The Tao of Christ

This discussion dives into Easter from the unique perspective of Thomas in the Gospel of Thomas. It challenges the traditional portrayal of Thomas as merely a 'Doubting Thomas.' Instead, it reveals his insights on resurrection as a spiritual experience, transcending physical realities. The conversation contrasts early Christian views with later interpretations. The take on spiritual wisdom, inspired by Paul's writings, suggests Easter as a profound mystery, inviting listeners to explore deeper spiritual themes.

Explore the challenging theme of standing for truth and unity in a divided world. Discover the profound interpretation of Jesus' 16th saying in the Gospel of Thomas, which reveals a striking contrast between perceived peace and the reality of conflict. Dive into the nuances of spiritual awakening and solitude, uncovering the deeper meanings of faith, resurrection, and the quest for true peace. Highlighting historical examples, the discussion inspires listeners to embrace oneness despite societal struggles.

Today we look at the fifteenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. It is a short, but important saying. Jesus says, "When you see one who was not born of woman, fall on your faces and worship. That one is your Father."  I look at both the “not born of woman” part, and the use of the word Father. Father is one of Jesus’ favorite words for Nondual Reality.  View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU

Explore the intricate nature of spiritual practices in the Gospel of Thomas. Discover how fasting, praying, and giving can become traps for the ego. Unravel the surprising risks that accompany these religious disciplines, emphasizing that instead of fostering altruism, they can lead to self-interest. Delve into the idea that genuine spiritual growth requires a focus on ego dissolution rather than mere adherence to ritual. It's a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional views on spirituality.

Today we look at the thirteenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. “Jesus said to his disciples, "Compare me to someone and tell me whom I am like." Simon Peter said to him, "You are like a righteous angel." Matthew said to him, "You are like a wise philosopher." Thomas said to him, "Master, my mouth is wholly incapable of saying whom you are like." Jesus said, "I am not your master. Because you have drunk, you have become intoxicated from the bubbling spring which I have measured out." And he took him and withdrew and told him three things. When Thomas returned to his companions, they asked him, "What did Jesus say to you?" Thomas said to them, "If I tell you one of the things which he told me, you will pick up stones and throw them at me; a fire will come out of the stones and burn you up." This saying in the Gospel of Thomas stands in clear contrast with the famous passage in the canonical gospels where Peter gives his famous confession of faith.  The Gospel of Mark says: “Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.”In Matthew’s gospel Peter gives a longer and more famous answer: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”The difference between the canonical and noncanonical accounts is the difference between traditional Christianity and Christian nonduality. View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU

Today I look at the twelfth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. This saying is different from all the previous ones in that it deals with leadership in the early church. But it also contains some spiritual truth, which we will see in a moment. It reads: “The disciples said to Jesus, ‘We know that you are going to leave us. Who will be our leader?’ Jesus said to them, ‘No matter where you are you are to go to James the Just, for whose sake heaven and earth came into being.’"View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU

Dive into thought-provoking themes like the dual nature of heaven and the profound distinction between life and death. Explore the journey from darkness to enlightenment, drawing parallels with Plato's allegory of the cave. Discover how figures like Jesus and the Buddha inspire the quest for spiritual awakening. Engage with the transformative ideas of oneness and the challenges of navigating duality in our search for truth.

Explore the powerful symbolism of fire in spiritual awakening and its role in transformation. Discover how this fiery metaphor connects to the themes of destruction and purification in the Gospel of Thomas. Dive into the concept of awakening as a seedling's growth, reflecting on Jesus' radical teachings about the kingdom of God. Uncover how his message challenges authority and inspires those seeking genuine spiritual connection.

Discover a fresh take on the Parable of the Sower, revealing how its interpretation in the Gospel of Thomas offers profound insights into spiritual awakening. Dive into the unpredictable essence of divine grace, likening it to resilient dandelions thriving in unlikeliest of places. Embrace the idea that spiritual journeys can be complex and beautifully messy, prompting listeners to explore their own awakening in ways they never expected.

The eighth saying in the Gospel of Thomas is a big fish story. Jesus said, "The man is like a wise fisherman who cast his net into the sea and drew it up from the sea full of little fish. Among them the wise fisherman discovered a fine large fish. He threw all the little fish back into the sea, and easily chose the large fish. Anyone here with two good ears had better listen!" View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU