At the core of Swedenborg’s thought is the understanding that our purpose in this life is to progress spiritually—to learn, to grow, to do good works, and, ultimately, to allow as much of God’s love as possible to enter into us and manifest through us.

Scattered throughout his works are descriptions of our mind and how it relates to both the physical and spiritual worlds. In this book, Taylor pulls these loose threads together and weaves them into a simple, coherent whole, presenting Swedenborg’s teachings as a system that anyone can follow. Taylor describes the external or natural mind as primarily concerned with material things, and the inner mind, in its essence, as love. As we elevate our thoughts toward higher and higher types of love and wisdom, we draw closer to God and begin the process of regeneration, or rebirth as spiritual beings.

This is the first time in many decades that a book has been published on Swedenborg’s philosophy of the mind. Taylor’s straightforward commentary gives readers a rare insight into this crucial aspect of Swedenborg’s theology.

As a young schoolteacher, Douglas Taylor turned to the teachings of Swedish visionary Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) because Swedenborg's language of symbol made perfect sense to him as a way to understand the Bible. Taylor's book is an easily understood overview of Swedenborgian thought -- a theology that "makes sense." Developing a clear idea of God, Taylor says, "is of supreme importance and has consequences to eternity."

This book explores the concepts of the Creator as Redeemer, the spiritual world, redemption, and the Trinity. Taylor looks at personal morality in Swedenborgian terms, addressing such concerns as the nature of evil, how to escape from evil feelings, and why we must take responsibility for our actions.