Daily Lessons Received at ‘Akká, January 1908/The Power of God
| Daily Lessons Received at ‘Akká, January 1908 The Power of God |
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THE POWER OF GOD
[edit]Every matter, whether earthly or heavenly, physical or spiritual—which has not been manifest among men but which has at a certain time become existent—must of necessity be related to one of humankind as its originator, founder, or organizer.
First: If that matter be repugnant to the faith and reason of the world and nations but in accord with their selfish tendencies and desires, it is possible that it may be executed and gain a temporary existence among men, either through the wealth and affluence of its originator or by the means of his power and worldly influence. For people obey and recognize such an unreasonable matter, not only because the worldly power wielded by its originator compels them, but also because that matter appeals to their self-interest and cupidity, though inconsistent with their belief and higher judgment.
Second: If that matter be repugnant to reason but in conformity with faith, it is possible that it may be recognized.
This is illustrated by the doctrine of the Resurrection of Christ and His Ascent to Heaven which, though apparently against reason and science, is still believed in by many without any explanation or proof—because it is the clear, literal text of the Gospels.
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Third: And if a matter be contrary to faith but in accord with reason and acquired learning, this can also be established for a time but continues only temporarily, as in the case with the theories of certain philosophers.
Fourth: But if a matter be considered repugnant both to reason and to faith, and be also against men’s desire and self-interest, it is utterly impossible for it to be executed and established, even if it is proposed—unless there is an unseen Power to guard and protect it and to establish and promote it in the world. This has been always the case with the Divine Matters—that is the laws and missions of the Prophets and Divine Manifestations. For these Holy Personages executed their commands and promoted their cause among men, although they were alone, unaided, without any family, clan, soldiers, ammunition, or treasures with which to assist and enforce the spread of their Word.
Moreover, they were known as illiterate, unlearned, and were devoid of every worldly means or power. But they fulfilled their mission, made their Cause to triumph, and subjugated nations to their command solely through the power of the greatest Humility and Meekness.
Consequently, the Oneness of God was proven through their Oneness, and the Singleness of God was demonstrated through their Singleness, and from every one of their names and attributes the Divine Names and Attributes became manifest—for they had no worldly instruments, but the Invisible Power of God was their sole Helper, Protector, and Confirmer.