The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot Ignore Paperback – May 19, 2009
by Deepak Chopra M.D. (Author)
4.5 out of 5 stars 361 ratings
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Who is Jesus? In The Third Jesus, Deepak Chopra provides an answer that is both uplifting and challenging to current beliefs.
There is not one Jesus, Chopra writes, but three.
The first is the historical Jesus, the man of flesh and blood who lived more than two thousand years ago. The second Jesus is a person who never lived but is a figure created by the Church to represent thousands of years of theology and Church teaching.
Behind these two images stands a third Jesus, the radical, mystical teacher who taught his followers how to change the world.
In The Third Jesus, Chopra explores Jesus’ original message, revealing a spiritual guide of profound depth and inspiration that speaks to anyone who believes in the importance of peace and love.
By turning fresh eyes on the New Testament and returning to the essentials of Jesus’ message, Chopra shows how the third Jesus can truly transform our lives—and humanity.
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256 pages
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Editorial Reviews
Review
Named One of the Best Spiritual Books of 2008 by Spirituality & Practice
"[Promotes] an interspirituality for the twenty-first century that tears down the walls between East and West and reveals how all the world's religions encourage the practice of transformation."
—Spirituality & Practice
"In this book, Deepak Chopra proposes a Copernican revolution in our understanding of Christianity by replacing the theological version of the holy trinity with the triptych of Jesus as possessing a human, an institutional and a mystical dimension. By emphasizing the mystical dimension and identifying Jesus as a spiritual revolutionary, he invites Christianity to perform yet another miracle in his name- that of transforming the world once again."
—Arvind Sharma, Birks Professor of Comparative Religion, Faculty of Religious Studies, McGill University
"The hardest thing to see is what is hidden in plain sight. After 20 centuries of doctrine and dogma we have nearly lost sight of the Jesus who was a wandering teacher of mystical truths. In his imaginative reconstruction of the inner meaning of the gospels, Deepak Chopra reminds us of The Third Jesus, the enlightened master of God-consciousness. It will disturb the minds of the orthodox, and delight the spirits of mystics and progressive Christians."
—Sam Keen, Philosopher and Author, Sightings: Extraordinary Encounters with Ordinary Birds
"An insightful and clarifying glimpse into the life of one of the most radical spiritual teachers the world has known. Chopra gives us the gift of knowing that we may walk in the enlightened footsteps of our brother, Jesus the Christ."
—Michael Bernard Beckwith, founder Agape International Spiritual Center and author of Inspirations of the Heart, 40 Day Mind Fast Soul Feast, A Manifesto of Peace
"In The Third Jesus Deepak Chopra unfolds for us the spirit of Jesus and with a reverence that is at once simple and profound makes his spirit accessible to us in our everyday lives."
—Father Paul Keenan, Host, "As You Think," The Catholic Channel/Sirius 159
“Distinguishing between the historical Jesus and the Christ of Theology and Philosophy developed over 17 centuries Dr. Chopra captures an intriguing vision of a “Third Jesus,” who, while living on Earth, developed a deep relationship with God. Deepak calls this “God-consciousness.” Dr. Chopra brilliantly uses the sayings of Jesus to demonstrate how his basic mission and ethic of love grew out of his God-consciousness. Through Jesus’ own words and spiritual exercises Deepak beautifully elucidates a beginning, middle and unity pathway for growing in deep God-consciousness to anchor our life on earth and our life after death.”
—Rev. Edward J. Ruetz, retired Catholic priest of the Diocese of Fort Wayne/South Bend in Indiana
"Dr. Deepak Chopra's analyses and interpretations of the sayings of Jesus, in the form of "Comment," breathe renewed life into those sayings. Chopra's work brings the teachings of Jesus into sharp focus with a marvelous, modern touch of insight from the vantage of both Eastern and Western thought. With the thought of Jesus's model in hand, Chopra provides the reader with a spiritual path of exercises -- a remarkably renewed practice in search of a higher reality, helping to cause a connection between reader and God. The views Chopra imparts are definitely worth the effort to undertake this enlightening journey of reading and practice."
—Ben Christensen, Ph.D., Prof. Emeritus Dean of the San Diego School of Christian Studies First United Methodist Church of San Diego, CA
"Jesus has now long since escaped the confines of church, Christianity and even 'religions.' Chopra's book thoughtfully presents a Jesus who is paradoxically both closer to the original and more available to post-modern people than the stained glass version. The book is bound to provoke both admiration and condemnation which, come to think of it, the maverick Galilean rabbi also did."
—Harvey Cox, author, When Jesus Came to Harvard, Hollis Professor of Divinity at Harvard
"Chopra’s book The Third Jesus reminds me of the theological work of one of history’s greatest humanitarians and the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Dr. Albert Schweitzer. Schweitzer wrote extensively about Jesus and challenged much of the prevailing theology regarding Jesus’ life and ideas. Chopra is Schweitzer’s equal in bringing to light a fresh and profound way to experience the teachings of Jesus."
—David T. Ives, Executive Director of the Albert Schweitzer Institute at Quinnipiac University
"In this book a man shaped by the religions of the East introduces the West to a Jesus we have either lost or have never known. That is itself a stunning concept, but Deepak Chopra is a stunning man. He explores what he calls the 'Christ Consciousness,' which can be identified neither with the Jesus of history nor with the Jesus of the creeds, the doctrines and the dogmas of the ecclesiastical institution. This 'Third Jesus' can be seen only when we move into a new human awareness that will carry us beyond tribe, prejudice and even beyond our religious systems. As a Christian, I welcome his insights into my Jesus and his provocative call to me to enter the 'Christ Consciousness' and thus to become more deeply and completely human."
—John Shelby Spong, Retired Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark, Author, Jesus for the Non-Religious
"In this intriguing study of the sayings of Jesus, Deepak Chopra gently releases this highly evolved spiritual teacher, light of the world and son of God from the limitations of dogmatic theology. With profound wisdom and clarity Deepak offers the amazing suggestion that the same God-consciousness embodied in the human Jesus is present in all of us individually and collectively. In a spirit of humble knowingness Deepak encourages us to look deep into the mirror of our collective souls and ponder the question Jesus continues to ask “Who do YOU say that I AM ?"
—Sister Judian Breitenbach, Catholic order of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, Founder of the Sari Asher Namaste’ Center in LaPorte, Indiana
"The book makes God accessible to those who find God distant, troublesome, or both. Chopra rescues Jesus from the confusion of the ever multiplying schools of Biblical criticism. The book shows us how to investigate, in a new way, Jesus--the mysterious man with divine awareness. Chopra resolves contradictions in Jesus' sayings, sharpens our understanding of Jesus' teachings, and guides us in the application of Jesus' teachings. Jesus comes into focus. We gain new expectations of what the spiritual life looks like. The book calls even to those who have lost any sense of God. By following the book's practical applications, they, too, may find the universe meaningful instead of indifferent. This is a book to read, re-read, and incorporate into one's life."
—Bonnie Bobzien, MD, Member of board of directors of San Diego School of Christian Studies
"Literate, mainstream Christians will welcome Chopra’s championing before the world, the meaning of their commitment to action, practice, 'ortho-praxis,' following the only absolutely unambiguous demands of Jesus on his followers recorded in the New Testament: serving the poor, loving neighbor and even enemies. It is the most effective response to the Dawkins’ crowd who never even mention the Bishop Robinsons, Martin King, Dietrich Bonhoeffers, Mother Teresas who by their actions, have shown their faith in this Jesus Christ."
—Rustum Roy, Evan Pugh Professor of the Solid State Emeritus, Professor of Science Technology and Society Emeritus, The Pennsylvania State University
“'God created man and woman in His image,'a biblical poet reminds us. Deepak Chopra has returned the compliment. He joins other incisive minds who have reflected on Jesus as 'the true light who enlightens every person' (John 1:9). Jefferson, for example, revered Jesus as 'the first of human Sages.'He looked like Jefferson–dignified, brainy and humorless. Assertive, rabble-rousing Malcolm X told Playboy magazine in 1963 'Christ was a black man.' Was it coincidental that his ebony Jesus bristled at the status quo as he flashed revolutionary rhetoric? Chopra engagingly describes Jesus as looking much like Deepak. Jesus enlightens us, creating a helpful 'path to God-consciousness.' Jesus can’t be contained within stultifying Christian creeds and arid Church traditions that deify him. Yes, he is divine, for Chopra in the sense that he divines a way to Cosmic Consciousness. Here’s energy within that settles us down, excites our passions we look up to capture them and points us back to Jesus, the savant who makes us conscious of the good, the true and the beautiful."
