I’ve been an avid reader of Marianne Williamson since A Return to Love was first published. Each chapter in this delightful book was like hearing an old friend share what she’s learned over the years. I even bought a physical copy of The Mystic Jesus, because I want to keep this in my home library shelf.

The Mystic Jesus provides an explanation of Jesus through the lens of the teachings of A Course in Miracles. The result is an interpretation of the Christ story that transcends the more literal and focuses on its implications for recognizing the divine in human experience. The focus is what the figure of Jesus tells us about our own spirituality. Williamson's insights are often profound and thought-provoking. Those expecting to find a traditional exploration of the Gospels will likely be disappointed, however. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this book. My review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.

This book is esoteric and I was having trouble with the split of mysticism and Christianity with Christ still a center. I don't generally have issues with mysticism and its aspects that are similar to my religion. I think it's the quotes from a source I don't understand. I am open to reading it. I think that is the issue here (even if the author doesn't say so).

This book is a work of spirituality. The author was raised Jewish and not a member of a Christian denomination. That being said she does not fully talk as a person who grew up with the knowledge of a Savior who will deliver us all from our afflictions. She talks about healing the earth and how we should all be working to do that. I am not sure I agree with her take on the Book of revelation. There are points to agree with and others that make one shake their head. yes, the world needs more Jesus, but along with Jesus, we need to read his words. Not to only read the words others say he said. This book is based on A Course in Miracles, not the Holy Bible so keep that in mind if you chose to read this. Jesus can heal us and the world, but the world must change to reach its paradisiacal. I do not think Williamson believes this.

Anyone on any sort of spiritual path will find something thought-provoking and useful in these pages. I found myself rereading sentences and paragraphs and even an entire chapter in order to fully digest what was being said. Not because the words were difficult to understand but because I wanted to remember them, plant them in good soil and let them sprout. The Mystic Jesus by Marianne Williamson presents Jesus as taught in a Course in Miracles - Jesus as inspiration and example. I find it helpful to read alternative narratives to my own about Jesus. It allows me to question, reflect on, and refine my own thoughts and beliefs on the subject. There are nuggets of compassionate wisdom scattered throughout the book, making it well worth a careful read. Thank you to the author, HarperOne, and NetGalley for the eARC.

I have two major concerns about the book. First, it is soaked in patriarchal language. I understand the source material uses patriarchal language, however it was a style choice to continue to use it throughout the book, not just for direct quotes. Due to this unfortunate style choice, the book feels a bit stale and dated, as if it was published in 1974 instead of 2024. Second, although the book is titled The Mystic Jesus, there is not much room left for mystery. Again, this is a style choice. Insights are provided as facts. For example, Williamson and I have different ideas about the body - which is fine. I learn by hearing other people's opinions and experiences. However, the choice was made to present the author's views about the body as authoritative and not as ideas for the reader to chew on. This is complicated by the fact the author is writing from a place of relative privilege (and I am reading from that same place) - these "truths" might not be true for people with other lived experiences. These two style choices do not take away from the many insights and ideas I took away from the book, but they did make getting to those nuggets of gold less pleasant.

Thanks #netgalley for the chance to read this book # mysticJesus. It was not to my likings. I like the traditional story of Jesus. I only made it through a chapter or two and decided it wasn’t a book for me. Maybe you’ll find it enjoyable.

This book is a little too theoretical for my personal tastes. Perhaps I should've known that based on the title. It has really good information and insights. It just wasn't for me personally.

Excellent! This is the first book by Marianne Williamson I've read, and I found it impressive. In this book, the author claims she is not a Christian, but she could have fooled me. The author clearly loves, admires, and - dare I say - worships Jesus of Nazareth. I found her theology fully compatible with Christian doctrine (at least as preached by the progressive churches). She convincingly merges psychology with the image of Jesus in thought and example.

I found this book truly inspiring. The passion for Jesus in this book was palpable, and I felt energized every time I picked up the book to read.

THE MYSTIC JESUS by Marianne Williamson is not a book for everyone -- not even those who believe in Jesus. However, based on the studies of A COURSE IN MIRACLES and a passionate pursuit of spiritual development, it is a fresh and unencumbered view of Spirit, Life, and living in alignment with oneself, community, and the greater world around us. I am a fan of Williamson's curiosity and digging into the tough questions regardless of where it takes her; this book dovetails with her previous work: always thoughtful, thought-provoking. While I don't always agree with her points and conclusions, I do appreciate what she has to say and the lovely way she says it. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.

I was somewhat familiar with Marianne Williamson as a former presidential candidate and a "new-age" speaker. As a conservative Christian I decided to read this book because the subject was Jesus, and I wanted to see what she would say. She does not read the Bible in anything approaching a traditional way. This is one example: "While traditionalist believe that the suffering of Jesus ransomed a sinful humanity, esoteric teachings argue otherwise. The crucifixion was not a punishment for anything or anyone. A loving God would not have Jesus die because you were bad." This is the opposite of orthodox Christianity.
This book could be interesting to understand the thinking and philosophy of a well-known new-age celebrity. I do not recommend it for any spiritual or religious purposes. Three stars for the quality of the writing. No stars for the ideas in the book. I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

"The Mystic Jesus" by Marianne Williamson is a wonderful read that couldn't have arrived at a better time. It serves as a timely reminder that Jesus isn't just a figure from history, but a present-day savior, a direct link to love in our lives.

Williamson's exploration of Jesus goes beyond traditional views, presenting him as a beacon of love and wisdom that's relevant to our modern struggles. It's a refreshing perspective that challenges us to see Jesus as more than just a distant icon, but as a guide for navigating the complexities of our lives today.

Through her clear and engaging writing, Williamson invites readers to embrace a deeper understanding of Jesus as a source of hope and transformation. This book is a reassuring reminder that love is ever-present, and that we can find solace and guidance in the teachings of Jesus, both then and now.

I highly recommend this must-read book, and appreciate the author, the publisher, and Netgalley to read and review.

The Jesus of this book is not thr historical Jesus of Christianity but rather the Mystical one of Course. In miracles. A self-study program exploring Christian concepts in a nondogmatic psychotherapeutic terms.. ìt is a though system based not on fear but love and acceptance. The Mystical Jesus is a path of consciousness. Of how the universe operates. Explores such concepts as death and resurrection in terms of course in miracles. Notes. Index. Resources.