Deepak Chopra’s The Third Jesus: A Universal Christ

The story of Jesus has captivated humanity for over two millennia. But who was he, truly? In The Third Jesus, I explore a vision of Christ that transcends historical accounts and theological constructs. This Jesus is a universal teacher of higher consciousness, calling us to awaken to the divine potential within ourselves.

While the historical Jesus lived in a specific time and place, his timeless teachings still resonate. The theological Jesus, shaped by centuries of doctrine, has inspired faith but often limited his universal message. The Third Jesus invites us to see beyond the boundaries of religion and culture, revealing a Christ who embodies love, compassion, and enlightenment.

In this imaginary conversation, we’ll explore the many dimensions of Jesus—from the historical and theological to the spiritual truths that remain relevant in our modern world. Though fictional, this dialogue seeks to inspire deep reflection and open our minds and hearts to the transformative power of this profound teacher.

Listen to a Short Summary of This Article

The Historical Jesus

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today we’ll explore one of the most fascinating figures in history—Jesus of Nazareth. We’ll focus on the historical Jesus: the man, his context, and his message. Let’s start with you, Deepak. How do you view the historical Jesus in relation to your spiritual perspective?

Deepak Chopra: Thank you, Nick. The historical Jesus, to me, was a deeply enlightened being who transcended his time. While historians rightly place him in a specific cultural and political context, I see him as a teacher of higher consciousness. His message was simple yet profound—love and compassion are pathways to the divine.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Deepak. Bart, as a historian, how does your view of the historical Jesus differ?

Bart D. Ehrman: I appreciate Deepak’s insights, but my focus is on what we can reconstruct based on historical evidence. Jesus was a first-century Jewish apocalyptic preacher. He believed that God’s kingdom was imminent and preached repentance to prepare people for that transformative event. His message was deeply tied to the expectations of his time.

Nick Sasaki: Elaine, your work on the Gnostic Gospels has challenged the traditional view of Jesus. What have you uncovered about his historical identity?

Elaine Pagels: The Gnostic texts reveal a Jesus who was much more than a preacher. He was a teacher of wisdom, encouraging his followers to seek inner truth and connect with the divine within themselves. These texts show that even in the early years, there were diverse interpretations of his teachings.

Nick Sasaki: Reza, your book Zealot emphasizes the political dimension of Jesus’ mission. How does this inform our understanding of him?

Reza Aslan: Nick, Jesus’ message was as much political as it was spiritual. His proclamation of the “Kingdom of God” was a direct challenge to Roman authority and the Jewish elite. He sought to upend the social and political order, which is why he was crucified—a punishment reserved for insurrectionists.

Nick Sasaki: That’s a strong point, Reza. Deepak, do you think the political and spiritual dimensions of Jesus’ message can coexist?

Deepak Chopra: Absolutely, Nick. Jesus’ revolutionary message can be seen as a metaphor for inner transformation. Just as he sought to overthrow oppressive systems, his teachings invite us to challenge the tyranny of ego and awaken to love and unity.

Nick Sasaki: Bart, does this spiritual interpretation align with the historical evidence?

Bart D. Ehrman: While I respect Deepak’s perspective, the historical evidence doesn’t support such metaphysical interpretations. Jesus was deeply concerned with the here and now—helping his followers prepare for the coming kingdom. Later traditions layered spiritual and mystical meanings onto his life and teachings.

Nick Sasaki: Elaine, do the Gnostic texts suggest Jesus was seen as a mystical figure even in his time?

Elaine Pagels: Yes, Nick. The Gnostic texts suggest that some of his followers viewed him as a guide to inner enlightenment. These writings highlight the diversity of thought within the early Christian movement, showing that Jesus was understood in multiple ways, even in the first century.

Nick Sasaki: Reza, would you agree that this diversity enriches our understanding of Jesus?

Reza Aslan: Absolutely. Jesus was a complex figure, and his message resonated on many levels. Whether as a revolutionary, a mystic, or a teacher, his impact is undeniable. The diversity of interpretations reflects the universality of his message.

Nick Sasaki: This has been a fascinating discussion. Let’s end with one takeaway from each of you. What is the most important lesson we can learn from the historical Jesus today?

Deepak Chopra: That love and compassion are transformative forces that can elevate our consciousness and our world.

Bart D. Ehrman: That understanding Jesus in his historical context helps us appreciate the power of his message and its enduring influence.

Elaine Pagels: That the richness of early Christian thought invites us to explore multiple paths to understanding Jesus and his teachings.

Reza Aslan: That courage in the face of injustice can inspire change, even in the most oppressive circumstances.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all. The historical Jesus continues to teach us not only about the past but also about ourselves and the potential for transformation in our lives.

The Theological Jesus

Nick Sasaki: Welcome back, everyone. In this conversation, we’ll focus on the theological Jesus—the figure shaped by church doctrines, traditions, and faith over centuries. This is the Jesus worshipped in Christianity, but also a source of debate and interpretation. Let’s begin with Deepak. How do you approach the theological Jesus?

