The New Church draws its teachings from the Bible and something called the Heavenly Doctrine, a body of spiritual teachings we believe the Lord revealed through Emanuel Swedenborg in the 1700s.
That may sound surprising. New revelation through one person naturally raises questions, and we think that is a good thing. We do not expect anyone to accept these writings on faith alone. In fact, the Heavenly Doctrine itself teaches that belief should never be blind. Faith must be thoughtful, tested, and freely chosen.
What we have found is that these teachings open a higher meaning in Scripture—one that brings clarity to questions about God, human freedom, marriage, the afterlife, and the life of love we are all called to live.
This article offers a starting point: what the Heavenly Doctrine is, why we believe it is from the Lord, and how it might speak to your own spiritual search.
The Bible Fulfilled Not Replaced
We hold the Old and New Testaments as the Word of God. But if you have read the Bible closely, you may have found parts that are difficult to reconcile with a loving God: stories of violence, strict laws, or conflicting messages. These are not flaws in Scripture, but signs that it was written in layers of meaning, suited to people in different spiritual states.
The Lord said He came not to destroy the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). The Heavenly Doctrine shows how He did just that. Teachings about murder and adultery become not just rules for external behavior, but teachings about our inner life—our anger, contempt, lust, and love. That same shift in meaning runs throughout Scripture. Within the literal stories is a higher message about spiritual growth and divine love.
The Heavenly Doctrine does not add to the Bible. It reveals the purpose behind its stories, the symbolism within its characters, and the Lord’s presence throughout. It helps us read Scripture not just historically or morally, but spiritually—showing us how every part points to the Lord’s work in our hearts and lives.
Revelation for a Changing Humanity
Why did the Lord not explain everything clearly from the start? Because humanity was not ready. The Lord knows how to gently lead people toward loving ideas in ways that they follow freely.
The Old Testament was given to a culture that could only receive truth in external, symbolic forms. A message about inner humility or marriage as a partnership of equals would have been rejected. For example, teaching that marriage is based on mutual respect and love, rather than property or dominance, would not have been acceptable to the people of those times.
The New Testament brought greater clarity. The Lord Himself walked among us and taught love, forgiveness, and spiritual rebirth. But even then, He said, “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12).
We believe the Heavenly Doctrine is the next step: truth revealed in a more direct and rational form, suited to a world that values spiritual maturity and freedom. It speaks plainly to core spiritual concerns—how we grow and repent, how we use freedom, how marriage can be spiritual and equal, what happens after death, and how to love the neighbor as a path to loving the Lord.
Its purpose is not novelty but clarity. It reveals what has always been true—that the Lord is love itself, that we were created to love one another, and that Scripture is a living guide for our spiritual lives.
What We Mean by “Revelatory”
When we say the Heavenly Doctrine is revelatory, we mean we believe it is from the Lord—not from Swedenborg himself. He served as the means, not the source. The Lord used him, as He did prophets and apostles before, to deliver teachings for a new era.
Emanuel Swedenborg was a scientist and philosopher who spent decades studying the natural world before experiencing a spiritual awakening in midlife. His background shaped the way he wrote, bringing a love of order, reason, and clarity to the theological works he recorded.
Because we believe it is from the Lord, we treat it as if it has authority. Not the kind that demands blind submission, but one that invites humility. It frames how we think and live. It helps us understand the Bible in a higher way and recognize the Lord’s love at work in all things.
To be humble to revelation does not mean setting aside reason. It means using reason to see more clearly. The Heavenly Doctrine encourages us to approach faith freely and thoughtfully, always seeking new clarity in the Lord’s Word. Belief must grow from understanding.
Many people who have studied and applied the Heavenly Doctrine find it transformative and fulfilling, helping them grow spiritually and live with greater clarity and purpose.
The Invitation
If you have ever wondered whether there is more to Scripture than meets the eye, or if you have ever felt stuck between blind faith and total skepticism, we want you to know that your questions and doubts are welcome here.
Whether you are exploring, searching, or uncertain, you are invited to take your time. The New Church community values where you are in your spiritual journey and hopes to support you as you seek higher understanding and connection with the Lord.
The Heavenly Doctrine offers a spiritual framework that welcomes both thought and love. It is not about replacing what you believe but about deepening and expanding it—helping you see the Lord’s love more clearly and how that love can guide your life.
We invite you to explore these teachings. Read them. Ask questions. Reach out to us. You do not need to agree with everything at once. But if you are looking for a faith that values reason, spiritual growth, and the unshakable love of the Lord, the Heavenly Doctrine may offer something new for you.
Because in the end, all revelation, whether ancient or new, points to the same divine truth:
We were created to love, and to be led by love.
Looking for a thoughtful conversation?
We believe your questions deserve honest, caring answers. Send us a message—we’d love to connect and walk with you in your spiritual journey.