—The Reverend Dr. Jack R. Van Ens, Creative Growth Ministries, Christian dramatist and commentator for the Vail Daily
"The message of Jesus was clear, simple and direct. But within a generation of his passion it was compromised in order to accommodate the widely conflicting views among those who claimed to follow him. In Deepak Chopra’s new book you will find much thought- provoking material related to this compromise which will elucidate many sensitive issues that have perplexed believers for centuries. In contrast to a message originally intended to inspire people to the wonders of a world reborn in God, the emphasis nowadays makes it almost impossible to think of Jesus or even Christianity itself except in terms of the suffering savior who died to appease God’s anger against us. The terrible toll this emphasis has exacted on the message is sensitively treated in a most compelling way in this very valuable new work."
—Miceal Ledwith, L.Ph., L.D., D.D., LL.D, Former President and Professor of Theology, Maynooth University, Served as a Member of the Vatican's International Theological Commission for seventeen years under Pope John Paul II when Cardinal Joseph Alois Ratzinger was President
"A testimony to the inexhaustibility of Jesus; wiseman, social reformer, advocate for the poor and for some, a savior. In this book, Deepak Chopra has given us the mystical Jesus, at one with our deepest consciousness."
—Rev. Patricia E. de Jong, Senior Minister, First Congregational Church, Berkeley, CA.
"What happens when an 'outsider' looks at some of the deep teachings of Jesus? Different angles and perspectives are awakened and different questions are asked of the Christ tradition. In this way wisdom flows in two directions, East to West and West to East and we all wake up--which is, after all, the purpose of a man and life like Jesus. This book helps to heal the divorce between East and West, underscoring that there is only one wisdom and that it demands much of all of us no matter what tradition we come from and especially at this perilous time in human and earth history when we are finally realizing we are all in this together and together we will perish or rise."
—Dr. Matthew Fox, Author, One River, Many Wells: Wisdom Springing from Global Faiths; The New Reformation; Original Blessing; The A.W.E. Project: Reinventing Education, Reinventing the Human and more.
"The story of the Third Jesus is based on the science of all the great religions. The knowledge that god dwells within each of us is realized when we enter into Christ consciousness. Its critical that great teachers of faith re-state the obvious in ways that can be digested by the masses. Specifically, that the idea of Nirvana, Samadhi or Christ consciousness is found when we become one with the universe. Deepak is one of those great teachers. His voice reaffirms the science that is the basis of all religions and echoes the truth in the human spirit."
—Russell Simmons
About the Author
DEEPAK CHOPRA, a member of Oprah's SuperSoul 100, is the author of more than fifty books translated into over thirty-five languages, including numerous New York Times bestsellers in both the fiction and non-fiction categories. Chopra’s Wellness Radio
airs weekly on Sirius Satellite Stars, Channel 102, which focuses on the areas of success, love, sexuality and relationships, well-being, and spirituality. He is founder and president of the Alliance for a New Humanity. Time magazine heralds Deepak Chopra as one of the top one hundred heroes and icons of the century and credits him as “the poet-prophet of alternative medicine.”
www.deepakchopra.com
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Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.
Redeeming the Redeemer
Jesus is in trouble. When people worship him today--or even speak his name--the object of their devotion is unlikely to be who they think he is. A mythical Jesus has grown up over time. He has served to divide peoples and nations. He has led to destructive wars in the name of religious fantasies. The legacy of love found in the New Testament has been tainted with the worst sort of intolerance and prejudice that would have appalled Jesus in life. Most troubling of all, his teachings have been hijacked by people who hate in the name of love.
"Sometimes I feel this social pressure to return to my faith," a lapsed Catholic told me recently, "but I'm too bitter. Can I love a religion that calls gays sinners but hides pedophiles in its clergy? Yesterday while I was driving to work, I heard a rock song that went, 'Jesus walked on water when he should have surfed,' and you know what? I burst out laughing. I would never have done that when I was younger. Now I feel only the smallest twinge of guilt."
No matter where you look, a cloud of confusion hangs over the message of Jesus. To cut through it we have to be specific about who we mean when we refer to Jesus. One Jesus is historical, and we know next to nothing about him. Another Jesus is the one appropriated by Christianity. He was created by the Church to fulfill its agenda. The third Jesus, the one this book is about, is as yet so unknown that even the most devout Christians don't suspect that he exists. Yet he is the Christ we cannot--and must not--ignore.
The first Jesus was a rabbi who wandered the shores of northern Galilee many centuries ago. This Jesus still feels close enough to touch. He appears in our mind's eye dressed in homespun but haloed in glory. He was kind, serene, peaceful, loving, and yet he was the keeper of deep mysteries.
This historical Jesus has been lost, however, swept away by history. He still lingers like a ghost, a projection of all the ideal qualities we wish for in ourselves but so painfully lack. Why couldn't there be one person who was perfectly loving, perfectly compassionate, and perfectly humble? There can be if we call him Jesus and remove him to a time thousands of years in the past. (If you live in the East, his name might be Buddha, but the man is equally mythical and equally a projection of our own lack.)
The first Jesus is less than consistent, as a closer reading of the gospels will show. If Jesus was perfectly peaceful, why did he declare, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword"? (Matthew 10:34) If he was perfectly loving, why did he say, "Throw out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth"? (Matthew 25:30) (Sometimes the translation is even harsher, and Jesus commands "the worthless slave" to be consigned to hell.) If Jesus was humble, why did he claim to rule the earth beyond the power of any king? At the very least, the living Jesus was a man of baffling contradictions.
And yet the more contradictions we unearth, the less mythical this Jesus becomes. The flesh-and-blood man who is lost to history must have been extraordinarily human. To be divine, one must be rich in every human quality first. As one famous Indian spiritual teacher once said, "The measure of enlightenment is how comfortable you feel with your own contradictions."
Millions of people worship another Jesus, however, who never existed, who doesn't even lay claim to the fleeting substance of the first Jesus. This is the Jesus built up over thousands of years by theologians and other scholars. He is the Holy Ghost, the Three-in-One Christ, the source of sacraments and prayers that were unknown to the rabbi Jesus when he walked the earth. He is also the Prince of Peace over whom bloody wars have been fought. This second Jesus cannot be embraced without embracing theology first. Theology shifts with the tide of human affairs. Metaphysics itself is so complex that it contradicts the simplicity of Jesus's words. Would he have argued with learned divines over the meaning of the Eucharist? Would he have espoused a doctrine declaring that babies are damned until they are baptized?
The second Jesus leads us into the wilderness without a clear path out. He became the foundation of a religion that has proliferated into some twenty thousand sects. They argue endlessly over every thread in the garments of a ghost. But can any authority, however exalted, really inform us about what Jesus would have thought? Isn't it a direct contradiction to hold that Jesus was a unique creation--the one and only incarnation of God--while at the same time claiming to be able to read his mind on current events? Yet in his name Christianity pronounces on homosexuality, birth control, and abortion.
These two versions of Jesus--the sketchy historical figure and the abstract theological creation--hold a tragic aspect for me, because I blame them for stealing something precious: the Jesus who taught his followers how to reach God-consciousness. I want to offer the possibility that Jesus was truly, as he proclaimed, a savior. Not the savior, not the one and only Son of God. Rather, Jesus embodied the highest level of enlightenment. He spent his brief adult life describing it, teaching it, and passing it on to future generations.
Jesus intended to save the world by showing others the path to God-consciousness.
Such a reading of the New Testament doesn't diminish the first two Jesuses. Rather, they are brought into sharper focus. In place of lost history and complex theology, the third Jesus offers a direct relationship that is personal and present. Our task is to delve into scripture and prove that a map to enlightenment exists there. I think it does, undeniably; indeed, it's the living aspect of the gospels. We aren't talking about faith. Conventional faith is the same as belief in the impossible (such as Jesus walking on water), but there is another faith that gives us the ability to reach into the unknown and achieve transformation.
Jesus spoke of the necessity to believe in him as the road to salvation, but those words were put into his mouth by followers writing decades later. The New Testament is an interpretation of Jesus by people who felt reborn but also left behind. In orthodox Christianity they won't be left behind forever; at the Second Coming Jesus will return to reclaim the faithful. But the Second Coming has had twenty centuries to unfold, with the devout expecting it any day, and still it lies ahead. The idea of the Second Coming has been especially destructive to Jesus's intentions, because it postpones what needs to happen now. The Third Coming--finding God-consciousness through your own efforts--happens in the present. I'm using the term as a metaphor for a shift in consciousness that makes Jesus's teachings totally real and vital.
