PDF Summary:Jesus, by Max Lucado

Jesus by Max Lucado offers an engaging look at the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. This summary provides insight into Jesus' divine nature and human experiences, his interactions with individuals from all walks of life, his thought-provoking teachings and parables, and his unmatched authority and miracles.

The author explores the profound sacrifice of Jesus on the cross to secure salvation, his assured return and final judgment, and the promise of eternal paradise for believers. Drawing upon the gospel accounts, Lucado paints a vivid portrait of Jesus' remarkable life, his timeless wisdom, and the eternal hope he offers.

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Lucado elucidates that these parables transcended mere ingenuity, serving as portals that unveiled the divine essence of love, mercy, compassion, and forgiveness that characterize God. Jesus communicated spiritual truths in a way that was understandable to individuals from various backgrounds, irrespective of their educational level or religious upbringing, by employing parables and analogies from common experiences.

Jesus urges his followers to heed his words and mirror his deeds.

Jesus assured his followers that he would offer them solace and guidance.

Lucado emphasizes Jesus' invitation to individuals burdened with labor, providing them comfort and rest. Work alongside me to embark on my initiatives. Turn to me, all who toil and bear burdens, and I shall provide you with tranquility. Absorb my teachings, for my nature is kind and humble, and your spirits will discover the peace they seek. The resonance of those words persists, even after centuries have passed. They address our profound inner desire for guidance, tranquility, meaning, and relaxation.

The author underscores that Jesus aimed not merely to impart wisdom but also to extend an invitation for a personal connection. He yearned for people to embrace his teachings and feel his companionship in their everyday lives, not just remember the things he said. He exemplified guidance and companionship, sharing wisdom with us across all circumstances. Lucado underscores that the "yoke" offered by Jesus is not a heavy load but instead signifies an invitation to collaborate, to synchronize our movements with His, and to learn from His life and deeds.

Jesus exemplified a lifestyle characterized by modest reliance upon God, adherence to the divine plan, and dedication to serving others.

Max Lucado's work demonstrates that Jesus embodied the principles he taught, setting a definitive example for his disciples by leading a life marked by modesty, compliance, and dedication to others. He exemplified humility through the personal act of cleansing the feet of his disciples. He frequently withdrew to engage in prolonged dialogue with God, not just to teach about the principles of prayer. He not only preached about compassion but also healed the sick, comforted the grieving, and fed the hungry.

The author encourages us to contemplate the deeply unorthodox example established by Jesus. In our achievement-oriented, self-serving culture, Jesus' life stands out as a stark contrast. He consistently prioritized the welfare of others over his personal interests, never pursuing personal recognition or gain. He found happiness and fulfillment not through the pursuit of notoriety or riches, but through his commitment to serving the divine and extending kindness to others.

Jesus provided his followers with the necessary understanding and acumen to tackle life's challenges resolutely and with keen judgment.

Lucado often emphasizes that Jesus' teachings were designed to equip his followers with actionable steps to integrate their faith into daily life. He provided practical guidance on handling prayer, forgiveness, money matters, and resolving disputes, which assists in steering through the complexities of life. Jesus exemplified the core of genuine discipleship, which encompasses love, humility, and obedience, through his actions and teachings.

The writer encourages us to do more than just admire Jesus from afar; we should also internalize his teachings, gain strength from his unwavering spirit, and walk the path he laid out for us. As we journey along this road, our spiritual insight and depth expand, equipping us to confront challenges, make wise choices, and live in a way that honors the Divine. Max Lucado highlights the perpetual invitation to accept Jesus' gift of grace, which uplifts us, forgives our errors, and enables us to start afresh, regardless of our flaws or past mistakes.

