Don gives us an open and expansive framework within which to look at the canon of Scripture and excluded writings with new eyes and encourages us to trust the Perennial Wisdom affirmed as it is by science.
Progressive Voices ISSUE 42 / Sept '22 ~ Progressive Voices , Review
The author moved from teaching physics to full-time ministry – this book is part of a series seeking to recontextualise Christianity as a wisdom teaching, which is effectively the message of the Gnostic Gospels of Thomas and Mary discussed here. Don explains the more general background to the Bible and the way in which the Gnostic Gospels outline a path of personal transformation rather than vicarious redemption favoured by fundamentalism. This all suggests a wider interpretation based on principles of goodwill, loving human relationships, cooperation and mutual recognition of Divinity. ~ David Lorimer, Paradigm Explorer
Whilst always staying attuned to the Bible throughout Expanding Scriptures: Lost and Found: The Wisdom Series Book 2, author Dan MacGregor covers what is already known, but intriguingly proffers adjustments (updates) to the already comprehensive Book of God.
A must-have for all spiritual seekers, whether via Christianity or otherwise, this new book - which has six chapters - The Bible and How It Came To Be, The Lost Christianities and the Gospel of Thomas, The Lost Christianities and Mary Magdalene, The Hard Problem of Interpretation, Reinterpretations and Why Numbers Matter - is a really well-researched work.
Not overcomplicated, not entangled within its own weeds of known written knowledge vs what could/should have been it culminates (in just over 100 pages) in providing a directly realistic set of wisdom to impart to all those interested in our modern times.
FULL REVIEW: https://annecarlini.com/ex_books.php?id=300 ~ Exclusive Magazine, Review
Don MacGregor’s little book, "Expanding Scriptures", is a beauty. In a compact way, he covers an accurate history of the Bible, a wise and helpful understanding of biblical interpretation, a comprehensive look at “lost” gospels, and a well-researched understanding of the Bible for today’s world. Highly recommended for personal study and group discussion. ~ Revd. Paul Smith, co-founder of the Integral Christian Network, author of “Integral Christianity: The Spirit’s Call to Evolve”
By exploring Christianity as a path of personal transformation rather than a transactional relationship with the divine and a reward of salvation, Expanding Scriptures: Lost and Found accomplishes a wonderful and extremely timely service to spiritual seekers, whether Christian or otherwise. Its invitation to live questions of the deeper meaning of life as way-showers leading eventually to the unfolding of answers, is the basis of all perennial wisdom teachings. Whilst the paths are myriad, as this profoundly insightful book shows, the destination is constant; the discerning and eventual experience of unity and oneness as the true state of the world’s and our meaning and existence.
~ Dr Jude Currivan. Cosmologist, author of "The Cosmic Hologram" and co-founder WholeWorld-View, www.wholeworld-view.org
‘Expanding Scriptures: Lost and Found’ is packed with direct, realistic spiritual wisdom, much needed for our modern world. Don MacGregor’s words shine a bright light through the dark confusion of outdated thinking. This is cutting edge theology and a brilliant introduction to Biblical history, including the lost gospels of the New Testament, the real Jesus and Mary Magdalene. Every Christian minister and Bible Study Group should read it. I promise the journey will be one of transformation and enlightenment. ~ Pam Evans MBE, Founder of the multi award winning Peace Mala educational charity for Global Citizenship and World Peace
As Christianity loses its ground and finds itself in a crisis, a return to the original message of Christ becomes an existential need for its future evolution. Don MacGregor has done a wonderful work by pointing out this essential truth in his second book of the Wisdom Series: “Exploring Scriptures: Lost and Found”. I recommend this book to all those who seek the original, universal and transforming message of Christ. I am sure it will satisfy their intellectual quest and longing of the heart. ~ Br. John Martin Sahajananda, spiritual director of the Shantivanam Ashram in India, author of “Hindu Christ,” and “The Four O’Clock Talks
Wisdom is a gift of ages past, but also a resource forever inviting us into expanded horizons of meaning. Don MacGregor situates his exploration of Christian scripture between these two strands. While honouring the past his goal is to facilitate movement into the expanding horizons of faith that engage us today. A valuable and useful guide for spiritual seekers of our time. ~ Fr. Diarmuid O'Murchu, author of
I recommend Expanding Scriptures: Lost and Found to anyone who is ready to consider and understand the next step in the evolution of Christian thought and the expansion of human consciousness. The book explores the true origins of the New Testament, and includes an enriching overview of the some of the lost codices of early Christianity. Dedicated to the idea that religious thought must evolve to meet the times, the author weaves together the Christian teachings with the truths found within science, psychology and the Perennial Philosophy. ~ William Meader, International speaker and author of “Shine Forth: The Soul’s Magical Destiny” Portland, Oregon, USA
This is a fascinating and brilliant book for anyone who wants to acquaint themselves with the transformational teachings that Jesus really taught and which we learn about in the recently discovered Nag Hammadi gospels (especially in the Gospels of Thomas and of Mary). Don reminds us that the bible needs to be seen through fresh eyes. It must not be interpreted literally, as it is a selection of different genres written by many different people for different reasons, over centuries. Consequently it is a product of the worldview or cultures of those differing times, and needs reinterpreting in the complex world which we face in 2021.
He reveals how outmoded our current theology is, steeped as it is in violent tribalism and patriarchy. He shows how the real and deep mystical, esoteric teachings can be found in the recently discovered Nag Hammadi texts, especially the Gospel of Thomas, where Jesus talks much more like a Zen Master or Master Shaman.
After every chapter, Don gives us further resources and important questions to ask ourselves. This important book is an absolute must read for all Christians interested in asking themselves new questions about their religion and who are truly committed to using Christianity as a direct path to God. ~ Dr. Serge Beddington-Behrens, PhD · Psychotherapist, Spiritual Guide and author of
Don MacGregor offers a profound and practical understanding of the history and essence of the Bible as relevant and related to the Ageless Wisdom at the heart of all the world’s religions. Expanding Scriptures: Lost and Found is a timely presentation and provides a sacred, informative and reflective journey for all those seeking to realize the beauty of the differentiation of Truth from one source, one unity of purpose, and grasp the meaning of the language within Christianity. We are held in the Divine Presence; it flows through everything; and our recognition of the depth and breadth of our interconnectedness with all Life, and with Mother Nature ushers us into a New Day, one that yields right relationship throughout the manifest world. We are offered the opportunity to question, reflect and realize that our world view is shifting once again and it is the essence of life that is perennial. This is a book you will be glad you opened! ~ Dr. Dot Maver, educator and peacebuilder, founder of Global Silent Minute and co-author of