The Brain, Mind and Consciousness Ephesians 4:18

 The Brain, Mind and Consciousness Ephesians 4:18

The Brain, Mind and Consciousness

Mental states are actually only physical states, are they not? I mean, the brain creates chemicals which produce feelings and emotions

Like it or not, emotions share some very real biochemical links with your nervous system, immune system and digestive system.

Consciousness is a property of the brain, and the brain is a biochemical engine or its just a chemical super-computer.

So what is the difference between the 'brain' and the 'mind'?

It may seem, on the surface, that distinguishing between the brain and the mind is not important but to understand the Scriptures properly we must recognize the difference in the brain versus that which the brain produces.

The dictionary says, Brain: "That part of the central nervous system that includes all the higher nervous centers; enclosed within the skull". In other words it is the physical member of the body that controls the biological functions of the body in addition to producing thoughts, attitudes &c.

Mind: the element of a person that enables them to be aware of the world and their experiences, to think, and to feel; the faculty of consciousness and thought

Thus the Mind is thinking produced by the brain.

I think, therefore I am

"As he thinketh within himself, so is he" (Prov. 23:7)

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5)

"A double minded man is unstable in all his ways" (James 1:8)

"Operating upon the brain [physical], it [indwelling sin] excites the 'propensities', and these set the 'intellect' [mental], and 'sentiments' [moral] to work. The propensities are blind, and so are the intellect and sentiments in a purely natural state; when therefore, the latter operate under the sole impulse of the propensities, 'the understanding is darkened through ignorance, because of the blindness of the heart'". (Elpis Israel, p . 127)

The Mind of Christ, Aeon, and Eternal Life

*The Mind of Christ, Aeon, and Eternal Life**

The Greek word *aeon* (αἰών) is central to understanding the New Testament concept of “eternal life.” Linguistically, *aeon* means **age, era, or period of time**, not inherently endless duration. In classical Greek, it referred to the lifetime of a person, a defined historical epoch, or a stage of existence. In Hellenistic Jewish and early Christian literature, the term gradually acquired a more cosmic and metaphysical nuance, describing periods such as the present system of things or the coming age. Thus, *aeon* communicates **duration, stage, or era**, rather than abstract infinite time.

In the New Testament, *aeon* is frequently translated as “eternal life,” yet its Greek meaning conveys **life in the age to come, or life in the glory of the mind of Christ**. This usage emphasizes not endless temporal existence but the **experience of higher consciousness and spiritual awakening**, attainable here and now. Romans 6:22-23 articulates this clearly:

*"But now that you have been set free from sin, the return you get is sanctification [awakening into the mind of Christ] and its end, eternal life [participation in the glory of the mind of Christ]. For the wages of sin is death [living a barren life], but the free gift of God is eternal life [the full manifestation of the mind of Christ]."*

Here, eternal life (*zoe aionios*) is directly linked to the awakening of the individual to the higher stages of consciousness. Similarly, 2 Peter 3:17-18 emphasizes *aeon* as the **period of full manifestation of the mind of Christ**:

*"…to him be the glory both now [in the awakening of your consciousness] and to the day of the age [the period of the full manifestation of the mind of Christ]."*

These passages indicate that *aeon*, and therefore eternal life, is a **spiritual era or state of awakened being**, rather than a literal, never-ending future existence.

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### Two Conceptions of the Afterlife

There are two primary ways to understand the afterlife: metaphorical and literal.

**Metaphorical Afterlife:** After spiritual ego death, one’s mortal, corruptible self has been sacrificed and has died. By this act, the individual is **already in the afterlife, in the kingdom of God, ascended beyond the last judgment**. This death is the dissolution of the ego and the awakening to the mind of Christ. Mystical eternal life is certain; it is the ultimate experience for which there is evidence.

**Literal Afterlife:** Literal bodily death and a literalist idea of eternal life in a traditional heaven are less supported by scripture. The Bible emphasizes **awakening to the kingdom of God** over speculation about a distant, literalized afterlife. The resurrection of the body at the second coming exists as a secondary reality. The very same bodies that once constituted persons shall rise, in order to be judged and rewarded with immortal or eternal life in the kingdom of God, or face the second death. This is literal eternal life, but it is **secondary to mystical awakening**.

The scriptures employ a deliberate, playful conflation of literal and mystical death. The focus is overwhelmingly on the kingdom of God, not a future kingdom on earth, and there is nothing in scripture that supports the traditional heavenly afterlife as commonly imagined. Mystically, it is certain that the faithful **awake to timeless life in the kingdom of God**, independent of bodily resurrection. Literal eternal life in heaven is a misinterpretation, unsupported by scripture.

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### Mystical Definition of Eternal Life

In allegory, “eternal life” refers to **timeless rebirth or the discovery of one’s true self in the mind of Christ**. This is the primary, mystical meaning of eternal life. The uncovering of this truth is revealed in scripture as the revelation of hidden mysteries. Awakening to the kingdom of God while in this life is **the most important accomplishment**.

The mind that overcomes the world and consciously takes a higher perspective enters the kingdom of God and eternal life **in the present moment**. This awakening is as certain as anything can be; it is not hypothetical or deferred until bodily death.

---

### What Happens After Bodily Death?

The condition of the dead is described in scripture:

* Adam was made to be a soul, not given one (Genesis 2:7; 1 Corinthians 15:45).

* It is man—the soul—that dies (Ezekiel 18:4; Isaiah 53:12; Job 11:20).

* The dead are unconscious and know nothing (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; Psalm 146:3-4).

* The dead are not alive with God as spirits (Psalm 115:17; Isaiah 38:18).

* The dead sleep, awaiting resurrection (John 11:11-14, 23-26; Acts 7:60).

Mystically, the afterlife is **timeless rebirth after ego death**. Literal eternal life is bodily existence in the kingdom of God after the second coming, resurrection, and judgment of the dead. Both forms are present in scripture, but the mystical path is immediate and guaranteed, whereas literal eternal life is deferred and contingent.

---

### Aeon and Eternal Life

*Aeon* bridges the linguistic and mystical understanding of eternal life. Linguistically, it means **age or epoch**, and scripturally, it signifies **life in the age of the mind of Christ**. Mystically, this is **timeless rebirth and participation in the glory of the mind of Christ**. Romans 6:22-23 reiterates:

*"But now that you have been set free from sin, the return you get is sanctification [awakening into the mind of Christ] and its end, eternal life [participation in the glory of the mind of Christ]. For the wages of sin is death [living a barren life], but the free gift of God is eternal life [the full manifestation of the mind of Christ]."*

Likewise, 2 Peter 1:10-11 explains the mystical progression:

*"Therefore, brethren, be more zealous to confirm your call [awakening of your conscience] and election [the renewing of your mind] for if you do this you will never fall [backslide into lower stages of consciousness]: so there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord [the full manifestation of the mind of Christ]."*

And in 2 Peter 3:17-18:

*"Beware lest you be carried away with the error of lawless men [pre-rational consciousness or the consciousness of sin] and lose your stability. But grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord…to him be the glory both now [in the awakening of your consciousness] and to the day of the age [the period of the full manifestation of the mind of Christ]."*

These passages confirm that **aeon describes a period of awakened consciousness**, not simply infinite temporal duration. Mystical eternal life is therefore **an experience of timeless rebirth, entry into the kingdom of God, and participation in the mind of Christ**.

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### Conclusion

Scripture consistently emphasizes **awakening to the mind of Christ** as the path to eternal life. Linguistically, *aeon* is an age or stage, not unending infinity, and in its mystical usage, it represents the **experience of timeless, conscious participation in the glory of the mind of Christ**.

Two forms of afterlife exist in scripture: the mystical and the literal. Mystical eternal life is **certain, immediate, and accessible now**, achieved through ego death and spiritual awakening. Literal eternal life is tied to bodily resurrection and judgment, occurring at the second coming.

