WHAT IS
THE URANTIA BOOK?
The Urantia Book consists of four parts. As noted on the cover, it unveils the mysteries of God, the Universe, world history, Jesus, and ourselves.
Amazon describes it: "You have discovered a literary masterpiece that answers questions about God, life in the inhabited universe, the history and future of this world, and the life of Jesus. The Urantia Book harmonizes history, science, and religion into a philosophy of living that offers new meaning and hope. If you seek answers, read The Urantia Book!"
The world needs new spiritual truths that give modern men and women an intellectual pathway to a personal relationship with God. Building on the world's religious heritage, The Urantia Book presents an endless destiny for humankind, emphasizing that living faith is essential for personal spiritual growth and eternal survival. Its teachings introduce new truths powerful enough to uplift and advance human understanding and belief for the next millennium.
One third of The Urantia Book is dedicated to the inspiring story of Jesus’ entire life and a revelation of his original teachings. This comprehensive narrative covers his birth, childhood, teenage years, adult travels and adventures, public ministry, crucifixion, and 19 resurrection appearances. This inspiring account redefines Jesus from the central figure of Christianity into a guide for seekers of all faiths and backgrounds.
HOW TO READ THE URANTIA BOOK
1. Since the book's depth and detailed descriptions can be overwhelming, especially at first, it's recommended not to start from the beginning. Instead, revisit it after exploring some other papers to build understanding gradually. This approach helps prevent discouragement while encouraging engagement as your comprehension grows.
Many readers and my advice suggest beginning with Part IV, The Life and Teachings of Jesus. Therefore...
2. Recall a Jesus story from the Bible, possibly one from Sunday School, and find it in Part IV. Examples include the water turning into wine, the feeding of the 5000, the crucifixion and resurrection, the Last Supper, or the Sermon on the Mount. Reading these helps familiarize you with the language and details.
3. Reflect on what you've read—consider how it compares or contrasts with the Bible. Why might it differ? How did it make you feel?
4. Keep an open mind, seeking Truth in what you read and understand. The universe contains far more than we have been told. The Urantia Book will expand your understanding.
5. After exploring some papers in Part IV, you may choose to read the whole section. As you do, you'll encounter references to other ideas in the book. This will guide your next steps. Some start directly with Part I, jumping in without feeling overwhelmed; take your time. Alternatively, you might begin with Part III, The History of Urantia, before moving to Part I.
Consider finding a friend to read with or joining a study group. Many have shared copies of the book, and discussing ideas together can be enriching. Study groups are also available online via the two organizations mentioned below. Abundant resources are available online, including full-text (downloadable or online), audio recordings, and MP3 files—examples include urantia.org and truthbook.com. Amazon also offers related books.
Key stories include the miracle of turning water into wine (UB Paper 137, section 4), the feeding of the 5000 (UB Paper 152), Jesus' crucifixion (UB Paper 187), resurrection (UB Paper 189), the Last Supper (UB Paper 179), and the Sermon on the Mount (UB Paper 140).
Welcome to The Urantia Book Study Group of Southwest Florida.
We are a community dedicated to the exploration and understanding of The Urantia Book. Join us in our enlightening journey as we delve deep into the spiritual teachings and insights offered by The Urantia Book.
We meet every Wednesday at 10 am.
You can now join our UBSG of SWFL Wednesday meetings no matter where you are! Join us at any time between 10 am and 12:OO NOON ET. Just click on this Zoom button.
Our scheduled Urantia Book Study Group Zoom meeting
Time: 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting using button above
or
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81564404389?pwd=M2NwKzJ0eXgrUDFSV3dKQ0pOcUxCQT09
Meeting ID: **81564404389
Passcode if you need it: 334933
BOOK CONTENTS SUMMARY
Part 1: The Central and Superuniverses
The Urantia Book provides a comprehensive background for understanding the physical, mindal, and spiritual structure of the universe—a universe that is spirit-dominated and personality-managed. This section provides an overview of some of those personalities and their relationship to the personality core of reality—the Universal Father and the Paradise Trinity.
Part 2: The Local Universe
This section of The Urantia Book contains an overview of life after death—the adventure of life in the Local Universe. It includes background on life evolution, local universe administration, and a compelling vision of human destiny.
Part 3: The History of Urantia (Our Planet Earth)
This detailed history of our world includes the geological and biological evolution, a new perspective on evolution and creationism, and a history of human cultural, religious, and spiritual development. It revitalizes the archetypal stories of Judeo-Christian religion, including the rebellion of Lucifer, the story of Adam and Eve, the visit of Melchizedek to Abraham, and much more.
Part 4: The Life and Teachings of Jesus
The Urantia Book contains the most spiritually compelling story of Jesus anywhere in print. It provides a detailed narrative of Jesus' entire life, including the so-called "missing years," his discourses, parables, significant life events, crucifixion, and resurrection. The life and teachings of Jesus are supplemented by an extensive spiritual cosmology provided in the first three sections of The Urantia Book.
