Today, I share a few ideas responding to concerns that reciting a single prayer (the “sinner’s prayer”) may not truly establish new life and salvation in Christ. There seems to be as many versions of the “beginners prayer” as there are clergy and evangelists. After some while, a believer might not even recall the specific words they were given, yet, every believer must eventually acknowledge and accept a truth now basic to every covenant relationship of creature and Creator: (Romans 3: 22, KJV) For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Many Christian believers first publicly acknowledged their need for the blessings of GOD by his incarnate ministry appearing as Jesus Christ while having a complete worship experience, and after they were led to repeat words calling for forgiveness, and change. Such prayers should not be regarded as a “fix it” formula using miracle language and specially chosen words, or a “magic spell” that will remove all doubt, sin, and unbelief, so much as willingness to speak such words are indications of a spirit influence from GOD being present in the person who chooses to speak the prayer. Like the Lord’s prayer that was given as a model, and not the only words one may speak in their devotions, the 3 words Peter spoke when failing to walk on the water also are a model prayer. (Matthew 14: 29-31, KJV) And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Consider again the following:
(1.) Prayer is a tool for communicating among persons within sacred relationships, and actively continues ongoing affiliation with divinity that is passively established through shared spirit content. The bond and connection that produces salvation are only through the imparted, inseparable aspects of the makeup of GOD who is a spirit. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Where one appears, all others appear also; and the living are known to be spiritually alive by expressions that result from interactions among ones spirit content. (1st Corinthians 12: 3, KJV) Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
(2.) Ones awareness that GOD exists is by operations of the Holy Spirit; and, at first, is primitive and raw consciousness lacking such forms as doctrine, images, measurement, process, words, or similitude. What a fellow believer, a preacher, the Scriptures, or church attendance may provide are carnal, material and social experiences intended to further crystallize and focus sacred awareness. (Romans 8: 26, KJV) Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
(3.) Rightly understood, the simple yet profound sinner’s prayer is a form of sacred practice, or sacrament intended to continue ones consciousness of divinity. Performing the various sacraments (e.g., baptism, holy matrimony, penitence, receiving the Lord’s Supper) do not “save”, yet, they nourish and prolong the condition of salvation. As a form of confession, the prayer acknowledges a broad range of existing obstacles to correct relationship with GOD. Included are lack of sacred knowledge; lack of humility; ones own accountability in judgment; fear; guilt; infirmity (we say, weaknesses); needs (e.g., for cleansing, deliverance, forgiveness, guidance, healing); and ones inborn sin nature that regularly appears through such elements as negative attitudes, defiance of sacred law, destructiveness, disobedience, forbidden desires, and ungodly habits. By the sinner’s prayer, believers initiate their claims for a divine estate and a spiritual inheritance that are supported before sacred law through the person of Jesus Christ. (Luke 18: 13-15, KJV) And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Men may openly invite, welcome, and then cooperate with the operations and promptings of GOD that manifest their salvation, however, the principles and substance of salvation is exclusively from GOD. Included are every expression of divine being, character, compassion, grace, mercy, permanence, person, prerogative, renewal, and sovereignty. The salvation the sinner receives is not so much a matter of living happily ever after exercising unrestrained desire and self-will as it is a matter of displaying commitment and discipline, and meeting the challenges of life in the earth having been given the whole armor of GOD. (1st Peter 4: 17-19, KJV) For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
(10/30/2014) Antidotes to the Poisons
Points are shared, today, on the antidotes believers must use to overcome the various poisons that come against their divine nature, and their enjoyment of life experience upon the earth. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “Justin” (Level 1 with 26 points, a member since March 04, 2013) posted the following:
Im a Christian but afraid to live and enjoy life?
I'm 25 a Christian. I know God gave us life to enjoy. I'm scared to enjoy life because im scared to go to hell.. Is it OK to be a Christian and still enjoy life?
THE BATTLE AXE: About “The Just” (10/29/2014)—(4.) The just are instruments for accomplishing the divine will. Because the life processes for birth and death among mankind are generally the same as those found among animals, birds, insects and other living creatures upon the earth, many fail to discern the various spiritual operations carried out by GOD that install and nourish the divine nature. Believers are to be further transformed in their consciousness by the perfect example of the just in their display of unquestioning acceptance of brevity for life, in their absolute dependence for mercy in judgment, and in the lingering emotional and psychological power generated by their active though finite presence. The mysteries of divine person and the integrity of GOD as sovereign over all created beings and living creatures are further crystallized and revealed through a peculiar demonstration of existence distinct from “life” as a social process. All things that exist do not contain life meaning a personal spirit essence from the makeup of GOD. The divine nature established through the sacred operations and word of GOD appearing as Jesus Christ are not the products of human nature, and the will of mankind. Included are baptism, covenant, death, rebirth, inheritance, judgment, forgiveness, law, repentance, and sanctification. See again Psalms 127: 3, Isaiah 57: 1-4, Isaiah 54: 17, John 1: 1-5 and 11-14, 2nd Peter 1: 2-4 and 16-21, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12: 1-2, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Were We Sent Here? (07/21/2014); An Eternity Worshipping? (07/22/2014); Grace is Not Against Law (07/23/2014); Denying Oneself (05/17/2014); From Such Turn Away (05/18/2014); GOD Does the Divine Part (01/05/2014); Sin in Mind not Deed? (01/06/2014)
“Justin”, here are a few points Jesus would have you consider that nourish spiritual growth among Christian believers:
(1.) Sin is a non-material, non-spirit influence that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the law giver, and the Creation that emerges by divine order grounded through sacred law. Sin was not created by GOD, yet, was first discovered among the holy angels. Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in all created beings and living creatures that have not been permanently “re-born” with new sacred content from GOD made available through the ministry of Jesus Christ.
(2.) Volition (we say, will) within mankind is essential to the integrity of independent existence, and expression by human beings. The antidote to such poisons as doubt, fear, ignorance, slander, and superstition that warp expression of ones divine nature are to be found through sacred knowledge, fellowship within a community of believers, regular prayer, and purposeful activity in service to GOD and Christ. The many covenants, proclamations, promises, and prophecies provided to mankind are buttressed and reinforced with sacred events (we say, miracles) that serve to authenticate the presence and operation of GOD.
(3.) Hell and the lake of fire have not been created in order to destroy divine substance that responds to the will of divinity. For all humans, the “carnal mind” is enmity against GOD, and is not subject to the law of GOD. From cradle to grave, the flesh necessarily responds to the natural mechanics of appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, touching) and emotional/mental functions (e.g., anger, desire, imagination, recall). These can become a spiritual center and core of ones being in such a way that GOD is “forgotten,” and the most necessary connection for existence is effectively broken.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Among Christian believers life is not to be centered in such displays as worldly ambition, spiritual confusion, continual drunkenness, fornication, or lying. Believers must understand and accept that their lives are now caught up within a process having divine origins, and intended to accomplish eternal purposes. Sudden and cataclysmic change are being avoided; and the operations of GOD go forward as correction, gradual growth, learning, perfection (we say, maturing), and sanctification. Along with balance and focus that one must exercise as “good judgment,” there also must be respect to GOD both as ones advocate as well as ones judge.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Let it be unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Im a Christian but afraid to live and enjoy life?
I'm 25 a Christian. I know God gave us life to enjoy. I'm scared to enjoy life because im scared to go to hell.. Is it OK to be a Christian and still enjoy life?
