The Bible Alive: Recent Episodes
Unity Online Radio
The Bible Alive! Exploring Your Spiritual Road Map with Rev. Ed Townley may offer the most surprising Bible insights you’ve ever heard. Using traditional Christian sources as well as Unity metaphysics, Rev. Ed approaches the Bible in a way that makes it fresh, exciting and helpful. He not only traces history you may not know, he brings the Bible to life for your life, connecting its ancient spiritual wisdom with today’s most urgent challenges. Wherever we find ourselves on our spiritual journeys, Rev. Ed sees the Bible as a helpful road map, offering invaluable guidance as we make our way, choice by choice, through the obstacles and opportunities of life.
Read Rev. Ed's Interpret This blog.
The ideas and opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect the teachings of Unity. Unity respects a wide range of spiritual thoughts and beliefs, as reflected in the diverse range of subjects presented on Unity Online Radio.
Jesus begins his final demonstration of spiritual Truth by lovingly bringing his brightest Light into the darkest of shadows. Isaiah 50:4-9a; Matthew 21:1-4; Philippians 2:5-11.
We may pray day and night for God to restore life where it seems to be absent but—as Ezekiel's vision makes clear—the work is not God's, but ours. And it starts with getting organized! Ezekiel 37:1-14; John 11:1-45; Romans 8:6-11.
It isn't enough that we let go of negative energies in consciousness as our spiritual journey unfolds. We must also let go of positive energies that served us well in their time, but are beginning to hold us back. 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14.
As with the Hebrews, our own personal wilderness experiences can give rise to some truly crazy thinking! Fortunately, the path out of the wilderness is always at hand. Exodus 15:1-7; Psalm 95; John 4:5-42; Romans 5:1-11.
From the early pages of Genesis to Paul's letter to the church in Rome, debate has raged over just what the correct relationship is meant to be between us and our divine Source. Genesis 12:1-4a; Psalm 121; John 3:1-17; Romans 4:1-5, 13-17.
Ash Wednesday represents our commitment to the Light—a joyful process of spiritual spring cleaning. Joel 2:12-14; 2 Corinthians 6:2-10; Matthew 4:1-11 and 6:1-6.
Coming face-to-face with our divine essence requires a harrowing journey into the unknown. Exodus 24:12-18, Matthew 17:1-9, 2 Peter 1:16-21.
Our relationship to the religious laws of man guides us to a recognition of the greater Law of God, and then to an acceptance of the Law-based Love that is our truth. Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-13; Psalm 119:33-40; Matthew 5:38-48; 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23.
Understanding that choices have consequences can confine us to obedience out of fear. But Jesus calls us further—to creativity out of love. Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Sirach 15:15-20; Matthew 5:21-37; 1 Corinthians 3:1-9.
Spiritual maturity requires us to trust confidently in our Oneness with infinite love and guidance, and to act accordingly, even if we find ourselves at odds with more traditional believers. 1 Corinthians 2:1-16, Isaiah 58:1-9, Matthew 5:13-20.
No matter where we are on our spiritual path, the guidelines are absolutely the same! It's not all easy, but it's all Good! Micah 6:1-8; Psalm 15; Matthew 5:1-12, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31.
As we expand our own sense of surrender to a greater spiritual purpose, we are drawn to those who are awake, alert—and engaged in the same process themselves. Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:4-9, Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18.
We are no longer merely preparing for a transformation to come; we are in the midst of it now! Isaiah 49:1-7, John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9.
Logic that has evolved from past experiences cannot begin to prepare us for the new dimension of Christ Consciousness that is at hand. Only total surrender can achieve the new Truth. Isaiah 7:10-16, Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7.
We can only fully embrace our next spiritual steps by seeing beyond appearances. Isaiah 35:1-10, Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10.
An expansion of Christ Consciousness doesn’t simply come upon us unaware. We must be able to appreciate the journey that has brought us this far before we can open our hearts to next steps. Isaiah 11:1-10, Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-3.
We begin a new liturgical year as we enter into Advent—a time to be alert and awake to new spiritual possibilities in our lives. Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14.