Other Perspectives

• While Jesus' teachings are indeed unique, some scholars argue that they were not entirely without precedent, drawing upon existing Jewish traditions and scriptures.
• The confidence and clarity attributed to Jesus' teachings could be seen as subjective interpretations, as the actual words and tone of Jesus have been passed down through translations and may have been influenced by the perspectives of those who documented them.
• The revolutionary nature of Jesus' teachings can be debated, as some historians suggest that other religious figures of the time also challenged the status quo and promoted similar values of kindness and compassion.
• The effectiveness and memorability of parables as a teaching tool can be questioned, as their interpretation often relies on cultural and historical context, which may not be accessible or relatable to all audiences.
• The call to mirror Jesus' deeds can be challenging in practice, as the historical and cultural context of his life differs significantly from modern times, potentially leading to varied interpretations of what it means to follow his example.
• The assurance of solace and guidance is a matter of personal faith and belief, and not all individuals may feel this comfort or interpret their experiences as divine guidance.
• The lifestyle exemplified by Jesus reflects an ideal that may be difficult to attain or may not resonate with everyone, especially in diverse cultural and socioeconomic contexts.
• The practical guidance provided by Jesus, while valuable to many, may not be universally applicable or may be interpreted differently across various cultures and individual circumstances.

The unmatched dominion and rule of Jesus.

Jesus demonstrated mastery over the natural and spiritual realms

Jesus calmed violent storms, walked on water, and healed the sick and disabled with a word

In his distinctive storytelling manner, Lucado vividly portrays the extraordinary deeds of Jesus, such as calming storms, walking on water, and healing the sick. The writer highlights how these miracles showcase Jesus' absolute dominion and control over the entirety of creation. The tempest halted abruptly, without a gradual decrease over time. Sight was restored to those without vision immediately, rather than progressively.

Reflect on the amazement of those who observed these events, which is what Max Lucado prompts us to do. They defied all human logic and understanding, pointing toward a power beyond the natural realm. The author seeks to demonstrate the extensive influence of Jesus, which extended beyond the physical realm to the spiritual one, where he triumphed over malevolent entities and freed people from the oppressive burdens they carried.

Jesus performed miracles, including restoring sight to the blind and resurrecting the deceased.

Max Lucado underscores that Jesus' remarkable deeds were not limited to trivial ailments or natural events. He confronted and triumphed over the epitome of wickedness, casting out demons and freeing people from their spiritual shackles. He healed the brokenness in people's lives, ensuring not just physical healing but also mental and spiritual peace, bringing rejuvenation and solace to those weighed down by grief and affliction. He remarkably nullified the enduring nature of death by demonstrating his power over it, resurrecting Lazarus, the son of the widow as told in Luke 7, and Jairus's daughter.

Lucado emphasizes the deep and motivational impact of Jesus' teachings. Jesus demonstrated His divine authority by having a profound relationship with the Father, not by performing mysterious magical feats. How can our own battles and hardships be overcome by drawing on the demonstrated authority of Jesus over sickness, wickedness, and death?

Jesus' extraordinary deeds showcased his absolute authority and mastery over all creation.

The author emphasizes that Jesus' miracles were intentional displays of his divine nature and purpose, rather than mere sporadic expressions of kindness. They affirmed his sovereignty over all creation, confirming his role as the Anointed One, the Divine Offspring. The author encourages us to contemplate the wider implications of Jesus' actions. Jesus seamlessly integrated remarkable deeds into his life and teachings, underscoring his message of hope, renewal, and deliverance.

The miracles were not only for those who received them directly but also offered a glimpse into the future kingdom where victory against transgression, sickness, and death will be fully achieved. The author uses vivid imagery to illustrate how the miracles of Jesus penetrated the darkness of a broken world, offering light, hope, and undeniable evidence of divine power and love.

Jesus' extraordinary acts affirmed His unique position as the Messiah and the embodiment of the divine.

The people regarded the extraordinary acts of Jesus as signs from above, confirming his origin from the divine realm.

Lucado underscores the deep impact that observing Jesus' miraculous acts had on individuals. They recognized that the distinctiveness of his character was manifested through his unparalleled influence and command. In the community where Jesus resided, the expectation was that a true Messiah would demonstrate miraculous powers, as Lucado narrates. The extraordinary acts he performed stood as a divine endorsement, substantiating his assertions and cementing his identity. The populace grasped the importance of these miraculous events. They whispered to one another, filled with wonder at his authority, questioning, "What sort of man is this"? He holds sway over the spirits! The verse is located in Mark, specifically the twenty-seventh verse of the initial chapter.

The writer stressed that the genuineness of his wondrous acts could not be contested, even though his opponents tried to discredit him. They attempted to undermine the significance of his extraordinary accomplishments by attributing them to evil forces, concocting flimsy excuses, and fabricating tales to diminish their importance. Despite their best attempts, the evidence was irrefutable. Individuals previously unable to walk were suddenly able to move about without restraint, while those who had lost their vision could see once again, and the dead were revived.