THE BATTLE AXE: About “The Just” (10/29/2014)—(4.) The just are instruments for accomplishing the divine will. Because the life processes for birth and death among mankind are generally the same as those found among animals, birds, insects and other living creatures upon the earth, many fail to discern the various spiritual operations carried out by GOD that install and nourish the divine nature. Believers are to be further transformed in their consciousness by the perfect example of the just in their display of unquestioning acceptance of brevity for life, in their absolute dependence for mercy in judgment, and in the lingering emotional and psychological power generated by their active though finite presence. The mysteries of divine person and the integrity of GOD as sovereign over all created beings and living creatures are further crystallized and revealed through a peculiar demonstration of existence distinct from “life” as a social process. All things that exist do not contain life meaning a personal spirit essence from the makeup of GOD. The divine nature established through the sacred operations and word of GOD appearing as Jesus Christ are not the products of human nature, and the will of mankind. Included are baptism, covenant, death, rebirth, inheritance, judgment, forgiveness, law, repentance, and sanctification. See again Psalms 127: 3, Isaiah 57: 1-4, Isaiah 54: 17, John 1: 1-5 and 11-14, 2nd Peter 1: 2-4 and 16-21, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12: 1-2, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Were We Sent Here? (07/21/2014); An Eternity Worshipping? (07/22/2014); Grace is Not Against Law (07/23/2014); Denying Oneself (05/17/2014); From Such Turn Away (05/18/2014); GOD Does the Divine Part (01/05/2014); Sin in Mind not Deed? (01/06/2014)
“Justin”, here are a few points Jesus would have you consider that nourish spiritual growth among Christian believers:
(1.) Sin is a non-material, non-spirit influence that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the law giver, and the Creation that emerges by divine order grounded through sacred law. Sin was not created by GOD, yet, was first discovered among the holy angels. Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in all created beings and living creatures that have not been permanently “re-born” with new sacred content from GOD made available through the ministry of Jesus Christ.
(2.) Volition (we say, will) within mankind is essential to the integrity of independent existence, and expression by human beings. The antidote to such poisons as doubt, fear, ignorance, slander, and superstition that warp expression of ones divine nature are to be found through sacred knowledge, fellowship within a community of believers, regular prayer, and purposeful activity in service to GOD and Christ. The many covenants, proclamations, promises, and prophecies provided to mankind are buttressed and reinforced with sacred events (we say, miracles) that serve to authenticate the presence and operation of GOD.
(3.) Hell and the lake of fire have not been created in order to destroy divine substance that responds to the will of divinity. For all humans, the “carnal mind” is enmity against GOD, and is not subject to the law of GOD. From cradle to grave, the flesh necessarily responds to the natural mechanics of appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, touching) and emotional/mental functions (e.g., anger, desire, imagination, recall). These can become a spiritual center and core of ones being in such a way that GOD is “forgotten,” and the most necessary connection for existence is effectively broken.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Among Christian believers life is not to be centered in such displays as worldly ambition, spiritual confusion, continual drunkenness, fornication, or lying. Believers must understand and accept that their lives are now caught up within a process having divine origins, and intended to accomplish eternal purposes. Sudden and cataclysmic change are being avoided; and the operations of GOD go forward as correction, gradual growth, learning, perfection (we say, maturing), and sanctification. Along with balance and focus that one must exercise as “good judgment,” there also must be respect to GOD both as ones advocate as well as ones judge.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Let it be unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
(10/29/2014) About “The Just”
Today, a word is shared to heal blindness regarding the value to GOD of minor children in their death. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “Derek” (Level 2 with 387 points, a member since August 21, 2014) posted the following:
Over nine millions children under the age of 5 die each year. Is god great?
Update : *Isn't god great
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. (Ezekiel 18: 19-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How Can Christians Believe? (08/12/2014); The Sin of Pride? (08/13/2014); Herod the Great? (06/29/2014); A Formula for Baptism? (06/30/2014); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); Going It Alone? (12/16/2013); Issues for Children’s Church? (04/06/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); A Slaughter of Innocents (12/15/2012); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012)
“Derek”, Jesus Christ is answering you to open your blind eyes. Your focus has been darkness and death, and so you are failing to see the beauty and blessing of GOD upon those whom he justifies. Consider the following points shared among mature Christian believers:
(1.) Those who die as minor children (including fetuses), who may have received no formal instruction regarding the things of GOD, are nonetheless endowed with spirit content from the makeup of divinity. Such are called the just, and they are carried into the necessary judgment of GOD supported through the dispensations of divine grace, forgiveness, and love.
(2.) While children must be embraced as extensions of Adam, and vessels of the sin nature, death does not come against them as punishment so much as a mechanical feature within the natural order. Children also must complete mortality (now a condition of material duration upon the earth). Their experiences of death may describe agony, pain and suffering no different than that for adults. However, as for adults, the basis of their judgment is not so much their own attitudes, behavior and conduct as it is their spirit content from divinity. We all will be examined for such inseparable aspects of GOD as active presence, faith, forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The just will be altered and changed (we say, transformed) through operations of GOD, made immortal and incorruptible on the basis of qualities found in Jesus Christ. What the world (society) calls “innocence” or “purity” is measured by such standards as experiencing conflict within relationships, exercising a conscience that may become flawed, acquiring worldly knowledge (and therefore, ignorance), displaying infirmity (we say, weakness), or pursuing human sexuality. The perfection of Christ centers in a perfect peace and unity with GOD the Father and the Holy Spirit.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. In the name of Jesus be healed, and see with new eyes.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Over nine millions children under the age of 5 die each year. Is god great?
Update : *Isn't god great
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. (Ezekiel 18: 19-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How Can Christians Believe? (08/12/2014); The Sin of Pride? (08/13/2014); Herod the Great? (06/29/2014); A Formula for Baptism? (06/30/2014); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); Going It Alone? (12/16/2013); Issues for Children’s Church? (04/06/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); A Slaughter of Innocents (12/15/2012); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012)
“Derek”, Jesus Christ is answering you to open your blind eyes. Your focus has been darkness and death, and so you are failing to see the beauty and blessing of GOD upon those whom he justifies. Consider the following points shared among mature Christian believers:
(1.) Those who die as minor children (including fetuses), who may have received no formal instruction regarding the things of GOD, are nonetheless endowed with spirit content from the makeup of divinity. Such are called the just, and they are carried into the necessary judgment of GOD supported through the dispensations of divine grace, forgiveness, and love.
(2.) While children must be embraced as extensions of Adam, and vessels of the sin nature, death does not come against them as punishment so much as a mechanical feature within the natural order. Children also must complete mortality (now a condition of material duration upon the earth). Their experiences of death may describe agony, pain and suffering no different than that for adults. However, as for adults, the basis of their judgment is not so much their own attitudes, behavior and conduct as it is their spirit content from divinity. We all will be examined for such inseparable aspects of GOD as active presence, faith, forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The just will be altered and changed (we say, transformed) through operations of GOD, made immortal and incorruptible on the basis of qualities found in Jesus Christ. What the world (society) calls “innocence” or “purity” is measured by such standards as experiencing conflict within relationships, exercising a conscience that may become flawed, acquiring worldly knowledge (and therefore, ignorance), displaying infirmity (we say, weakness), or pursuing human sexuality. The perfection of Christ centers in a perfect peace and unity with GOD the Father and the Holy Spirit.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. In the name of Jesus be healed, and see with new eyes.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, October 27, 2014
(10/27/2014) The Scriptures and Perfection?
Today, some points are shared to clarify the “quick” and living nature of the holy writings; and how the Scriptures are made perfect as they operate with the imparted Spirit of GOD. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “Peter” (Level 1 with 73 points, a member since March 30, 2014) posted the following:
Christians: Are all the words in the New and Old Testament 100% truth and perfection, that you have zero doubt about?
Update : Skunky ..... BRAINWASHED
Update 2: Aleah ...... BRAINWASHED
Update 3: Gregory .... BRAINWASHED
Update 4: Robot ...... you provided the PERFECT answer.
Update 5: Somebody else ......... 99.99% BRAINWASHED
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4: 12, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Points on Bible Study (06/28/2014); Finding Peace Through the Bible? (06/02/2014); Disliking Other Christians? (06/03/2014); Bible and Spirit (04/26/2014); Personality? (04/27/2014)
“Peter”, here are a few points to consider that have helped many Christian believers escape the confusion, idolatry, ignorance and superstition often imposed upon the holy writings:
(1.) The perfection and power of the Scriptures are not a matter of material and visible forms (e.g., alphabet, language, script, symbols, translations), sounds, and words so much as they are aspects of the makeup and spirit matter of divinity. For this reason, only those applying their own endowment of the imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, using discernment) are able to receive the Scriptures correctly as an expression of the divine mind. Believers must be grounded by such divine content as faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(2.) For those lacking the spirit content established through the ministry of Jesus Christ, the Bible is no more than a mundane record of human events. It is impossible to correctly see that the Scriptures reveal divine order for the entire universe in the forms of covenant and law; that multiple persons and various sacred operations are described whereby the invisible GOD appears, and is to be spoken of and known; or that the fundamental principles are shared for continuing all the exchanges and interactions of life experience that acknowledge and reverence GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) Men are to seek perfection and power in the person of a living GOD, not in the abstract and material things that support human existence. The Bible is a unique standard for measuring and realizing divine process and sacred substance. Readers properly supplied with the Holy Spirit experience a divine point of view through the Bible, embracing thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years, that make visible the active presence of GOD both in heaven and upon the earth.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Christians: Are all the words in the New and Old Testament 100% truth and perfection, that you have zero doubt about?