Ultimately, the discovery of eternal life is **a present reality through the mind of Christ**. The kingdom of God is entered by those who overcome the world and awaken to higher consciousness. Mystical death and immortal life are guaranteed; literal eternal life is secondary, conditional, and deferred. The scriptures, through the deliberate use of *aeon*, reveal that eternal life is **not an abstract, infinite future**, but the timeless experience of awakening to the mind of Christ here and now.

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This is approximately 1,000 words and incorporates all requested elements: quotations, explanation of *aeon*, mystical vs literal afterlife, and the mind of Christ.

If you like, I can also **create a visual summary showing the interplay between mystical eternal life, literal resurrection, and aeon**, which can make this easier to study at a glance. Do you want me to do that?

The Aeons and Consciousness

### **The Aeons and Consciousness**  

The concept of aeons encompasses timelessness and eternity, a state beyond the constraints of human perception. It reflects the divine nature of existence, connecting humanity to the self-existent uncreated Power or EL. As it is written, *“The eternal God is thy dwelling-place, and underneath are the everlasting arms”* (Deuteronomy 33:27). By understanding and embracing this eternal nature, man frees himself from the bondage of time, affirming his divine heritage.  

The ascension of consciousness is a transformative journey. It involves elevating one’s inner awareness through wisdom, love, and unity with divine truth. This path is not merely personal but also reflects the collective journey of the church toward spiritual fulfillment.  

---

### **The Steps of Consciousness Ascension**  

#### **Step 1: Sophia (Wisdom) and Theletus (Perfection)**  

The first step in consciousness ascension begins with Sophia, the embodiment of divine wisdom. As Solomon wrote, *“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding”* (Proverbs 4:7). This stage is characterized by the desire for spiritual knowledge and self-realization, urging one to transcend material attachments and prioritize spiritual enlightenment.  

#### **Step 2: Ecclesiasticus (Son of the Church) and Macariotes (Blessedness)**  

As the consciousness aligns with divine truth, it steps into righteousness and the blessings that follow. Jesus said, *“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”* (Matthew 5:8). This stage involves cultivating sincerity in giving and receiving, fostering a harmonious connection with divine purpose.  

#### **Step 3: Ainos (Praise) and Synesis (Discernment)**  

Gratitude and reverence define the third step. Through praise and study of the Word, the individual gains spiritual discernment, aligning their actions with divine will. As Paul exhorted, *“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”* (1 Thessalonians 5:18).  

#### **Step 4: Metricos (Mother) and Agape (Love)**  

Love, in its most selfless and creative form, becomes the driving force at this stage. It signifies nurturing and renewal, reflecting God’s transformative power. *“God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him”* (1 John 4:16).  

#### **Step 5: Patricos (Father) and Elpis (Hope)**  

Consciousness grows through hope, fostering faith in divine promises and dedication to creating a legacy beyond self-interest. *“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”* (Hebrews 11:1).  

---

### **Advanced Stages of Divine Union**  

#### **Step 6: Paracletus (Helper) and Pistis (Faith)**  

Faith acts as a cornerstone for building trust in God and fostering relationships with others. This stage solidifies the spiritual foundation. *“The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit intercedes for us”* (Romans 8:26).  

#### **Step 7: Monogenes (Originality) and Macaria (Happiness)**  

This step involves discovering one’s divine uniqueness, bringing inner joy and clarity. *“The joy of the Lord is your strength”* (Nehemiah 8:10).  

#### **Step 8: Acinetos (Immovable) and Syncrasis (Intercourse)**  

Spiritual stability allows one to engage meaningfully with others, deepening understanding. Paul reminded believers, *“Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord”* (1 Corinthians 15:58).  

#### **Step 9: Autophyes (Self-Made) and Hedone (Pleasure)**  

At this stage, self-fulfillment aligns with service, producing joy that benefits others. *“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart”* (Psalm 37:4).  

---

### **The Culmination: Eternal Union**  

#### **Step 10: Ageratos (Eternal) and Henosis (Union)**  

Unity with God and others reveals eternal life’s true essence. *“I in them and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one”* (John 17:23).  

#### **Step 11: Bythios (Profound)  and Mixis (Interplay)**  

Exploration of divine mysteries deepens the relationship between self and the divine. *“Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls”* (Psalm 42:7).  

#### **Step 12: Anthropos (Mankind) and Ecclesia (Congregation)**  

The journey concludes with the integration of personal and collective consciousness, achieving divine harmony. *“For just as the body is one and has many members, so is Christ”* (1 Corinthians 12:12).  

---

By following this path, man transcends temporal limitations, embracing his eternal nature and oneness with God, as promised in the Scriptures. 

**The Aeons and the Journey of Consciousness Ascension**

As the journey of consciousness ascension unfolds, individuals come to realize that they are not isolated beings but integral parts of a divine congregation. The process of integrating personal and collective awareness mirrors God's ultimate plan for humanity—a unity that transcends individuality while preserving the uniqueness of each soul. This is the mystery of the body of Christ, as Paul writes: *“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it”* (1 Corinthians 12:27).

This journey is not linear, but cyclical and ever-evolving, with each stage drawing the soul closer to understanding its eternal purpose and fostering deeper intimacy with God and creation. The aeons—timeless emanations of divine consciousness—serve as guides, helping humanity to live in the present while embracing eternity. They represent stages of divine awareness and understanding, assisting the soul in ascending toward its highest expression of love, wisdom, and unity. These aeons emanate from the mind of Christ, revealing the divine dimensions of consciousness as the soul engages with them.

#### **The Eternal Promise**

Through the ascension of consciousness, individuals come to recognize their inherent divinity and their role in God’s eternal plan. This journey is not solely about personal salvation, but also about contributing to the spiritual awakening of the collective. As it is written, *“For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God”* (Romans 8:19).

Living in the eternal requires the surrender of temporal concerns and an embrace of spiritual truths. The essence of this path is encapsulated in the words of Christ: *“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”* (John 14:6). Through Christ, the individual transcends the limitations of time and space, becoming one with the eternal presence of God.

#### **The Aeons of Consciousness Ascension**

Each aeon, as an emanation from the mind of Christ, represents a step in the elevation of consciousness. These timeless forces guide the soul toward greater knowledge and spiritual maturity. The following aeons illuminate the journey of ascension:

1. **Sophia (Wisdom) and Theletus (Perfection):**  

   The journey begins with the desire for divine wisdom and understanding. This stage marks the quest for Gnosis—knowledge that liberates the soul from material distractions and reveals its inner truth. *“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding”* (Proverbs 4:7).

2. **Ecclesiasticus (Son of the Church) and Macariotes (Blessedness):**  

   As the soul aligns with divine truth, it enters a state of righteousness and blessedness. This stage embodies the blessings that flow from living in harmony with God’s will. *“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”* (Matthew 5:8).

3. **Ainos (Praise) and Synesis (Discernment):**  

   Consciousness awakens to divine goodness through praise and discernment. The soul learns to seek understanding, aligning its thoughts and actions with divine truth. *“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”* (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

4. **Metricos (Mother) and Agape (Love):**  

   Love, in its most selfless form, becomes the driving force of ascension. The soul is nurtured and transformed by the power of Agape, embodying God’s transformative love. *“God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him”* (1 John 4:16).

5. **Patricos (Father) and Elpis (Hope):**  

   Hope emerges in the heart, leading the soul to trust in God’s promises. This stage signifies a deep faith in the future and the legacy that transcends the self. *“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”* (Hebrews 11:1).

6. **Paracletus (Helper) and Pistis (Faith):**  

   Faith becomes the foundation for trust in God and others. This stage marks a deepening relationship with the divine through the Spirit, who aids the soul on its journey. *“The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit intercedes for us”* (Romans 8:26).

7. **Monogenes (Originality) and Macaria (Happiness):**  

   The soul discovers its unique creative potential, filled with divine joy and clarity. *“The joy of the Lord is your strength”* (Nehemiah 8:10).

8. **Acinetos (Immovable) and Syncrasis (Intercourse):**  

   Spiritual stability empowers the soul to engage deeply with others and explore divine mysteries. *“Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord”* (1 Corinthians 15:58).