During His earthly ministry, Jesus frequently carried out acts of divine power that were essential to His work.

Lucado emphasizes the frequent manifestation of miraculous events during the active phase of Jesus' ministry. His routine was marked by a continuous stream of kind deeds, a direct result of his innate empathy and supernatural abilities. The writer depicts instances where Jesus was surrounded by crowds who sought his healing touch and freedom. He welcomed those in poor health and the disheartened with open arms, offering help and hope whenever they came to him for support.

Max Lucado highlights, drawing from the Gospel of John, that if every one of Jesus' miracles were to be fully recorded, the sheer volume of literature produced would exceed the storage capacity of the entire world. The statement emphasizes the broad scope and significance of the wondrous acts ascribed to Jesus.

Jesus performed a range of astonishing deeds that were so undeniable that even those who opposed him could not dispute his exceptional abilities.

The author underscores that even the most resolute doubters could not overlook that Jesus received credit for performing miracles. They endeavored to minimize, justify, or attribute them to malevolent forces. Despite this, the evidence was indisputable. People who were blind could see again, those who had been immobile could now walk, and the dead were brought back to life. Lucado highlights Peter's bravery as he addressed a large crowd in Jerusalem soon after Jesus was resurrected, declaring, "God affirmed Jesus of Nazareth with mighty works, wonders, and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know."

Lucado notes the absence of objections after Peter spoke, indicating tacit agreement rather than dissent. The multitude had directly observed the extraordinary acts performed by the Redeemer. These occurrences were not only observed by them but also had a deep impact on their lives, resulting in profound changes. The author encourages us to consider the undeniable evidence of Jesus' divine nature. How can we account for such remarkable deeds if we do not recognize the divine force that operated through him?

Practical Tips

• You can deepen your understanding of the impact of compassionate acts by volunteering at organizations that aid the visually impaired or support people with disabilities. By engaging with these communities, you'll witness firsthand how acts of service can transform lives, similar to the way the extraordinary acts mentioned changed lives in their time. For example, reading books for the visually impaired or assisting in physical therapy sessions can offer practical insights into the profound effects of personal involvement and care.
• Start a journal to document instances where you or others demonstrate kindness and support in challenging situations, akin to calming storms in personal lives. This practice will help you recognize and appreciate the power of human empathy and assistance in overcoming life's difficulties. You might note how a friend's encouraging words helped you through a tough day or how your assistance helped a neighbor during an emergency, drawing parallels to the transformative power of positive actions.
• Create a personal initiative to regularly engage with and assist those facing hardship in your community, reflecting the welcoming nature of offering healing and freedom. This could be as simple as setting up a weekly visit to a nursing home, offering to grocery shop for the elderly, or tutoring children in underprivileged areas. Through these actions, you'll experience the satisfaction that comes from making a tangible difference in others' lives, much like the profound changes people experienced through the acts described.

Jesus' self-sacrificial deed resulted in a significant outcome.

Jesus voluntarily bore humanity's transgressions and withstood the divine fury.

Jesus knew hardships were imminent and looked for an alternate route, but ultimately, he embraced them.

Lucado poignantly describes the agony of Jesus as he contemplated the cross, knowing that he would bear the full weight of God's wrath against sin. He uses the biblical metaphor of "the cup of suffering" to convey the immense burden of transgression, disgrace, and condemnation that Jesus was destined to carry. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. The verse Matthew 26:39 emphasizes the importance of prioritizing divine intentions over personal desires. Lucado highlights Jesus' human nature and his instinctive inclination to eschew the impending agony and alienation.

However, Jesus consciously opted for compliance with the divine plan, despite knowing the dire repercussions that would follow. He submitted to the heavenly plan, recognizing it as the only route to free humanity from the grip of sin and death. Lucado underscores the profound love and self-sacrifice of Jesus, who bravely accepted the harrowing truth of abandonment by His Father, even if it entailed suffering immense pain on the cross.

Jesus endured the disgrace and repercussions meant for humanity's transgressions by submitting to crucifixion.