When Jesus Comes Again
Imagine for a moment that you are one of the poor Jewish farmers, fishermen, or other heavy laborers who have heard about a wandering rabbi who promises Heaven, not to the rich and powerful, but to your kind, society's humblest. On this day--we can surmise that it was hot and dry, with the desert sun beating down from overhead--you climb a hill north of the blue inland lake known as the Sea of Galilee.
At the top of the hill Jesus sits with his closest followers, waiting to preach until enough people have gathered. You wait, too, seeking the shade of the crooked olive trees that dot the parched landscape. Jesus (known to you in Hebrew as Yeshua, a fairly common name) delivers a sermon, and you are deeply struck, to the heart, in fact. He promises that God loves you, a statement he makes directly, without asking you to follow the duties of your sect or to respect the ancient, complex laws of the prophets. Further, he says that God loves you best. In the world to come, you and your kind will get the richest rewards, everything you have been denied in this world.
The words sound idealistic to the point of lunacy--if God loved you so much, why did he saddle you with cruel Roman conquerors? Why did he allow you to be enslaved and forced to toil until the day you die? The priests in Jerusalem have explained this many times: As the son of Adam, your sins have brought you a wretched existence, full of misery and endless toil. But Jesus doesn't mention sin. He expands God's love to unbelievable lengths. Did you really hear him right?
You are the light of the world. Let your light shine before all men.
He compares you to a city set upon a hill that can't be hidden because its lights are so bright. You've never been told anything remotely like this or ever seen yourself this way.
Don't judge others, so that you may not be judged. Before you try to take a mote out of your brother's eye, first remove the log from your own.
Do to others what you would have them do to you. This one rule sums up what the law and the prophets taught.
Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock, and the door will open.
How can you explain your reaction to this preacher--jumbled feelings of disbelief and hope, suspicion and an aching need to believe? You wanted to run away before he was finished, denying everything you heard. No sane man could walk the streets and judge not the thieves, pickpockets, and whores on every corner. It was absurd to claim that all you had to do, if you needed bread and clothes, was to ask God for them. And yet how beautifully Jesus wove the spell:
Consider the lilies, how they grow: They neither toil nor spin, but I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. Consider the crows, for they neither sow nor reap, they have no storeroom or barn, and yet God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than the birds!
Despite years of hard experience that made a lie of Jesus's promises, you believed them while you were listening. You kept believing them as you walked back down the hill near sunset, and for a few days afterward they haunted you. Until they faded away.
Time hasn't altered this mixture of hope and puzzlement. I had an experience that centers around one of Jesus's most baffling teachings: "Whoever hits you on the cheek, offer him the other also." (Luke 6:29) These are words that our Jewish laborer could have heard that day on the hilltop, but time hasn't altered human nature enough to make this teaching any easier. If I let a bully hit me on one cheek only to turn the other, won't he beat the stuffing out of me? The same holds good, on a larger scale, for a threat like terrorism: If we allow evildoers to strike us without reprisal, won't they continue to do so, over and over?
On the surface my experience only vaguely fits this dilemma. Yet it leads to the heart of Christ's mission. I was in a crowded bookstore promoting a new book when a woman came up to me, saying, "Can I talk to you? I need three hours." She was a compact, forceful person (less politely, a pit bull), but as gently as I could I told her, pointing to the other people crowded around the table, that I didn't have three hours to spare.
A cloud passed over her face. "You have to. I came all the way from Mexico City," she said, insisting that she must have three hours alone with me. I asked if she had called my office in advance, and she had. What did they tell her? That I would be busy all day.
"But I came on my own anyway, because I've heard you say that anything is possible," she said. "If that's true, you should be able to see me."
The PR person in charge of the event was pulling at my elbow, so I told the woman that if she came back later, I might find a few minutes of personal time for her. She became enraged in front of everyone. She released a stream of invective, sparing no four-letter words, and stalked away, muttering darkly that I was a fraud. Later that night the incident wouldn't leave me in peace, so I considered an essential spiritual truth: People mirror back to us the reality of who we are. I sat down and wrote out a list of things I'd noticed about this woman. What had I disliked about her? She was angry, demanding, confrontational, and selfish. Then I called my wife and asked her if I was like that. There was a long silence at the other end of the phone. I was more than a little shaken.
I sat down to face what reality was asking me to face. I found a veneer of annoyance and irritation (after all, wasn't I the innocent victim? hadn't she embarrassed me in front of dozens of people?). Then I called a truce with the negative energies she had stirred up. Vague images of past injuries came to mind, which put me on the right trail. I moved as much of the stagnant energies of hurt as I could.
To put it bluntly, this was a Jesus moment. When he preached, "If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer him the other also" (Luke 6:29), Jesus wasn't preaching masochism or martyrdom. He was speaking of a quality of consciousness that is known in Sanskrit as Ahimsa. The word is usually translated as "harmlessness" or "nonviolence," and in modern times it became the watchword of Gandhi's movement of peaceful resistance. Gandhi himself was often seen as Christlike, but Ahimsa has roots in India going back thousands of years.
In the Indian tradition several things are understood about nonviolence, and all of them apply to Jesus's version of turning the other cheek. First, the aim of nonviolence is ultimately to bring peace to yourself, to quell your own violence; the enemy outside serves only to mirror the enemy within. Second, your ability to be nonviolent depends on a shift in consciousness. Last, if you are successful in changing yourself, reality will mirror the change back to you.
Without these conditions, Ahimsa isn't spiritual or even effective. If someone full of desire for retaliation turns the other cheek to someone equally enraged, the only thing that will occur is more violence. Playing the part of a saint won't make a difference. But if a person in God-consciousness turns the other cheek, his enemy will be disarmed.
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Product details
Publisher : Harmony; 4/19/09 edition (May 19, 2009)
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4.5 out of 5 stars
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Angela
5.0 out of 5 stars One Of My Favorites
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2020
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This is one of my favorite books by Deepak Chopra. It takes the vision people have of Christ, and expands upon it, to show that he was also a human. It also extends on the spiritual side of Christ, showing meditative states, thoughts and processes, that a normal human would go through. I think you have to have an open mind to read and enjoy this book. If you can only view Christ as divine and not human, this might not be the book for you. However, if you recognize both the human and the divine side of Christ, this is a great book.
6 people found this helpful
Rach67
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful book for any seeker of divine truth.
Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2020
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This book is outstanding. I actually had come to the exact same conclusions about Christ as Deepak without knowing that he has written a book on the subject. I had even recently read the exact scriptures that he quotes. I planned to write a book myself but I am glad that Deepak did it because I could never do the subject justice as he has. Just about every word of this text resonated with me on a deep level. Thank you so much Deepak for providing me with much needed guidance on the path but also for being the voice of reason in these crazy times. You are a beacon to the world as we experience this wonderful paradigm shift. 💕💕💕💕
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars A fascinating, timeless meditation on the life and words of Jesus
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2014
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I probably learned more about Jesus reading this book then in amost three decades of church. Don't get me wrong, church is a wonderful place of fellowship, but there is too much emphasis on just getting people into the fold. What happens after that? It becomes like a sales meeting, how many souls did we sell for the kingdom of God today? Instead of saying, how many lives were transformed? How many marriages restored? How many runaways came back home? How many addicts gave up the habit? How many people are actually living the abundant life Jesus promised?
Sometimes it takes an outsider from the church to stand a few feet back from the stainglass window and give us a unique perspective. As Dr. Chopra would say, "Those in glass houses, shouldn't throw scripture"
I will recommend this book to both skeptic and devout. Even if you disagree with Dr. Chopra, you have to at least admit he creates an engaging dialogue.
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Steve Slonecker
4.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring, enlightening, and confusing
Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2016
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In explaining the third Jesus, Dr. Chopra gives an alternative meaning to what Jesus meant and what organized religion has taught. Jesus's enlightenment in God-consciousness is more believable to me than the different accounts in the gospels. It is worth reading and comparing if you too have questions. I had a little trouble with the last chapter on "what would Jesus do". It seems Dr.Chopra is very opinionated on certain opposing social issues that contradict his "perception is illusion" rational. This is the confusing part for me. I would give this book a five star rating without that section. It gave me a setback.
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Cow Town Girl
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful and inspiring. Thought provoking.
Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2015
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I gave up on religion after some bad church experiences when I was young. I ended up taking a metaphysical path to spirituality that has benefitted my life in profound ways without a specific church affiliation. I love this book. If you are committed to a "my way or the highway" religion that stands on one biblical interpretation, this book may not be for you. Or, approach with an open mind.
Chopra honors and respects all religions by basically taking the approach that the deeper meanings Jesus wanted all mankind to understand we sometimes "encrypted" because not everyone is ready to hear the bigger message that Jesus and other teachers brought to the world. It is well written and paradigm shifting. A definite must read for those who appreciate the deeper meanings of Jesus.
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Nini
1.0 out of 5 stars Don't waste your time
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2019
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It's my opinion that the description was written to sell books. I found the description quite an inaccurate. I have many Chopra books but this one is going back. He needs to stick to his original teachings!
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Lena
5.0 out of 5 stars LIVE your Religion
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2016
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Love Chopra's work, and this "third dimension" look at Christ. As a Christian, I like the ways he encourages us to BE what we believe (with exercises for practice) and stop just saying it. Excellent personal workbook for developing a connection with God and more compassion in your heart/life.
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C. Skidmore
4.0 out of 5 stars A fresh look at some of Jesus teachings emphasizing the ...
Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2016
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A fresh look at some of Jesus teachings emphasizing the mystical and transcendent character of the teachings. This is an interesting counter to those writers who tend to take the Bible literally, in that it borders on taking the teachings literally, but interpreting them in a less material way.
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Stephen Bentley
4.0 out of 5 stars Four Stars
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 27, 2016
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good and efficient
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DDD
5.0 out of 5 stars I was ready for this book after going through what ...
Reviewed in Canada on March 20, 2015
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I was ready for this book after going through what i call a detox, by withdrawing from organized religion three years ago and still counting,Before I would roll my eyes if i heard Deepaks name mentioned But the depth of this book is at times breathtaking It has become a companion to reread a section at a time before meditating
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Leslie
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Reviewed in Canada on February 26, 2018
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Love this book it answered many questions for me and put others into perspective.
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LB
5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recomended
Reviewed in Canada on September 22, 2018
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Well written and highly recommended for those of you exploring the moral compass of Jesus Christ a practical application of the spiritual principles
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Margie
3.0 out of 5 stars Three Stars
Reviewed in Canada on January 16, 2016
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Not my favorite version of life of Jesus
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The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot Ignore
by Deepak Chopra (Goodreads Author)
3.88 · Rating details · 2,169 ratings · 196 reviews
Who is Jesus Christ?
In The Third Jesus, bestselling author and spiritual leader Deepak Chopra provides an answer to this question that is both a challenge to current systems of belief and a fresh perspective on what Jesus can teach us all, regardless of our religious background. There is not one Jesus, Chopra writes, but three.
First, there is the historical Jesus, the man who lived more than two thousand years ago and whose teachings are the foundation of Christian theology and thought. Next there is Jesus the Son of God, who has come to embody an institutional religion with specific dogma, a priesthood, and devout believers. And finally, there is the third Jesus, the cosmic Christ, the spiritual guide whose teaching embraces all humanity, not just the church built in his name. He speaks to the individual who wants to find God as a personal experience, to attain what some might call grace, or God-consciousness, or enlightenment.
When we take Jesus literally, we are faced with the impossible. How can we truly “love thy neighbor as thyself”? But when we see the exhortations of Jesus as invitations to join him on a higher spiritual plane, his words suddenly make sense.
Ultimately, Chopra argues, Christianity needs to overcome its tendency to be exclusionary and refocus on being a religion of personal insight and spiritual growth. In this way Jesus can be seen for the universal teacher he truly is–someone whose teachings of compassion, tolerance, and understanding can embrace and be embraced by all of us. (less)
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
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Average rating3.88 · Rating details · 2,169 ratings · 196 reviews
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MattA
Apr 22, 2008MattA rated it liked it
Shelves: own, religion-philosophy
First, a recommendation about who should NOT read this book. Do NOT read this book if you are a Christian fundamentalist who cannot abide interpretations of Jesus different than the traditional one you receive at church. A non-traditional view of Jesus is what this book is all about. I've read many extremely negative reviews of this book from Christian fundamentalists. Most of those negative reviews were likely inspired by the last chapter of the book which directly criticizes the Christian right (as I describe later) and would not satisfy readers of that political or religious persuasion. Be warned.
However, if you can handle different ideas about Jesus, even if you don't fully embrace them spiritually, the this book might be for you. Especially if you've never been exposed to the gnostic view of Jesus.
From the jacket flap:
There is not one Jesus, [Deepak] Chopra writes, but three.
First, there is the historical Jesus, the man who lived
more than two thousand years ago and whose teachings are
the foundation of Christian theology and thought. Next
there is Jesus the Son of God, who has come to embody an
institutional religion with specific dogma, a priesthood,
and devout believers. And finally, there is the third
Jesus, the cosmic Christ, the spiritual guide whose
teaching embraces all humanity, not just the church built
in his name. He speaks to the individual who wants to
find God as a personal experience, to attain what some
might call grace, or God-consciousness, or enlightenment.
The book is split into three parts. Part 1 is an introduction section, and sets up the premise quoted above.
Part 2 is entitled "The Gospel of Enlightenment" and consists of quotations from the Bible as well as gnostic texts, with the author's commentary following each quote. This section was the main reason I decided to read the book. This is the "meat" of the book. True, these quotes could be found in any Bible or Gospel of Thomas, but having them collected in this manner, along with the commentary, I found particularly thought-provoking.
Part 3 is entitled "Taking Jesus As Your Teacher: A Guide For Seekers." This last section might be viewed as a "how-to" guide to implementing the lessons of Part 2. There were a few interesting passages, but overall I found this third section mediocre.
And then there's the last chapter of the book, entitled "What Would Jesus Do?", where the author takes direct aim on the Christian right and explicitly criticizes their stances on abortion, gay rights, women's rights, war, etc. It leaves little question as to why a fundamentalist would give this book a negative review. I happen to agree with most of what the author says, but the entire chapter seems out of place. Even if you accept that a liberal interpretation is the inevitable conclusion of a "Third Jesus" reading of Christ, calling it out so explicitly feels like a stumble and weakens the argument. If you're on the left, politically, the chapter is just preaching to the choir. If you're on the right, the chapter will just piss you off. Readers might as well skip it.
In the end, I would give Parts 1 and 2 four, maybe 4.5 stars, and Part 3 two stars. Splitting the difference I give the whole book three stars. (less)
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Liz
Aug 15, 2009Liz rated it really liked it
Shelves: 2009
I was never a fan of Deepak Chopra, sometimes I think he talks out of his ear, but I was intrigued by the title of this book, I skimmed through it in the library and it looked interesting enough for me to at least give it a shot. At first, I had a huge chip on my shoulder, I thought "This guy is a flake", "He doesn't know Jesus from Joe". But I kept reading, because the more I read the better the book seemed. I didn't agree with some stuff he said, but some of what he wrote was enlightening. And by the end of the book, though still not of fan of Chopra's, I had to appreciate the effort that went into this book. He does admit he is not a commited Christian, which is why I initially thought this book would be full of bull, but maybe it takes someone who approaches the religion from the outside to see how it works (or doesn't). The chip is no longer on my shoulder, and I am thinking a little differently about Jesus. I cannot say this is the best inspirational book I've ever read, but it was worth the read.
Deepak talks about Jesus and religion today. How today's Christian doesn't know the real Jesus, how the church hides and misuses doctrine. He takes passages from the Bible and attempts to explain them for the average person to understand. This is where the chip on the shoulder comes in, how can someone who is not Christian explain the Bible to me? However, he does a pretty good job, I think he's explained it better than people who have been Christian all of their life. (less)
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Carol
Mar 06, 2008Carol rated it really liked it
Shelves: faith-spirituality, non-fiction
Picked this book up because of the back-cover comments from Bishop Spong: "As a Christian, I welcome his (Chopra's) insights into my Jesus and his provocative call to me to enter the 'Christ consciousness'"
Chopra's "Third Jesus", the Jesus of the spiritual path, is the radical loving Jesus that I long to find more often in conversations within the Christian Church. Reminding us that we don't have to wait on the church and its doctrine to walk a spiritual path, Chopra provides practical ways to apply Biblical teachings to every day life. I particularly appreciate his commentary on Jesus' teachings and his East-West linkages. Whether it's called 'Enlightenment' or 'The Kingdom of God', it's still all about love as a radical path to transformation and renewal. (less)
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Tim
May 06, 2008Tim added it
I'm not going through it very quickly because the class I'm taking is kicking my butt, but what I have read has given me much to think about. And that's a good thing. Deepak Chopra makes it an easy read but gives you a lot to contemplate.