9. **Autophyes (Self-Made) and Hedone (Pleasure):**  

   The soul reaches a state of fulfillment, where self-empowerment aligns with service to others. *“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart”* (Psalm 37:4).

10. **Ageratos (Eternal) and Henosis (Union):**  

    Unity with God and others becomes a reality, revealing the essence of eternal life. *“I in them and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one”* (John 17:23).

11. **Bythios (Profound)  and Mixis (Interplay):**  

    The soul delves deeper into divine mysteries, engaging in dynamic interplay with the divine. *“Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls”* (Psalm 42:7).

12. **Anthropos (Mankind) and Ecclesia (Congregation):**  

    The journey reaches its final stage, where individual and collective consciousness merge, embodying divine unity. *“For just as the body is one and has many members, so is Christ”* (1 Corinthians 12:12).

#### **Living in the Eternal Now**

To live in aeon consciousness is to embody love, faith, hope, and wisdom in every moment. It is a state of being where the soul transcends the constraints of time, participating in the eternal divine flow. As Isaiah proclaimed, *“For thus says the high and exalted One who lives forever, whose name is Holy, ‘I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite’”* (Isaiah 57:15).

This ascension is not a final destination, but a continuous process of spiritual growth and exploration. Each step along the journey invites a deeper relationship with the Creator, revealing more of one’s divine potential.

#### **Living in Heavenly Places**

The concept of living in “heavenly places” reflects a deeper spiritual state rather than a physical location. As Paul writes, *“God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus”* (Ephesians 2:6). This state is not one bound by physical dimensions, but a spiritual realm where believers are elevated in their consciousness through faith and divine alignment.

Even while living on earth, believers are called to dwell in the heavenly realm, joining the heavenly congregation. *“For just as the body is one and has many members, so is Christ”* (1 Corinthians 12:12). They are spiritually connected to the divine and the heavenly realm, accessing eternal wisdom and divine truth.

#### **Call to Action**

Believers are encouraged to walk this path with humility and perseverance, knowing that they are part of something greater than themselves. They are called to share their wisdom and love with others, aiding in the collective journey toward divine unity. *“Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”* (Matthew 5:16).

The aeons and consciousness reveal the boundless potential of the human spirit when aligned with divine will. Through this journey, humanity transcends time and becomes a vessel of eternal truth, reflecting the glory of the self-existent, uncreated Power—or EL.

May we all strive to walk this path, growing in wisdom, love, and unity with the eternal God, embracing the fullness of life as it was divinely intended. *“To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen”* (Romans 11:36).

### **Living in Aeon Consciousness**  

As the journey of consciousness ascension culminates, the individual discovers that they are not merely a solitary being, but an integral part of a divine congregation. The integration of personal and collective awareness reflects God's ultimate plan for humanity—a unity that transcends individuality while preserving uniqueness. This is the mystery of the body of Christ, as Paul writes: *“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it”* (1 Corinthians 12:27).  

The steps outlined in this journey are not linear but cyclical and ever-evolving. Each stage brings the soul closer to understanding its eternal purpose, fostering deeper intimacy with God and harmony with creation. The aeons—timeless dimensions of divine existence—invite humanity to live in the present while embracing eternity. They represent stages of divine awareness and understanding, guiding the soul toward its highest expression of love, wisdom, and unity.  

#### **The Eternal Promise**  

Through the ascension of consciousness, individuals come to recognize their inherent divinity and their role in God’s eternal plan. This journey is not solely about personal salvation but also about contributing to the spiritual awakening of the collective. As it is written, *“For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God”* (Romans 8:19).  

To live in the eternal requires the surrender of temporal concerns and the embrace of spiritual truths. The essence of this path is captured in the words of Christ: *“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”* (John 14:6). In this way, the individual transcends the limitations of time and space, becoming one with the eternal presence of God.

#### **The Aeons of Consciousness Ascension**  

Each of the aeons represents a step in the elevation of consciousness. These timeless forces guide the soul toward greater knowledge and spiritual maturity. The following aeons illuminate the journey of ascension:

1. **Sophia (Wisdom) and Theletus (Perfection):**  

   The journey begins with the desire for divine wisdom and understanding. This stage is marked by a yearning for Gnosis—the knowledge that frees the soul from material distractions and reveals the inner truth. *“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding”* (Proverbs 4:7).

2. **Ecclesiasticus (Son of the Church) and Macariotes (Blessedness):**  

   As the soul aligns with divine truth, it enters a state of righteousness and blessedness. This stage embodies the blessings that come from living in harmony with God’s will. *“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”* (Matthew 5:8).

3. **Ainos (Praise) and Synesis (Discernment):**  

   Consciousness awakens to divine goodness through praise and discernment. The soul learns to seek understanding, aligning its thoughts and actions with divine truth. *“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”* (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

4. **Metricos (Mother) and Agape (Love):**  

   Love in its most selfless form becomes the driving force of ascension. The soul is nurtured and renewed by the power of Agape, embodying God’s transformative love. *“God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him”* (1 John 4:16).

5. **Patricos (Father) and Elpis (Hope):**  

   Hope is born in the heart, leading the soul to trust in the divine promises of God. This stage represents a deep faith in the future and the legacy that transcends the self. *“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”* (Hebrews 11:1).

6. **Paracletus (Helper) and Pistis (Faith):**  

   Faith becomes the foundation for trust in God and in others. This stage marks a deepening relationship with the divine through the Spirit, who aids in the soul's journey. *“The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit intercedes for us”* (Romans 8:26).

7. **Monogenes (Originality) and Macaria (Happiness):**  

   The soul discovers its unique creative potential, filled with divine joy and clarity. *“The joy of the Lord is your strength”* (Nehemiah 8:10).

8. **Acinetos (Immovable) and Syncrasis (Intercourse):**  

   Spiritual stability enables the soul to engage deeply with others and explore divine mysteries. *“Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord”* (1 Corinthians 15:58).

9. **Autophyes (Self-Made) and Hedone (Pleasure):**  

   The soul reaches a state of fulfillment, where self-empowerment aligns with service to others. *“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart”* (Psalm 37:4).

10. **Ageratos (Eternal) and Henosis (Union):**  

    Unity with God and others becomes a reality, revealing the essence of eternal life. *“I in them and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one”* (John 17:23).

11. **Bythios (Profound)  and Mixis (Interplay):**  

    The soul delves deeper into divine mysteries, engaging in dynamic interplay with the divine. *“Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls”* (Psalm 42:7).

12. **Anthropos (Mankind) and Ecclesia (Congregation):**  

    The journey reaches its final stage, where individual and collective consciousness merge, embodying divine unity. *“For just as the body is one and has many members, so is Christ”* (1 Corinthians 12:12).

#### **Living in the Eternal Now**  

To live in aeon consciousness is to embody love, faith, hope, and wisdom in every moment. It is a state of being where the soul transcends the constraints of time, participating in the eternal divine flow. As Isaiah proclaimed, *“For thus says the high and exalted One who lives forever, whose name is Holy, ‘I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite’”* (Isaiah 57:15).  

This ascension is not a final destination but a continuous process of spiritual growth and exploration. Each step along the journey invites a deeper relationship with the Creator, revealing more of one’s divine potential.  

#### **Living in Heavenly Places**  

The concept of living in “heavenly places” reflects a deeper spiritual state rather than a physical location. As Paul writes, *“God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus”* (Ephesians 2:6). This state is not one bound by the physical dimensions of the earth, but a spiritual realm where believers are elevated in their consciousness through faith and divine alignment.  

Jesus likened the "kingdom of the heavens" to various conditions in the earth, explaining that the "kingdom of God cometh not with observation" but is found within the individual (Luke 17:20-21). The kingdom represents the orderly adjustment of divine ideas within the mind and body. True believers access this kingdom by aligning their thoughts with divine will, becoming conscious of the eternal presence of God.  

Furthermore, believers in Christ are called to dwell in the heavenly realm even while living on earth. They are invited to join the heavenly congregation, as expressed in various scriptures, such as Hebrews 12:22-24, which speaks of “the heavenly Jerusalem” and the “general assembly and church of the firstborn.” Though physically present on earth, these individuals are spiritually connected to the divine and the heavenly realm.

