twelve ways of jesus

Introduction:

Jesus used simple stories and short sayings to provoke us and teach profound lessons. His teachings are fun to learn, provocative, and transforming.

This site deals with the wisdom teachings of Jesus. It leaves out the additions of the gospel writers. It leaves out the miracles and healings surrounding Jesus.

“My way is easy”:

Christianity with its lives of the saints, virtues, vices, and creeds has always appeared complex and difficult.

A rereading of the gospels, testing the truth of the statement made by Jesus “My way is easy” reveals that the original teachings of Jesus are easy to follow and make life easier and fulfilling.

Multiple Intended Meanings:

Each of the sayings and stories of Jesus appear to be meant to startle the reader and to make the reader think about a subject that is emotionally charged.

The stories and sayings of Jesus have a riddle like nature. Their meaning is not clear on first reading. They are like a children’s hidden picture puzzle where for example a horse, a fish and a bird are hidden in a landscape drawing. It is a challenge to find the different meanings.

We avoid the Inquisition like trap of attaching to one meaning and condemning all others.

Organization:

The “Twelve Ways of Jesus” is organized under five general headings. The following is a brief synopsis:

Foundation:

1/ Blessed are the poor.
2/ Talk and listen to the divine or “inner light”.

Lightening Our Burdens:

3/ “My burden is light.” Release unnecessary obligations.
4/ Do not have regrets of the past, nor anxiety for the future.
5/ Do not be jealous; do not judge others; do not be prideful.

The Way of Love:

6/ Love your enemy.
7/ Forgive past wrongs.
8/ Give to anyone who asks.
9/ Plant the seeds for the kingdom of heaven.

Assertiveness:

10/ Seek, ask, knock.
11/ Be shrewd. Be assertive.

12/ Carry the message to others.

References:

Open English Bible

“The Five Gospels: What did Jesus Really Say” by Robert W. Funk, Roy W. Hoover and the Jesus Seminar