes in its own corruption. There is no other outcome.

12:14-15 Humans within this world have become quite familiar with the depravity of evil spread throughout our globe... evil, unfortunately, needs no introduction or description. Yet because Peter speaks of it, we can understand ourselves as souls of the same family, the same faith and condition of life as people who lived long before us. 

12:16 Evil likes to think of itself as clever and stealth... yet as this verse explains, evil is actually inept: "a dumb donkey speaking with a man's voice...". Because they do not understand spirituality, the nature of soul and earth and heaven, they are truly aloof and unfocused.

12:17 Evil disallows faith and joy and justice to thrive but it will not always have the freedom to do so. Not only does evil become nonfunctional, it also becomes nonexistent. This current life is life of freedom of choice, but it is temporary. The next life is only able to sustain those who made the right and just choices.

2:18-19 We must never allow ourselves to be imprisoned by people with false doctrines. It is essential to remain committed to our personal spiritual truth.

2:20 By developing our faith and becoming more spiritually and wisely aware, we gain a responsibility for upholding ourselves to these standards. We must never allow ourselves to be tempted, influencing or deceived into abandoning our values. Once we know better, we are expected to be and do better.

2:21 This is a reiteration of Luke 12:48, knowing comes with responsibility. Romans 11 and Matthew 13 reference "slumber" for those who are figuratively asleep receive some leniency for not knowing better. The spiritually awakened however, acquire much blessed responsibility... and are quite required to uphold it.

2:22 Evil cannot fake goodness for long. Only authentic and focused compassion remains solid. 

NT: The Second Book of Peter, Chapter 1

II Peter 1:1-21

1:1 A greeting from Peter to "those who have obtained" this precious faith.

1:2 Peter wishes for each of us to endeavor toward continual growth within this philosophy of life.

1:3 For from our faith we derive the creator's wisdom and essence of life; we receive our life's purpose and potential. 

1:4 For from our faith we are given ever-increasing direction, motivation, protection and love. Peter's prayer for us is that we continue to be partakers of this compassionate philosophy, separate from the corruption within the world.

1:5 For the growth and development of our faith to be substantial, it is necessary for us to be diligent in every moment. Giving every person and circumstance our greatest and most compassionate effort. The first virtue of our faith being: our ability to grow in knowledge. We must become contemplative, observant and listening humans with inquisitive minds and souls.

1:6 Through our wisdom comes our ability to create and retain self-control. With a broader understanding of our complex world, we learn of our capability keeping ourselves tethered to our values (now known through our journey for wisdom). Our measured self-control allows us to persevere, to endure the tribulations, relationships and circumstances within our lives. Our perseverance enables our ability to commit to our faith and to remain steadfast in our faithful nature. 

1:7 Our faithfulness inspires our empathy for humanity around us. Empathy expands our capacity for impartial and vibrant love.

1:8 These gifts are created within us by our loving God, divinity, the manifestation of love and life. These gifts are given to us; they are ours to utilize and claim. These gifts abound: they even continually reproduce themselves. In this truth we find assurance that in our faith we will always be fruitful, impactful, purposeful.

1:9 The one who retains the wisdom within this faith never lacks and is never short-sighted. For short-nearsightedness neglects to consider and appreciate all of the manifested life around us. In walking with this faith, continually in every moment and day of our lives, we always remember our growth. Our developed wisdom disallows us of falling victim to our past mistakes and shortcomings. 

1:10 Be diligent in the acknowledge and acceptance of your call and election: for you were chosen and entrusted to be impactful here. If we follow the guidance of our faith, we never stumble... we never meet a roadblock we cannot diminish from our path.

1:11 For to join in with this divine current of life is the receive all of the benefits of its power and flow. Your faith will construct constant not escapes but rather entrances into new and better ways of life. Our creator gives with abundance eternally.

1:12-13 Because our purpose and potential here is so important, Peter does not hesitate to stress the truth of these concepts. Even to those already established in faith, he implores us to remain and retain our focus. 

1:14-15 While he had this platform, Peter displayed his impassioned beliefs. God's children have work to do and journeys to partake on but they (and God) always ensure that this faith remains with us as well. Guiding, supporting and defending us when we require it (and even when we're chugging right along in faith and focus).

1:16 This philosophy was (is) meaningful to the apostles and disciples and souls who contributed to this scripture. Their passion came from personal experience... and such is the only way truth can be taught, from those who have observed and experienced the love and guidance of this faith.

1:17-18 Peter is not wasting his own time and he certainly is not wasting ours. He writes these words because he feels it is vital that they reach humanities eyes. Peter knows that not many were able to experience compassion and divinity manifested and therefore it becomes his life mission to proclaim its truth and profound impact.