Lucado addresses the grim realities of the crucifixion. He portrays the profound suffering and complete desolation Jesus endured, exposed and crucified, while being ridiculed, despised, and dismissed. The author probes beyond the physical suffering to uncover the deep spiritual anguish experienced by Jesus. He emphasizes the deep agony endured by Jesus, which surpassed the brutality of the Romans, as he bore the weight of human disgrace and the load of its sins.

Max Lucado urges us to confront the difficult truth that our misdeeds are the reason for the intense suffering Jesus endured. He calls on us to envision the vulnerability we would feel if our deepest regrets and shame were laid bare for all to see. Reflect on the deepest elements of our nature, such as the hidden motives, the utterances that cause hurt, and the egocentric actions we've tried to keep hidden from those around us. Jesus shouldered our transgressions, facing the condemnation and judgment, and suffered the separation from God that we deserved.

Jesus' sacrifice fulfilled the requirements of divine justice, paving the way for sins to be cleansed and forgiven.

The author underscores that this event was not merely a sorrowful occurrence but a defining victory that met the demands of divine righteousness, thus allowing for reconciliation and the cleansing of sins for all believers. Lucado communicates the idea that God embodies both holiness and mercy. His inherent holiness demands justice for sins, yet his profound compassion compels him to mend what he has fashioned. The convergence of these qualities was evident at the location where the crucifixion took place. Through the selfless act of His flawless Son, God enacted justice upon sin while simultaneously extending forgiveness and compassion to those who have erred.

Lucado underscores the significance of 'hyper,' a term derived from Greek, which denotes the concept of 'standing in for' or 'symbolizing.' New Testament authors often used precise terminology to describe Christ's salvific deeds, indicating that "Christ sacrificed His life for our transgressions" as per 1 Corinthians, "Christ took on the burden of the law's curse to set us free" in Galatians 3:13, and "Christ offered Himself for our wrongdoings" as referenced in Galatians 1:4. Jesus' actions went beyond mere assistance; he took our place, bore the burden of our misdeeds, and thus set us free.

Jesus' sacrifice secured eternal salvation for all who trust in his divinity.

Jesus' altruistic act bridged the immense divide that had once kept the Divine and humanity apart.

Max Lucado depicts the crucifixion of Jesus as the ultimate link that bridges the gap between a perfect deity and imperfect human beings. Our transgressions have created a significant chasm that prevents us from approaching God based on our own merit. Jesus bore the burden of our transgressions and endured the consequences of our defiance, thus forging a path to reconcile us with the Divine. The author likens it to a scenario in which the headwaiter, upon noticing a guest without a jacket, firmly requires the wearing of one and then provides it.

We come to the sacred celebration unprepared and without deserving. Our ethical integrity appears tarnished when compared to the immaculate essence of the divine. Jesus, through boundless compassion, grants us righteousness that covers our shame and makes us deserving before God.

Belief in Jesus' teachings enables individuals to repair their bond with the Divine and ensures the attainment of eternal life.

The author underscores the transformative impact of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross, ensuring that his disciples receive absolution instead of condemnation, are cleansed, and bestowed with a new life. The barrier of sin has been removed, making it possible to experience a restored relationship with God and the promise of eternal life. Lucado emphasizes that the treasured reward we obtain is not a result of our actions or moral behavior; instead, it is a generous offering given to us on account of our faith in Jesus.

Our sense of self is no longer bound to past mistakes or flaws, because we have embraced the redemption that stems from the altruistic act carried out by Jesus. We have been adorned with his righteousness, welcomed into his family, and invigorated by his Spirit.

Believers understand that the crucifixion stands as the final act of reconciliation for humanity's transgressions, obviating the need for any additional sacrifices on their part.

Lucado underscores the sufficiency of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, which stands alone without the necessity for further actions. The debt has been paid in full. We need not prove our worth or labor for divine approval. Salvation, bestowed graciously, is received entirely as a gift by means of belief. Max Lucado underscores that Jesus' final declaration from the cross was "It is finished!" The Greek term tetelestai, mentioned in the biblical passage of John 19:30, signifies the full settlement of a debt.

The writer's objective is to make certain that we fully comprehend the significance of this truth. Our endeavors or actions have no bearing on the love that God bestows upon us. Jesus Christ's deeds have bestowed upon us a plentiful measure of grace. We simply have to accept it, find comfort in it, and conduct our lives within the liberty it offers.