Update : Skunky ..... BRAINWASHED
Update 2: Aleah ...... BRAINWASHED
Update 3: Gregory .... BRAINWASHED
Update 4: Robot ...... you provided the PERFECT answer.
Update 5: Somebody else ......... 99.99% BRAINWASHED
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4: 12, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Points on Bible Study (06/28/2014); Finding Peace Through the Bible? (06/02/2014); Disliking Other Christians? (06/03/2014); Bible and Spirit (04/26/2014); Personality? (04/27/2014)
“Peter”, here are a few points to consider that have helped many Christian believers escape the confusion, idolatry, ignorance and superstition often imposed upon the holy writings:
(1.) The perfection and power of the Scriptures are not a matter of material and visible forms (e.g., alphabet, language, script, symbols, translations), sounds, and words so much as they are aspects of the makeup and spirit matter of divinity. For this reason, only those applying their own endowment of the imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, using discernment) are able to receive the Scriptures correctly as an expression of the divine mind. Believers must be grounded by such divine content as faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(2.) For those lacking the spirit content established through the ministry of Jesus Christ, the Bible is no more than a mundane record of human events. It is impossible to correctly see that the Scriptures reveal divine order for the entire universe in the forms of covenant and law; that multiple persons and various sacred operations are described whereby the invisible GOD appears, and is to be spoken of and known; or that the fundamental principles are shared for continuing all the exchanges and interactions of life experience that acknowledge and reverence GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) Men are to seek perfection and power in the person of a living GOD, not in the abstract and material things that support human existence. The Bible is a unique standard for measuring and realizing divine process and sacred substance. Readers properly supplied with the Holy Spirit experience a divine point of view through the Bible, embracing thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years, that make visible the active presence of GOD both in heaven and upon the earth.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
(10/14/2014) The Life That Endures
More is shared in response to the complaint that life has no genuine substance, is pointless, and is vain. Like Job and Solomon, even anointed prophets such as Jeremiah and Elijah have struggled against the brevity of life, its futility and injustice, and what seems its arbitrary course of events. It is the truth that all human achievement now is subject to annihilation, corruption, decay, decline, reversal, and ruin. Nevertheless, through Jesus Christ, many created beings and living creatures will become known as acceptable works of GOD, and will endure as eternal, everlasting, immortal, and incorruptible.
THE BATTLE AXE: The Gift of Life Despised? (10/13/2014)—(4.) Many Christian believers entered into a relationship to acknowledge GOD seeking relief from their anguish, loss, pain and suffering. It was not because they understood all the preaching and teaching about GOD, or all the details of sacred law and Revelation. They reached a point where they confessed having a deep need within their own lives for the assurances, cleansing, new life, possibilities and power proclaimed by GOD through Jesus Christ. Like the account of Adam and Eve, the record of Lucifer and the angels of heaven who followed him are provided to show that failing to correctly value the gifts from GOD result in their being denied to you. There are many precious blessings with GOD that none may ever earn for themselves by begging or pleading, by hard work and worry, by weeping and crying. Included are covenant, faith, forgiveness, fellowship, healing, holiness, immortality, incorruption, divine law, love, prosperity, respect, the imparted Spirit (some say, breath of life, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth), trust, wisdom, and wrath against sin. See Micah 6: 8, Psalms 34: 7-8, Zechariah 8: 16-17, Matthew 7: 6-8 and 13-14, 1st Corinthians 2: 9-13 and 1st Peter 3: 10-12, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The wise man’s eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth to them all. Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I said in my heart, that this also is vanity. For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool. Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under the sun is grievous unto me: for all is vanity and vexation of spirit. Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me. And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool? yet shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured, and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This is also vanity. Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the labour which I took under the sun. For there is a man whose labour is in wisdom, and in knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that hath not laboured therein shall he leave it for his portion. This also is vanity and a great evil. For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun? For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity. There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I? For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit. (Ecclesiastes 2: 14-26, KJV)
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. Ones experience of eternal life must begin as an acceptance of salvation through Christ within the present time frame, and is not merely to be thought of as a far off, future event. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
THE BATTLE AXE: The Gift of Life Despised? (10/13/2014)—(4.) Many Christian believers entered into a relationship to acknowledge GOD seeking relief from their anguish, loss, pain and suffering. It was not because they understood all the preaching and teaching about GOD, or all the details of sacred law and Revelation. They reached a point where they confessed having a deep need within their own lives for the assurances, cleansing, new life, possibilities and power proclaimed by GOD through Jesus Christ. Like the account of Adam and Eve, the record of Lucifer and the angels of heaven who followed him are provided to show that failing to correctly value the gifts from GOD result in their being denied to you. There are many precious blessings with GOD that none may ever earn for themselves by begging or pleading, by hard work and worry, by weeping and crying. Included are covenant, faith, forgiveness, fellowship, healing, holiness, immortality, incorruption, divine law, love, prosperity, respect, the imparted Spirit (some say, breath of life, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth), trust, wisdom, and wrath against sin. See Micah 6: 8, Psalms 34: 7-8, Zechariah 8: 16-17, Matthew 7: 6-8 and 13-14, 1st Corinthians 2: 9-13 and 1st Peter 3: 10-12, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The wise man’s eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth to them all. Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I said in my heart, that this also is vanity. For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool. Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under the sun is grievous unto me: for all is vanity and vexation of spirit. Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me. And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool? yet shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured, and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This is also vanity. Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the labour which I took under the sun. For there is a man whose labour is in wisdom, and in knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that hath not laboured therein shall he leave it for his portion. This also is vanity and a great evil. For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun? For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity. There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I? For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit. (Ecclesiastes 2: 14-26, KJV)
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. Ones experience of eternal life must begin as an acceptance of salvation through Christ within the present time frame, and is not merely to be thought of as a far off, future event. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, October 13, 2014
(10/13/2014) The Gift of Life Despised?
Grace, gratitude, and life as a gift from GOD are topics, today. Also, there is more on Catholics, Protestants and the Trinity. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “INVINCIBLE” (Level 1 with 71 points, a member since September 07, 2014) posted the following:
If there's god? let him be... why i should pray/ or be thankful?
i never asked him to give me anything, even this life, i don't find any reason for this life...
it's stupid, god gave me pain/happiness( if he's there) which i never wanted/need...
and these holy books are asking me to pray him for this.....