Thanksgiving may be our most adult holiday, because true gratitude is our most adult emotion. Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Philipians 4:4-9; John 6:25-35.
It's a dangerous mistake to become so focused on the kingdom to come that we neglect the demands—and opportunities—of the day at hand. Luke 21:5-19, Isaiah 65:17-25, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13.
Luke's version of Jesus' greatest teachings defines them from a different perspective, but the spiritual Truth is the same. Luke 6:20-31, Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18, Ephesians 1:11-23.
Not a single day, not a single challenge, is wasted in Divine Mind. They all lead inevitably to our highest good. Joel 2:23-32, Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18.
We may once believe that we are constantly confronting forces outside ourselves. In Truth, however, it's always an inside job. Genesis 32:22-31, Jeremiah 31:27-34.
The key to living a joy-filled life is to concentrate, not on apparent lack, but on the omnipresent Good already present. Luke 17:11-19, 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c, 2 Timothy 2:8-15.
We're not here in human form to do everything perfectly, and we're certainly not here to judge ourselves or others. It's by learning from our stumbles that we move toward the kingdom. Luke 17:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26, 2 Timothy 1:1-14.
Sometimes we may be so focused on the Light that we fail to notice the encroaching shadows. Exodus 32:7-14; Luke 16:19-31; 1 Timothy 6:6-19.
The message and vision of all the prophets is simple and consistent: Choices have consequences. Jeremiah 8:18-19, Amos 8:4-7, 1 Timothy 2:1-7.
We are only as vulnerable to the challenges of the world as we believe we are. Numbers 21:4b-9, John 3:13-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24.
We may think what we mold and shape has permanence, but the true creative power within us can transform anything. Jeremiah 18-1-6; Deut. 20:15-20; Luke 14:25-33.
When we lose sight of our divine Oneness, the consequences are of our own making. Jeremiah 2:4-13; Luke 14:7-14; Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16.
We are spiritual beings here to serve a divine purpose, and all the resources we need are available to us, if we simply ask. Isaiah 58:9b-14; Jeremiah 1:4-10; Hebrews 12:18-29.
The controversial new book Zealot by Reza Aslan portrays a Jesus concerned, committed, and actively engaged in changing the world. Is this so new? Luke 12:32-40; Hebrews 11:1-16.
The Law that is God does not grant favors or make exceptions. It asks us to believe in its consistency and infinite Love. Luke 12:13-21, Colossians 2:6-15.
Timid prayers produce timid results, and a little bit of good can become a barrier to infinite abundance. Genesis 18:20-32; Luke 11:1-3; Colossians 2:6-15.
Healings are not "miracles"; they are manifestations of our faith in a Power beyond our ability to define (or fully understand). 2 Kings 5:1-14, Luke 10:1-11, Galatians 6:7-16.
Our focus must always be on the infinite possibilities that lie ahead; anger or regrets from the past will simply complicate our creative process. 2 Kings 2:1-14, Luke 9:51-62, Galatians 6:7-16.
The best defense against fear-based thinking is to let the Lord of our being clarify our faith. 1 Kings 19:1-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29.
Greed is an especially dangerous form of lack consciousness, with far-reaching negative consequences. 1 Kings 21:1-19, Luke 7:36-50, Galatians 2:15-21.
Widows and their sons play important roles in stories from both Hebrew and Christian scriptures, affirming the spiritual power of the ‘poor in spirit’ Jesus describes in his Beatitudes. 1 Kings 17:8-16, Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24.
Even after we come into awareness of our Christ nature, we often continue to seek authority and ‘happy endings’ from a separate and judgmental power outside ourselves. The results are iffy, at best. 1 Kings 18:20-39, Luke 7:1-10, Romans 12:9-21.
Trinity Sunday invites us to consider the source and metaphysical meaning of the traditional Christian of a trinitarian God—and the controversy about it that nearly consumed the early church. John 16:12-15, Romans 5:1-5.