Favorite quote so far:
"You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible."
I looked and looked and for the life of me I could never find that place. So I decided to build it from scratch.
Second favorite quote:
"'In everything do to others as you would have them do to you.' (Matthew 7:9-12)
If you contemplate the Golden Rule, it turns out to be an injunction to live by grace rather than by what you think other people deserve."
Usually, when we think of the Golden Rule, we think in terms of a proactive situation; we treat someone nice so they'll be nice to us in return. But Deepak Chopra is looking at it from a reactive situation; someone has just been thoughtless/rude/mean to us and in our anger we want to give them what they deserve, or at the very least turn away, but Grace requires us to be nice, as if they'd been nice. This goes back to treating people as they ought to be, rather than as they are.
I apologize to my non-Christian friends for quoting scripture at you. I'm trying to be more spiritual than religious. Despite the fact that many have used Scripture to beat us up and leave us to die tied to a fence, there is some spiritual wisdom in scripture. And that's Deepak Chopra's intent in writing this book; to look beyond Jesus "the man" whose factual history has been all but lost and to bypass Jesus "the arbitrator of rules" who has been kidnapped by the conservative false prophets, and look at the spriritual, mystical leader he was trying to be all along. (less)
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Lauren Smith
Mar 11, 2008Lauren Smith rated it it was amazing
Jesus taught God-consciousness. If you are open to reading this masterpiece, you will awake.
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Davis Aujourd'hui
Sep 29, 2009Davis Aujourd'hui rated it it was amazing
As the author of a series of spiritually-themed novels, I am always on the outlook for spiritual books that broaden my perspective. This book not only accomplished that, but it helped me develop an even more intimate relationship with Jesus.
This is a book that could totally transform the spiritual understanding of Christians along with opening them up to a relationship with the Holy Spirit. It will also speak to people of other faiths since it releases so much of the dogma that can exist within traditional Christian churches. It not only personalizes Jesus, the man, but it makes his messages more clear.
I love the way Deepak Chopra uses meditative techniques in order to allow the teachings of Jesus as presented in the scriptures to come alive. Through my own use of these techniques, the underlying messages of the scriptures spoke to me as they never have before.
The beauty of this book is that it freed me from the mental aspects of theology as it allowed me to develop a more personal relationship with the man who came to teach us the way to love. This book will especially appeal to individuals who are seeking a mystical experience within their own faith.
The book may be offensive to some closed-minded individuals. Deepak Chopra opens the door to all in order for them to develop their own Christ potential as equals with Jesus as other children of God. Personally I believe that the humble man, Jesus, would approve. He was here to help us all develop our highest potential. After all, he stated that it would be possible for us to perform even greater works than he. By taking individual and collective responsibility for our own spiritual development, perhaps we could indeed realize peace on earth and good will toward all "men."
Davis Aujourd'hui, author of "The Misadventures of Sister Mary Olga Fortitude" (less)
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Kimberly Cain
Apr 21, 2010Kimberly Cain rated it it was amazing
Shelves: spirituality, non-fiction, religion, new-thought, christian-mysticism
For those who appreciate Jesus' teachings, but do not appreciate much of what has happened to them at the hands of the Church. Christ-consciousness is something most people, even those not spiritually minded, can buy into when they understand that it is linked to knowing, understanding & embracing our own highest, most excellent selves.
Dr. Chopra does a good job expressing the teachings of the highly aware man, Jesus. (less)
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Jeremy
May 19, 2009Jeremy rated it did not like it
Shelves: spirituality
Well, this officially closes the door on my reading of Chopra. His "novel" on Jesus' life was bad, but this book is just brutal in every regard. I actually quit it three times but ended up with nothing else to read on a road trip so finished.
First, dude can't write. The novel was a pathetic stab, but I thought, "Maybe it's not his genre. I'll give him one more shot..." So I found "The Third Jesus" in our school bookstore for $1 and thought I'd give him another shot.
Even worse (and over-priced).
At his best he's repetitive, at his most common he's stealing ideas, at his worst he's incredibly insensitive and judgmental.
Let's start with repetitive: the book has chapters full of Bible verses which Deepak then "reveals" to us. They're just translations and they go one for pages and pages as he hammers home his messages of 1.) Jesus is just a model of God-conciousness, 2.) Fundamentalists/Catholics/Conservatives are out of line, 3.) Religion is a scam.
As for his most common trait, NOTHING he says is new. Read Joseph Cambpell, Native American legends, Aquinas, Thomas Merton, Ekhart or even his buddy Wayne Dyer. Nothing here is new, it's just rehashed in a new cover (which is both Dyer and Chopra's M.O. as they put out a book a month and probably rake in. Speaking of which, with all his judgments of society not once does he mention giving to those in need...).
As for his worst he drops lines like "Jesus is not reachable as a personality." and "The beautiful moods Christianity arouses are powerful but temporary." and "Christian women often find themselves between Eve and Mary, either vilified or idealized" (horrible sentence, by the way, as "being between" is not an "either" situation). It goes on and on like this, as Chopra even goes so far as to write a chapter that is almost 100% political to wrap up the book (in case you wondered, Jesus would support abortion rights, gays and liberals). In the process he takes down Christians, Catholics, conservatives and fundamentalists under the pre-qualifier of "We shouldn't judge these people, but..."
It's like he's saying, "Don't take this personal, but you're ugly and you smell."
In the end my beef with Chopra is this: where are the credentials? He happened to be born in India with a Christian school upbringing, has written some books, but so what? Hell, even this book offers no bibliography, no basis for fact; just a set of opinions he's presented as the truth. It's disingenuous, almost plagiarism when one considers that ALL of this has been said before.
I read a lot of spiritual literature, listen to a lot of speeches/presentations, and spend hours in study to see where my soul fits in to this world. I don't claim to be an authority, but I do know Deepak is a hack. (less)
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Chuck Engelhardt
Jun 16, 2010Chuck Engelhardt rated it did not like it
Warning!!! This is not a book about the Jesus of the Bible even though it claims to be. Chopra's take is that Jesus "attained God-consciousness." As you would expect he does selective quotations from the Bible, but explains away what he doesn't want to use as information that was obviously biased because of the views of the writer. It doesn't seem to strike him that his selections are exactly that, selections made specifically to fit the bias of the writer.
I am saddened by the impression of Christianity that Chopra has developed. He occasionally mentions his experience with the "church" and quotes church leaders he knows, but his understanding of orthodox chritianity is so far from what the truth is that his arguments become pathetic. The Church does have its problems and Chopra points those out, but he also treats fringe and extreme ideas as if they are mainstream.
The book is an easy read, a credit to Chopra's writing skill, but his reasoning and arguments fall flat to anyone who has basic Biblical understanding. Chopra often makes an argument from a single verse taken out of context to which someone familiar with the broader scriptures would understand that the verse is in reference to something else entirely and the reasoning depends on completely ignoring other passages. Of course, Chopra has no problem with that because those other verses were obviously distorted by the author's bias.
I was almost amused as I read the last pages of the book and found the author lifting up Jesus as courageous because he understood that anytime you stand up against evil that you draw closer to God, and just paragraphs later accused fundamentalist Christians of being bigoted, self-righteous, and fearful for doing the exact same thing.
Deepak Chopra is no fan of Christians, intentionally ignorant of the Bible, and sadly has a distorted view of the Church which leaves this book with no true redeeming quality. (less)
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Dana
Mar 07, 2008Dana rated it it was amazing
I just started reading this one. I picked it up on the weekend, and had been waiting for it to come out.
Deepak Chopra elegantly unwraps the reconciliation of Jesus Christ with Eastern thought and raising consciousness. He differentiates the historical Jesus, the one that would be revealed on the likes of Discovery Channel documentaries, from the Christian church Jesus, the one who various denominations have created to provide an example of "Christian" living...forgiveness, love, etc, from the "third Jesus" as he has coined it, the one who was an example, just like Buddha and many other spiritual leaders, of raising our consciousness to be in alignment with God and the Universe. The idea is that Jesus was really trying to tell us that each of us had the same powers he had. (I know...sounds like blasphemy, right? But it's not...trust me...read on.) We all live eternal lives, we all have the power to use our talents and gifts for good or for bad and it's our choice, we all can use the energy of God, etc. I'm not even halfway through the book yet, but I love reading it and look forward to finishing it in the next two weekends.
