Foreword

Throughout history, people have yearned to know what happens to us after we die and what it's like in heaven. Most world religions offer hope of eternal life for those who have faith in God.

The explanation of life after death detailed in The Urantia Book builds upon this same truth: eternal life is a gift to all people who exercise spiritual faith and trust in the Heavenly Father. The Father's love and mercy extend to all of us, for the Father in heaven loves each of his children.

"There is in the mind of God a plan which embraces every creature of all his vast domains, and this plan is an eternal purpose of boundless opportunity, unlimited progress, and endless life. And the infinite treasures of such a matchless career are yours for the striving!" ~ The Urantia Book, (32:5.7)

From this basic principle of the divine destiny that awaits us, the authors of The Urantia Book thoughtfully blend philosophy, cosmology, religion, and history into a logical story about the endless universe career planned for us.

This special issue of The Jesusonian has been created by the efforts of dedicated scholars and believers in the teachings of The Urantia Book. The written summaries, universe maps, and graphic overviews presented here are designed as a book review to illustrate the seven stages of our journey from Earth to Paradise, as described in Parts I and II of The Urantia Book.

This book review is not meant as a substitute for The Urantia Book. We urge you to read the entire book and gain your own understanding of its uplifting message.

1. God is the greatest experience in human existence. All of us can experience God because we are all children of the Heavenly Father.
2. We will receive eternal Iife if we have faith and trust in God.
3. Love is the most powerful force in the universe. We are asked to love one another as Jesus loves US.
4. There is an actual part of God that lives within each of us.
5. We live in an orderly, intelligent, and progressive universe.
6. Human life has a divine purpose. There is meaning in our planetary history, values in our present situation, and hope for future generations.
7. The most important knowledge in the world is knowing the religious life of Jesus. The most important spiritual practice is living the religion of Jesus.