When we have sufficiently processed our resurrection experience, we are empowered to move forward with confidence and love. Acts 2:1-21, John 14:8-17, Romans 8:14-17.
The only thing preventing a full expression of our divine Oneness is our own reluctance to believe it’s true. Psalm 67, Acts 16:9-15, John 5:1-9, Revelation 21:22-22:5.
It isn’t enough that we embrace our new sense of empowerment; we must also release old beliefs and practices that would limit that Power. Psalm 148; Acts 11:1-18; John 13:31-35; Revelation 21:1-6.
Our most urgent new imperative is to stop looking to others as our source of spiritual Power and start claiming it for ourselves. Psalm 23; Acts 9:36-43; John 10:22-30; Revelation 7:9-17.
We may be gently guided, or we may be knocked right off our horse. Either way, we cannot ignore the new spiritual purpose and energy demanding our attention. Psalm 30; Acts 9:1-6; John 21:1-19; Revelation 5:11-14.
The process of absorbing what resurrection represents in our lives can be as challenging as the process that led up to it. We must treat out new awareness gently. Psalm 150; Acts 5:27-32; John 20:19-31; Revelation 1:4-8.
Eternal life isn’t a new idea—it is affirmed throughout Hebrew Scripture. Jesus demonstrates once and for all that it isn’t just an idea—it’s the central truth of who we are. Isaiah 65:17-25; Psalm 118:17-18; Ezekiel 37:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:19-26.
When we know the truth of who we are, the world around us will reflect and celebrate that truth—and shadows will have no power. Isaiah 50:4-9a, Luke 19:28-40, Philippians 2:5-11.
We may still be carrying fears and limited beliefs from earlier stages of our journey. But they are meaningless; they dissolve in the Light of spiritual understanding as we achieve it. Isaiah 43:16-21; John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14.
As our spiritual journey unfolds, we will see ourselves differently, and the fearful power of a distant God will become a constant, infinitely loving Presence within. Joshua 5:9-12; Luke 15:11b-32; 2 Corinthians 5:16-21.
The distractions of the world are tempting, but our true thirst is for spiritual fulfillment. Isaiah 55:1-9; Luke 13:1-9; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.
We are always engaged in our spiritual work. Sometimes we know it in the moment; other times we sense it in advance. And often we only fully understand in retrospect. Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18; Luke 9:28-36; Philippians 3:17-4:1.
Instead of a focus on suffering and sacrifice, Lent becomes an opportunity for spiritual spring cleaning, as we focus on brushing away negative energies that may have accumulated in consciousness. Isaiah 58:1-12; Luke 4:1-13.
Before we begin the Lenten work of clearing a space for our new spiritual energy, we are given an astounding glimpse of the possibilities that lie ahead. Luke 9:28-36; Exodus 34:29-35; 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2.
Old beliefs, old traditions—even venerable teachers—are fulfilled and left behind as the Christ calls us forward. Luke 2:22-40; Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18.
Human opinions and priorities have no bearing on the nature and use of our spiritual gifts. Luke 4:14-21; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31; Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10.
The richness of Christ Consciousness is not to be hoarded as a treasure, but lovingly shared as a gift. John 2:1-11; Isaiah 62:1-5; 1Corinthians 12:1-11.
Our first new responsibility is to gently incorporate our newborn Christ into our shared human illusions. Luke 3:15-17, 21-22; Isaiah 43:1-7; Acts 8:14-17
No matter how many times we move through the process of spiritual birth, there is always a deeper expression of joy to be experienced. Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 62:6-12; Titus 2:11-14, 3:4-7.
The birth of Christ Consciousness requires a willingness to change everything. Baruch 5:1-9; Luke 3:1-6; Philippians 1:3-11.
With the first Sunday in Advent, we lift the curtain on a new liturgical year. Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-36; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13.
Appreciation is the fuel that allows us to continue our journey to the kingdom. Matthew 6:25-33; 1 Timothy 2:1-7; Joel 2:21-27.
Giving birth to the kingdom is thrilling, fulfilling—and painful! Daniel 12:1-3, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Mark 13:1-8.
