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Bishop Jim Swilley brings part 2 of his march series The Spirit Gives Life: Deactivating the letter that kills to create a new heaven and new earth.

+listen on the go, podcasts www.metronlive.blubrry.com

+website www.bishinthenow.com

+Youtube – BishInTheNow

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking

Join us in person each Sunday at 195 Arizona Ave NE w1, Atlanta, GA 30307

Watch the video on Facebook:   Here

Watch the video on Youtube :   Here

Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow

Notes by AI transcribed and summarized from the recorded audio.

Exploring the Intersection of Religion, Politics, and Personal Beliefs Through Anecdotes and Critiques

---

1. The dangers of religious fundamentalism and literalism, and the importance of compassion, understanding, and democracy in addressing complex social issues.

• 🌍 The speaker discusses the complexities of religious interpretations and their impact on global conflicts, highlighting the absurdity of religious fundamentalism through references to George Carlin and Bill Maher.
• 🕊 The historical and religious roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict are explored, emphasizing the shared ancestry of Ishmael and Isaac and the broader implications for peace and understanding.
• 📖 The speaker critiques the literal interpretation of religious texts, arguing for a more nuanced understanding that embraces the spirit rather than the letter of the law to avoid divisiveness and conflict.
• 💇 A personal anecdote is shared about the absurdity of strict religious rules regarding appearance, illustrating the speaker’s broader point about the dangers of fundamentalism and literalism.
• 🗽 The speaker advocates for democracy over theocracy, arguing that democracy is more aligned with God’s intentions by promoting inclusivity and freedom, as opposed to the divisiveness of theocratic rule.
• 🤰 The speaker addresses the issue of abortion from a compassionate perspective, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and the complexity of individual circumstances over rigid dogma.

2. The dynamic nature of faith and the importance of an open, questioning approach to spirituality and scripture.

• 📖 The speaker discusses the dynamic and non-static nature of scripture, emphasizing the importance of acting on beliefs, particularly in the context of making peace, even when it’s challenging.
• 🕊 The speaker reflects on personal experiences of attempting to make peace with others, highlighting the complexity and sometimes the impossibility of reconciliation, and the importance of making peace with oneself.
• 💨 A discussion on the interpretation of scripture and the role of the spirit in giving life, contrasting the letter of the law with the spirit’s vivifying power.
• 🛐 The speaker critiques rigid orthodoxy and fundamentalism, advocating for a faith held in love and service, open to doubt and being led by God rather than clinging to certainty.
• 👨 Personal anecdotes are shared to illustrate the speaker’s journey of faith, including challenges with family and congregational expectations, and the evolution of their preaching style.
• 🌍 The speaker addresses the challenges of navigating racial and cultural dynamics within their ministry, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting diversity.
• ❓ Reflections on the nature of knowledge and belief, including the value of admitting uncertainty and the personal impact of Jesus’ healing, are shared to encourage a more open and inquisitive faith.
• 📑 The speaker discusses the administrative and bureaucratic challenges involved in caring for a family member, using it as a metaphor for the complexities of life and faith.
• 🎓 A critique of the educational system and personal anecdotes about learning and teaching highlight the importance of critical thinking and genuine understanding over rote memorization.
• 🔍 The speaker explores the concept of deconstruction in faith, distinguishing it from destruction and emphasizing its role in understanding and engaging with scripture.

3. The interplay between personal spirituality and traditional religious beliefs, emphasizing inclusivity, understanding, and the importance of both scripture and personal interpretation.