THE BATTLE AXE: Catholics, Protestants and The Trinity? (10/12/2014)—(5.) In the same way those who left Egypt with Moses were blended and interwoven to serve as one nation, from its beginnings the process of expansion and growth for the Church created by Jesus Christ has been one of molding diverse persons to exist as one body through judgment (i.e., the resolution of conflicts and differences through discipline, doctrine, and law). Many Christian believers dismiss the multiple differences among denominations as the expression of finite human needs, traditions, and the limited understandings of mankind, rather than the putting forth of divine precepts. Labeled as charasmatic and conservatives, such believers promote the old ways, resist change, and seek the primitive yet powerful teachings of the early church that came by prophetic demonstrations and revelation through the imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). Jesus had carefully explained that the things he was teaching were all from the Father, and were already documented within the holy writings. The Holy Spirit was to be welcomed and received as a direct agent, spokesperson, and expression of the will of Jesus Christ. Called the “promise of the Father” and the “gift of the Spirit,” the agenda of the Spirit would be from the Son, and not from the Spirit himself. Even so, there would be no contradiction or denial of the things from the Father. Various historical events, interpretations, and overlays are not to be thought of as being able to erase or obscure the common truth for all believers that we call “the Gospel.” Far from being dogma taught by brainwashing or propaganda, knowledge of the GODhead is discovered and achieved through common sense and discernment. Consider again Matthew 7: 13-14 and 21-27; John 7: 17; John 16: 13; Luke 24: 13-27; 1st Corinthians 3: 11-13; Ephesians 2: 8-22; 2nd Timothy 2: 8-17 and 19-26, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. (2nd Corinthians 4: 3-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); The Bible is All About GOD? (07/27/2014); No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014); Life Choices (12/14/2013); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); His Burden Is Light? (09/21/2013); All Things Possible? (09/17/2013); Can One Escape? (09/18/2013); Gentiles and the Law? (09/19/2013)
“INVINCIBLE”, here are a few ideas important among Christian believers that should also be known among others who are finite, mortal, and not yet invulnerable (like yourself):
(1.) For believers, commitment, gratitude, love, respect to GOD, and unselfish service are acknowledgments that one has been shown unmerited favor (we say, grace). Existence and life proceed from a higher process and will than that of created beings and living creatures upon the earth. It is spurious and unproductive to argue that life experience with its many challenges should only be a product of ones own inner being (e.g., anger, desire, fear, imagination, intellect, lust, passion). It is a waste of your time, should someone give you permission to always stop the rain (so you will never become soaked again), unless, of course, they also give you authority and power that your will may be done.
(2.) The holy writings were given to those asking for direction and guidance from GOD. Believers are not being coerced or forced to do, or speak, or think anything they can not immediately grasp as an aspect of their own spirit and person. Like your own, the existence of GOD requires nothing of you or anyone else; and GOD does not demand anything from those having nothing to offer.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) Your question may be read as, Why should I want correct knowledge, and, Why can’t I have my own way in a world that does not belong to me? The process of life can be more than a series of disconnected episodes, or cycles of self-destruction and despair. Life can be an adventure of exploration and learning; and men can fashion meaningful goals and purpose. It remains, however, what you take for granted gets taken away; just as what you take for granted gets to take advantage of you.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
If there's god? let him be... why i should pray/ or be thankful?
i never asked him to give me anything, even this life, i don't find any reason for this life...
it's stupid, god gave me pain/happiness( if he's there) which i never wanted/need...
and these holy books are asking me to pray him for this.....
THE BATTLE AXE: Catholics, Protestants and The Trinity? (10/12/2014)—(5.) In the same way those who left Egypt with Moses were blended and interwoven to serve as one nation, from its beginnings the process of expansion and growth for the Church created by Jesus Christ has been one of molding diverse persons to exist as one body through judgment (i.e., the resolution of conflicts and differences through discipline, doctrine, and law). Many Christian believers dismiss the multiple differences among denominations as the expression of finite human needs, traditions, and the limited understandings of mankind, rather than the putting forth of divine precepts. Labeled as charasmatic and conservatives, such believers promote the old ways, resist change, and seek the primitive yet powerful teachings of the early church that came by prophetic demonstrations and revelation through the imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). Jesus had carefully explained that the things he was teaching were all from the Father, and were already documented within the holy writings. The Holy Spirit was to be welcomed and received as a direct agent, spokesperson, and expression of the will of Jesus Christ. Called the “promise of the Father” and the “gift of the Spirit,” the agenda of the Spirit would be from the Son, and not from the Spirit himself. Even so, there would be no contradiction or denial of the things from the Father. Various historical events, interpretations, and overlays are not to be thought of as being able to erase or obscure the common truth for all believers that we call “the Gospel.” Far from being dogma taught by brainwashing or propaganda, knowledge of the GODhead is discovered and achieved through common sense and discernment. Consider again Matthew 7: 13-14 and 21-27; John 7: 17; John 16: 13; Luke 24: 13-27; 1st Corinthians 3: 11-13; Ephesians 2: 8-22; 2nd Timothy 2: 8-17 and 19-26, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. (2nd Corinthians 4: 3-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); The Bible is All About GOD? (07/27/2014); No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014); Life Choices (12/14/2013); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); His Burden Is Light? (09/21/2013); All Things Possible? (09/17/2013); Can One Escape? (09/18/2013); Gentiles and the Law? (09/19/2013)
“INVINCIBLE”, here are a few ideas important among Christian believers that should also be known among others who are finite, mortal, and not yet invulnerable (like yourself):
(1.) For believers, commitment, gratitude, love, respect to GOD, and unselfish service are acknowledgments that one has been shown unmerited favor (we say, grace). Existence and life proceed from a higher process and will than that of created beings and living creatures upon the earth. It is spurious and unproductive to argue that life experience with its many challenges should only be a product of ones own inner being (e.g., anger, desire, fear, imagination, intellect, lust, passion). It is a waste of your time, should someone give you permission to always stop the rain (so you will never become soaked again), unless, of course, they also give you authority and power that your will may be done.
(2.) The holy writings were given to those asking for direction and guidance from GOD. Believers are not being coerced or forced to do, or speak, or think anything they can not immediately grasp as an aspect of their own spirit and person. Like your own, the existence of GOD requires nothing of you or anyone else; and GOD does not demand anything from those having nothing to offer.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) Your question may be read as, Why should I want correct knowledge, and, Why can’t I have my own way in a world that does not belong to me? The process of life can be more than a series of disconnected episodes, or cycles of self-destruction and despair. Life can be an adventure of exploration and learning; and men can fashion meaningful goals and purpose. It remains, however, what you take for granted gets taken away; just as what you take for granted gets to take advantage of you.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Sunday, October 12, 2014
(10/12/2014) Catholics, Protestants and the Trinity?
The Apocrypha, the Bible, the GODhead, and doctrines shared by Catholic and Protestant believers are considered, today. Also, there is more on warnings to Adam before the fall. A “Yahoo! Answers Canada” writer using the ID “Best For Business” (Level 2 with 395 points, a member since August 31, 2014) posted the following:
Why do Protestants worship the three godpersons of the Catholic trinity?
THE BATTLE AXE: Not Told in Advance? (10/11/2014)—(5.) Following their transgression, carnal and spiritual provisions for Adam to be recovered from sin were initiated immediately, even the death of a substitute for the pair, and an atonement through the blood of an innocent. To mature Christian believers, it is foolish to ask, why didn’t GOD do things a different way—to please whom? He was pleased to do as he did, apparently. Thus, one really should not ask, why didn’t GOD explain the entire plan of salvation at that time, rather than have it unfold gradually across time, and within the frameworks for human knowledge (i.e., time and space)? We now understand that the holy angels are not immortal, incorruptible, or all knowing (they can not foretell the future). At their creation, the angels were endowed with the full measure of knowledge they would need to function and serve throughout their duration; and they do not acquire knowledge by recall and study as do men. The process for full relationship and the revelation of GOD to mankind is one of gradual growth and learning. The living must “come to know” the Almighty by an unfolding of sacred knowledge through divine operations such as baptism (i.e., death of ones inborn spirit, burial in water, washing, and rebirth from divine substance), events to fulfill sacred expectations, and fellowship through obedience, praise and prayer with other believers. Salvation is experienced as permanent change, and the transformation from dependence upon awareness that centers on material existence (we say, the natural) to consciousness that emerges from spiritual existence. See again 1st Corinthians 2: 1-16 and 1st Corinthians 15: 39-53, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Colossians 2: 6-15, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Let Us Make Mankind? (06/10/2014); GOD and Adultery? (06/11/2014); (03/10/2014) Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); (02/05/2014) Succession (02/05/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014); Hierarchy (11/14/2013); The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013); On Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); My Sheep Hear My Voice (03/08/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013)
“Best For Business”, here are a few points non-Christians are regularly urged to consider regarding the teachings and shared beliefs among Catholics and Protestants:
(1.) GOD is a single spirit who displays and manifests essence and person primarily through actions, events, spirit matter, works, and utterance (we say, word). GOD is not made up of material substance such as particles (as with fog, cloud, mist or smoke), flesh (as with human cells, organs, or tissues), and materials processed by mankind such as clay, iron, wood, and steel.
