In A Course in Miracles (ACIM), salvation is a central concept and refers to the process of awakening to our true nature as one with God and each other. It’s a shift in perception that leads to the realization of our inherent innocence, perfection, and eternal connection with the Divine. Here’s how salvation is described in ACIM:
- Undoing of the Ego: Salvation involves the undoing of the ego, the false sense of self that believes in separation, fear, and guilt. By recognizing these beliefs as illusions, we can let go of them and embrace our true identity as part of God’s creation.
- A Shift in Perception: Salvation is often referred to as a change in perception, from fear to love, from separation to oneness. It involves seeing ourselves and others as inherently innocent, whole, and loved by God.
- The Goal of the Course: The purpose of ACIM is to help us achieve salvation, to awaken to our true nature. It provides teachings and practices, such as forgiveness, that guide us in this transformation.
- Forgiveness as the Means: Forgiveness is a central practice in achieving salvation in ACIM. By forgiving ourselves and others, we undo the beliefs and grievances that keep us trapped in the ego’s illusions, opening the way to love and oneness.
- Healing and Wholeness: Salvation brings healing, peace, and joy. It is the realization that we are whole and complete, lacking nothing, and eternally connected to God and all of creation.
- Universal and Inclusive: ACIM teaches that salvation is not limited to a particular group or belief system but is universal and inclusive. It is available to everyone, regardless of their religious or philosophical background.
- A Present Possibility: While traditional Christian theology often portrays salvation as a future event or an escape from damnation, ACIM emphasizes that salvation is available here and now. It’s a present realization that we can experience through a shift in perception.
- Guidance from the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit, a symbol of our inner divine guidance in ACIM, plays a crucial role in our salvation. By listening to and following this guidance, we are led along the path of awakening and healing.
According to ACIM, salvation is the process of awakening to our true nature as divine, eternal beings, one with God and each other. It involves the undoing of the ego’s illusions through forgiveness and a shift in perception from fear to love. Salvation brings healing, peace, and joy and is presented as a universal, present possibility that is the ultimate goal of the Course.
The Workbook for Students in ACIM contains numerous lessons that focus on this concept of salvation, including:
- Lesson 23: “I can escape from the world I see by giving up attack thoughts.”
- Lesson 39: “My holiness is my salvation.”
- Lesson 63: “The light of the world brings peace to every mind through my forgiveness.”
- Lesson 70: “My salvation comes from me.”
- Lesson 71: “Only God’s plan for salvation will work.”
- Lesson 73: “I will there be light.”
- Lesson 74: “There is no will but God’s.”
- Lesson 89: “I am entitled to miracles.”
- Lesson 99: “Salvation is my only function here.”
- Lesson 100: “My part is essential to God’s plan for salvation.”
- Lesson 106: “Let me be still and listen to the truth.”
- Lesson 238: “On my decision all salvation rests.”
These lessons provide varying insights into the nature of salvation, focusing on themes like forgiveness, inner peace, the relinquishing of attack thoughts, and understanding our role in God’s plan for salvation.