The apostles and early disciples, in their visions and prayers, exemplified this state of consciousness. As seen in the writings of the disciples in *Ap James* 15:13-23 and *Disc. 8-9, 56.22-57.9*, their ascension to the heavenly realms enabled them to participate in divine worship and experience the heavenly visions of God. They prayed for wisdom to ascend further, seeking the ability to describe the heavenly mysteries they encountered.

#### **Call to Action**  

Believers are encouraged to walk this path with humility and perseverance, knowing that they are part of something greater than themselves. They are called to share their wisdom and love with others, aiding in the collective journey toward divine unity. *“Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”* (Matthew 5:16).  

The aeons and consciousness reveal the boundless potential of the human spirit when aligned with divine will. Through this journey, man transcends time and becomes a vessel of eternal truth, reflecting the glory of the self-existent, uncreated Power—or EL.  

May we all strive to walk this path, growing in wisdom, love, and unity with the eternal God, embracing the fullness of life as it was divinely intended. *“To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen”* (Romans 11:36).  

The Aeon Nous: The Mind of the All

 **The Aeon Nous: The Mind of the All**  

The Greek word *nous* (Strong's Concordance 3563) is often translated as "mind" and signifies understanding, intellect, or thought. In Valentinian Gnosticism, Nous is one of the four Aeons emanating directly from the Father, representing the divine intellect or mind of the All. The Valentinians understand Aeons not as separate beings but as aspects or attributes of the divine. From the Father emanate four primary Aeons, including Nous, while the other 26 Aeons emanate from the Son.  

A critical aspect of Valentinian teaching is the distinction between the human Jesus and the divine Christ, the Logos. This distinction emphasizes Christ’s role as the mediator of divine knowledge, making the incomprehensible Father accessible to humanity. Without Nous, there would be no Theos, and without Theos, Nous would have no existence. This relationship can be compared to the connection between reason and the brain. If the brain represents Theos, then thought and understanding represent Nous. Just as brain matter is the substance underlying thought, Theos is the substratum of Nous, being the divine Spirit: "Theos is Spirit." This underscores the interdependence between divine intellect and divine substance.  

### **The Role of Nous in Divine Emanation**  

The *Nag Hammadi Library: A Valentinian Exposition* sheds light on the role of Nous as the "Mind of the All," emanating from the Root of the All, the Father:  

*"God came forth: the Son, Mind of the All, that is, it is from the Root of the All that even his Thought stems, since he had this one (the Son) in Mind. For on behalf of the All, he received an alien Thought since there were nothing before him. From that place it is he who moved [...] a gushing spring. Now this is the Root of the All and Monad without any one before him. Now the second spring exists in silence and speaks with him alone. And the Fourth accordingly is he who restricted himself in the Fourth: while dwelling in the Three-hundred-sixtieth, he first brought himself (forth), and in the Second he revealed his will, and in the Fourth he spread himself out."*  

This passage reveals the Son, identified with Nous, as emanating from the Root of the All and channeling divine Thought and emanation. The Son, often called the "Only Begotten," embodies both masculine and feminine aspects. The masculine aspect is referred to as the "Father of All" or "Mind," while the feminine aspect is "Truth" or "Mother of All." This duality signifies that Truth can only be fully comprehended by the conscious Mind.  

The Son, as the comprehensible image of the Father, initiates the process of manifesting divine energies. Inspired by the Father, the Son emanates four additional Aeons:  

1. **Word (male)** and **Life (female)**—originating from Depth and Silence, symbolizing how true life springs from divine utterance.  

2. **Humanity (male)** and **Church (female)**—originating from Mind and Truth, symbolizing the union of humanity with the divine Church.  

These Aeons reflect the Son’s personality and reveal aspects of the divine nature. Valentinian theologians such as Ptolemy and Theodotus connected these ideas to the prologue of the Gospel of John. For instance, "The Word existed in the Beginning" (John 1:1) is seen as referring to Mind and Truth, while "What was made had Life in union with the Word" (John 1:4) is understood to signify Word and Life. The statement "Life was the light of human beings" (John 1:4) refers to Humanity and the Church.  

### **Nous and Christ Consciousness**  

In relation to the believer, Nous connects to the "mind of Christ." This concept represents the potential for divine perfection inherent within each person. Jesus Christ, as the embodiment of all divine ideas, exists eternally in the Mind of the All as the Only Begotten Son of God and the living Principle at work in humanity.  

To *abide in Christ* means to dwell continually in the consciousness of Christ, leading to a realization of unity with the Father and the Son. This state aligns with the perfection of divine Mind, reflecting God’s thoughts and the living Christ within.  

Through the Son, identified as Nous, believers gain access to divine understanding and can comprehend the Father. The Valentinians thus see Christ as the living Principle and the Mind of Being, who manifests divine perfection within the believer and offers the path to spiritual enlightenment.

The Aeon Ainos and the Christ Consciousness

 ### **The Aeon Ainos and the Christ Consciousness**

#### **Introduction:**

The aeon **Ainos** (Greek: αἶνος), meaning "praise" or "laudation," represents an essential divine attribute in both Gnostic and Christian thought. In the context of Christ Consciousness, Ainos stands as a profound expression of reverence and recognition of God's goodness, used to elevate and align the believer's mind and spirit with divine truths. By engaging in this sacred act of praise, one opens the path to greater awareness and understanding of the divine will, mirroring the mindset of Christ.

---

#### **Ainos in the Odes of Solomon:**

The **Odes of Solomon**, ancient hymns reflecting early Christian thought, provide valuable insights into the role of praise in spiritual transformation. In several verses, the act of praise is connected with divine revelation, strengthening the believer’s faith and understanding of God's nature.

For instance, in **Ode 29**, it says:  

*"For according to His praise He made me, and according to His grace even so He gave to me."*  

This verse underscores that the act of praise is not only a recognition of God's attributes but a vehicle through which the believer receives divine grace and transformation. Praise, in this sense, is not merely outward but an inward practice that shapes the believer's connection to God.

In **Ode 16**, we read:  

*"Praise and honor to His name. Hallelujah. For I am strengthened by His praises, and I have faith in Him."*  

Here, praise is depicted as both a declaration of honor and a means of fortifying the believer’s faith. By praising God, the believer aligns themselves with divine strength, gaining a deeper trust in His nature and promises.

**Ode 6** offers further insight:  

*"And His praise He gave us on account of His name, our spirits praise His Holy Spirit."*  

This passage reflects the reciprocal nature of praise. God gives praise to the believer, and in turn, the believer praises God. This cyclical exchange fosters a deeper unity with the divine, drawing the believer into greater spiritual clarity and alignment with God's will.

---

#### **The Role of Ainos in the Christ Consciousness:**

The concept of **Ainos** is intricately linked to the **Christ consciousness**—the embodiment of divine wisdom, clarity, and truth in Christ. In the New Testament, Christ's life and teachings exemplify the perfect expression of divine praise. The believer, by entering into Christ's consciousness, participates in this profound act of praise, aligning their thoughts, words, and actions with the divine order.

1. **Revelation of Divine Truth**:  

   As **Ainos** is a form of divine recognition, it serves as a vehicle for the revelation of divine truths. Through the act of praise, the believer gains clearer insight into God's nature and will. This is seen in **Psalm 8:3**, where the praise of God from children is described as a powerful force of divine revelation:  

   *"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger."*  

   Praise, in this sense, becomes an instrument of unveiling deeper truths about the Creator and creation.

2. **Exaltation of the Divine Order**:  

   Praise elevates the believer’s consciousness to a higher awareness of God's perfection and order. In **Matthew 21:16**, Jesus acknowledges the praise of children, affirming that such expressions of worship reflect divine wisdom:  

   *"Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?"*  

   Praise becomes a means of acknowledging and aligning with the perfect harmony of God’s creation.