(2.) Because the operations of GOD among created beings and living creatures repeatedly occur as distinct and recognizable patterns, men upon the earth are able to discern (i.e., use their own content of divine spirit to recognize and respond to spirit content within their own life experiences including occurrences, other people, prophecy, and the holy writings), and correctly speak of GOD as appearing as three persons: The Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit. Thereby, GOD is revealed or seen as functioning in specific ways, and pursuing specific eternal purposes.
(3.) There are multiple differences between Catholics and Protestants that result from their cultural, organizational, political, and social traditions. More than this, most Protestants rely upon the Bible, and the operations of faith as the highest authority for spiritual truth in the earth. Protestants rely upon 66 books as the only holy writings provided by GOD, while Catholics include 11 more from the 14 Apocryphal books that were written during the period after the Old Testament was closed, and before the New Testament Scriptures were opened. During the more than 400 year period before the coming of Jesus, no prophets were acknowledged among the Jews as having been sent from GOD after the pattern of Moses, Elijah, and others. Thus, among many Christians, the Apocrypha are seen having a different spirit content and value.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Many practices among Catholics are supported on the basis of teachings from the Apocrypha such as the veneration of Mary, and that the Church is the consort of Jesus Christ and, therefore, his primary agent upon the earth. It remains that the foundation of truth for both Catholic and Protestant believers is the doctrine and teachings from Jesus Christ himself; and many of their similarities may be attributed to the initial development of Protestant belief as an aspect of government and process within the Catholic frame.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why do Protestants worship the three godpersons of the Catholic trinity?
THE BATTLE AXE: Not Told in Advance? (10/11/2014)—(5.) Following their transgression, carnal and spiritual provisions for Adam to be recovered from sin were initiated immediately, even the death of a substitute for the pair, and an atonement through the blood of an innocent. To mature Christian believers, it is foolish to ask, why didn’t GOD do things a different way—to please whom? He was pleased to do as he did, apparently. Thus, one really should not ask, why didn’t GOD explain the entire plan of salvation at that time, rather than have it unfold gradually across time, and within the frameworks for human knowledge (i.e., time and space)? We now understand that the holy angels are not immortal, incorruptible, or all knowing (they can not foretell the future). At their creation, the angels were endowed with the full measure of knowledge they would need to function and serve throughout their duration; and they do not acquire knowledge by recall and study as do men. The process for full relationship and the revelation of GOD to mankind is one of gradual growth and learning. The living must “come to know” the Almighty by an unfolding of sacred knowledge through divine operations such as baptism (i.e., death of ones inborn spirit, burial in water, washing, and rebirth from divine substance), events to fulfill sacred expectations, and fellowship through obedience, praise and prayer with other believers. Salvation is experienced as permanent change, and the transformation from dependence upon awareness that centers on material existence (we say, the natural) to consciousness that emerges from spiritual existence. See again 1st Corinthians 2: 1-16 and 1st Corinthians 15: 39-53, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Colossians 2: 6-15, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Let Us Make Mankind? (06/10/2014); GOD and Adultery? (06/11/2014); (03/10/2014) Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); (02/05/2014) Succession (02/05/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014); Hierarchy (11/14/2013); The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013); On Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); My Sheep Hear My Voice (03/08/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013)
“Best For Business”, here are a few points non-Christians are regularly urged to consider regarding the teachings and shared beliefs among Catholics and Protestants:
(1.) GOD is a single spirit who displays and manifests essence and person primarily through actions, events, spirit matter, works, and utterance (we say, word). GOD is not made up of material substance such as particles (as with fog, cloud, mist or smoke), flesh (as with human cells, organs, or tissues), and materials processed by mankind such as clay, iron, wood, and steel.
(2.) Because the operations of GOD among created beings and living creatures repeatedly occur as distinct and recognizable patterns, men upon the earth are able to discern (i.e., use their own content of divine spirit to recognize and respond to spirit content within their own life experiences including occurrences, other people, prophecy, and the holy writings), and correctly speak of GOD as appearing as three persons: The Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit. Thereby, GOD is revealed or seen as functioning in specific ways, and pursuing specific eternal purposes.
(3.) There are multiple differences between Catholics and Protestants that result from their cultural, organizational, political, and social traditions. More than this, most Protestants rely upon the Bible, and the operations of faith as the highest authority for spiritual truth in the earth. Protestants rely upon 66 books as the only holy writings provided by GOD, while Catholics include 11 more from the 14 Apocryphal books that were written during the period after the Old Testament was closed, and before the New Testament Scriptures were opened. During the more than 400 year period before the coming of Jesus, no prophets were acknowledged among the Jews as having been sent from GOD after the pattern of Moses, Elijah, and others. Thus, among many Christians, the Apocrypha are seen having a different spirit content and value.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Many practices among Catholics are supported on the basis of teachings from the Apocrypha such as the veneration of Mary, and that the Church is the consort of Jesus Christ and, therefore, his primary agent upon the earth. It remains that the foundation of truth for both Catholic and Protestant believers is the doctrine and teachings from Jesus Christ himself; and many of their similarities may be attributed to the initial development of Protestant belief as an aspect of government and process within the Catholic frame.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Saturday, October 11, 2014
(10/11/2014) Not Told in Advance?
The fall of Adam, divine law, and the basis for right relationship with divinity are topics, today. Also, there is more on Bible study and conversion. The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers UK & Ireland” using the ID “Q&A Queen” (Level 7 with 47, points, a member since May 17, 2007) posted the following:
Why didn't God tell Adam & Eve advance what the FULL punishment would be for their rebellion?
If the idea of eternal torment in hell is true why, when God issued the command to not eat from the Tree of Knowledge, did he simply saythey would DIE. There was no warning about eternal torment. Why not? Wouldn't that have been a greater deterrent. This "failure" is compounded by the fact that, at Genesis 3:18, when he pronounced judgment on them AFTER their rebellion, he simply said "for dust you are and to dust you will return." Why didn't he tell them their entire punishment?
Respectful thoughts, please.
THE BATTLE AXE: All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014)—(4.) Casual focus upon a book (for example, any of the Harry Potter novels) will not allow a reader anything more than a surface knowledge of its characters, their exchanges and interaction, the plot, and its resolution. That the word from GOD is not to be read casually is illustrated in the Scriptures by its introduction through Moses with convocation, death, sacrifice, and sanctification by the sprinkling of blood. A genuine appreciation of an author’s manner of expression, the writer’s core personality, and their vision for those pursuing the profession of letters will only come by a sensitive experience of immersion, and careful consideration of the work in hand. Only those who invite and welcome the Holy Spirit as they read and study the Bible are carried to the level of acceptance and understanding that appear as change, growth, rebirth, and new life from GOD, its divine author. For such persons, their conversion is seen in their regular and repeated recognition that explanations, definitions, descriptions, and standards within the Scriptures, and gained through experiences in fellowship with believers (such as church attendance), agree with those from their own inner spirit provided by divinity. Praise, prayer and worship should open and close every period of study, no matter how brief it may be. The possible benefits from a five minute session are no less important and valuable than those for a five hour session. As with any serious academic study, a believer is wise to make written notes to record for later use (a) their own questions that may arise (even when they expect the present reading to give answer); (b) any points of interest for further study; and (c ) the connections, overlap and similarities that may appear among various verses and passages. The multiple aspects of spirit content within the Bible can not be completely internalized through a single reading of the book. Comprehending its rich expression of divinity is a work that requires a believer’s full lifetime. See again Exodus 24: 3-12, Joshua 8: 33-35, 2nd Kings 23: 1-3, Nehemiah 8: 1-10, Nehemiah 8: 18, Nehemiah 9: 3 and Ecclesiastes 12: 11-14, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand. (Proverbs 19: 20-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); What Salvation Is (01/25/2014); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why "Mysterious" (11/11/2012); Why Clothing? (10/15/2010); Known by GOD? (10/16/2010)
“Q&A Queen”, here are a few points to consider that come into view through the revelation from GOD incarnate as Jesus Christ:
(1.) The foundation for eternal companionship with divinity was not laid upon the basis of how much knowledge (some say, data, facts, science) one possesses, or the extent of emotional and intellectual content that would exist and expand within created beings and living creatures in accordance with the dynamics of the mind. Content from the makeup of deity is to reside within all living that establishes a permanent link and condition of unity with GOD. Included are such inseparable aspects of GOD as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, joy, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(2.) The holy writings do not detail the many exchanges GOD may have had with Adam (the single name GOD used for the first pair). It is incorrect to assume that GOD did not clearly proclaim and state the necessary instruction for carrying out the divine will. Just as believers today, the pair were to operate in obedience that would emerge through love, respect, and trust, rather than full knowledge from a compendium of sacred laws.