• 📖 The speaker expresses appreciation for quotes and statements that resonate with them, highlighting the ability to support these with scripture references.
• ✨ The speaker discusses their experience with meditation, emphasizing the importance of visualization and emotional connection, inspired by Joe Dispenza.
• 🙏 Identifying with various spiritual and religious labels, the speaker embraces being multifaceted in their beliefs, including New Age, Pentecostal, and Word of Faith.
• 😂 The speaker reflects on the concept of being ‘every woman’ and the inclusivity of different spiritual paths, using a humorous repetition to emphasize their point.
• 📝 A discussion on fundamentalism versus a more inclusive approach to spirituality, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting diverse beliefs.
• 👨 The speaker shares a personal anecdote about family dynamics and the influence of respected opinions, illustrating the impact of personal relationships on belief systems.
• 💬 The speaker advocates for a balance between the letter (scripture) and the spirit (interpretation), emphasizing the importance of flexibility and understanding in faith.
• 🎸 A humorous story is shared about a misunderstanding in a record store, illustrating the speaker’s point that outward appearances do not always reflect one’s faith or beliefs.
• 🔮 The speaker discusses the concept of deconstruction in theology, emphasizing the importance of context and cultural understanding in interpreting texts.
• 🎨 Using a provocative artwork of Jesus and a modern-day ‘harlot’, the speaker challenges traditional perceptions and invites a more compassionate and inclusive understanding of scripture.

4. Compassion and Understanding Over Judgment

• 👩 The speaker discusses the judgmental attitudes towards a woman’s appearance and actions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion over strict adherence to societal norms.
• ✝ Jesus’s interactions with individuals are highlighted to demonstrate his prioritization of personal experience and forgiveness over rigid interpretation of religious laws.
• 📖 The speaker critiques modern Christianity and other ideologies for their obsession with literal interpretations, which can lead to exclusion and conflict.
• 🕊 A call for a more inclusive and understanding approach to spirituality is made, suggesting that happiness and holiness are interconnected.
• 🌍 The speaker addresses societal issues like racism, gender identity, and homelessness, urging for empathy and recognition of individual experiences.
• ⚖ The importance of separating church and state is emphasized, advocating for a society where personal freedoms are respected and cherished.

 

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Bishop Jim Swilley brings part 2 of his march series The Spirit Gives Life: Deactivating the letter that kills to create a new heaven and new earth.

+listen on the go, podcasts www.metronlive.blubrry.com

+website www.bishinthenow.com

+Youtube – BishInTheNow

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking

Join us in person each Sunday at 195 Arizona Ave NE w1, Atlanta, GA 30307

Watch the video on Facebook:   Here

Watch the video on Youtube :   Here

Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow

Notes by AI transcribed and summarized from the recorded audio.

This message explores the interplay between personal spirituality, identity, and the interpretation of religious texts. It emphasizes the importance of originality and the spirit over literalism and societal expectations. The speaker shares personal anecdotes, critiques fundamentalism, and highlights the significance of personal experiences and stories in understanding and communicating spiritual truths. Additionally, the lecture touches on cultural perspectives on homosexuality, the divine nature of human stories, and the importance of empathy for others’ experiences.

🔖 Knowledge Points

1. The lecture discusses the importance of interpreting scripture with context and humanity, and warns against the misuse of the Bible to justify oppression and harm.

