We could spend days cataloging the ways organized religion has damaged and distorted the original message of Jesus. At a fundamental level, the very concept of religion, as an institution built on authority, dogma, and mediation, is incompatible with what Jesus was actually teaching, a point I’ve explored extensively in my writings.
A genuine fulfillment of Jesus’ teachings requires a change in how one lives—in habits, priorities, and perception, not the worship of Jesus as a god. In this sense, his teachings function much more like Buddhism: people follow the Buddha’s insights and practices without worshiping the Buddha himself as a deity. The focus is on transformation, not devotion.
This is not a fringe or radical position. Many churches and Christian communities have adopted this understanding without controversy. They continue to respect and follow the teachings of Jesus while rejecting the layers of instruction, doctrine, and dogma that were added to the faith generations after his death. Those later additions are not treated as part of Jesus’ original message, but as historical developments that do not define what it actually means to follow his teachings.
It is widely acknowledged that the fundamental teachings of Jesus underwent distortion and misinterpretation shortly after his death. While his ideas gained popularity and became institutionalized, many of his lessons failed to be fully integrated into the lives of his followers in the subsequent years. This phenomenon can be attributed, in part, to the enigmatic nature of his teachings. Jesus frequently employed metaphors and symbolism, which often represented deeper meanings beyond face value. Consequently, his teachings have been subject to widespread misinterpretation, as many individuals interpreted them literally without grasping their symbolic intent.
An Example being the Camel through the Eye of A Needle
The N.I.V. translations have been commendable, yet there is a growing argument for a contemporary interpretation of Jesus’ teachings that moves beyond metaphors to more explicit, literal instructions. Many individuals struggle to devote ample time to deciphering poetic and metaphorical language, which, while aesthetically appealing, can obscure the intended message.
Following Jesus’ death, his message unfortunately veered off course and was swiftly misinterpreted. His teachings were transmitted secondhand and third hand, akin to a progressively distorted game of telephone. Those who directly interacted with him received the clearest and most accurate articulation of his lessons, unencumbered by the subsequent misinterpretations and mistranslations that unfolded over the years.
One of the earliest deviations from Jesus’ original teachings occurred with the formalization of Christianity as an organized religion, notably as the official state religion of Rome. This institutionalization inadvertently fostered tribalism within humanity, contrary to Jesus’ emphasis on our fundamental unity as a species. Any form of tribalism or division stands in direct opposition to Jesus’ teachings of universal unity.
The proliferation of Christian denominations—estimated at approximately 45,000—reflects the extensive use of metaphorical language, ambiguity, and symbolism in Jesus’ teachings, contributing to factionalism among self-identified Christians.
Engaging in assertions of superiority among groups or adhering to a mentality of “we are right, they are wrong” embodies tribalism, contrary to Jesus’ call for universal unification with all humanity. With over 10,000 religions globally, and amid the multitude of Christian denominations, the metaphorical nature and interpretive challenges of Jesus’ language have notably contributed to these divisions.
The historical strategy of divide and conquer has consistently posed a significant threat to humanity, leveraging factionalism and societal divisions to maintain control over populations. This sociological tactic dates back to Julius Caesar’s era and continues to undermine societal cohesion. The remedy lies in humanity’s collective unity, transcending all forms of division—whether political, geographical, cultural, or otherwise.
While I adhere to the teachings of Jesus, I refrain from adopting religious labels for myself. Identifying with a specific label would merely serve as an expression of ego, reinforcing separation from others. Instead, Jesus’ message emphasizes unity, urging us to rise above our egos and reject division and tribalism in all its forms.
How Jesus Teachings have been abandoned by Many Christians
Why do many individuals who identify as Christians advocate for ideas that directly oppose the teachings of Jesus? Ironically, secular groups often champion principles such as universal love and acceptance—core values that align closely with the teachings of Christ. This discrepancy highlights a fundamental issue: despite professing to follow Jesus’ teachings, many self-described Christians have not genuinely embraced them. This can be readily observed by assessing whether their actions align with Jesus’ teachings.
The disconnect is evident in the hostility directed towards people of different groups, a phenomenon seen daily. Historical examples like slavery and Jim Crow laws in America further illustrate how some Christians invoked religious justifications for racial segregation, contrary to Jesus’ message of love and unity. These instances reflect a failure to grasp Jesus’ teachings among those who implemented such systemic racism and hatred, all while claiming adherence to Christian values.
It is difficult to reconcile these actions with the love that Jesus advocated. Indeed, many who assert superiority over others disregard Jesus’ foundational teaching that all are equal and equally children of God. This behavior contradicts the spirit of unity and spiritual awakening that Jesus intended, irrespective of whether individuals identify as Christian or adhere to other spiritual paths.
Moreover, contemporary conflicts among religions, particularly Christian sects advocating for segregation, further diverge from Jesus’ teachings. It overlooks the striking similarities between Jesus’ teachings and those of other spiritual traditions, such as Buddhism, which emphasize compassion and unity.
Ultimately, Jesus would prioritize spiritual awakening over religious labels. True adherence to his teachings entails embodying love and compassion towards all, transcending divisions that contradict the fundamental unity of humanity and our shared spiritual essence.
Insisting on perpetuating an “us versus them” mentality, asserting superiority, and proclaiming exclusive truths such as “we are right, you are wrong” or “you are going to hell, we are not” are fundamentally contrary to the teachings of Jesus. Despite his profound influence and significance, Jesus was not the first nor the sole spiritual guide ordained by the universe. There exists a meaningful convergence between Jesus’ teachings and those found in Eastern faiths like Buddhism, underscoring how the universe has bestowed multiple historical figures across different regions as guides to spiritual awakening.