Deepak Chopra: Thank you, Nick. The theological Jesus is a powerful symbol, but he’s often limited by dogma. I believe the church’s portrayal of Jesus as the sole Savior sometimes overlooks his universal message. To me, the theological Jesus can be a bridge to discovering the Christ-consciousness within us all, beyond the confines of organized religion.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Deepak. Richard, as a contemplative theologian, how do you view the theological Jesus in relation to the church?

Richard Rohr: The theological Jesus, as taught by the church, serves as a starting point for many. However, I see him as an archetype of universal transformation—a model for living a life of radical love, humility, and connection to the divine. Unfortunately, many theological interpretations emphasize exclusivity rather than inclusivity.

Nick Sasaki: Bishop Spong, you’ve been a strong advocate for reinterpreting Christianity. How do you see the theological Jesus evolving?

Bishop John Shelby Spong: Nick, I believe the theological Jesus must evolve to stay relevant in the modern world. The traditional image of Jesus as a supernatural being who died for humanity’s sins is rooted in ancient worldviews. Today, we need a Jesus who inspires us to live fully, love wastefully, and see the sacred in all life.

Nick Sasaki: Karen, as a historian of religion, how do you approach the theological Jesus across different faith traditions?

Karen Armstrong: The theological Jesus is not confined to Christianity. He has inspired thinkers in Islam, Hinduism, and other traditions. His life and teachings symbolize selflessness, compassion, and a yearning for justice. However, theology often narrows his message, focusing on dogma rather than his universal appeal.

Nick Sasaki: That’s a fascinating point. Deepak, how do you reconcile the exclusivity of the theological Jesus with his universal message?

Deepak Chopra: I see the theological Jesus as a lens—a cultural interpretation of a universal truth. While Christianity presents him as the only path, his teachings reveal a deeper message: we are all children of the divine. His life was a call to awaken to our shared divinity.

Nick Sasaki: Richard, would you agree that the theological Jesus can be seen as a starting point for deeper spiritual exploration?

Richard Rohr: Absolutely, Nick. The theological Jesus is like a door. For those who dare to go beyond doctrine, he opens the way to deeper truths about God, self, and creation. His message isn’t about exclusion but about unity with all that is.

Nick Sasaki: Bishop Spong, how do you respond to critics who feel your reinterpretation undermines the core tenets of Christianity?

Bishop John Shelby Spong: Critics often cling to tradition out of fear of change. But faith isn’t about certainty—it’s about growth. Reinterpreting the theological Jesus isn’t about rejection; it’s about rediscovering his message for a new era.

Nick Sasaki: Karen, do you think other faith traditions could help reinterpret the theological Jesus?

Karen Armstrong: Absolutely. In Islam, Jesus is revered as a prophet. In Hinduism, his life resonates with the idea of selfless service. These perspectives can enrich our understanding of the theological Jesus, showing how his message transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

Nick Sasaki: This has been an inspiring discussion. Let’s close with one insight from each of you. How can the theological Jesus guide us today?

Deepak Chopra: The theological Jesus invites us to see beyond dogma and embrace the Christ-consciousness within ourselves and others.

Richard Rohr: He shows us that faith is not about believing doctrines but about living in love, humility, and compassion.

Bishop John Shelby Spong: The theological Jesus inspires us to question, to grow, and to see the sacredness of life in all its forms.

Karen Armstrong: He reminds us that theology is a tool, not a barrier. His life calls us to seek justice, love, and understanding across all boundaries.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all. The theological Jesus continues to challenge and inspire, offering us pathways to deeper understanding and connection.

The Third Jesus

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today we’ll explore the concept of the Third Jesus—the universal spiritual teacher who transcends religion and guides us to higher consciousness. Deepak, this idea comes from your work. Could you start by sharing what the Third Jesus means to you?

Deepak Chopra: Thank you, Nick. The Third Jesus is neither the historical man nor the figure of theology. He is a universal teacher of enlightenment who calls us to awaken our own divine potential. His message is timeless—centered on love, compassion, and inner transformation.

Nick Sasaki: Eckhart, you often speak about higher consciousness and living in the present. How do you see this concept of the Third Jesus fitting into your teachings?

Eckhart Tolle: The Third Jesus represents the awakened state of being, a consciousness that transcends the ego. His teachings, particularly about the Kingdom of Heaven being within, resonate deeply with the idea of living fully in the present moment. He points to a state of inner peace and divine presence that is accessible to all.

Nick Sasaki: Rupert, as a non-dual teacher, how do you relate to this idea of the Third Jesus?

Rupert Spira: The Third Jesus aligns perfectly with the understanding of non-duality. His message dissolves the apparent separation between God and humanity. When Jesus speaks of “I and the Father are one,” he’s pointing us toward the realization that our true nature is one with the infinite consciousness—the essence of all existence.