1:19-21 Remember always that our God loves without preference or requirement. He is a light hoping to illuminate every crevice of darkness that will have Him. Peter reminds us to be generous with out faith, to be generous through our faith. All gifts and lives are from God, and because God has given freely and abundantly... it becomes our duty to follow and give in like manner.

NT: The First Book of Peter, Chapter 5

I Peter 5:1-14

5:1-2 Peter implores the propellers of this philosophy to "shepherd the flock of God which is among [us]". Whether you are a teacher or individual participant of this faith, gather and encourage rather than scatter and discourage. Not because you have to but because you want to. Peter asks us to serve as willing and even eager overseers: souls whose commitment to compassion and justice is natural rather than forced.

5:3-4 Jesus led without exerting authority. The beautiful irony of this faith is that commitment to it makes you a servant rather than a king or queen. We are supposed to envelop humanity in our impassioned effort for justice. We must live humbly and productively... such is the way to inherit a crown. Only those who do not seek adulation receive it.

5:5 In Proverbs 3:11 it is reiterated to us that God gives grace to the humble. Therefore, become a student of life. For there is much to be learned from all of the people around us: friends and foes alike. Just and unjust alike. We have abundant opportunity on earth to learn what to do and what not to do. There is something to be learned from every soul here; never be too proud to be a student, a listener, an observer.

5:6 God will be able to exalt a soul who has learned much and become wise. Through our humility we increase in wisdom.

5:7 Be a participant in your relationship with God. He cares about you... deeply. Do you return the same commitment to Him? He is with you in both joy and tribulation therefore remember Him always, not just when you need Him. Express your love and gratitude for Him by loving His children as He does.

5:8 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." Your natural and faithful focus enables you to progress and excel through all tribulation and temptation. Our bodies have the tendency to be selfish and to desire, to seek vengeance, to procure (a tendency to give in to that which corrupts us). Remaining steadfast in faith enables you to be stronger than your weaknesses and temptations.

5:9 Resist that which taints and tempts your soul. A prominent history of humanity before you has already started and completed this journey... therefore you can make it through too. They've passed you the baton, run this race with joy and peace, knowing Who awaits you at the finish line.

5:10 "...may the God of all grace... after you have suffered (endured) a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you." For we learn and grow through our experience here. A life lived with God ensures that everything you go through inevitable contributes to you... to your wisdom and strength.

5:11 To our compassionate Creator "be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." His authority is unchallenged and interminable. Meaning that you can tether yourself with trust to His everlasting love and promises.

5:12-14 This is Peter's farewell in this first book (he begins the second book of Peter following this chapter). He proclaims the truth of this philosophy (and truly even common sense validates its truth). With well wishes and peace, Peter closes this faithful chapter.

NT: The First Book of Peter, Chapter 4

I Peter 4:1-19

4:1 The soul and spirit of Jesus manifested itself on the earth in pure, focused and impassioned compassion. He manifested humility, brought to life a energy of commitment to justice, serenity and truth. Peter requests that we arm ourselves with the same mind. After all, we are embroiled in the same fight as He was: justice v. injustice, good v. evil, light v. Darkness, trust v. untruth. 

Jesus was able to retain his faith, his patience, his generosity, (his sanity) and his life by employing the method of this philosophy to his life. He accomplished His mission, fulfilled His purpose and utilized His potential... if you hope to do the same things with your life, He exemplified the way.

4:2 Ultimately, Jesus inherited spiritual life. He graduated from the world and all of its conditions: fallibility, vulnerability, mortality, limitation. The same inheritance is offered to you and the souls within this book dedicated their lives to encouraging you to accept it.

4:3 Peter reminds us of our history, the history of our ancestors and maybe also of ourselves: we tried the other method of living. We tried and we failed; so many people tried to obtain and retain happiness and life through gains of material wealth and it never worked. 

We have lived enough of our lives in a slumber, unaware of our grander purpose and potential. We spent enough time unfocused and unmotivated. We've wasted enough time, even if we have only wasted a single minute. Now is the time to be sober, committed, productive.

4:4 In the development of our personal and spiritual growth, it might become necessary for us to branch of from the people and institutions we used to affiliate ourselves with. Likely, our choice to separate will not be received well. That should not deter or even concern us. We have a purpose here and our focus must be entirely on it.

4:5 No matter what anybody says of you or accuses you of, God knows your truth. You have a personal connection with Him. He is more familiar with you than you are with you... He created you and is able to understand and view your life from all perspectives. You do not need to worry about how others define you because God has given you the freedom to define yourself.

