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Preface to the Second Edition
In the original edition of this book, I tried to capture the true meaning of Christianity as I believe Christ had intended it to be understood. My position has been neither one of literal fundamentalism nor new-age spiritualism, but simply that of a person seeking the truth. Although I was writing from a current perspective in the setting of modern developments, I had found that the original message of Christ is universal and compellingly applicable to the present time. The experiences of the past decade have continued to reinforce this conviction. Nevertheless, it was becoming increasingly apparent that a number of issues needed to be addressed, expanded or clarified, and I felt that the time had come for a thorough rewriting of the book.
Although many who read this book will already have a natural interest in the subject, it is aimed particularly at those who have abandoned their religion or are searching for something to believe in. Its purpose is not to win converts to any specific denomination, but to communicate what I consider to be of great importance as clearly and widely as possible.
Although the Scriptures were drawn on extensively as source material, referencing was applied more sparingly to avoid cluttering the text. The precise wording of any quotation may vary according to the 'version' of the Bible used and one is reminded that the translation of ancient languages is not an exact science.
I have attempted to avoid as much specialised language as possible. I believe that a reader's natural sensitivity to truth, together with a practical and tangible approach by the writer, is much more helpful to understanding than any amount of jargon and terminology. To me, it is significant that Christ taught in the common language of the day, indicating that truth is for everyone, not only for a select group of intellectuals. Nevertheless, the writing is intentionally very concise, and for most effective appreciation, the book needs to be read carefully and thoughtfully.
The general use of the masculine form is not intended to exclude the feminine but to avoid distracting repetitions of phrases such as ‘he or she'. For similar reasons, where ‘Father' and ‘He' are used in relation to God, they are compromises because there is no personal form that includes both genders. The words ‘we' and ‘us' should be interpreted to mean human beings in general.
I am indebted to those who read the first edition critically and were kind enough to discuss their perceptions with me and offer constructive comments.
This book invites the reader on a journey of insight into the meaning of Christianity. As insight inevitably depends on its source of light, I hope that what I have written will encourage more people to study the Gospel of Jesus Christ in greater depth, and that his words will enrich their lives as they have mine.
C.E.J. December 2004
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