• Podcast Introduction
  The speaker is starting a podcast episode and mentions the ease of accessing podcasts on phones.
• Series Part Three
  The podcast is part of a series, and this episode is the third part, focusing on a theme from 2 Corinthians 3:6.
• The Spirit Gives Life
  The main topic is about the spirit giving life and deactivating the letter that kills, in the context of creating a new heaven and new earth.
• Biblical Interpretation
  The speaker discusses the importance of context and the original Greek language in understanding the Bible.
• Constitution and Bible Comparison
  The speaker compares the malleability of the U.S. Constitution with the Bible, emphasizing the ongoing process of democracy.
• Humanity in Scripture
  The speaker reflects on the importance of recognizing humanity when quoting scripture, rather than using it as a handbook.
• Misuse of Scripture
  The speaker criticizes the use of scripture to justify harmful actions and attitudes, particularly towards women and minorities.
• Bible as a Work in Progress
  The speaker suggests that the Bible, like the Constitution, is not absolute and is subject to interpretation and amendment.
• Jesus’ Relationship with Scripture
  The speaker talks about Jesus challenging the Pharisees and the established interpretations of scripture.
• The Bible’s Formation
  The speaker mentions the Council of Nicaea’s role in forming the canon of the Bible.
• Personal Experience with Scripture
  The speaker shares a personal anecdote about their grandmother’s use of scripture and southern colloquialisms.
• Spirit and Breath
  The speaker emphasizes the connection between spirit and breath in the context of meditation and scripture.
• The Dangers of Literalism
  The speaker warns against the dangers of literal interpretation of scripture, which can lead to harm and exclusion.
• The Power of Words
  The speaker discusses the impact of words, particularly harsh words like ‘shut up,’ on a person’s humanity.
• The Role of Fear in Upholding Scripture
  The speaker suggests that fear plays a role in people’s reluctance to challenge traditional interpretations of scripture.
• The Bible and Social Issues
  The speaker touches on how the Bible has been used historically to support slavery and the subjugation of women.
• The Bible as a Tool for Oppression
  The speaker criticizes the use of the Bible as a tool for oppression and control, particularly in the context of marriage and gender roles.
• The Need for Wisdom in Interpretation
  The speaker calls for wisdom and a deeper understanding when interpreting scripture, as exemplified by the character Sophia in ‘The Color Purple.’
• The Bible vs. Human Experience
  The speaker argues that the Bible should not be used to deny or override human experience and the innate desire for happiness and fulfillment.
• The Bible’s Influence on Personal Beliefs
  The speaker reflects on how the Bible has influenced their own beliefs and the beliefs of others, sometimes in negative ways.

2. The importance of balancing the letter of the law with its spirit to avoid legalism and maintain a life-giving foundation.

• Ethical Dilemma of Embryos
  The speaker references an interview with a congressman about the status of frozen embryos, highlighting an ethical dilemma.
• Avoiding the Question
  The congressman responded to the ethical dilemma by deferring the conversation, illustrating avoidance of complex issues.
• Problem of the Letter
  The speaker discusses the issue with adhering strictly to rules or the ‘letter’ of the law, which can lead to more complications.
• Creation of More Rules
  The speaker notes that establishing one rule often leads to the creation of many additional rules.
• Balance Between Letter and Spirit
  The speaker emphasizes the importance of balancing adherence to the letter of the law with the spirit or intent behind it.
• Legalism
  The speaker warns against legalism, which focuses on the text of the law rather than the life-giving spirit of the law.
• Spirit Gives Life
  The speaker suggests that the spirit or attitude of the law is what gives life and should be the foundation.
• Words of Life
  The speaker values encouraging words from others, likening them to a ‘Vitamin B12 shot’ that provides a boost.

3. The importance of context and unconditional love in interpreting religious texts and understanding ancient beliefs.

• Words of life
  Words of life can be expressions of unconditional love and support, not just scripture quotations.
• New covenant
  The speaker references 2 Corinthians 3 to highlight the transition from the written law to the spirit, emphasizing the spirit gives life.
• Bible reading perspective
  The speaker encourages understanding the Bible in context, considering the era and culture from which it originated.
• Understanding ancient perspectives
  The speaker discusses how ancient people might have interpreted natural phenomena, like volcanoes and rainbows, in a mythological or religious context.
• Modern interpretation of natural phenomena
  The speaker points out that what was once attributed to divine or supernatural causes can now be explained through science, like the formation of rainbows.

4. The main theme of the lecture is the interplay between personal spirituality, identity, and the interpretation of religious texts, emphasizing the importance of originality and the spirit over literalism and societal expectations.