Abundance is not about how much we have, but how freely we share. 1 Kings 17:1; Mark 12:38-44; Hebrews 9:24-28.
Scriptural verses and pagan rituals swirl together in a deep affirmation of purpose and power. Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9; John 11:32-44; Revelation 21:1-6.
There are no secrets in spiritual consciousness, if we are truly willing to see. Job 42:1-6, 10-17; Mark 10:46-52; Hebrews 7:23-28.
Embracing our Christ Self doesn’t lift us to heaven; it gives us an important role to play in creating it. Job 38:1-7, 34-41; Isaiah 53:4-12; Mark 10:35-45; Hebrews 5:1-10.
There is no passport required; we simply have to want it more than anything. Job 23:1-9, 16-17; Mark 10:17-31; Hebrews 4:12-16.
The only thing that brings fulfillment is embracing our spiritual role and purpose. Genesis 2:8-24; Mark 10:2-16; Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12.
There is no hierarchy in spiritual consciousness; a childlike faith is the key. Mark 9:30-37; James 3:13-4:3; Wisdom of Solomon 1:16-2:1, 2:12-22.
Whether a serpent in the wilderness or a cross in Jerusalem, symbols remind us of our innate spiritual power. Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:13-17; 1 Corinthians 1:18-24.
Jesus learned about his Christ identity by putting it to use—and so must we. Mark 7:24-37; Proverbs 22; Isaiah 35:4-7.
Today's discussion: 2 Samuel 1:17-27; Mark 5:21-43; and Wisdom of Solomon 1:13-15; 2:23-24
On this final week of the liturgical year, the coordinated message is clear and simple: Love your neighbor. "Simple," however, is not necessarily "easy." Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-25; Matthew 25:31-46; Ephesians 1:15-23.
Is the world going to end? Do we know when? And what will happen if it does? The Bible offers several scenarios that differ in the details but are one in the metaphysics. Zephania 1:7, 12-18; Matthew 25:14-30; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11.
We are not here in this human experience to figure things out for ourselves. We are here to humbly allow the Power of God to express through us, and we don’t need to understand how it works! Join us as we discuss this in Joshua 3:7-17, Matthew 23:1-12, and 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13.
From its earliest books (Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18) to its closing letters (1 Thessalonians 2:1-8), the Bible’s central theme is love. Why, then, does it so often generate so much hatred?
It’s not just in obeying the law, but rather in fully embracing its underlying love, that we will move easily forward on our spiritual journey. Join me as we explore this idea in Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 and Matthew 21:33-36.
We have nothing to fear and nothing to prove. “Knowing what we know” won’t work once we allow the Christ within to call the shots. We’ll explore this in Exodus 17:1-7 and Matthew 21:23-31.
Divine Light and Abundance are dispensed in the universe, not according to our human sense of need or fairness, but according to our willingness to serve as open channels. Join in as we explore this in Exodus 16:2-15 and Matthew 20:1-16.
If we express ourselves exactly as God expresses to us, we will dissolve every obstacle on our spiritual path. We’ll explore this in Exodus 14:19-31 and Matthew 18:23-35.
Our spiritual priorities can no longer stay on the back burner while we focus on simple pleasures. The time to move forward is at hand. We’ll explore this in Matthew 18:15-20 and Romans 13:8-14.
It’s important that we become skilled at living a human life, but becoming totally consumed by it is the worst kind of addiction. We’ll discuss this topic in Exodus 1:8–2:10 and Romans 12:1-8.
We must choose our spiritual guides carefully—and distrust those who are sure they know the way! We’ll look more closely at this in Matthew 15:10-28.
It is not in the distracting dramas of life that we will find our connection to the divine, but in the quiet power of the voice we hear in the Silence. We will explore this topic in 1 Kings 19:9-15 and Matthew 14:22-33.
When we are aligned with our spiritual essence, our spiritual needs are met with overflowing good. We’ll explore this topic using Matthew 14:13-21 and Isaiah 55:1-5.
