Bob, thanks for your thoughtful post.
There is another view of Gnosticism that ignores all the aeons, archons and intellectualizations and focuses entirely on cultivating a direct relationship with God.
This general category includes spiritual Christians (whom Paul referred to as pneumatics in the Greek, according to Elaine Pagels), as well as Buddhism and other contemplative disciplines.
I sometimes think of myself as gnostic Christian because I am a meditator (occupational hazard of lengthy martial arts background) whose Savior is Jesus Christ, whom I feel personally opened my spiritual eye and protects me and guides me. I do not recognize the authority of any organized church to dictate my beliefs.
I probably should not let myself be occasionally bothered by Cletus’s pronouncements. For the record, I am also fond of astrologers and certain other mystics, including the Three (Zoroastrian?) Maji.
If I worried about what people think of my ideas, I should add in a few billion other folks of all persuasions who most likely would take issue.
I can fellowship with you on that foundation.
***I am also fond of astrologers and certain other mystics, including the Three (Zoroastrian?) Maji***
All the world is available to the human soul; what you do with that commerce is between you and the Lord... Fellowship with Him will guide you - and warn you. In years past I examined astrology, magic and mysticism... I would probably still have to describe myself as a 'Christian mystic'. Studying Scripture in the original languages - especially Hebrew - opens incredible vistas for contemplation - BUT, as I say, rely on the Holy Spirit to protect you from danger.
For example, I have posted my analysis of the spiritual meaning of Biblical numbers, which has proved helpful in studying Scripture; still, it is a bit oversimplified in places and can only be considered a guide.
***If I worried about what people think of my ideas, I should add in a few billion other folks of all persuasions who most likely would take issue***
All I can say about that is to be careful that you do not lay down stumbling blocks to needy souls to hinder them from discovering the truth that they need. I can fellowship with anyone who can accept the amazing sacrifice of Jesus Christ and his delivering power, his resurrection from the dead and sitting at the right hand of 'The Father' as advocate and judge.
I am cautious to move much beyond that if it might cause strife. It is not worth the disruption.