Nick Sasaki: Rev. Moon, your work often focuses on spiritual unity and divine purpose. How does this concept of the Third Jesus resonate with your vision?

Rev. Moon: Thank you, Nick. The Third Jesus is a unifier, transcending the divisions of religion and ideology. His message of love and sacrifice calls us to see humanity as one family under God. This resonates with my mission to create a world of peace, where divine love is the guiding principle.

Nick Sasaki: Deepak, how do you think the idea of the Third Jesus can be applied practically in today’s world?

Deepak Chopra: By recognizing that we all carry the potential for Christ-consciousness within us. The Third Jesus teaches us to live with compassion, mindfulness, and a sense of interconnection with all life. This can guide how we treat one another and how we address global challenges.

Nick Sasaki: Eckhart, how can individuals begin to experience the Third Jesus in their daily lives?

Eckhart Tolle: By being present. When we let go of identification with thought and ego, we open ourselves to the divine within. The teachings of the Third Jesus guide us to that stillness where we can feel the presence of God as our true essence.

Nick Sasaki: Rupert, do you see a connection between the Third Jesus and the idea of universal consciousness?

Rupert Spira: Absolutely. The Third Jesus points directly to the understanding that consciousness is universal, and that divine love is its expression. His teachings encourage us to recognize this truth in ourselves and others, dissolving all boundaries of separation.

Nick Sasaki: Rev. Moon, how does the Third Jesus inform your vision of global unity?

Rev. Moon: The Third Jesus embodies the principle that true peace begins in the heart. When we see others as reflections of the divine, we transcend barriers of race, religion, and nationality. His life is a call to unite as one family under God, serving each other with love and humility.

Nick Sasaki: This has been a truly transformative conversation. Let’s close with one insight from each of you. How can the Third Jesus inspire us to live more meaningful lives?

Deepak Chopra: The Third Jesus teaches us to live in love and mindfulness, awakening to the divine within and around us.

Eckhart Tolle: He shows us the path to inner stillness, where we can experience the peace and presence of God directly.

Rupert Spira: The Third Jesus reminds us that our true nature is infinite and divine, urging us to live with openness and love.

Rev. Moon: He calls us to embrace the oneness of humanity and dedicate our lives to creating a world of peace and harmony.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all. The Third Jesus reminds us of the potential for transformation in every moment, guiding us to live with purpose, love, and unity.

Final Thoughts by Deepak Chopra

As we reflect on the rich tapestry of ideas explored in this conversation, one truth becomes clear: Jesus' message transcends time, culture, and dogma. Whether we view him as a historical figure, a theological construct, or a universal teacher, his life and teachings call us to awaken to our highest potential.

The Third Jesus is an invitation—not to divide or exclude, but to unite and transform. His teachings remind us of the infinite power of love and the divine presence within us all. It is my hope that this imaginary conversation inspires you to look beyond the surface and connect with the deeper, universal truths that Jesus represents.

Ultimately, the journey is not about following; it’s about discovering. May we all walk this path of awakening, guided by the light of wisdom, compassion, and unity that Jesus so beautifully exemplified.

Short Bios:

Deepak Chopra: A renowned author and spiritual teacher, Chopra is a pioneer in integrative medicine and personal transformation. His book, The Third Jesus, offers a unique perspective on Christ as a universal teacher of higher consciousness.

Bart D. Ehrman: A historian and professor of religious studies, Ehrman specializes in the New Testament and early Christianity. His work, such as Misquoting Jesus, examines the historical Jesus and the development of Christian texts.

Elaine Pagels: A scholar of religion and author of The Gnostic Gospels, Pagels explores early Christian writings that present alternative perspectives on Jesus, emphasizing themes of wisdom and inner transformation.

Reza Aslan: An author and scholar of religions, Aslan is known for Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth, which presents Jesus as a revolutionary figure deeply rooted in the sociopolitical struggles of his time.

Richard Rohr: A Franciscan priest and spiritual teacher, Rohr focuses on contemplative Christianity and spiritual transformation. His writings, such as The Universal Christ, explore inclusive and non-dogmatic approaches to theology.

Bishop John Shelby Spong: A progressive theologian and retired Episcopal bishop, Spong challenged traditional Christian doctrines and advocated for a modern, inclusive understanding of Jesus and faith.

Karen Armstrong: A historian of religion, Armstrong’s works, such as A History of God, delve into comparative theology and the universal aspects of religious traditions, including interpretations of Jesus.

Eckhart Tolle: A spiritual teacher and author of The Power of Now and A New Earth, Tolle emphasizes the importance of presence and awakening, resonating with the idea of the Third Jesus as a guide to higher consciousness.

Rupert Spira: A non-duality teacher and author, Spira’s teachings focus on the nature of consciousness and our unity with the divine. His work aligns with the universal and transformative message of Jesus.

Rev. Sun Myung Moon: Founder of the Unification Movement, Rev. Moon emphasized spiritual unity, love, and humanity as one family under God. His teachings focus on peace, divine connection, and the transformative power of love.