What we affirm in faith we receive as life experience. So choosing wisely is the most important step! Tune in as we discuss this in 1 Kings 3:5-12 and Romans 8:26-39.
Wherever we are is holy ground. Wherever we are, the Power of God is at work. We’ll discuss this in Genesis 28:10-19a and Romans 8:12-25.
We cannot begin to achieve our spiritual purpose until we know the truth of who we are. Join us as we explore this question via Genesis 25:21-34 and Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23.
It’s time to appreciate the spiritual power of the sultry days of summer. Join us as we delve into this topic in Song of Solomon 2:8-15 and Romans 7:15-25a.
It's significant that a lectionary reading for Pentecost takes us back to Genesis 1, because in our new spiritual empowerment we are truly a new creation.
We might expect our new awareness and expression of the Christ within us to lift us above the differences and challenges of the mortal realm. Instead, we are sent into that realm, to share the good news with fluency and love. Let’s discuss this by looking at Acts 2:1-21, Numbers 11:24-30, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, John 20:19-23, and John 7:37-39.
It is the power of prayer that has guided us this far on our spiritual path. It is a renewed understanding of the purpose of prayer that will support us as we move on from here. Listen in as we explore this topic in Acts 1:6-14, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35, 1 Peter 4:12-14, 5:6-11, and John 17:1-11.
Those who oppose us represent one early challenge; those who join us create another! We must truly see the Christ in some surprising places and people. We’ll look at this topic in Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98, 1 John 5:1-6 and John 15:1-8.
How can an eagerness to love be met with such resistance? We appreciate the "stiff-necked people" for the opportunities they offer to be the love we are. Join us as we discuss this using Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16, 1 Peter 2:2-10 and John 14:1-4.
The early followers did not create a church; they created a community devoted to spiritual truth and loving choices. Join us as we discuss this topic in Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25 and John 10:1-10.
Staying centered in our resurrected spiritual consciousness while still living in a world that is often anchored in fear will be our constant challenge going forward. We might as well get started now! We’ll look at this topic in Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19, 1 Peter 1:17-2 and Luke 24:13-35.
Often the immediate response to a resurrection experience is “What just happened?” We certainly feel the difference, but we need to understand it in order to move forward. Listen in as we discuss this question using Acts 2:22-32, Psalm 16, 1 Peter 1:3-9 and John 20:19-31.
We did it! Our last resistance—that massive stone—has been rolled away, and our Christ Light shines with astonishing beauty. There will surely be more chores and challenges ahead, but today calls for joyful celebration. Join Rev. Ed Townley and special guest Andrew Harvey as they discuss this, using Isaiah 52:13-53:12 and John 18:1-19:42.
Andrew Harvey is guest hosting with Rev. Ed Townley. In this episode, they discuss the dramatic events of Holy Week, reminding us that it’s always darkest before the dawn. But our fears have been cleared away, and in the light of our newly discovered Christ Consciousness, nothing can keep us from the triumph of resurrection. Isaiah 50:4-9a; Philippians 2:5-11; Matthew 26:14-27:66.
Our most deeply entrenched old beliefs are those that tell us we are merely mortal, destined for the terrifying anonymity of death. The most powerful visions of prophets and the most dramatic examples of Jesus Christ’s ministry encourage us to fearlessly know the Truth: We are eternal Spirit. For this discussion we’ll explore Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 11:1-45 and Romans 8:6-11.
Believing is seeing. Once we experience light, however briefly, we can no longer be content with the darkness. When we can see clearly, the path ahead is less fearful. For this discussion we’ll reference 1 Samuel 16:1-13, John 9:1-41 and Ephesians 5:8-14.
It’s a very real place, this "wilderness of Sin" (Exodus 17:1-7), and getting through it can be a challenge. Like the Samaritan Woman at the Well, we may despair of ever moving forward. But even in the bleakest wilderness, the water of life is always available. Join me and special guest Andrew Harvey for this episode and as we discuss John 4:5-42 and Romans 5:1-11.