• Personal Experience with Rainbows
  The speaker recounts a moment when a double rainbow appeared while reading a gratitude list, which felt like a sign from God despite scientific explanations.
• Interpretation of the Noah Story
  The speaker interprets the Noah story as a message that one person can make a difference, rather than focusing on the literal aspects of the story.
• Critique of Fundamentalism and Science
  The speaker criticizes both fundamentalists and scientists for missing the spiritual essence of phenomena.
• The Spirit Gives Life
  The speaker emphasizes that the spirit, rather than literal interpretations or scientific explanations, is what gives life to religious stories and personal experiences.
• Importance of Originality
  The speaker values original thought and teaching, claiming to present ideas that they have not heard from others.
• The Role of the Holy Spirit
  The speaker discusses their personal relationship with the Holy Spirit and its unpredictable nature in their life.
• Identity Beyond Definitions
  The speaker encourages living beyond societal roles and definitions to find one’s true self.
• Gender Fluidity and Societal Roles
  The speaker touches on the topic of gender fluidity, challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
• Personal Anecdotes on Race and Identity
  The speaker shares personal stories related to race and identity, highlighting the complexity and individuality of these concepts.
• Criticism of Literal Interpretation of Scriptures
  The speaker criticizes those who take scriptures at face value without considering the deeper meaning or context.
• The Power of Personal Testimony
  The speaker notes the impact of their personal truth on others’ acceptance and understanding of their identity.
• The Concept of Being a Letter
  The speaker uses the metaphor of being a ‘letter’ to others, representing the personal influence one can have on another’s beliefs.
• The Importance of Finding One’s Own Voice
  The speaker stresses the importance of finding and expressing one’s unique voice rather than imitating others.

5. The significance of personal experiences and stories in understanding and communicating spiritual truths, and the importance of respecting diverse perspectives.

• Cultural perspectives on homosexuality
  Wellington comes from a culture where homosexuality may be a capital offense, influencing his views.
• Personal revelation through dreams
  Wellington had a dream that led him to decide to become a pastor, highlighting the significance of dreams in guiding life decisions.
• Biblical precedent for dreams
  Dreams and visions are honored in the Bible, with significant events often based on them, such as Joseph’s dreams.
• Personal experiences as a source of truth
  The speaker felt a profound change after a visitation in a dream, emphasizing personal experiences as a way God communicates.
• The importance of personal stories
  Personal stories can have more impact than scripture alone, as they are relatable and provide real-life examples.
• Empathy for others’ experiences
  Respecting others’ stories and experiences is crucial, even if they differ from one’s own, as everyone’s reality is unique.
• The limitations of strict adherence to scripture
  Adhering strictly to scripture without considering individual contexts can be restrictive and dismissive of personal experiences.
• The divine nature of human stories
  The speaker asserts that human stories are divine and that they are a form of the Word of God, not just fleshly experiences.

6. The main theme is the importance of personal spiritual experience and narrative over strict adherence to religious texts.

• Spiritual rebirth
  The speaker emphasizes the importance of being born of the Spirit rather than the flesh.
• Personal narrative
  The lecturer encourages individuals to believe in and embrace their own stories and spiritual journeys.
• Biblical interpretation
  The speaker suggests that the Bible’s intent is to inspire personal growth and individual storytelling.
• Living Bible
  The concept that each person’s actions and experiences contribute to an ongoing, living Bible is highlighted.
• Individual experience
  The speaker asserts the uniqueness of each person’s experience and the impossibility of fully understanding another’s perspective.
• Critique of rigid bibliology
  The lecturer criticizes strict adherence to the Bible that neglects personal experience and growth.
• Authenticity in teaching
  The speaker values originality and personal revelation in teaching over repeating others’ interpretations.
• Self-worth
  The speaker addresses the issue of people feeling unworthy due to others’ interpretations of their lives.
• Resisting external narratives
  The importance of not allowing others to rewrite one’s personal story is stressed.
• Call and response tradition
  The speaker references the call and response tradition in gospel churches as a way of affirming personal testimony.
• Value of perspective
  The lecturer notes the importance of sharing and receiving different perspectives to enrich understanding.
• Life over the letter
  The speaker argues that living experience is more important than strict textual adherence.
• Contribution to Metron
  The speaker provides information on how to contribute to Metron, including text donations and website support.
• Charitable giving
  Donations to Metron also support a charity or organization of the month.
• Upcoming guest
  The speaker mentions that Zach Pio is planning to visit and attend the next session.
• Special event for Easter
  The lecturer hints at a special plan for the upcoming Easter service.