I've always believed that there was more to Jesus than what I've been taught, and I always believed that I could reconcile Him with all spiritual thought and energy. This book is gutsy and pushes Christians and non-Christians alike to examine our beliefs, prejudices and assumptions about spirituality and what it can do for us. (less)
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Lori
Nov 21, 2009Lori rated it it was amazing
I found this book to be very thought provoking and it touched me deeply. I have waited a long time for someone to write a book like this about Jesus. The author himself states that Christian fundamentalists would not likely be the readers of this book, and quite frankly, even if they did read the book they would discount it immediately as it is different than the talking points they are spoon fed from their institution. To appreciate a book like this you must be willing to open your mind completely. Lastly, I felt the last chapter on how Jesus might have dealt with modern day social issues totally necessary. (less)
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Frank
Mar 23, 2015Frank rated it did not like it
After reading this book twice I was left with the impression that Mr. Chopra is trying to construct a Jesus of his own from his preconceived notions. His research, or lack thereof, is appalling. His knowledge of the Bible extends only to the point of his using very selective passages to try and reinforce his point. When his book is subjected to any level of scrutiny it reveals that he simply fails not only to prove his point but that he is in fact wrong. One embarrassing example is as follows. On p. 11 Mr. Chopra wrote, "But Jesus doesn't mention sin." Anyone with a biblical concordance can and will easily refute this assertion. Some references to where He does can be found in Matthew 12:31; John 8:7, 34; 16: 8, 9 and many more. There are many more such examples but for fear of being tedious I’ll leave it at that. The Jesus of the Bible and the Jesus of Mr. Chopra’s imagination have absolutely nothing in common whatsoever. What Mr. Chopra is attempting to do is fit a square peg inside a round hole and he fails miserably.
My Amazon.com review of the book can be found here (http://www.amazon.com/gp/cdp/member-r...) and my somewhat longer and more in depth review can be found here (http://www.godandscience.org/apologet...).
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Aaron
Feb 27, 2009Aaron rated it really liked it
I found Deepak's interpretation of the bible and Christianity interesting coming from his outside perspective. An outside interpretation is wildly needed to be heard for the devout Christian. Unfortunately, many Christians wouldn't read this book or at least not read it completely through.
It is the last chapter where Deepak addresses the controversial issues that face Christian's today; homosexuality, war, abortion, etc... This is where the book becomes most intriguing however, the proceeding chapters are necessary in order understand Deepak's thoughts on the issues. For the most part he addresses the issues with an honest clear perspective. He creates an opportunity for Christians to view their opinions from a different perspective.
If a Christian is interested in increasing their faith or converting others to their understanding of God; I highly recommend reading this. This will increase their understanding of where non-Christians may be coming from. I personally think that it is the criticisms that drive forward contemplation of ones faith or rather increases someone’s faith or understanding of who God is to them individually.
Overall Deepak offers an honest subjective opinion of Christianity today without attacking the religion.
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Joyce
Nov 29, 2009Joyce rated it liked it · review of another edition
Not much in this book is new if you've read the Bible for yourself. However, Deepak Chopra dilutes much of the Scriptures and says that all that is in the Bible is not "true." Already, believers are closing Chopra's book and running for the hills. I found some mental and spiritual challenges in this book that made me think....that's not a bad thing. Thinking and then, believing, are certainly two entirely different action verbs regarding this book. It would be a great book to take on a trip with four or five other "debaters of Scripture and philosophy" and just talk and talk.
Chopra says, "Jesus is a Spritual Revolutionary and he is inviting Christianity to perform yet another miracle -- that of transforming the world once again."
That certainly provokes questions within me. And you? Do you like to read a book that cause you to reaffirm you own faith and beliefs? Or, had you rather not venture into a "foreign land with foreign teachings?"
I would like to know your feeling if you choose to read "The Third Jesus."
Joyce Norman
ja329@bellsouth.net
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Queen
Apr 02, 2008Queen rated it really liked it
Shelves: tangible-library
This book deserves time and contemplation. Because of the complex nature of the subject, I have to re-read certain sections to make sure I really understand the message. On the whole, however, the writing flows smoothly and simply with moments of insight that seem to exude the PEACE that Deepak Chopra promotes via Jesus's teachings. I was magnetized to the book specifically because of the easy blend of western and eastern ideas, but I'm still skeptical of the "band wagon appeal" in which everyone thinks it's a popular concept and it seems like you've heard it all already. How many ways can you analyze the same person or story? Yet, The Third Jesus offers just such a fresh perspective!
I'm more interested in reading an autobiography of Chopra's life experiences because you can naturally "hear" the heart of his writing / voice in those parts of the book in contrast to the passages intended to teach ideas. (less)
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Ana
Aug 18, 2011Ana rated it really liked it
Shelves: spirituality, books-i-own, read-in-2011
I really enjoyed this book. Being a christian, there were some parts which were hard to digest, but overall - this was a great read with few extremely powerful thoughts (which I hope will accept as a part of my attitude toward life and faith). So..whatever I write in this review will surely not spoil the beauty or enjoyment of reading it. It's not a fiction with some characters you will love or hate...there is only one person here involved..YOU and your thoughts about the Third Jesus. Long time ago, people were scared of even mentioning the term GOD...Today there are many books and surely many doubts of who Jesus was, was He the Son of God, was He a man of flesh and blood?
Well, I must admit this book did clear some foggy thoughts of mine considering some parts of the Bible (for which I thank you Mr Chopra) and I am glad I read this book.
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Lianne
Mar 24, 2009Lianne rated it really liked it
I chose this as a completely different Lenten book. Deepak Chopra went to a Catholic school in India even while he was raised at home in a Hindu family so he has his own understanding and relationship with Christianity. He does a convincing job describing Jesus's path from an enlightenment point of view beyond the 'first Jesus' who is historical, and the "second Jesus" who is the one based on fundamentalist literal belief. (less)
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Shavar Ross
Jul 07, 2008Shavar Ross rated it liked it
I would not recommend this book to someone who is new to the Christian faith. In fact, the book is so heavy, I wouldn't really recommend this book to anyone who claims they are a "Christian". You have to already be at a certain place with God to really understand this book. (less)
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Musep
Feb 19, 2008Musep rated it it was ok
OVERCOMING SEPARATION is the goal
Much of the book encourages sort of Buddhist ideas -
nonattachment for example. Fine, but not really new insight
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Barbara
Apr 28, 2015Barbara rated it it was amazing
A thoughtful and intellectual review of the life of Jesus and how we may or may not interpret it today.
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Dede
May 30, 2015Dede rated it really liked it
Illuminating and thought provoking
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Rod Horncastle
Jul 26, 2015Rod Horncastle rated it did not like it
Shelves: religious-crap-section
What the HELL? (and I mean that literally Deepak. Ouch!)
But that's okay, Deepak doesn't take much of the Bible literally, or contextually, or scholarly... He just borrows and twists whatever he thinks he needs to drag the God of Christianity into liberal Buddhism. I wonder what serious Buddhists think of Deepak? Sadly, they probably applaud him - which tells us a fair bit about the Core of Buddhism.
Almost every paragraph in this book has bad theology. Deepak has confused the very essence of Theology: that God gets Glory. Isaiah 43:
3For I am the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...
7everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
Before me no god was formed,
nor shall there be any after me.
11 I, I am the LORD,
and besides me there is no savior.
Deepak just spent 234 pages trying to prove (and succeeding for some gullible fools) that we don't really need a Savior who is our God (Jesus). We just need God consciousness. It's ALL ABOUT US - Deepak teaches. Reminds me of what Satan attempts in the Garden with Eve: Genesis 3
4“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
Yep, that's Deepak's teaching alright.
But if Deepak bothered to read the ENTIRE Bible, he would know that all of existence is really about the Father (God) giving a gift (Kingdom) to His Son (Jesus) with the help of the Holy Spirit (Spirit). Glorious Trinity, and we are part of that gift - every Kingdom needs citizens who adore their king.
Psalm 115
1Not to us, O LORD, not to us, But to Your name give glory Because of Your lovingkindness, because of Your truth.
So that is basically the scenario of this 3rd Jesus crap. And like all liberals: Deepak isn't really interested in the Holy Spirit and how it interacts with history. OR that the Spirit of God has been involved with scripture since Genesis 1:1.