When our parents gave us chores to do as children, our first response was often “What’s in it for me?” The same question applies as we set about the Lenten work of clearing our consciousness of false beliefs. And the answer is both exciting and challenging. We’ll explore this topic with the help of Genesis 12:1-4a, John 3:1-17 and Romans 4:1-5, 13-17.
For Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore, the process of Lent was central to achieving our spiritual purpose. It's a lot like spring cleaning—we have to remove the residue of old beliefs to make room for the astonishing new reality of Easter. Join us as we discuss Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 and 2 Corinthians 5:20b-06:10.
For the central figures of the Hebrew Scriptures (Moses) and the New Testament (Jesus Christ), their direct Oneness with the divine could only be fully experienced at a level higher than the routine of life. Where’s your mountain? And how willing are you to climb? We’ll discuss the subject in Exodus 24:12-18, Matthew 17:1-9 and 2 Peter 1:16-21.
We are not yet the Christ in full expression, but we are not sure who we were—and others will see the difference before we do. Join us as we explore this topic in Matthew 17:1-9 and Exodus 24:12-18.
In our new Christ Consciousness, we see everything from a deeper perspective. It’s not a walk in the park! Join us as we explore this in Matthew 5:38-48 and Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18.
Jesus doesn’t free us from the law—in fact, he ups the ante! Join us as we discuss this topic in the texts of Matthew 5:21-37 and I Corinthians 3:1-9.
Knowing the spiritual Truth about ourselves is only a first step. It’s in knowing—and sharing—the Truth about everyone that our spiritual purpose begins to take shape. Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a.
We are all called to be ministers of the new spiritual awareness as we experience it—sharing both the promise of Christ Consciousness and the challenges of expressing it. Join us for this discussion and reference from Matthew 4:12-23 and Isaiah 9:1-4.
What we see, we must share—even if no one believes us! Bearing witness in John 1:29-42 and Isaiah 49:1-7.
Like other transcendent ideas, the Christ cannot be proven through human logic. It must be accepted in faith, and embraced in unconditional love. Join us for the discussion centering on the Scriptures of Matthew 2:1-12 and Isaiah 60:1-6.
The biblical prophet Isaiah and the 20th-century prophet John Lennon agree: It's time to be making new choices. On today’s episode, we will delve into this topic through Isaiah 7:10-16, Romans 1:1-7, and Matthew 1:18-25.
It is the great promise of Christ Consciousness that will move us through the shadows of the Winter Solstice—and the challenges of the season. Listen in as we discuss Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10 and Matthew 11:2-11.
Thanksgiving allows us to appreciate the Presence of God—not just in the harvest of abundance, but also in the challenges of limited thinking. Join us as we discuss John 6:25-35, Philippians 4:4-9, and Deuteronomy 26:1-11 for "The Harvest Is at Hand."
Andrew Harvey is one of the most important spiritual voices on the planet. Through his extensive writings and supportive work he calls us to embrace our spiritual purpose of transformation. In this hour-long The Hope: A Guide to Sacred Activism.
If Jesus isn’t coming back here, are we going to wherever he is? Or is there something we need to be doing here? Luke 21:5-19, Isaiah 65:17-25. Join us today as we discuss how to create a new heaven.
Is Jesus coming back? If so, when? And what should we do in the meantime? If not, why not? Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, and Job 19:23-27a.
Whether we find a watchtower or climb a tree, we need to elevate our vision in order to clearly see our spiritual path. Luke 19:1-10, Isaiah 1:10-18, Habakkuk 2:1-4. Join us today for “Lifting Our Perspective.”
Next to resentment, regret is perhaps the most debilitating energy we must contend with on our spiritual journeys. Join Rev. Ed to find release in the words of Jesus (Luke 18:9-4) and the prophet Joel (Joel 2:23-32).
As we move through our human adventure, our relationship to, and understanding of, the Power of God are constantly changing. Jeremiah (31) and Jacob (Genesis 32) suggest that it’s important to release the old and embrace the new, even if it means a new name!