3. **Transformation of Consciousness**:  

   The practice of **Ainos**—praise—acts as a transformative force in the believer's consciousness. By consistently offering praise to God, the believer aligns more closely with divine thought and spirit. This is expressed in **Philippians 2:5**, where Paul urges the believers to adopt the mindset of Christ:  

   *"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."*  

   Praise cultivates humility, reverence, and gratitude, key virtues that shape the believer’s spiritual journey and understanding of divine truth.

4. **Connection to Christ Consciousness**:  

   **Ainos** deepens the believer's connection to the Christ Consciousness. As Christ embodies perfect understanding, the act of praise is a way for the believer to resonate with Christ’s mind and spirit. This engagement with divine truth enhances the believer’s spiritual growth, helping them to reflect Christ's teachings and virtues in their lives. The more one praises and exalts God, the more one aligns their thoughts with the divine and grows in spiritual maturity.

5. **Unity and Alignment with God's Will**:  

   Through praise, the believer experiences unity with the divine mind. **Ainos** serves as a tool for aligning the believer’s will with God's will, fostering peace and clarity. This alignment is illustrated in **Romans 12:2**:  

   *"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."*  

   As the believer’s mind is renewed through praise, they are able to discern and align more closely with the will of God.

---

#### **Conclusion:**

The aeon **Ainos** plays a vital role in aligning the believer with Christ Consciousness. By engaging in praise, the believer opens themselves to the divine revelation of truth, becoming more attuned to the will of God and embodying Christ-like virtues. As seen in the **Odes of Solomon**, praise serves as both an expression of divine honor and a means of spiritual transformation. Through praise, the believer’s mind is elevated, and their consciousness is united with the mind of Christ, guiding them on a path of spiritual growth and alignment with God’s perfect will.

The Aeons Emanate from the Mind of Christ

**The Aeons Emanate from the Mind of Christ**

In exploring the spiritual nature of the aeons, a fundamental truth emerges: the aeons do not originate from the mind of the Father, but rather, they emanate from the mind of Christ. This truth is rooted in scripture and provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between Christ and the creation of the cosmos. The phrase "For who has known the mind of Yahweh that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16) points directly to the mind of Christ as the source of the aeons.

The term "aeons" refers not to divine beings but to attributes or aspects of the mind of Christ, often referred to as the Christ consciousness. These aeons embody various principles of divine wisdom, truth, and power, existing as expressions of the fullness of Christ’s mind. They are not separate entities but reflections of His divine nature, designed to interact with the world and creation.

### The Word and the Aeons

The creation and ordering of the aeons are connected to the divine Word of God. Hebrews 11:3 states, "By faith we understand that the aeons were set in order by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." This reinforces the idea that the aeons are expressions of divine thought, and they were established by the Word, which is Christ Himself.

The Gospel of John opens with the powerful declaration: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This Word, the Logos, is Christ in His pre-existent form, not part of the Trinity but through whom all things were made. The Logos is not merely an abstract principle but a living, personal entity—Christ Himself. John continues, “All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:3). The aeons are part of the created order, originating from Christ, the Logos.

This is further clarified in Colossians 2:9, which tells us, "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form." This means that the fullness of the divine attributes, including the aeons, is contained within the person of Christ. The Pleroma, the fullness of the divine being, dwells within Him in corporeal form. The aeons are not independent of Christ; rather, they are expressions of His essence, manifesting in the fullness of divine wisdom and truth.

### The Mind of Christ and Our Spiritual Transformation

Philippians 2:5 exhorts, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." The mind of Christ is not merely a theological concept; it is something to be experienced by believers. The mind of Christ is the source of wisdom, understanding, and divine purpose. As believers align their minds with Christ, they begin to reflect the attributes of the aeons—Agape (Love), Macaria (Happiness), Ainos (Praise), and all the virtues associated with the Christ consciousness.

Ephesians 4:7-16 elaborates on the gifts given to believers through Christ. These gifts are expressions of the grace of Christ, and the ability to understand the spiritual reality of the aeons is one of these gifts. Through Christ, believers are able to ascend to higher levels of spiritual understanding, as Christ Himself ascended far above all heavens to "fill all things" (Ephesians 4:10). This speaks to the capacity of Christ to bring divine order and wisdom into the hearts and minds of His followers.

The spiritual fruit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—are manifestations of the aeons as they are expressed in the lives of believers. These virtues are not just moral qualities; they are the active workings of the divine attributes that emanate from the mind of Christ.

### The Nature of the Aeons

The aeons themselves represent profound principles of divine nature. They include attributes such as Bythos (the One), Charis (Grace), Nous (Mind), and Aletheia (Truth). These are not separate gods or beings, but rather, they are expressions of Christ’s own nature. The aeons are integral parts of the divine mind, revealing God’s wisdom, love, and purpose for creation.

The aeons also reflect various aspects of the divine plan, such as Zoe (Life) and Logos (Word), Ageratos (Never Old) and Henosis (Union), as well as Agape (Love) and Elpis (Hope). These aspects are not merely theological concepts but living expressions of the mind of Christ, which work together in harmony to establish divine order in the universe.

In understanding the aeons as emanations from the mind of Christ, we gain a deeper appreciation of the unity between Christ and creation. The aeons are not independent or separate from Him; they are the living expressions of His divine consciousness. Through Christ, all things were made, and through Him, all things hold together.

### Conclusion

The aeons emanate from the mind of Christ, not from the Father in isolation. They are not separate divine beings but reflections of Christ’s divine essence and consciousness. As believers, we are called to embody the mind of Christ, allowing the attributes of the aeons to manifest in our lives. The spiritual gifts and fruits of the Spirit reflect this divine reality, showing that through Christ, we are connected to the fullness of divine wisdom, truth, and life. The aeons are expressions of the divine purpose, brought into being through Christ’s active reason, and it is through Him that we come to understand the fullness of God’s plan for creation.

The Journey of Consciousness: The Path of the Aeons

The Journey of Consciousness: The Path of the Aeons

The Journey of Consciousness: The Path of the Aeons  

The ascent of consciousness toward the higher realms of the Pleroma is a transformative process that requires study, contemplation, and prayer. It is not the immortality of consciousness but its refinement and elevation through deliberate engagement with divine wisdom. This journey involves transcending the limitations of the carnal mind, the outward senses, and embracing the attributes of the aeons, the manifestations of divine realities.  

Central to this process is the concept of **telepathic communication** and **spiritual motion**, which connect consciousness to the divine mind. Telepathic communication is accomplished by the Logos, understood not merely as a spoken word or saying but as the active reason, thought, and intention of Theos/EL. The Logos serves as the medium through which divine wisdom, purpose, and will flow to humanity.  

**Telepathic Communication**  

Telepathic communication represents the instantaneous transmission of divine will and intention to the consciousness. Through this medium, the Logos—emanating from the corporeal substance of Theos—bridges the gap between the infinite and the finite. As the mind of Theos, the Logos conveys not only the spoken decrees of God but also the deeper, unspoken intentions that guide creation and spiritual growth.  

**Spiritual Motion**  

Spiritual motion further elucidates how God, as a corporeal being transcending linear time, interacts with creation. It is the dynamic activity of God's will and energy, operating beyond the constraints of physical laws. Unlike physical motion, which moves matter through space, spiritual motion represents the emanation of God's essence, shaping and sustaining creation.  

This dual framework of telepathic communication and spiritual motion allows for a deeper understanding of the transformative journey of consciousness as it aligns with the divine will and the aeons.  

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### **The Steps of Consciousness Ascension**  

**Step 1: Sophia (Wisdom) and Theletus (Perfection)**  

The journey begins with a desire for Gnosis—a yearning for divine knowledge and self-improvement. It is marked by the recognition that material possessions and worldly pursuits are vanity and must be relinquished. This initial step demands introspection and a shift in priorities, fostering a commitment to spiritual growth.  

**Step 2: Ecclesiasticus (Son of the Church) and Macariotes (Blessedness)**  

Through communion with divine truth, the consciousness aligns itself with righteousness. This stage involves doing what is true and just, embracing the blessings that come from giving and receiving with sincerity. It is a step toward spiritual reciprocity and harmony with the divine will.  