(3.) Adam was created having awareness and self-will, and was to exist exercising a peculiar level of independence before GOD. The integrity of mankind as a distinct being would be maintained in the terms generated by the interaction of elements deposited within humanity for the expression of life. While man was not fashioned initially as one immortal, like the holy angels, mankind was to endure indefinitely at the discretion of GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Before one advances to threats and warnings of punishment, there are many levels of interaction that may be employed that serve as positive guidance. Included are admonition, chiding, prophetic demonstration, praise, putting one into remembrance, rebuke, reprimand, reproach, and scolding. The benefits of carrying out and obeying the law are more to be a focus for positive relationships than detailing the sanctions for violations of law. In Jesus Christ, we also see that promises and prophecies impart the divine nature, and further transform believers for continuing with eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why didn't God tell Adam & Eve advance what the FULL punishment would be for their rebellion?
If the idea of eternal torment in hell is true why, when God issued the command to not eat from the Tree of Knowledge, did he simply saythey would DIE. There was no warning about eternal torment. Why not? Wouldn't that have been a greater deterrent. This "failure" is compounded by the fact that, at Genesis 3:18, when he pronounced judgment on them AFTER their rebellion, he simply said "for dust you are and to dust you will return." Why didn't he tell them their entire punishment?
Respectful thoughts, please.
THE BATTLE AXE: All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014)—(4.) Casual focus upon a book (for example, any of the Harry Potter novels) will not allow a reader anything more than a surface knowledge of its characters, their exchanges and interaction, the plot, and its resolution. That the word from GOD is not to be read casually is illustrated in the Scriptures by its introduction through Moses with convocation, death, sacrifice, and sanctification by the sprinkling of blood. A genuine appreciation of an author’s manner of expression, the writer’s core personality, and their vision for those pursuing the profession of letters will only come by a sensitive experience of immersion, and careful consideration of the work in hand. Only those who invite and welcome the Holy Spirit as they read and study the Bible are carried to the level of acceptance and understanding that appear as change, growth, rebirth, and new life from GOD, its divine author. For such persons, their conversion is seen in their regular and repeated recognition that explanations, definitions, descriptions, and standards within the Scriptures, and gained through experiences in fellowship with believers (such as church attendance), agree with those from their own inner spirit provided by divinity. Praise, prayer and worship should open and close every period of study, no matter how brief it may be. The possible benefits from a five minute session are no less important and valuable than those for a five hour session. As with any serious academic study, a believer is wise to make written notes to record for later use (a) their own questions that may arise (even when they expect the present reading to give answer); (b) any points of interest for further study; and (c ) the connections, overlap and similarities that may appear among various verses and passages. The multiple aspects of spirit content within the Bible can not be completely internalized through a single reading of the book. Comprehending its rich expression of divinity is a work that requires a believer’s full lifetime. See again Exodus 24: 3-12, Joshua 8: 33-35, 2nd Kings 23: 1-3, Nehemiah 8: 1-10, Nehemiah 8: 18, Nehemiah 9: 3 and Ecclesiastes 12: 11-14, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand. (Proverbs 19: 20-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); What Salvation Is (01/25/2014); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why "Mysterious" (11/11/2012); Why Clothing? (10/15/2010); Known by GOD? (10/16/2010)
“Q&A Queen”, here are a few points to consider that come into view through the revelation from GOD incarnate as Jesus Christ:
(1.) The foundation for eternal companionship with divinity was not laid upon the basis of how much knowledge (some say, data, facts, science) one possesses, or the extent of emotional and intellectual content that would exist and expand within created beings and living creatures in accordance with the dynamics of the mind. Content from the makeup of deity is to reside within all living that establishes a permanent link and condition of unity with GOD. Included are such inseparable aspects of GOD as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, joy, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(2.) The holy writings do not detail the many exchanges GOD may have had with Adam (the single name GOD used for the first pair). It is incorrect to assume that GOD did not clearly proclaim and state the necessary instruction for carrying out the divine will. Just as believers today, the pair were to operate in obedience that would emerge through love, respect, and trust, rather than full knowledge from a compendium of sacred laws.
(3.) Adam was created having awareness and self-will, and was to exist exercising a peculiar level of independence before GOD. The integrity of mankind as a distinct being would be maintained in the terms generated by the interaction of elements deposited within humanity for the expression of life. While man was not fashioned initially as one immortal, like the holy angels, mankind was to endure indefinitely at the discretion of GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Before one advances to threats and warnings of punishment, there are many levels of interaction that may be employed that serve as positive guidance. Included are admonition, chiding, prophetic demonstration, praise, putting one into remembrance, rebuke, reprimand, reproach, and scolding. The benefits of carrying out and obeying the law are more to be a focus for positive relationships than detailing the sanctions for violations of law. In Jesus Christ, we also see that promises and prophecies impart the divine nature, and further transform believers for continuing with eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, October 10, 2014
(10/10/2014) All Who Read Convert?
Today, points are shared on salvation as a work by the imparted Spirit of GOD, and why readers often are not converted or saved by only studying the Bible. The writer at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “prayasmangurung” (Level 1 with 248 points, a member since September 18, 2014) posted the following:
Why do some religious people think that everyone who reads the Bible will become a Christian and convert to their religion by reading Bible?
No disrespect to anyone but a year ago a Christian man gave me the Bible and he said I know you will become a Christian he seemed full of himself and over confident that I will actually become religious by reading some Bible?
I've read the Bible and I didn't convert it was a shock to him. And I thought that the Bible is more a fictional book mixed with supernatural stories of God and childish genesis stuff for example?
Adam and eve stuff I don't believe that humans were first here on earth since dinosaur's were definitely here for longer about 64 million years ago.
and Noahs ark of the flood was real wouldn't there be grand canyons all over the world and middle east where The flood took place?
Why do some Christians give you the Bible and they think they know you will convert when I didn't I find the Bible is nonsense that constantly contradicts itself and Bible stories all lies!!
THE BATTLE AXE: Made in the Image of GOD? (10/09/2014)—(5.) Men and women are said to be made in the image of GOD when they continuously acknowledge sacred law, divine order, and spiritual standards for their relationship as sons and daughters to GOD. Believers in GOD through Jesus Christ are accounted as those who receive the same spirit content that was revealed through GOD appearing incarnate as a son of Adam. Those who demonstrate response to the influence of divine will within their ongoing routines for life are seen as vessels filled with divine content, who therefore depict and portray aspects of GOD within their own expressions of character and personality.
(6.) The apprehension of GOD is not through mechanical processes for the flesh that occur as vision. Human eyes do not detect spirit. By hearing, created beings and living creatures are to secure awareness of spirit content, the active presence of divinity (we say, acts, events, occurrences), sacred knowledge and discernment, rather than on the basis of carnal, material and social routines that center upon appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, cravings for sexual contact), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), or emotional/mental functioning (e.g., anger, desire, dreams, fear, imagination, instinct, recall). GOD is a spirit who exists without dimension (features that are measurable). GOD is to be known by fundamental truths imparted and revealed by GOD himself. Thus, GOD may only exist within ones consciousness in conformity to specific principles of truth, and upon a foundation generated by divine substance. Consider again Exodus 33: 13-23, Romans 8: 8-10 and 8: 28-30, Romans 10: 8-18, Romans 12: 1-3, Philippians 3: 7-14 and 1st Corinthians 3: 11-20, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2nd Timothy 3: 16-17, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Faith Comes By Hearing? (09/03/2014); Stories Repeated in the Bible? (08/30/2014); Why Similar Accounts (08/31/2014); Why Bother to Read? (10/31/2013); GOD Speaking Through Songs? (11/01/2013); Was Jesus Literate? (10/04/2013); Everything a Lie? (10/05/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012)
“prayasmangurung”, here are a few points that will help set you apart from the childish people who think they may save themselves from the wrath of GOD against sin by reading a book, and not also receiving the imparted Spirit of divinity:
(1.) Many read the Bible with the intent of attacking all religious belief, displaying their finite intelligence as superior to that of others, and defying those they perceive as seeking to have authority in their life (including Christ and Almighty GOD). Because such persons operate in ignorance of sacred purposes, and are blinded by pride, they fail to see that the Scriptures are comprehensive, organic, and systematic. The holy writings convey aspects of the same spirit content that was imparted to Adam as the breath of life, and are correctly received and understood as no less than the content and makeup of eternal divinity (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom).