Other Perspectives

• Some argue that the concept of vicarious atonement, where Jesus bears the sins of humanity, is morally problematic as it suggests that someone can take on the punishment for the sins of others, which challenges individual accountability and justice.
• The idea of Jesus embracing the divine plan despite hardships can be seen as undermining human free will, suggesting predestination over personal choice.
• The notion of Jesus enduring disgrace and repercussions on behalf of humanity can be interpreted differently within various theological frameworks, with some arguing that it emphasizes a punitive view of God rather than a restorative one.
• The fulfillment of divine justice through Jesus' sacrifice is debated among theologians, with some suggesting that it portrays God as requiring a blood sacrifice to forgive, which may conflict with views of God as inherently forgiving without the need for atonement.
• The assurance of eternal salvation for those who trust in Jesus' divinity is not universally accepted; other religious traditions offer different paths to salvation or conceptualize the afterlife differently.
• The idea that Jesus' act bridged the divide between the Divine and humanity is specific to Christian theology and may not resonate with those of other faiths or no faith, who may not perceive such a divide or may see multiple ways to bridge it.
• The belief in Jesus' teachings as a means to repair the bond with the Divine and attain eternal life is not shared by all; other religions or philosophies may propose alternative methods for spiritual fulfillment or may not emphasize the need for such repair.
• The view that the crucifixion is the final act of reconciliation that makes further sacrifices unnecessary is a Christian perspective; other religions may emphasize ongoing spiritual practices, rituals, or sacrifices as part of their faith.

Jesus' return holds the assurance of eternal paradise.

Jesus guaranteed His second coming to render judgment upon all individuals, whether they are living or deceased.

Jesus shall come back from the heavenly spheres, imbued with power and glory, to establish His eternal kingdom.

Lucado amplifies the anticipation for the pivotal moment that is to come: the return of Jesus Christ. This occurrence will not go unnoticed or remain concealed; rather, it will emerge as an extraordinary spectacle that will rattle the core of the planet, demonstrating power and splendor. The author employs biblical imagery to convey the event's profound significance. The skies will split open, an echoing boom will resonate worldwide, and the authoritative call of Jesus will boom out, summoning the dead to rise and the living to gather before him with a noise as mighty as the bellow of a formidable beast.

Consider the deep wonder and surprise that Lucado encourages us to feel at this moment. Jesus, who once walked the dry trails of Galilee, is fated to return and wield unmatched authority as the supreme ruler of the entire universe. The author emphasizes the certainty of Christ's return rather than delving into speculative details or the order of events. The assurance of this event, anchored in biblical teachings, ought to influence our current actions and what we deem important.

Every person will find themselves before Jesus, the unbiased judge, who will discern between the redeemed and the unredeemed.

The author explains that the second coming of Christ will not only be a moment for the faithful to rejoice together but also a period when all individuals will be subject to evaluation. Every person is destined to stand before Christ, where the fair Judge will evaluate the choices and actions of their lives. The revelation of every concealed deed, every spoken word, and the genuine motives of every heart will mark a profoundly significant occasion. Lucado emphasizes the importance of immediate spiritual readiness instead of focusing on the details of the final judgment.

Our existence is ephemeral, delicate, and transitory. Our window of opportunity to select whom we pledge our allegiance to is finite. Lucado challenges us to consider the eternal consequences of our choices. Will we spend eternity united with God or separated from Him? The author encourages thoughtful decision-making, embracing the grace offered by Jesus Christ, and leading lives that honor Him.

The arrival of Christ will signal the beginning of a renewed universe, bringing an end to sin and death.

Max Lucado depicts the apex of the story of salvation as Christ's return, signifying the Creator's purpose to restore the universe to its original state of purity. The world, tainted and afflicted, will undergo a purification, revitalization, and transformation, resulting in a rejuvenated cosmos where death, mourning, and pain will cease to be a burden. The author emphasizes that labor, strife, pain, and ultimately death emerged as consequences of Adam's rebellion, which ushered in sinfulness.

Jesus' selfless act broke the power of the curse. His sacrifice overcame sin and put an end to death, paving the path for a new creation in which everything is set aright. Max Lucado inspires anticipation for a time when justice is widespread, peace is omnipresent, and joy is plentiful.