4:6 The literal and figurative dead both receive this philosophy and are given the choice to accept or reject it. God knows that humans judge each other; separate from our own flawed dis-ability to judge, He judges. He knows the intention of our hearts; He can discern where we stand amid the fine lines of right and wrong, just and unjust. Each soul has its personal moments with God, during which even a lost soul can regain life.

4:7 This classroom as it is expires. Generations have existed before us and have been entirely cleared off of the earthly map. We are souls, here for a sojourn only. Peter reveals to us that our sojourn here is reaching its culmination. Remember that the end of this life is not the end of life and therefore there is nothing to fear. As we are reaching the culmination, it is time now, more than ever, to be focused on our faith... not out of fear for punishment. No, we must be focused on our faith because our faith instructs us, teaches and grows us. There are many lessons to be learned here and while we have the opportunity, we should be blessed to learn as many as we can.

4:8 Here is how we serve this faith, learning from its instruction:

• Have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins, Proverbs 10:12.

4:9

• Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. Do good with sincerity, authenticity and gratitude for the ability to be impactful here.

4:10

• Re-gift your gifts. Share your blessings. Be like a light, reach into darkness and illuminate it. Your life have the potential to inspire and heal others... allow your life to do all that it is capable of.

4:11

• Become a platform, allowing good to speak its truth to humanity. Never thwart or hinder a compassionate voice. Allow all goodness to flow into the earth. We are blessed to have much diversity on our planet; allow it to thrive. The way we express or understand our conception of divinity might be different but every spirituality with a core of justice and love deserves its right to speak.

4:12-14 Understand your duty to justice as a blessed opportunity: Acts 5:41 So they departed from the presence of the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.

A beautiful life, a rewarding life is a life lived in the service of justice and compassion. The apostles in the aforementioned verse became our example. There is no more meaningful thing to devote your life to than this philosophy (which works to ensure the health and joy of all life).

Wake up each morning in fascination and gratitude: for you were entrusted with life. You were given the ability to impact life here. It is a monumental and blessed opportunity and God has declared that we are worthy. The very presence of our souls here points out that we are worthy of this massive mission... for we were given the life through which to join it.

Not only does humanity benefit from our enlistment in this spiritual army, but so do we:

Romans 5:3-5 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

4:15 You will be kept busy in life no matter which path you choose. Therefore, choose the path which through your busyness you will accomplish. Don't just go through the motions. Be the motion. Propel your values, manifest them. 

4:16 Never be ashamed of your work in compassion. Have courage and appreciation for yourself when you battle injustice because you win the war. Through your work with God, you win the war. Never be ashamed of your humility, of your alignment with good and insistence on being fair, sober, kind, generous, hopeful, faithful. For such inherits life.

4:17-18 The first people God will confront are His fellow-workers, for they signed themselves up as participants of this mission. Therefore, as workers with God we must produce. We have the blessed duty of producing patience, love, compassion, justice, light, truth, opportunity. 

We have discussed it before, Luke 12:48... From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. People often interpret this verse as a message to the monetarily wealthy only. Not so!

If you have been given any gift which applied to others will contribute to their well-being, you are expected to use it. If you have wisdom, you are meant to share your wisdom. If you have the time and capacity to be a friend, a guide, a helper in any circumstance or field, you have the responsibility of sharing it.

This philosophy has grand goals and therefore has high standards. When we commit ourselves to this faith, we are expected to strive toward those standards. Always, in every moment. God is going to look first at the people who had the ability and platform to do the most here. For those who realize that their soul is impactful here... is quite responsible for how it impacted humanity.

4:19 Confront injustice. It will fight back. You have the source of strength and courage to defeat it when you commit yourself to this faith. For this faith will always faithfully love you, guide you and protect you.

NT: The First Book of Peter, Chapter 3

I Peter 3:1-22

3:1 The translation of what this verse actually means is this: be faithful and committed to your spouse's faith. It is a continuation of the concept of being a focused influence in the world... simply applied now to the family.

3:2 The advice is the same for any social relationship or interaction: let your humility and faith lead as a living example to others. In the previous chapter, we discussed honorable conduct in various situations of life; having that same honorable conduct is adventurous within the family as well.

3:3 Scripture encourages each soul to develop, edify and enhance itself rather than the vessel which carries it. Spiritual development enables us to become a valuable force among humanity. Through our patience, compassion, wisdom and sincerity our beauty is revealed and utilized to its fullest potential.

3:4 A gentle and quiet spirit, a generous and contemplative soul, is an incorruptible manifestation of beauty. Our God is a god of light and light (spirit, wisdom, truth) is the beautiful of all life. When you become a beacon of light, your beauty becomes precious and truly timeless. Do not let outward, empty beauty define yourself or anything else as valuable.