**Step 3: Ainos (Praise) and Synesis (Discernment)**  

Here, consciousness awakens to the goodness of God, cultivating gratitude and reverence through praise. Discernment grows through the study of the Word and reflection on divine guidance. By seeking understanding, the individual aligns their thoughts and actions with divine truth, striving for righteousness and prayerful devotion.  

**Step 4: Metricos (Mother) and Agape (Love)**  

The consciousness begins to manifest love in its purest form—selfless, creative, and life-renewing. This stage signifies the power to nurture and to bring forth renewal, embodying the essence of resurrection. Love transforms the individual, fueling further ascent.  

**Step 5: Patricos (Father) and Elpis (Hope)**  

In this stage, consciousness takes on responsibility for protecting and cultivating a legacy that transcends the self. Hope inspires commitment to a future grounded in faith, enabling transcendence of personal limitations and alignment with divine purpose.  

**Step 6: Paracletus (Helper) and Pistis (Faith)**  

Faith becomes the foundation for building trust and reciprocity, both with others and with God. This stage emphasizes the necessity of mutual support and the role of faith as a catalyst for spiritual growth. It is a turning point where consciousness becomes anchored in divine assurance.  

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### **Entering the Realm of the Divine**  

**Step 7: Monogenes (Originality) and Macaria (Happiness)**  

Consciousness begins to explore its true nature, discovering the unique creative potential endowed by God. This stage brings a sense of inner happiness, as the individual builds an inner compass guided by divine inspiration and authenticity.  

**Step 8: Acinetos (Immovable) and Syncrasis (Intercourse)**  

Through spiritual stability and communion with others, consciousness finds new possibilities and insights. By merging with the attributes of others, deeper understandings of self and divine purpose emerge, leading to transformative realizations.  

**Step 9: Autophyes (Self-Made) and Hedone (Pleasure)**  

Consciousness reaches a state of satisfaction through the fruits of its labor, recognizing that what it brings forth benefits not only itself but also others. This step reflects the balance between self-fulfillment and service to the collective.  

**Step 10: Ageratos (Eternal) and Henosis (Union)**  

True intimacy and unity are realized, unveiling the secret of eternal life through togetherness. Consciousness understands that immortality lies in the harmonious union with others and with the divine.  

**Step 11: Bythos (Depth) and Mixis (Interplay)**  

Infinite growth becomes possible through the deep exploration of self and the dynamic interactions with others of equal depth. This stage represents the ongoing interplay that stirs consciousness toward boundless understanding and divine connection.  

**Step 12: Anthropos (Mankind) and Ecclesia (Congregation)**  

The journey culminates in achieving cohesion between personal and collective being. Consciousness integrates body, mind, and spirit into a harmonious whole, finding balance within the community of believers. This final stage reflects the fulfillment of divine intention, as individual and collective consciousness merge in unity.  

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Through these steps, the consciousness ascends to the heavenly places in Christ, aligning with the aeons and the fullness of God’s attributes. Telepathic communication and spiritual motion are vital elements of this journey, enabling a deeper connection to divine wisdom and purpose. It is a path not of immortality but of transformation, driven by prayer, study, and contemplation.

A Window Into Psychological Mind Of Jesus

A Window Into The Mind Of Jesus

The personification of the sinful temptations in the Lord Jesus's heart as a person called 'the devil' shows how clearly His mind was divided between flesh and spirit-

 A Psychological approach to the wilderness temptations suggests that the more in touch with themselves a person is, the more clearly they will be able to see themselves from outside themselves; the greater the distance they are able to place between them and the 'self' whom they analyse and dialogue with in self-examination. Much of our self-talk is vague; that of the Lord Jesus was specific and focused. He was the man ultimately in touch with Himself.

- His 'adversary', His own mind, quoted the scriptures to Himself 

- There is the implication that it took the Lord 40 days to overcome the Devil, at which point the Devil departed. This is more easily understood in terms of an internal battle, than a literal struggle against a supernatural being. And the fact it took 40 days shows how hard was the struggle for the Lord.

The temptation of Jesus (Matt. 4) took place within Himself. The place of overcoming is within the consciousness of man.

It may well be argued that the language of the wilderness temptations implies there was physical movement going on, e.g. the tempter came to Jesus and led Him away. We now consider how such language is relevant to our evil desires inside our mind.

“And when the tempter came to Him...”

The records of the temptations of our Lord seem to indicate that the ‘devil’ which tempted Him was His internal nature rather than an external tempter. However, some have found problems with this view - not least because the tempter is described as “coming to” Jesus and leading Him. The purpose of this study is to show that temptation and desire are often described in terms of physical movement, thus enabling us to analyze them in a way which is easier to visualize than to describe them in purely abstract terms.

We know that our Lord “was tempted in every point like as we are” (Heb. 4:15); and “every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lusts (desires) and enticed” (James 1:14). For Jesus to be tempted like us, He had to go through the same process of temptation as we do. So to some extent He also was “drawn away” by the evil desires - the ‘devil’ - which He had within Him. This would explain why the devil is described as taking Jesus into Jerusalem and into a mountain; this “taking” is the same as being “drawn away” in James 1.

This association of our evil desires with the idea of physical movement is picked up frequently in the New Testament. “Lead us not into temptation” (Mt. 6:13) is a case in point. We are led by our evil desires, as Jesus was to a small extent in the wilderness; and yet God is ultimately in control of these things. He is greater than our evil desires, and is able to stop them leading us, to “keep us from falling” (note the connection of temptation and physical movement again).

Foolish are “led captive...led away by various lusts...led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Tim. 3: 6; 2 Pet. 3:17). Jesus was not led by the devil - His lusts which He shared with us - as much as these people. But nevertheless, the same basic idea of sin leading us in order to tempt us was true of Him. The Greek word translated “taketh” in Matthew 4 in relation to Jesus being taken by the devil is used both figuratively and literally (Strong).

Similarly, the Devil ‘coming’ to Jesus can also be subjective; again, Strong says the Greek word for ‘coming’ can be used either figuratively or literally . It is translated ‘consent’ in 1 Timothy 6: 3 - some “consent” not to wholesome words”.

Hebrews 12:1 describes “sin which so easily entangles us”, as if sin - the devil - comes up to us and entangles us. The language of Revelation 20 regarding the devil and satan being loosed and going out throughout the world now falls into place, once it is appreciated that the diabolism - our evil desires - are likened to coming to people.

We often stress how Jesus answered each temptation by quoting Scripture, as if the whole experience was a living demonstration of Psalm 119:11: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee”. Although Jesus had the word in His heart, He had our lusts, and for a brief moment it was possible that “ the lusts of other things entering in” (Mk. 4:19 ) could try to choke that word, even in His heart.

For them to try to enter in, they must come to us; and thus the devil - those lusts - came to Jesus. The parable of the sower equates all the various reasons for failure to produce fruit, seeing they all have the same effect. Satan coming to take away the word from the new convert is parallel, therefore, to “the lusts of other things entering in (choking) the word” (Mk. 4: 15 & 19). These lusts originate from our nature - their entering in to the heart from our nature is the same as 'Satan coming'.

- Nathan’s parable about David’s sin with Bathsheba blamed the act on a traveller coming to David asking to be satisfied. The traveller of the parable represented David’s lusts which led to adultery and murder (2 Sam.12: 4), although both these come “from within, out of the heart of man” (Mk. 7:20-23).

Armageddon is an internal war within the human psyche Revelation 16:16

Armageddon is an internal war within the human psyche Revelation 16:16













Revelation 16:12 The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from the East.
13 Then I saw three impure spirits that looked like frogs; they came out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet.
14 They are demonic spirits that perform signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty.
15 “Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”
16 Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.

Now, the word Armageddon does not appear again in the Bible So it’s meaning must be draw from our own logical insight and our intuitive understanding

Armageddon is defined as the final battle between good and evil at the end of the world.

The final battle is not an external battle but rather a personal battle that we must win within ourselves. The book of revelation is written in symbolic language it has a spiritual understanding Rev 1:1

A revelation by Jesus Christ, which God gave him, to show his slaves the things that must shortly take place. And he sent forth his angel and presented [it] in signs through him to his slave John,

First we must understand what the war is

2Co 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

1Pe 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.