I think I underlined about 500 problems within this Buddhist rant. Lets look at some of them:
"Why are Jesus' teachings impossible to live by?"
If Deepak bothered to read his Bible seriously. He would have found that God wants us to humbly NEED and DESIRE a Savior. Of course Deepak doesn't WANT a Savior. So most of the Bible and Christian theology makes no sense to him. Jesus is about to be the eternal King of Kings: His Kingdom needs followers. So the Father is getting some for Him. How did Deepak read the Bible and not figure this out??? Deepak is not interested in Jesus's eternal Kingdom. So like any good buddhist guru would do: He twists a few verses to make Jesus just a guide - and not a destination.
Deepak boasts: "Yet Jesus failed to bring about God's rule on earth, and his radical vision became compromised only a generation after his death..."
Was Deepak's Bible missing a few books? Revelation perhaps? AS well as Daniel? Especially: Isaiah 9.
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Here he makes another horrible liberal error:
"I was encouraged to respect every faith, which wasn't a sterile duty but more like a festive delight."
Hmmm? what does God think about that? He obviously disagrees. Joshua 24:
"19But Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the LORD, for he is a holy God. He is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions or your sins. 20If you forsake the LORD and serve foreign gods, then he will turn and do you harm and consume you, after having done you good.”
Sorry Deepak: Jesus insists you put away your foreign gods, especially YOURSELF and your personal god-consciousness crap. I know you won't... but it's fun to ask. Here's Deepak's appreciation of foreign gods:
(page 28) "Prayer - Ask to see what lies behind evil...by praying to WHATEVER deity or higher self you believe in, you are essentially making a connection with reality..."
Deepak gets right to the heart of his error: "I have written what I THINK the New Testament actually means..."
Some people aren't equipped to think about Godly things. Sorry Chopra.
-----------------------------------------
It's amazing how limited Deepak's understanding of the Biblical Jesus is. He can't seem to put the whole Bible together and understand how Jesus is applying Himself eternally. Deepak keeps insisting Jesus is one-dimensional and there's only one issue at hand:
"The First Jesus is less than consistent, as a closer reading of the gospels will show. If Jesus was perfectly peaceful, why did he declare, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth...but a sword"? At the very least, the living Jesus was a man of baffling contradictions."
NO he wasn't. Jesus was dealing with life on earth as well as eternal salvation. Simply Jesus came to offer peace, but he left to prepare for Judgement. The real challenge is what we humans do with those two offerings. Deepak doesn't like or tolerate any judgement or mentioning of serious sin. His Jesus is only a guru of liberal propaganda. Which doesn't match the Bible at all - yet people keep desperately cherry-picking the Bible to apply their Golden Calf Jesus to their humanly desires.
More deepak babble:
"The second Jesus leads us into the wilderness without a clear path out."
(2nd Jesus: Son of GOD).
So this is what Deepak thinks about the very SON OF GOD? Oh my Freakin' Goodness what a bad Biblical theologian and spiritual truth seeker. How somebody who claims to appreciate Jesus can study (?) the Bible and not see how the entire Book - and history - is about Jesus the very Son of God. What an idiot!
Acts 16:31
And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
1 John 4:2
This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,
1 John 5:1
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well.
Deepak assumes we should only believe in Jesus as an example to find god-consciousness. Deepak has no intention of worshiping Him as our redeemer or King. Deepak assumes anytime Jesus is teaching about himself - He's really teaching about US and our inner divinity. Sure Deepak posts many Bible verses, but he confuses what is right before him. Here's one: John 8
18I am the one who bears witness about myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness about me.” 19They said to him therefore, “Where is your Father?” Jesus answered, “You know neither me nor my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.”
Deepak claims "I am God" is the simplest statement in the world for someone in God-consciousness. Deepak endlessly takes the claims of the Messiah and make it about Deepak's pet consciousness. How dare he? Did Deepak die for our sins as well? NO, he doesn't believe in sins or judgement: only liberal love.
It is fascinating that neither Deepak (nor any liberals) ever mention God killing Ananias & Sapphira in Acts 5:
"Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.” 5When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it. 6The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him."
We must assume Deepak's god would never do anything like this. Over a little white lie about some money. The problem is: This IS the God of the Bible AND WHAT HE DOES - and JESUS is in full agreement. This shows us that the God of the Old Testament is exactly the same as the God of the New Testament. And the Jesus of Revelation 19 & 20 is perfectly in agreement with the God of Genesis and Noah's flood judgement (as well as that nasty OL' Sodom & Gomorrah incident.) Just for a reference: Here's Jesus in Revelation 19
11Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. 13He is clothed in a robe dipped ind blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. 14And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron... 16On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. (that would be JESUS!)...21And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse
This is OUR Jesus: the King of Kings, Lamb Slain for the Sins of the world, Blessed Redeemer and Savior. If you are like Deepak and don't like it then I feel sorry for you. But don't borrow this Jesus and mangle him to agree with your spiritual lusts and insecurities - please leave him exactly as He is shown in Holy Scripture.
Like it says in scripture: Matthew 7 and 2 Peter 2
15“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves."
9then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, 10and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.
So what does Deepak think of verses like these? Here's a quote from him:
"Unity-All the previous steps serve one purpose, to blur the line between good & evil...We experience good through PLEASURE, peace, well-being, safety. We experience evil through pain, struggle, RESTRICTION, and fear...no more dark versus light. No more fixed boundaries to divide safe from unsafe, GOD FROM SATAN...
What?! What kind of blasphemous teaching is that? Apparently Deepak doesn't dwell on Satan or darkness much. OR how it is carefully shown throughout the many pages of scripture. If you claim to be a Christian and this stuff hasn't hit you in the heart yet: Then I have news for you - YOU ARE NOT A CHRISTIAN!
But i'm sure this doesn't really bother you at all. Here's what you do: give your Bibles to some friends (or enemies?) who might need them - and blissfully embrace Deepak's gnostic stupidity. And please stay out of Christian churches, they don't need any more liberal confusion.
And Deepak really is a Gnostic follower. He basically boasts of it a time or two. And he enjoys posting some gnostic verses for everyone to drool over. (no need to show them here). But here's something funny:
"Forgetfulness, not sin, is seen as the root cause of error, our loss of contact with God."
I think the word Deepak really should use is "Rebellion". Everything Deepak teaches is Rebellion against a Holy God.
But this is getting way too serious, and I like my reviews to be fun and heroic (like Ehud from the Bible:Judges 3)
Ehud Delivers the Israelites
…20Ehud came to him while he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. And Ehud said, "I have a message from God for you." And he arose from his seat. 21Ehud stretched out his left hand, took the sword from his right thigh and thrust it into his belly. 22The handle also went in after the blade, and the fat closed over the blade, for he did not draw the sword out of his belly; and the refuse came out.…
So I have no intention of sticking a left-handed sword into Deepak's ever expanding belly.(i'm right handed...) But I will proudly declare "I have a message from God for you." I don't claim to be a prophet or anything special - just a guy who really loves Jesus and the Bible. I'm more of a talking donkey who says what's needed. Fun eh?
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Chopra generally hates all Conservative Christian literal Bible lovers. (Whew! What a relief - at least he doesn't think he's one of us.) Here's a quote:
"The religious right congratulates itself for spreading Jesus's message of love, while at the same time practicing social condemnation and exclusion...making it clear that gays, ordained women, and abortion were intolerable to "Good Christians"...but tactics are fruitless when the person on the other side of the negotiation table is absolutely immovable."
What a compliment! So we know Deepak is an abortion loving, feminist applauding, parade riding gay activist. No surprise there. The problem is the Bible clearly shows that Jesus is not in favor of these things. Since Jesus and God are in full agreement. (If you know the Father you know ME!). Jesus does mention social condemnation and exclusion.
Matthew 7
13"Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. 14"For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.
...and we all know what the Bible says about sexual immorality. It just so happens that "The MANY" don't seem to like it. Which is similar to God's absolute truth. But here's what Deepak says about truth:
"Jesus used the truth as an agent of change...The crucial words here are 'Your Truth', which is personal, relative, and never thew same as God's absolute truth."
No thanks, I'll stick with God's clear and eternal truth on all these issues. And here's the way we understand Jesus take on Gay rights: Leviticus 18
"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination."
Yep that God speaking in Leviticus. Since God and Jesus are very much the same - so be it. Sorry Deepak - times don't really change: Bad is bad, immorality is immorality.