The universe did not intend for separate, competitive, and adversarial factions to emerge as a consequence of these teachings. The perception in some interpretations of the Bible that Jesus is the exclusive Son of God has historically led to the invalidation of other faith traditions. However, the truth is that we all are children of God, reflecting a broader spiritual unity.
Figures such as Buddha, Krishna, and Jesus share many commonalities because they tap into universal truths while employing distinct approaches. The universe itself remains indifferent to the specific spiritual paths we choose, emphasizing instead the awakening to our higher consciousness.
Rejecting ideas from other faith traditions often stems from the ego’s inclination to perpetuate divisive “us versus them” ideologies, rather than fostering unity and spiritual understanding.
Jesus Message/Goal:
Jesus did not aim to inaugurate a new organized religion, as this would have contradicted his core message. He did not advocate for his own worship either; rather, he exemplified ascended higher ego-less consciousness, an attainable state for all who follow the guidance he shared. The focus should never have been on establishing a new religion. Redirecting prayers from Jesus to the Holy Spirit and our Father ensures that requests are properly addressed. Misdirected prayers may explain why some feel their prayers go unanswered.
The biblical injunction against having false idols remains a pivotal teaching that impedes genuine spiritual enlightenment for modern followers of Jesus. This prohibition extends universally, including to Jesus himself—a concept that challenges traditional Christian beliefs but holds true nonetheless.
It is crucial for Christians to acknowledge that while Jesus had a predetermined mission to impart the path to enlightenment and higher spiritual consciousness, this did not entail the founding of new religious factions in his name. More importantly than directing prayers to Jesus (which he did not instruct) is reverence and praise that should be directed to our father (the universe) and seeking guidance through its holy spirit instead of our egos. Jesus would have opposed the creation of divisions or factions based on him and his teachings, as it contradicts his emphasis on unity and the elimination of separation from others.
This perspective aligns closely with Buddhist practices, where adherence to Siddhartha’s teachings aims at achieving enlightenment without daily worship of Buddha. Both Christian and Buddhist paths toward spiritual awakening share significant similarities, reflecting overlapping directions in theology. Historical documentation underscores numerous parallels between the teachings of Buddha and Jesus.
Your Goal/Pursuit:
Truly surrendering to the power, authority, and will of our Father, the universe, is essential. It is more impactful to invoke the power and spirit of the universe—the Holy Spirit—during prayer than merely proclaiming acceptance of Jesus as a savior, a step often emphasized in many churches’ spiritual teachings. While it is valid to recognize that Jesus came to teach us the path to spiritual awakening and enlightenment, it is crucial to understand that he referred to himself as the ‘Son of God’ in a manner that implies we all share in this divine essence.
Jesus imparted teachings aimed at guiding us toward achieving the same ascended higher consciousness and enlightenment that he attained. His intent was for us to direct our prayers and meditations to the spirit of the universe—the Holy Spirit—rather than exclusively praying to him. The absence of tangible outcomes from prayers often arises from neglecting to invoke and commune with the spirit of the universe during these practices.
Incorporating mindful declarations to the spirit of the universe, seeking its guidance and direction, enhances the spiritual journey and deepens the connection to divine guidance during meditation and prayer.
- Please guide me what to do next and what to say next
- I leave my life and future in your hands. Please make it clear what I should do.
- Help me avoid and resist the temptations to fall into my ego’s pitfalls and traps.
- Forgive me for caving into my ego’s temptations/weaknesses.
- I sincerely forgive specific people by name for bruising and hurting your ego
It is crucial not to dismiss universal principles and laws acknowledged by other faiths simply because they were not explicitly mentioned by Jesus. Concepts like ‘karma’ are valid and real, even if they were not directly named by Jesus in his teachings. The biblical adage “You reap what you sow” aligns closely with the concept of karma recognized in other spiritual traditions.
Regarding the afterlife, it is understood across various beliefs that only our identity passes at death, and we begin anew in successive human incarnations. This perspective, while reminiscent of Eastern philosophies, reflects a universal truth recognized by Jesus as well. We are continuous human manifestations of the universe’s essence.
The inclination to assert that only what Jesus explicitly addressed is true, while rejecting insights from other faiths, stems from egotistical and tribalistic tendencies. It perpetuates a mindset of “my beliefs are superior to yours,” disregarding the comprehensive nature of reality, God, and the universe that emerges from the collective wisdom of different spiritual traditions. Embracing the truth that spans across diverse faiths and beliefs fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness and unity that underpins our spiritual existence.
Your Daily Tests To Choose the Path of Peace
Throughout your daily life, you encounter a series of challenges and tests that require forgiveness to overcome successfully. These obstacles are akin to navigating an obstacle course where hurdles are constantly thrown your way, testing your ability to set aside ego and practice forgiveness. Whether faced with annoyances, offenses, or feelings of entitlement throughout the day, each presents an opportunity to practice forgiveness.
In Matthew 5:9, Jesus explicitly teaches that those who opt for peace over conflict align themselves with God (The Universe) and embody true unity. Confronting these hurdles and resisting temptations towards vindictiveness, hostility, or vengeance allows you to choose the path of peace. Consistently opting for peace accelerates your progress towards spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
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