What if the path to salvation isn’t belief—but integration?

Building off our last episode, Jeff and Michael unpack a mysterious saying from the Gospel of Thomas about making “the two one,” and explore how ancient Gnostic wisdom speaks to our divided modern selves. Jeff shares a concluding dream that becomes a portal into the deeper meaning of inner and outer reconciliation, while Michael reflects on the radical claim that knowing yourself might be the same as knowing God.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:54] Gnosticism & Direct Experience

Jeff and Michael introduce the Gnostic theme of integrating opposites, grounding it back in Jeff’s dreams from last time of the three-fingered hand and "coming out" as "bi."

[00:10:15] The Two Become One

Exploring Saying 22 from Thomas, we interpret Jesus’ teaching as a call to dissolve dualities—child and mother, inner and outer—as the path to divine unity. We begin to reframe “salvation” as a radical transformation of consciousness.

[00:18:44] The Kingdom Within

Coming back again to saying 3 prompts a discussion on knowing God through knowing oneself. We argue that true poverty is alienation from the self—not lack of belief.

[00:25:57] Dream of the Child

Jeff shares a dream in which a radiant child leads him out of prison. The dream becomes a metaphor for the relationship between the true self and the persona.

[00:36:22] Beyond World-Denying

We push back on the claim that Gnosticism rejects the world, arguing instead for balance—recovering the forgotten inner dimension of reality.

[00:45:26] Persona & Pastoring

Jeff reflects on how his pastoral persona outgrew its roots in the inner life. They draw parallels with how Christianity itself has lost touch with its source.

[00:53:29] The Hidden Light

A random Gospel of Thomas verse sparks an honest exchange about what we’ve kept hidden. Michael confesses his mystical identification with the Logos; Jeff discloses his rejection of a sky-God. Both commit to naming the truth more fully.

Two Special Events—Join Us!

We’re four months into The Gospel of Direct Experience podcast, and we’re so grateful for your support—thank you for listening, reviewing, and reaching out. It means the world to us.

This podcast isn’t just about sharing our thoughts—it’s about building community. So, we’re launching two live events to connect more deeply with you.

Event #1: Live AMA (Ask Me Anything) Thursday, June 12th at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET

Join us live on Zoom for a laid-back Q&A session. Ask Michael, me, or both of us anything—about the podcast, spirituality, your own journey, or whatever’s on your heart.

RSVP by emailing us at [email protected].

Can’t make it? Email us your question by Wednesday, June 11th, and we might include it when we release the AMA as an episode later in June.

Event #2: Gnostic Town Hall Thursday, July 10th at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET

This is your time to share. We want to hear your stories, experiences, and spiritual desires. What are you seeking? What does authentic spiritual practice mean to you?

RSVP the same way: [email protected].

This is just the beginning—we hope to see you soon.

Continue the Conversation

Visit our website. While you're there:

• Sign up for our mailing list to keep up to date on the all the latest from us
• Contact us about your own experiences, questions, comments