3:5-6 Sarah was equally firm in her faith alongside Abraham. They worked together in faith. Sarah being just as courageous and trusting in God as Abraham. The submission spoken of in these verses is a submission (a respectful commitment) to faith, to your own and to the betterment of the faith of the people around you. A joint effort.

3:7 The same imploration for compassion within familial relationships is given also to husbands. As we know, God has no partiality. Husbands, ensure that you have honorable conduct, too. Sarah contributed to Abraham's acts of faith. Perhaps "obey" is the wrong word to be used. Instead, she joined in a mutual effort with Abraham; because she also believed, she did not oppose or hinder his work in faith.

3:8 Finally, Peter begins the upshot of his advice in this chapter:

• All of you be of one mind: Have empathy as you journey through this shared experience of life on earth. Maintain a conscious effort to improve the quality of life for all humans. Every family in every country is striving toward the same hopes: safety, happiness and health. We are already of one mind, we only need to realize it.

• Having compassion for one another: Protect and ensure the justice and health for each person you interact with. Whether we are privy to the circumstances or not, each life is driven and inspired, impeded upon and influenced by external factors. Understand that life is often more complicated, filled with more grey areas than perfectly defined black and white ones. At the very least, give to all people the benefit of your honorable conduct.
• Love as brothers: Love is our most prominent guide, leading us back to our natural state: although geopolitical divisions convince us that our bodies have different origins, our souls come from the same creator and our spiritual kin.

• Be tenderhearted: Be gentle and compassionate, considerate and kind. Give your eyes, ears and hands to the causes of less fortunate individuals, animals and all forms of life.

• Be courteous + Humble: Do not be pretentious. Do not make it your life's mission (or even an aspect of your life) to display whatever fortune you have to people who have none of less. If you have an insecurity, fix the problem within yourself. Nothing external can heal you.

3:9

• Do not be vengeful: The universe is going to return the energy you put into it; it is the natural way of the earth and spirit. The universe, God (however you conceive of divinity) is going to fix what is broken in your life, you do not need to do any dirty work. You simply continue to produce goodness and goodness will ensure that it finds its way back to you. You already have a defender: God. Be compassionate and productive and never let unkindness deter you from that.

• Re-gift blessings: Spread and share your blessings; blessings are meant to abound: we are given to in order that we may give. When we share, we grow our happiness and our wealth (in whatever it may be). A greedy spirit does not understand that concept. When God finds a productive source through which to deliver blessings to the people of the earth, He's going to flood that tunnel, that source, with blessings. An uncountable amount... because there is so much to go around, and so much that is needed.

• Inherit your blessings: Acknowledge, understand, trust and then accept your blessings. God created this life for you; tailored this body and this planet to sustain you. He offers so much but not enough people accept Him and His offerings. Give Him permission to enter your life, to edify your life, to guide, to inspire, to enhance and protect your life.

3:10-11 Here is how to be in love with life (from Psalm 34:12-16):

• Keep evil thoughts out of your mind. Keep evil words out of your mouth. Keep evil actions out of your hands.

• Do not lie, manipulate or deceive. Instead, be sincere and honest.

3:12 God's love and protection are focused on His children, the fellow-workers of justice. Their prayers go directly to Him, with speed and prominence. Those who commit evil acts have none of the benefits that you do... therefore, take advantage of your blessings! Utilize them! You are equip with so much purpose and potential. You are able to accomplish so much.

3:13 Fall in love with truth of this question: Who is capable of harming you when you stand with God? Absolutely nobody.

3:14 You have nothing to fear when you join into God's army? Justice and compassion, in order to be what they are, must confront injustice and evil. Find honor in this battle. God wants you to know that even in tribulation, soldiering for the side of justice ensures your inevitable victory. Fear nothing and no person: nobody can take away your spiritual life. This life on earth is a wisp but your spirit is bold and cannot be defeated. 

3:15 Represent your faith. Enable others to understand the origin of your courage, humility and hope.

3:16 If you life with consistent honorable conduct, those who oppose you only construct their own shame. Inevitable, they will be forced to confront their shame.

3:17 There is tribulation in life, that fact cannot be denied. Peter's logic here explains to us that if we are going to experience tribulation either way, it may as well be for a compassionate and productive reason.

3:18 Our purpose and potential in life was exemplified to us; our lives on earth can become a journey toward spiritual life.

3:19-20 Jesus interacted with all people. This philosophy, this faith was (and is) offered to all people without preference or exclusivity. Jesus was not too good or too proud to converse with the impoverished and the imprisoned. Mark 2:17 When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.

3:21-22 Baptism is symbolic of an internal change and effort within us: a cleansing of the soul caused by faithful focus and compassionate intention. It is a commitment to the manifestation of spirit, wisdom, justice and truth.