The promise of heaven offers hope, joy, and eternal life for all who trust in Jesus

Believers will inhabit a domain that remains unmarred by the taint and repercussions of sin, surrounded by the divine presence of God.

Lucado depicts heaven as a realm where serenity, happiness, and uninterrupted communion with the Divine prevail. We find our genuine place of belonging in the nurturing embrace of our Creator, where we are fully enveloped by His love and care. The writer draws a comparison between the uncomplicated happiness we experience as children and the intricate worries that accompany adulthood. In the afterlife, concerns over housing loans, challenging colleagues, and the dread of mortality will no longer trouble us.

In the life we lead now, the burdensome load of our wrongdoings will be completely lifted away. Lucado underscores the freedom we can find by resisting the enticement of wrongdoing and the subsequent emotions of guilt, shame, and distress that emerge from our misdeeds. We shall encounter the ideal balance, togetherness, and happiness that correspond with the pure and flawless design intended by the Creator for His creation.

The trials and difficulties we face in life are in stark contrast to the perfection of the heavenly domain.

The writer recognizes the difficulties and sorrows that existence brings, yet also highlights the final respite from all distress that is anticipated in the afterlife. He calls upon us to envision a realm where everything is whole, intact, and accounted for. The aches of illness, the trials of aging, and the grief of farewells will eventually become just distant recollections. Consider the factors that diminish your serenity and happiness, including monetary worries, fractured bonds, sickness, dread, bitterness, culpability, or the heartache associated with the loss of someone dear to you. In the divine realm, Lucado assures that all such things will be completely eradicated.

We will experience immeasurable happiness, complete peace, and eternal affection bestowed upon us by the Divine. Every suffering will be mitigated, with all injuries mended and all that was forfeited due to transgressions will be reclaimed. The author contrasts the simple ambitions of an individual engaged in the commerce of holiday evergreens with the chaotic schedule of his own life, underscoring the stark contrast between our transient earthly pursuits and the enduring splendor of the hereafter.

Concentrating on the splendors of the afterlife can impart clarity, fortitude, and direction in our current existence.

The author emphasizes that anticipation of the afterlife should serve as motivation to lead a life filled with faith and joy now, rather than as a justification to overlook current realities. Max Lucado takes inspiration from the tale of the brave mouse Reepicheep, steadfast in his pursuit of the heavenly realm ruled by the majestic lion, and proclaims his resolve to sail eastward aboard the Dawn Treader until his strength diminishes. Should she not succeed, my tendency is to steer my small boat eastward. I will move myself towards the east, using all my limbs to advance. Should my strength falter, preventing me from swimming further, and if I have yet to arrive at the great lion's domain or be swept past the edge of the earth by a powerful waterfall, I will yield to the sea as dawn breaks.

Lucado instills a profound longing for the sacred, encouraging us to set our sights on the heavenly sphere as described in Colossians 3:2 KJV, allowing our anticipation for the glories to come to shape our life decisions and principles.

Other Perspectives

• The concept of Jesus' return is based on faith, and not all individuals or religions share the Christian belief in the second coming of Christ.
• The idea of judgment after death varies across different cultures and religions, with some proposing alternative afterlife scenarios or reincarnation instead of a final judgment.
• The depiction of Jesus' return as a spectacle is a matter of interpretation and not universally accepted, even within Christian denominations.
• The notion of an eternal kingdom is a theological one and may not resonate with those who focus on the present life and its tangible aspects.
• The belief in a universal judgment by Jesus assumes a Christian-centric worldview, which may not acknowledge the diversity of religious beliefs and ethical systems around the world.
• The idea of a renewed universe free from sin and death is a religious interpretation that may not align with scientific understandings of the universe and the nature of life.
• The promise of heaven as a place of hope and joy is a comforting concept for believers but may not hold the same meaning for non-believers or adherents of other faiths.
• The portrayal of heaven as a domain without sin may not address the complexities of moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in their lives.
• The contrast between the perfection of heaven and the trials of earthly life may not take into account the perspectives that value earthly life as an end in itself, rather than a preparation for an afterlife.
• The encouragement to focus on the afterlife for clarity and direction in current life might be seen as detracting from the importance of addressing immediate worldly issues and the well-being of others.