(2.) Those who prayerfully and respectfully engage the Scriptures also develop discipline, insight, emotional and psychological strength as well as discernment (ability to use their own spirit content from the makeup of GOD to recognize and respond to the sacred spirit as it appears in such life experiences as events, objects, other persons, prophecy, and writings). Thus, instead of contempt, spiritual confusion and disbelief, mature Christians consistently show forbearance, forgiveness, hope and supportiveness.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The process of becoming a Christian requires multiple operations carried out by the Spirit of GOD that occur through fellowship among believers, practice of sacraments such as baptism and confession, and regular study. Salvation is not the outcome of human self-will. It is not that all who read the Bible are converted; it is that all who read are permanently changed, and even sealed, so that they may not change again.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why do some religious people think that everyone who reads the Bible will become a Christian and convert to their religion by reading Bible?
No disrespect to anyone but a year ago a Christian man gave me the Bible and he said I know you will become a Christian he seemed full of himself and over confident that I will actually become religious by reading some Bible?
I've read the Bible and I didn't convert it was a shock to him. And I thought that the Bible is more a fictional book mixed with supernatural stories of God and childish genesis stuff for example?
Adam and eve stuff I don't believe that humans were first here on earth since dinosaur's were definitely here for longer about 64 million years ago.
and Noahs ark of the flood was real wouldn't there be grand canyons all over the world and middle east where The flood took place?
Why do some Christians give you the Bible and they think they know you will convert when I didn't I find the Bible is nonsense that constantly contradicts itself and Bible stories all lies!!
THE BATTLE AXE: Made in the Image of GOD? (10/09/2014)—(5.) Men and women are said to be made in the image of GOD when they continuously acknowledge sacred law, divine order, and spiritual standards for their relationship as sons and daughters to GOD. Believers in GOD through Jesus Christ are accounted as those who receive the same spirit content that was revealed through GOD appearing incarnate as a son of Adam. Those who demonstrate response to the influence of divine will within their ongoing routines for life are seen as vessels filled with divine content, who therefore depict and portray aspects of GOD within their own expressions of character and personality.
(6.) The apprehension of GOD is not through mechanical processes for the flesh that occur as vision. Human eyes do not detect spirit. By hearing, created beings and living creatures are to secure awareness of spirit content, the active presence of divinity (we say, acts, events, occurrences), sacred knowledge and discernment, rather than on the basis of carnal, material and social routines that center upon appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, cravings for sexual contact), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), or emotional/mental functioning (e.g., anger, desire, dreams, fear, imagination, instinct, recall). GOD is a spirit who exists without dimension (features that are measurable). GOD is to be known by fundamental truths imparted and revealed by GOD himself. Thus, GOD may only exist within ones consciousness in conformity to specific principles of truth, and upon a foundation generated by divine substance. Consider again Exodus 33: 13-23, Romans 8: 8-10 and 8: 28-30, Romans 10: 8-18, Romans 12: 1-3, Philippians 3: 7-14 and 1st Corinthians 3: 11-20, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2nd Timothy 3: 16-17, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Faith Comes By Hearing? (09/03/2014); Stories Repeated in the Bible? (08/30/2014); Why Similar Accounts (08/31/2014); Why Bother to Read? (10/31/2013); GOD Speaking Through Songs? (11/01/2013); Was Jesus Literate? (10/04/2013); Everything a Lie? (10/05/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012)
“prayasmangurung”, here are a few points that will help set you apart from the childish people who think they may save themselves from the wrath of GOD against sin by reading a book, and not also receiving the imparted Spirit of divinity:
(1.) Many read the Bible with the intent of attacking all religious belief, displaying their finite intelligence as superior to that of others, and defying those they perceive as seeking to have authority in their life (including Christ and Almighty GOD). Because such persons operate in ignorance of sacred purposes, and are blinded by pride, they fail to see that the Scriptures are comprehensive, organic, and systematic. The holy writings convey aspects of the same spirit content that was imparted to Adam as the breath of life, and are correctly received and understood as no less than the content and makeup of eternal divinity (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom).
(2.) Those who prayerfully and respectfully engage the Scriptures also develop discipline, insight, emotional and psychological strength as well as discernment (ability to use their own spirit content from the makeup of GOD to recognize and respond to the sacred spirit as it appears in such life experiences as events, objects, other persons, prophecy, and writings). Thus, instead of contempt, spiritual confusion and disbelief, mature Christians consistently show forbearance, forgiveness, hope and supportiveness.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The process of becoming a Christian requires multiple operations carried out by the Spirit of GOD that occur through fellowship among believers, practice of sacraments such as baptism and confession, and regular study. Salvation is not the outcome of human self-will. It is not that all who read the Bible are converted; it is that all who read are permanently changed, and even sealed, so that they may not change again.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Thursday, October 9, 2014
(10/09/2014) Made in the Image of GOD?
Points are shared on language in the Scriptures that describe the active presence of deity through spiritual and visual events, figures, or persons. The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers UK & Ireland” using the ID “Trying Good” (Level 2 with 218 points, a member since February 21, 2006) posted the following:
We are created from GOD's image? GOD who's unseen what would be that image?
There are many allegorical meanings in Bible perhaps... e.g. we are created from GOD's image? GOD who's unseen what would be that image? And if we are image of GOD all should look alike? Do we? ADVAITA: In here in east clearly we all know from Upanishads GOD thyself split to form us?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire: Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female, The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air, The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth: And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven. (Deuteronomy 4: 15-19, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus in GODhead (04/01/2014); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013); Evidence of the Unseen Spirit? (04/09/2013); A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013); Candles of GOD? (12/26/2012); Hellfire and Brimstone Preaching? (12/27/2012)
“Trying Good”, here are a few points to consider that have been constructive among those in covenant with GOD as Christian believers:
(1.) While the holy writings make use of the specific word “image” in certain verses and passages, its correct application and meaning requires discernment (i.e., the ability to use ones own spirit content from the makeup of divinity—some say, the breath of life, the Holy Spirit—to recognize and respond to spirit matter in such life experience as events, other persons, prophecy, purpose, and holy writ).
(2.) Clarification for divine intent when the word “image” is used has been provided within the Scriptures through related terms (e.g., idols, likeness, manifestation, similitude).
(3.) While Jesus Christ is described as a physical appearing of deity having a bodily form (we say, in flesh, an incarnation), his human features were nondescript and ordinary, such that he would not stand out, or be recognized and responded to except on the basis of his words and deeds. Because of this, someone close to him among his disciples had to be recruited to betray him, and this was done by Judas with a kiss.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The spirit likeness of GOD also may be recognized in men, women and children, today, on the basis of their words and deeds. Through the operations of sin, others may be seen continuing to condemn Christ—as deceivers, false witnesses, liars, and those who spread confusion—with a kiss.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
We are created from GOD's image? GOD who's unseen what would be that image?
There are many allegorical meanings in Bible perhaps... e.g. we are created from GOD's image? GOD who's unseen what would be that image? And if we are image of GOD all should look alike? Do we? ADVAITA: In here in east clearly we all know from Upanishads GOD thyself split to form us?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire: Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female, The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air, The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth: And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven. (Deuteronomy 4: 15-19, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus in GODhead (04/01/2014); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013); Evidence of the Unseen Spirit? (04/09/2013); A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013); Candles of GOD? (12/26/2012); Hellfire and Brimstone Preaching? (12/27/2012)
“Trying Good”, here are a few points to consider that have been constructive among those in covenant with GOD as Christian believers:
(1.) While the holy writings make use of the specific word “image” in certain verses and passages, its correct application and meaning requires discernment (i.e., the ability to use ones own spirit content from the makeup of divinity—some say, the breath of life, the Holy Spirit—to recognize and respond to spirit matter in such life experience as events, other persons, prophecy, purpose, and holy writ).