7. Clarification of misunderstandings regarding Old Testament Hebrew terms

• Speaker’s denial of a statement
  The speaker begins by denying having made a particular statement.
• Lack of examination
  The speaker clarifies that they have not looked at or seen the subject in question.
• Old Testament Hebrew
  The speaker mentions ‘Mulak’ and ‘Nafshat’ as terms from Old Testament Hebrew.
• Definition of Nafshat
  The speaker confirms that ‘Nafshat’ is the word for itself, implying a self-referential definition.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Bishop Jim Swilley brings part 2 of his march series The Spirit Gives Life: Deactivating the letter that kills to create a new heaven and new earth.

+listen on the go, podcasts www.metronlive.blubrry.com

+website www.bishinthenow.com

+Youtube – BishInTheNow

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking

Join us in person each Sunday at 195 Arizona Ave NE w1, Atlanta, GA 30307

Watch the video on Facebook:   Here

Watch the video on Youtube :   Here

Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Bishop Jim Swilley brings part 1 of his march series The Spirit Gives Life: Deactivating the letter that kills to create a new heaven and new earth.

+listen on the go, podcasts www.metronlive.blubrry.com

+website www.bishinthenow.com

+Youtube – BishInTheNow

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking

Join us in person each Sunday at 195 Arizona Ave NE w1, Atlanta, GA 30307

Watch the video on Facebook:   Here

Watch the video on Youtube :   Here

Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow

Notes by AI transcribed and summarized from the recorded audio.
—
1. The complexities and challenges of interpreting religious texts, emphasizing the importance of context, historical awareness, and the distinction between spiritual and literal interpretations.

* Jim discusses the potential toxicity of written scripture, comparing it to poisonous foods that require careful handling. They emphasize the importance of discernment in interpreting written texts.
* A recount of visiting the Dead Sea Scrolls in Israel is shared, highlighting the historical significance but lack of spiritual impact for the speaker. This underscores the difference between appreciating religious texts as historical artifacts versus spiritual experiences.
* The Bishop reflects on the evolution of writing and its significance, lamenting the decline in penmanship and the shift away from teaching cursive writing in schools.
* A critique of literal interpretations of biblical prophecy is offered, particularly concerning the Book of Revelation. The speaker challenges the arrogance of applying ancient texts directly to modern contexts without considering their original audience.
* Swilley questions the practicality and believability of certain eschatological beliefs, using humor and personal anecdotes to illustrate the absurdity of some interpretations.

2. The dangers of rigid religious interpretation and the shift from spiritual guidance to political activism.

* The Bishop criticizes the rigid interpretation of religious texts, arguing it leads to a lack of flexibility and understanding. They highlight Jesus’ teachings and the importance of interpreting the spirit of the law.
* The concept of bibliolatry is discussed, emphasizing the danger of idolizing religious texts over their intended spiritual guidance. This idolatry can lead to division and conflict among believers.
* Jim addresses the issue of Christian denominationalism, pointing out the vast number of denominations as evidence that the Bible is not as clear-cut as some believe.
* Christian nationalism and its potential dangers are explored, with historical examples showing how religious convictions can lead to extremism and violence.
* The Bishop laments the shift in evangelical focus from spreading the good news to political activism, emphasizing the original purpose of evangelism.

3. The importance of personal experience and compassion in faith over strict dogma.

* Jim discusses the complexity of being anti-abortion and pro-choice, highlighting the importance of personal situations and the ethical dilemmas posed by IVF treatments.
* Evangelicals are criticized for focusing on controlling others’ lives, such as opposing same-sex marriage, rather than spreading the gospel and saving souls.
* Swilley argues that evangelicals have strayed from their mission, getting involved in politics and losing sight of their core religious teachings.
* Personal experiences and relationships are emphasized over strict adherence to biblical texts, with the speaker advocating for a more compassionate and understanding approach to faith.
* The Bishop shares a touching story about a man whose faith and connection to a gifted Bible provided him strength and extended his life, illustrating the power of personal belief.