Lepers are healed in both Hebrew Scripture (2 Kings 5) and the New Testament (Luke 17). What can we learn from both healings that might help us with our own healing needs, whether body, mind or spirit? Rev. Ed discusses bad things happening to good people.
Issues, conflicts and crises seem to grab for our attention on a daily, hourly basis, not to mention the painful cacophony of a political campaign season! What’s a spirit-centered truth student to do? Rev. Ed finds some sympathy and helpful hints in the Jewish writings of Habakkuk and Lamentations, and the letters of Paul.
Join us as Rev. Ed Townley returns to this popular Bible program with a look at the question of money. Is it a bad thing? Good thing? None of the above? This week’s lectionary offers financial guidance of a sort from Paul, and from Jesus.
Bishop John Shelby Spong, author of Rescuing the Bible From Fundamentalists and Jesus for the Non-Religious, will join Rev. Ed Townley to discuss Spong's new book, Eternal Life.
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, I John 5:9-13, John 16:4b-15. The greatest gift of our new consciousness is not an escape from earthly challenges. It is a Pentecostal empowerment that allows us to embrace those challenges and transform them into expressions of the kingdom.
Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24: 44-53. Since we now know "heaven" to be a state of consciousness present within us, we no longer hope to get there someday. We accept the invitation—and the challenge—to achieve it at once!
Acts 10:44-48, I John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17. Does our new awareness of spiritual power free us from the need to obey spiritual law? No! But it allows us to approach the Commandments from a new perspective.
There is no clearer directive available on our spiritual journey than the essential, powerful, creative energy of love. And allowing that energy to express through us without our own judgmental interference may be our greatest challenge!
Acts 3:12-19, I John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48. From the perspective of old consciousness, our new reality is almost unbelievable! We must stay carefully centered in new possibilities.
Acts 4:32-35, I John 1:1-2:2, John 20:19-31. We can't celebrate Easter and then fall back into old consciousness. We must open our hearts, minds and lives to a new reality!
Isaiah 25:6-9, Mark 16:1-8, I Corinthians 15:1-11. Jesus’ great demonstration of spiritual Power is not meant to leave us awestruck, but rather eager to do it ourselves!
Isaiah 50:4-9a, Mark 14:1-15:47, Philippians 2:5-11. The message of Jesus’ final days of mortal ministry is that nothing can prevail against the Christ nature and spiritual purpose that we share with him.
Jeremiah 31: 31-34, John 12: 20-33, Hebrews 5: 5-10. We are not here to live within the limits of the past, but to allow God through us to create a great new work.
Numbers 21:4-9, John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10. It is only by lifting our eyes to appreciate Christ Consciousness wherever it expresses that we can accomplish our spiritual purpose.
Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, I Corinthians 1:18-25. Our spiritual beliefs may seem foolish to mortal minds, but true wisdom lives in faith and creative choices.
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Mark 8:31-38; Romans 4:13-25. Fulfilling our spiritual purpose is less about what we do and more about what we believe.
II Kings 2:1-12, Mark 9:2-9, II Corinthians 4:3-6. Honoring the traditions of the past can be important; claiming our own innate relationship with the Allness of God is even more so.
I Kings 19:9-18, Mark 9:2-9, II Corinthians 4:3-6. Our hero’s journey can get very dramatic; but the creative Power of God is at work in even the smallest of choices.
Isaiah 40:21-31, Mark 1:29-39, I Corinthians 9:16-23. The path is often bumpy, and the work is often tiring. But once we awaken to the Christ within, our path and our purpose are clear.
Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Mark 1:21-28, I Corinthians 8:1-13. Now that we know who we truly are, our everyday actions and choices take on greater significance.
Jonah 3:1-5, 10; Mark 1:14-20; I Corinthians 7:29-31. It’s not just the Presence of God within us that is our source of guidance and support. The Presence of God around us is also working with us.
I Samuel 3:1-10, John 1:43-51, I Corinthians 6:12-20. Our physical bodies are intrinsic parts of who we are—and the journey we’ve undertaken. Maintaining a balance between human and spiritual energies is our greatest challenge.