And I gotta quote this bit, just cause it's my favorite part of the whole Bible - and no surprise: Deepak screws it up. Here he goes
"We know that the thieves on either side of the cross were grave sinners, and yet Jesus offered them entry into the Kingdom of God without condemnation or approval.
I don't recall Jesus offering THEM entry. Here's exactly what the Bible says:
Luke 23
39One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
Yes, ONE of the criminals had a serious moment of repentance and salvation with his Savior. The thief even mentioned the condemnation he was under. He also knew exactly that Jesus was THE eternal King of Kings and was in charge of who enters His kingdom. But the other thief??? He said nothing.
To sum up my Christianity: The Kingdom of God is absolute love & Justice. Deepak doesn't like the justice part - so he leaves it out. But then the problem is how do you deal with sin and evil? Ummmmh... His god doesn't. It's very clear the entire Bible is all about the effects of Love and Justice from a Holy God. To ignore justice is to throw out 70% of the Bible. Or just ignore it like Deepak does.
Psalm 89:14
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
Revelation 15:3
And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and amazing are your deeds, O Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations!
One last really annoying quote: (just to get the liberals all excited!)
"Jesus's promise to return to earth wasn't nearly that cinematic. Since on the whole he refused to dramatize Judgement Day, just as he refused to make Heaven a literal place, shouldn't we respect that?"
NO! Just no.
Deepak is what happens when you fail to go to a good bible study as a child. (less)
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Robert
Sep 30, 2012Robert rated it really liked it
This is the book people who are sick of being hasseled by religious nutcases have been waiting for. The author, Deepak Chopra offers three depictions of Jesus Christ. The first is Jesus as a historical figure who lived and died. The next is Jesus the center of Christianity and religious dogma. The last is Jesus as a spiritual philosopher and teacher.
Chopra uses his Indian heritage and knowledge of Hinduism to paint a picture of Jesus very different from some modern organized churches. Chopra uses Jesus's words and actions to describe a kind of rebel and visionary who used language that transcends the every day "god consciousness".
God consciousness is akin to what other new agey authors have written about when they compare spiritual leaders and religions like Islam, Buddhism, Judaism and Christianity. It is a deeper understanding and more inward reflection as opposed to religious dogma and social archetype.
The question with all of these kinds of books always surronds revisionary history and interpretation. Strict literalists will not buy subjective portrayals of Christ. Religious antagonists will point out the glossing over of thorny passages and historical events in Christianity. I personally think this book is immune from these types of criticisms simply because it isn't about Christianity, it is about Jesus Christ. That statement might confuse some people, but read the book if you'd like to know more. (less)
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Pete daPixie
Dec 07, 2008Pete daPixie rated it really liked it
Shelves: historical-jesus
Not the Jesus of faith nor the Jesus of history, but Chopra introduces the god conscious Jesus that is hidden in scripture.
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Megan
Mar 15, 2009Megan rated it it was ok
It was an overall interesting read, but with a wishy washy thesis and nothing that hasn't been said before, I wouldn't consider this a life changing book. (less)
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Chris Webber
Jun 03, 2010Chris Webber rated it liked it
Shelves: nonfiction, theology, philosophy
This book is yet another of a trend I've been following over the past five years. As more and more christians tend to be forsaking their traditional religion - most become absolutely secular in the form of agnosticism and atheism, a "new age" christianity is being molded. The call is to the doubting or departed christian.
"Jesus has been misunderstood."
"The real Jesus and his teachings were perverted by the Church who had their own motives of power, so they hijacked the good Jesus and wrote in their own purpose."
"The scriptures are wrong and this is why they are wrong. The real Jesus was good and kind and true."
John Spong has made a career out of reinventing Jesus as a way of salvaging a belief system that seems to be more out of date and archaic by the minute. Here are a few of his books: Jesus for the Non-Religious, Why Christianity Must Change or Die: A Bishop Speaks to Believers In Exile, A New Christianity for a New World: Why Traditional Faith is Dying & How a New Faith is Being Born, The Sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love, God in Us : A Case for Christian Humanism.
Within the mormon realm, Stephen Robinson has followed the same trend. His book, Believing Christ, challenged the mormon approach to works and grace - letting people off the guilt hook for not achieving perfection every minute of every day as they climb the rungs towards exaltation. His approach has enabled the mormon to work within their own belief parameters without causing undue pain.
Deepak Chopra is yet another one. His approach is different from the other two authors in that he is redefining Jesus from the vantage point of an unbeliever. He uses new age terms congruent with his modus operandi. He goes back to the basics of the gnostic Jesus and attempts to restore the concept of man's ability to be one with God without an intervening organized religion as a mediator.
In the end, for me, it was just more of the same trend. I am not sure the motive of any of the authors I have mentioned, even after reading their books. I sense they are wanting to create a more emotionally healthy resting place for those transitioning from christianity. That they feel it would be helpful for mankind to redefine their faith as they are losing it as opposed to abandoning faith altogether. While I think their motive is noble for the person who is doubting their current faith for whatever reason: intellectual, emotional, etc, it remains to be seen if it will slow or stem the flow of christians leaving their flock and running towards secularism.
Without serious observation of the religious organization who has hijacked Jesus for their own benefit and purpose, it is hard to separate one's knowledge of that Jesus and reconcile it with a more basic one that boils down to the Golden Rule. And when one is facing the task of trying to separate it and begins doubting the motives of the religious organization, one immediately turns on the person trying to redefine Jesus........for exactly the same reason. Motive.
Having said that, I like the new, trimmed Jesus! His humanistic, mystic nature is tapped. Stripped of religious dogma, Jesus is a teacher and friend. He says man can commune with God all of his own accord, and that the kingdom of heaven is "within." It was a real treat to revisit gnostic concepts like "you are god and god is you." He says treat others as you would like to be treated. He emphasizes meditation, unconditional love for each other, nonjudgment. There's nothing wrong with this type of philosophy and I'd like to think that if all religions can unify with the Golden Rule and let dogma fall on the wayside, our world would be a much better place.
I don't know that we have to use Jesus to do that, however. Humanism has its own very strong face, regardless of whether or not it is wearing Jesus' shoes. I will give Chopra props, however, for adopting the familiar terminology and language of the christian to further an uplifting humanistic cause. (less)
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Jim
Sep 16, 2017Jim rated it it was amazing
I am not an uncritical fan of Deepak Chopra. Before I read this book I tended to think of him, when I was feeling charitable, as a false guru -- a clever, dishonest, greedy person who knew how to package and sell secondhand new-age Eastern wisdom to a wishful-thinking, materialistic Western audience. I have to say, I still feel a reflexive distrust when I hear his name. But I now regard him with some warmth and a more open mind.
When I first saw this book on the shelf I was too amazed at Chopra's audacity not to take a look. A small part of me guessed... hoped it might say something insightful, something useful at a time when I had become uncomfortably disillusioned with church. Christianity per se, with Jesus as only begotten son of God or personal savior or anything but prime example of spiritual teacher and puzzling mystery had never made much sense to me.
But let me skip to the point: I thought this book was... inspired. Easily the most insightful, compelling treatment of the subject I expect to come across (and I was a religion major). I wanted to hate it, but I loved it. I recommend it to anyone who is grappling with or wishes to grapple with the idea of what Jesus was, or might be, all about. (less)
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Pam
Jan 09, 2016Pam rated it liked it
Very Interesting! Who is Jesus Christ? The historical figure of 2000 years ago? The Son of God as defined by church tradition? Or a spiritual guide whose teachings are for all of humanity? This third Jesus, as defined by Chopra, can point us in the direction of God-consciousness, of enlightenment. This third Jesus can lead us out of the exclusionary, tribalist mentality of much of Christian religion today. Great to contemplate!
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Kirsten
Mar 10, 2008Kirsten rated it it was amazing
Recommends it for: any Christian or spiritual person who wants to improve themself
This book was incredible. I have always had a problem with organized religion, yet I consider myself a Christian. This book really shone a light on the aspects of Christ I love and need to incorporate into my life.
There are so many lessons that all Christians could learn from this book. I don't find it in conflict with Church doctrine, instead it seems to focus it or tunes it in. (less)
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Deborah
Aug 29, 2008Deborah rated it it was amazing
Well, it's back to the Gnostics! I like Chopra for his talks I've seen on TV, but I've read only a couple of his books. This one was ripped apart on St. Ignatius Press because it's not supportive of the Catholic Jesus. But it makes sense to me. If you like Davies, Sheldrake, de Chardin you'll like this book. But if you've been brainwashed to fear the Gnostics, this isn't for you. (less)
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