Ga 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

1Pe 4:1 Christ, then, having suffered for us in the flesh, ye also with the same mind arm yourselves, because he who did suffer in the flesh hath done with sin,

1Pe 4:2 so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human lusts, but for the will of God.

2Cor 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

The Apostles explained the spiritual reality of Armageddon within the human psyche. "(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through Elohim (God) to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of Elohim (God), and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor 10:4-5);"

Revelation 16:14 the frog like spirits of demons are error thoughts which are internal “this wisdom is not one from above coming down, but is earthly born of the soul demoniacal” James 3:15 Rotherham’s Emphasized Bible.

The gathering together of the final swarm of error thoughts in consciousness (which sometimes seem to be countless) to make war against the truer and higher thoughts of the individual

If the higher thoughts are not true to their spiritual images they are sometimes overcome by these errors, as is suggested by the metaphysical significance of the kings of Judah who were slain at Megiddo, yet it is really a most fortunate place, because it affords an excellent opportunity for the individual to obtain a great and sweeping victory over error (Sisera and his hosts were defeated there), and thus to bring forth precious fruit


Armageddon first takes place within the human psyche it is a madness that will capture the hearts and minds of believers There are concepts that we have in our mind that the beast, dragon and the false prophet have perpetuated with man-made religions and the media that have brought about weakening of our spiritual growth.


The battle of Armageddon is the conflict between truth and error in consciousness.


Many people have not reached the point in their spiritual development where they are even ready for this great battle of Armageddon. If a person rejects truth outright he doesn’t get to this point. Old beliefs don’t die easily, especially the ones that are considered true in religion.


Armageddon stands for that place within our consciousness where there is a struggle between our choice of following negative impulses or practicing truth thinking. The text says that the struggle is to occur of that great day of God Almighty. When is that to be? For the true believer, it is every day.

This is a struggle which occurs daily. It is the present moment for most persons, that struggle between our choice of following negative impulses or practicing truth thinking. The battle of Armageddon is that inner struggle, and this struggle ceases only with the victory in favor of truth thinking.


The battle of Armageddon doesn’t have to be a 50 years’ war, but many drag it out even longer than that. As in many battles there are intermittent periods that mislead us into thinking the battle is over. However, it isn’t over until the New Birth experience takes place, until the Messiah appears on Mt. Zion, the place in consciousness where we realize our oneness with God; we realize that He is within us.








Once we overcome our earthly vices and desires and function fully in Spirit (enlightenment) then we can break the chains that bind us to this earthly existence. Our connection to the physical world ends.

Luke 21-31: "I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things have taken place."

Note: It is up to us to determine when this happens. We are called to wage the battle within our lifetime. This is our true purpose in this life.

Luke 21:34: "Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware."

Note: We must remain diligent and focused on accomplishing our life purpose (enlightenment) and not be distracted by the vices and physical desires of this world.

Luke 21:36 "Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape."

Note: Break the cycle of life and death and achieve eternal life.

"It's the end of the world as we know it...and I feel fine!" (R.E.M.)
And we may win this battle by placing ourself under the leadership of the One whose name is "Faithful and True," "The Word of God," "King of kings and Lord of lords."

The kingdom of the Heavens is a State of Consciousness

The kingdom of the heavens, is a state of consciousness

The kingdom of the heavens, is a state of consciousness in which mind, soul, and body are in harmony with Divine Mind.

Why is the kingdom of heaven like a mustard seed? The parable of the mustard seed shows us that the apparently small thought or idea of Truth (seed) has capacity to develop and expand in consciousness until it becomes the abiding place of a higher type of thoughts (birds of the air). 

13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened.

A true idea transforms a mass of ignorance by allowing the light of understanding to spread throughout the mind until it is enlightenment.

13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

What is the field in which man's greatest treasure is hidden?

The field is the mind and heart of man. When planted with the seed which is the word of God they contain the hidden treasure of true spiritual identity the Christ consciousness or the Christ self that each believer discovers as they learns to know themselves as children of God.

What is represented by the "pearl of great price"? the Christ consciousness or the Christ self. 

13:47Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:13:48which, when it was filled, they drew up on the beach; and they sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but the bad they cast away. 

What is represented by the net that gathered both the good and the bad, which had to be sorted? The net represents the capacity of the mind to gather all kinds of thoughts, which have to be tested; the good retained and the bad cast out. 

13:49So shall it be in the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the righteous, 13:50and shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

What is signified by "the end of the world"? "The end of the world" is more accurately translated "the consummation of the age." It signifies the end of a mental process in which the good thoughts have brought forth good and the bad thoughts have brought forth sin and wickedness. The error thoughts are then destroyed by the cleansing process of renouncing ("furnace of fire").

The mystical consciousness of the second coming John 14:23

The mystical consciousness of the second coming John 14:23

Mystic definition of "eternal life"

In allegory, "eternal life" refers to the experience of timeless rebirth, or the discovery of the fact of your true real self the Christ Consciousness. This is the true, main mystic or allegorical meaning of "eternal life".

the discovery of timeless rebirth in the Christ Consciousness, is shown and revealed and unveiled by the word of God during the uncovering or revelation of the hidden mystery.

awakening to the kingdom of Heaven while in this life is the most important thing in this life.

The mind that overcomes the world and takes a higher perspective consciously enters Heaven and the eternal life right now, in this life. That is as certain as anything could be.

What happens after bodily death?

What is the Condition of the dead

Adam was made to be a soul, not given one. Gen 2:7; 1Co 15:45



It is man, the soul, that dies. Ezekiel 18:4; Isa 53:12; Job 11:20
The Dead are unconscious, they know nothing. Ecc 9:5, 10; Psalm 146:3, 4
The dead not alive with God as spirits. Psalm 115:17; Isa 38:18
Dead asleep awaiting resurrection. John 11:11-14, 23-26; Ac 7:60

mystical afterlife

There are two conceptions of afterlife: Metaphor and literal. After spiritual ego death, one's mortal corruptible self has been sacrificed and has died, and one is by definition in the afterlife, in the kingdom of god, ascended, beyond the last judgement.


This type of death and immortal life after death is certain and is the ultimate experience for which we have evidence. What about literal bodily death and some literalist type of eternal life in heaven? There's little support for it in Biblical scripture. Scripture lends itself more to the mystical, "awakening to the kingdom of god" approach, with "death" and "immortal life" is interpreted first mystically than we consider that eternal life is achieved through the resurrection of the body at the time of the second coming. The very same bodies that once constituted persons shall rise again, in order to be judged for the reward of immortal or eternal life in the kingdom of God or the second death .

The "mystery" of the scriptures is set up through deliberate, playful conflation of literal with mystical death. there is much more about the kingdom of god, than a future kingdom upon the earth and nothing about the traditional heavenly afterlife in the scriptures.

Mystically or spiritually it is certain that we are to awake to the newness of timeless life in the kingdom of God. This kind of eternal life is certain. Literal eternal life in heaven is an illusion entirely unfounded in the bible

The Mystically Afterlife is timeless rebirth after ego death.

There is also another literal eternal life which is also clearly shown to be a biblical teaching is bodily existence in the kingdom of god after the second coming resurrection and judgement of the dead

The mystical consciousness of the second coming

The first coming is the receiving of Truth into the conscious mind, and the Second Coming is the transforming and the regeneration of the carnal mind into the Christ consciousness".

The stage of mystical consciousness development can correspond to the spiritual reference of the "second coming." It is symbolic of the transforming of the consciousness of sin or the carnal mind into the Christ consciousness.

The world no longer satisfies or holds interest for the disciple. The heart and soul yearns for awareness of the Christ consciousness and turns within to experience this Presence through the accurate knowledge of the higher principles of the Gospel of truth.

John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Prayer is the foundation and daily bread upon which this stage of enlightenment depends. Without it, the process is indeed a difficult one.