Isaiah 42:1-9, Mark 1:4-11, Acts 10:34-38. When we truly feel our oneness with God, life becomes simple and joyful—and also complicated and challenging!
II Samuel 7:1-11, 16; Luke 1:26-38; Romans 16:25-27. At the conclusion of the Advent process, we expect to receive the promised Light. Instead, we are astonished to learn, we are to become the Light.
In the second stage of the Advent process we become aware that we have a choice: We can curse the present darkness, or we can begin to move toward new possibilities. Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, II Peter 3:8-15a.
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, and Matthew 25:31-46. The blessings and security of God are available to all—especially those willing to wander from the flock, moving beyond the limits of the past into the possibilities of the kingdom.
The challenging parable of Matthew 25:14-30 tells us that the path to spiritual abundance requires that we lovingly—and fearlessly—invest our God-given talents.
From the clarion call of Joshua 24:14-25 to the wise and foolish maidens in Matthew 25:1-13, the message is the same. Life will be as loving or fearful as we choose to make it.
Our greatest spiritual blessings are both a promise for the future (Revelation 7:9-17) and a possibility to be experienced in the midst of our human challenges (Matthew 5:1-12).
From the basics of spiritual law (Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18) to the creative power of love (Matthew 22:34-40), the challenge is always the same: Make better choices!
Whether asking for a sign (Ex. 33:12-23) or resorting to trick questions (Mt. 22:15-22), we don’t have to hide our doubts—or our needs—from the infinitely loving power of God.
Exodus 20:1-20. The Ten Commandments are not suggestions! They constitute our spiritual marching orders. And simple obedience is no longer enough!
The voice for God is always calling us forward. Everything depends not only on what our answer is, but on how we deliver it! This week’s lectionary examines Matthew 21:28-32 and Philippians 2:1-13.
Will God send us manna from heaven (Exodus 16:2-15)? Or will we have to labor in the vineyards (Matthew 20:1-16)? This week’s lectionary suggests that the answer may be yes—and yes again!
An interview with actor Cedric Neal, who plays Tommy in the Dallas Theater Center production.
From Solomon (1 Kings 3) to Paul (Romans 8), the possibility of the kingdom is always at hand, according to the choices we make.
Jacob sees a ladder (Genesis 28); Jesus sees both weeds and wheat (Matthew 13). Both offer lessons on receiving and trusting God’s guidance in our lives.
From Esau’s birthright in Genesis 25 to the sower of seeds in Matthew 13, our lives express according to the choices we make.
Many New Testament historians have discerned elements of humor in the teachings of Jesus. The forms of humor found in his words include use of exaggeration, parody, and surprising endings in parables. This week's program will explore examples of Jesus' use of humor and his purpose in using humor.
We can resist, deny, complain; but once awakened to spiritual Truth, it will express through us despite our most strenuous efforts to “hold it in.” Discussing Jeremiah 20:7-13.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is clear and specific about what he expects from his disciples—and from us! Discussing Matthew 9:35-10:11.
Using traditional Christian sources as well as Unity metaphysics, Rev. Ed talks about the Bible in a way that’s fresh and exciting. He not only traces history you may not know, he brings the Bible to life for your life, connecting its ancient wisdom with living in the modern age.
On the surface, Deuteronomy can be intimidating, but it sets forth clearly the power and importance of trusting spiritual law. Rev. Ed Townley focuses on the passage and takes Bible questions from listeners as well.
What is the Bible, anyway? Where did it come from? What makes it Scripture? Why should we care? Rev. Ed Townley makes a pretty convincing argument that the Bible is still useful today as a roadmap for our lives. If you think the Bible is an outdated relic, Rev. Ed wants to hear from you!
Every week millions of Christians around the world study the same Bible passages from a lectionary. Those who reject the Bible can’t even join the conversation. But can a collection of stories and characters from very old levels of consciousness have anything to say about our spiritual challenges today? Rev. Ed Townley presents the Bible as a road map for your spiritual journey and invites your comments and questions.