Overview
This session is the final installment in the "Jesus Way Philosophy" series, focusing on natural theology—knowing God through nature, logic, and reason instead of solely man-made scriptures. The class explores philosophical maxims, scriptural examples, historical context, and practical spiritual insights, aiming to present a profound, inspiring spiritual path rooted in the observation of creation.
The Jesus Way Philosophy Series Recap
- Covered ontology (nature of being), cosmology (nature of the universe), and epistemology (how we know).
- Culminates in theology, emphasizing the pitfalls of rigid, institutionalized beliefs.
- Proposes a spiritual path rich in depth, ongoing growth, and personal transformation.
Critique of Traditional Religious Frameworks
- Institutional religion often reduces spirituality to static beliefs, stripping away motivation for personal growth.
- Organized religion can create harmful dogmas and psychological traps, misusing theological authority.
- True spiritual paths should inspire striving, learning, and living in alignment with divine principles.
The Primacy of Natural Theology
- Natural theology deduces knowledge of God from the natural world, logic, and reason—not just scripture.
- Reality and the patterns of creation are seen as the most reliable revelations of divine nature.
- Dismissing nature as "pagan" or "evil" is contradictory, as creation itself is the truest expression of God.
Three Maxims of Natural Law
- All things begin and end in their source: Everything returns to its divine origin.
- All creation is extension: All that exists bears the imprint of its creator.
- All things seek their fulfillment: Every being has a purpose, moving towards completion.
Examples and Illustrations from Nature
- The cycles of the elements (earth, water, air, fire) illustrate beginning and returning to the source.
- Water cycles, light, and biological processes demonstrate universal laws.
- DNA, mycelium networks, and metamorphosis exhibit the intelligence and design inherent in creation.
Key Philosophical Arguments for God's Existence
- Motion: Everything set in motion requires a first mover.
- Cause: All effects have causes, necessitating an uncaused cause.
- Contingency: Everything contingent must rely on a necessary being.
- Degrees: Judgments imply an ultimate standard.
- Final causes: Natural order and direction imply an intelligent source.
- The transcendental argument: Rationality, logic, and morality require a divine foundation.
Jesus’s Use of Natural Theology
- Parables and teachings consistently draw on nature to reveal spiritual truths.
- Examples include the fig tree, sparrows, lilies, and the separation of sheep and goats.
- Compassion, not belief or ritual, is emphasized as the measure of spiritual attainment.
Jewish-Christian Mystical Roots (The Essenes)
- The Essenes taught that God's law is written on the heart and in nature, not just in books.
- Practiced daily communions with aspects of nature, integrating physical and spiritual life.
- Emphasized balance, awakening, and respect for the divine feminine and natural world.
Practical Spiritual Application
- Observing and communing with nature deepens connection with the divine.
- Everyday experiences—eating, drinking, being in nature—are opportunities for spiritual practice.
- Recognizing oneself as an expression of God fosters humility, unity, and reverence for all life.
Recommendations / Advice
- Engage with nature as an ongoing spiritual practice to enhance awareness of the divine.
- Use philosophical arguments and observations of the natural world to ground and communicate spiritual beliefs.
- Pursue a balanced approach that honors both material and spiritual realities for holistic growth.
Action Items
- TBD – Presenter: Transform the Jesus Way Philosophy series into a comprehensive video course with expanded content.
- TBD – Listeners: Reflect on how natural theology can become part of daily spiritual practice and personal growth.