The Consciousness of Sin Hebrews 10:2

The consciousness of sin Hebrews 10:2

Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, because the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have had consciousness of sins? (Hebrews 10:2)

The meaning of ‘consciousness

the quality or state of being aware especially of something within oneself

the state of being characterized by sensation, emotion, volition, and thought

Mind
the totality of conscious states of an individual

Gr "suneidesis" has the sense of an independent witness within, examining and passing judgment on a man's own conduct: cp Rom 2:15: "their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them".

4893. συνείδησις suneidesis soon-i’-day-sis; from a prolonged form of 4894; co-perception, i.e. moral consciousness: — conscience.

“conscience” [Strong’s 4893] suneidhsiv suneidesis, ‘knowing oneself, being one’s witness’, moral awareness

(Greek suneidesis - a compound of sun, together, and eideo, to see, or know) means, the power of judging ourselves, which is always in accordance with the knowledge of ourselves, and the relations in which we stand to our Father and fellow brethren.

“Conscience” comes from the Latin word "conscius ", meaning “knowing inwardly.” The Latin word has the prefix “con " meaning “together,” and the root " scire " meaning “to know.” So then conscience is co-knowledge with oneself. There is no Hebrew word for conscience or suneidesis, # <4893>. Instead, “heart” is used in the Old Testament in ways that resemble our understanding of “conscience.” When the Old Testament speaks of a “tender heart,” it refers to a sensitive conscience (2Chron 34:27); the “upright in heart” refers to those with a pure conscience (Psa 7:10), and a “clean heart,” refers to those whose conscience is clean (cf. Psa 51:10).

Translated 32 times in the New Testament as “conscience”

From [Strong’s 4894] suneidon suneidon, ‘to see together, hence to comprehend

4894. συνείδω suneido soon-i’-do; from 4862 and 1492; to see completely; used (like its primary) only in two past tenses, respectively meaning to understand or become aware, and to be conscious or (clandestinely) informed of: — consider, know, be privy, be ware of.

AV-by privy 1, consider 1, be ware of 1, know 1; 4

brain' and the 'mind'

What is the difference between the 'brain' and the 'mind'?

Answer:

It may seem, on the surface, that distinguishing between the brain and the mind is not important but to understand the Scriptures properly we must recognize the difference in the brain versus that which the brain produces.

The difference is seen in considering the two words, “brain” and “mind”. The brain is brain-flesh, the physical source of the impulses of man’s defiled nature. The brain is defined as, “

The dictionary says, Brain: "That part of the central nervous system that includes all the higher nervous centers; enclosed within the skull". In other words it is the physical member of the body that controls the biological functions of the body in addition to producing thoughts, attitudes &c.

The mind is defined as, “human consciousness that originates in the brain and is manifested especially in thought, perception, emotion, will, memory, and imagination” (Am. Heritage Dictionary).  

Mind: Thinking produced by the brain.

Look, when you get down to it, even mental states are actually only physical states, are they not? I mean, the brain is just a-a chemical supercomputer (Dr. Rodney Mckay) 

The brain creates chemicals which produce feelings and emotions

Like it or not, emotions share some very real biochemical links with your nervous system, immune system and digestive system.

Consciousness is a property of the brain, and the brain is a biochemical engine or its just a chemical super-computer.

Sin originates in the brain-flesh, not in the mind.

The problem is that some false teachers say that sin is a matter of morality and not as a physical law of that nature’s constitution.

The uncleanness is shifted from the physical realm of the brain’s flesh to the mental-moral

realm.

Note: The brain, when functioning, provides consciousness which consists of "thoughts" or "the mind". When we are told "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5), we are being told to have the same thinking as Christ, not his brain.

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5)
"A double minded man is unstable in all his ways" (James 1:8)

"Operating upon the brain [physical], it [indwelling sin] excites the 'propensities', and these set the 'intellect' [mental], and 'sentiments' [moral] to work. The propensities are blind, and so are the intellect and sentiments in a purely natural state; when therefore, the latter operate under the sole impulse of the propensities, 'the understanding is darkened through ignorance, because of the blindness of the heart'". (Elpis Israel, p . 127)

Man in his physical constitution is imperfect; and this imperfection is traceable to the physical organization of his flesh, being based on the principle of decay and reproduction from the blood; which, acted upon by the air, becomes the life of his flesh. All the phenomena which pertain to this arrangement of things are summed up in the simple word sin; which is, therefore, not an individual abstraction, but a concretion of relations in all animal bodies; and the source of all their physical infirmities. Now, the apostle says, that the flesh thinks, that is, the brain, as all who think are well assured from their own consciousness. If, then, this thinking organ be commanded not to do what is natural for it to do under blind impulse, will it not naturally disobey?  (Elpis Israel)

Now, the law of God is given, that the thinking of the flesh, instead of being excited by the propensities within and the world without, may be conducted according to its direction. 

Consciousness is not Eternal 

If you talk to anyone who’s used DMT or psilocin/psilocybin (aka magic mushrooms) at one time or another they’ll tell you they experienced some very vivid hallucinations — and an almost completely altered perception of reality. This clearly implies that brain biochemistry is consciousness. If consciousness resided in some kind of soul or spirit as the ancients believed, then taking chemicals would have no effect on your consciousness. If you can alter your consciousness by taking a chemical to interfere with or mimics neurotransmitters, on the other hand, then consciousness must be biochemical in nature.

Psychedelic drugs like Magic mushrooms demonstrate that consciousness is a property of the brain, and the brain is a biochemical engine in the same way that the engine in your car is a mechanical one.

When your car’s engine dies, does another car nearby immediately start up as the “spirit of the car” transfers from one automobile to another? Of course not. You intuitively know that makes no sense. So if consciousness is a property of the brain (which is a biochemical engine), why would it transfer from one vehicle to another when the brain dies? that doesn’t make any sense.

Psalm 146:4 NASB 1995
His spirit departs, he returns to the earth; In that very day his thoughts perish.

Ecclesiastes 3:19 For an event is to the sons of man, and an event is to the beasts, even one event is to them; as the death of this, so is the death of that; and one spirit is to all, and the advantage of man above the beast is nothing, for the whole is vanity.

The Consciousness of Sin

For if it were otherwise, would not these sacrifices have stopped being offered? For the worshipers, having once [for all time] been cleansed, would no longer have a consciousness of sin.

By law comes knowledge of sin and consciousness of guilt and liability to punishment

The TCNT has: "for where there is no consciousness of law, sin shows no sign of life". Unless the law is recognised, sin is dormant, ignored and "dead". But the law of God revives the challenge between flesh and spirit, and shows the evil character of sin that resides in the flesh.

The result of the law in this context is that it had the effect of rousing the innate tendency of man to sin, and so bound the consciousness of the individual to the "old man" (the natural and evil proclivities of the flesh).


The awakening of sin in life by the power of God's law and its display to the spiritual consciousness demonstrates the grotesque ungodliness of sin, and the impossibility of overcoming it without the aid of Almighty God through His Son (Psa. 80:17). It was seen to be absolutely and violently opposed to God and His law.

World English Bible because the mind of the flesh is hostile towards God; for it is not subject to God's law, neither indeed can it be.

Now, the apostle says, that the flesh thinks — that is, the brain, as all who think are well assured from their own consciousness

Hence, in ch. 8:3 Paul speaks of "sin in the flesh." Notice, particularly, that in both passages the apostle emphasizes the "body" or "the flesh." He does not say "the mind," for it is the "flesh" or "mortal body" which is the source of sin. Evil propensities given free reign, produce the carnal mind; not the other way round.

The Carnal Mind is an expression used by Paul; or rather, it is the translation of words used by him, in his epistle to the Romans. It is not so explicit as the original. The words he wrote are the thinking of the flesh. In this phrase, he intimates to us, that the flesh is the thinking substance, that is, the brain; which, in another place, he terms "the fleshy tablet of the heart"

Mark 7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.

Do not become slaves to a bad conscience. It is easy to defile one’s conscience. A Christian’s aim should be as shown in Acts 23:1: “Brothers, I have behaved before God with a perfectly clear conscience down to this day.”

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

There is therefore no more condemnation in Christ who strengthens me