# Rethinking Religious Beliefs and Human Connections
`Born Again` `Human Connection` `Bible Interpretation`

—

## 💡 Viewpoints

* **Being Born Again**
The Bishop discusses the concept of being ‘born again’ not as a physical rebirth but as a metaphor for rethinking prejudices and limitations imposed by society and religious dogma.

* **Importance of Human Connection**
Jim emphasizes the significance of human relationships and connections over strict adherence to religious texts or doctrines, suggesting that personal interactions can convey the essence of spirituality.

* **Bible Interpretation**
He suggests that the Bible should be interpreted in a way that fits into one’s life, rather than trying to mold one’s life to fit the Bible, advocating for a more personal and less literal approach to scripture.

* **Role of Giving**
Jim talks about the act of giving as a way to activate human compassion and support, rather than expecting divine or supernatural intervention.

* **Perception of Miracles**
The Bishop discusses how miracles may not always appear as one expects them to, suggesting that a change in perception is necessary to recognize the miracles in one’s life.

## Conclusion
The importance of personal interpretation and application of religious beliefs, emphasizing human connections and compassion in spirituality.

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FEBRUARY SERIES: ‘IN THE GARDEN: Rethinking Righteousness and Self-Actualizing for Success’

Part 3

This message delves into the concepts of self-actualization, personal responsibility, and truth in spirituality. It challenges traditional religious narratives, emphasizing the importance of self-esteem and co-creation with the divine. Jim provides a metaphysical interpretation of biblical stories, encouraging a broader understanding of spirituality. Additionally, he discusses the significance of truth and transparency in life, highlighting the contradiction in society regarding personal behaviors. Overall, it explores themes of self-growth, societal contradictions, and the importance of taking personal responsibility.

+listen on the go, podcasts www.metronlive.blubrry.com

+website www.bishinthenow.com

+Youtube – BishInTheNow

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking

Join us in person each Sunday at 195 Arizona Ave NE w1, Atlanta, GA 30307

Watch the video on Facebook:   Here

Watch the video on Youtube :   Here

Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow

• Self-actualization and personal responsibility
  The lecture emphasizes the importance of self-actualization and taking personal responsibility for one’s life and decisions, rather than blaming external factors or others.
• Metaphysical interpretation of biblical stories
  The speaker provides a metaphysical interpretation of biblical narratives, particularly the story of Adam and Eve, suggesting these stories are metaphorical rather than literal.
• Rethinking traditional religious concepts
  The content challenges traditional religious concepts, encouraging a broader understanding of God and spirituality that transcends conventional patriarchal and cultural limitations.
• The significance of self-esteem in spirituality
  The lecture highlights the sacredness of self-esteem, asserting that negative self-perception is contrary to spiritual well-being.
• The concept of co-creation with the divine
  It discusses the idea of humans as co-creators with the divine, emphasizing a partnership model of spirituality where individuals are empowered to shape their reality.
• Truth and Transparency
  The lecture emphasizes the importance of truth and transparency in life, suggesting that the universe is built on the concept of truth.
• Contradiction in Society
  It highlights a contradiction in society where people push boundaries yet are more scandalized by others’ behaviors than ever, pointing towards a lack of truthfulness.
• Self-Actualization and Esteem
  The speaker discusses self-actualization and self-esteem, suggesting that understanding and accepting oneself is crucial for personal growth and interaction with others.
• Blame and Responsibility
  The lecture touches on the themes of blame and personal responsibility, arguing that blaming others is a way to avoid dealing with personal issues or mistakes.
• Mistaken Identity and Sin
  It explores the concept of sin as mistaken identity, suggesting that sin introduced death and that embracing mistaken identity through religious teachings is a choice.