(2.) Clarification for divine intent when the word “image” is used has been provided within the Scriptures through related terms (e.g., idols, likeness, manifestation, similitude).
(3.) While Jesus Christ is described as a physical appearing of deity having a bodily form (we say, in flesh, an incarnation), his human features were nondescript and ordinary, such that he would not stand out, or be recognized and responded to except on the basis of his words and deeds. Because of this, someone close to him among his disciples had to be recruited to betray him, and this was done by Judas with a kiss.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The spirit likeness of GOD also may be recognized in men, women and children, today, on the basis of their words and deeds. Through the operations of sin, others may be seen continuing to condemn Christ—as deceivers, false witnesses, liars, and those who spread confusion—with a kiss.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
(10/08/2014) My Soul Shall Be Satisfied
A Scripture study is shared today showing that the recurring need of created beings and living creatures for spirit content from the makeup of divinity is as great as the need for bread, water, physical activity, and social acceptance.
1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
2 To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped. (Psalms 63: 1-11, KJV)
Genesis 24: 14 (KJV) 14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.
1st Chronicles 11: 16-18 (KJV) 16 And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines’ garrison was then at Bethlehem. 17 And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that is at the gate! 18 And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD.
Psalms 80: 4-7 (KJV) 4 O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people? 5 Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure. 6 Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves. 7 Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.
Joel 2: 12-19 (KJV) 12 Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. 14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God? 15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: 16 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. 17 Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O LORD, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God? 18 Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and pity his people. 19 Yea, the LORD will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:
Psalms 109: 23-25 (KJV) 23 I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust. 24 My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness. 25 I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads.
Isaiah 58: 1-11 (KJV) 1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. 2 Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. 3 Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. 4 Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. 5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? 6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. 9 Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; 10 And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day: 11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.
Matthew 6: 16-18 (KJV) 16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; 18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Ecclesiastes 5: 18-19 (KJV) 18 Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion. 19 Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.
John 4: 7-15 (KJV) 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) 9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. 15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
John 6: 27-35 (KJV) 27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. 28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. 30 They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? 31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. 32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. 34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. 35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
Deuteronomy 8: 3 (KJV) 3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, a believers appetite and desire to be in the active presence of divinity are to be amplified and sated through the word of GOD. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
SOME THOUGHTS ON
1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
2 To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped. (Psalms 63: 1-11, KJV)
Genesis 24: 14 (KJV) 14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.
1st Chronicles 11: 16-18 (KJV) 16 And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines’ garrison was then at Bethlehem. 17 And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that is at the gate! 18 And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD.
Psalms 80: 4-7 (KJV) 4 O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people? 5 Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure. 6 Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves. 7 Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.
Joel 2: 12-19 (KJV) 12 Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. 14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God? 15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: 16 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. 17 Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O LORD, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God? 18 Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and pity his people. 19 Yea, the LORD will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:
Psalms 109: 23-25 (KJV) 23 I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust. 24 My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness. 25 I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads.
Isaiah 58: 1-11 (KJV) 1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. 2 Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. 3 Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. 4 Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. 5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? 6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. 9 Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; 10 And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day: 11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.
Matthew 6: 16-18 (KJV) 16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; 18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Ecclesiastes 5: 18-19 (KJV) 18 Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion. 19 Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.
John 4: 7-15 (KJV) 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) 9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. 15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
John 6: 27-35 (KJV) 27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. 28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. 30 They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? 31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. 32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. 34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. 35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
Deuteronomy 8: 3 (KJV) 3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, a believers appetite and desire to be in the active presence of divinity are to be amplified and sated through the word of GOD. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
(10/07/2014) Knowing the Spirit is Inside?
Today, points are shared on how believers are to be certain they have the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD. Also, there is more on the testing of Job. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers UK & Ireland” using the ID “Matthew” (Level 2 with 862 points, a member since June 20, 2013) posted the following:
Do we have to "feel" The Holy Spirit to have him abiding inside of believers in Christ?
When the Holy Ghost comes to live inside of each individual believer do we have to feel his presence to know for certain we have the Holy Ghost living inside us?
THE BATTLE AXE: The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014)—(5.) The accounts in Scripture that we speak of as the testing of Job and the temptation of Christ, in fact, are accounts where Satan is tested; and his character, function, and nature are revealed as finite. Satan is challenged to acquire knowledge, however, the process of knowledge turns upon faith. While the holy angels are spirit beings, they are diverse, and are not carnal, material and social beings in the manner of men upon the earth. More than this, only GOD is immortal and incorruptible; and the angels must endure and serve through operations of faith. In the two accounts of temptation and testing, the spirit and substance of GOD within mankind is to be devoted to deity, and no less in divine quality and value than that within the angels and sacred beasts of heaven. The question, hast thou considered my servant Job?, is not the same as, have you discovered every flaw and weakness within mankind? have you attacked mankind to the uttermost? Job was to be examined as a means of gaining correction, insight, sacred knowledge, and divine wisdom. More than this, Job was to serve as an appearance of the mind of Christ. The process and purpose of GOD are not shown to be condemnation, destruction, or rejection of the holy angels, Satan, Christ, Job or mankind.
(6.) The account of Eve being tested in the Garden of Eden by Satan disguised as a serpent also reveals the desire of Satan to possess the dominion of mankind over Adam’s “flesh of my flesh, bone of my bone” as well as dominion of the pair over the physical earth. The separation of Job and his wife are not to be overlooked as an indication of the deceiver’s working. Consider again Genesis 3: 1-19 and 6: 1-3, Job 1: 6-22, Job 2: 1-7, Zechariah 3: 1-10, Matthew 4: 1-11, Matthew 16: 13-24 and 2nd Thessalonians 2: 7-12, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2nd Peter 1: 2-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); Delusions and Revelation (09/23/2014); Why The Bible Makes Sense (09/19/2014); GOD and The Framework of Time (09/20/2014); Emotional Appeal? (04/02/2013); Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); How To Have Conviction (11/24/2012); A Text for Lives Today? (11/25/2012)
“Matthew”, here are a few points based upon the holy writings that many Christian believers have found helpful:
(1.) Like thoughts, emotions, feelings and trust based upon carnal, material and social elements are temporal, and only endure for a brief time. Often, changes and shifts in ones attention occur suddenly that may be subtle (i.e., barely visible; hidden), that may be extreme, and that completely break off focus and patterns that may have been ongoing for long periods.
(2.) The presence of the Holy Spirit is to be known by faith that comes through hearing divine utterances (e.g., commandments, law, praises, principles, proclamations, promises, prophecy). Saying this another way, by permanent changes made through operations from GOD. Faith is an aspect of the full makeup of divinity along with such elements as forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(3.) To receive the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, believers must place themselves in postures that invite (some say, invoke) the active presence of GOD. Such practices as baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), confession, sacrificial giving, prayer, and study of the holy writings convey spirit content, and generate organic exchange and interaction among the various inseparable aspects of ones own divine content.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Believers see the invisible, and know what is otherwise unknown by continually exercising discernment, using ones own divine spirit content to recognize and respond to the spirit content presented in such life challenges as events, messages, objects, other persons, prophecy, and Scripture.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Do we have to "feel" The Holy Spirit to have him abiding inside of believers in Christ?
When the Holy Ghost comes to live inside of each individual believer do we have to feel his presence to know for certain we have the Holy Ghost living inside us?
THE BATTLE AXE: The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014)—(5.) The accounts in Scripture that we speak of as the testing of Job and the temptation of Christ, in fact, are accounts where Satan is tested; and his character, function, and nature are revealed as finite. Satan is challenged to acquire knowledge, however, the process of knowledge turns upon faith. While the holy angels are spirit beings, they are diverse, and are not carnal, material and social beings in the manner of men upon the earth. More than this, only GOD is immortal and incorruptible; and the angels must endure and serve through operations of faith. In the two accounts of temptation and testing, the spirit and substance of GOD within mankind is to be devoted to deity, and no less in divine quality and value than that within the angels and sacred beasts of heaven. The question, hast thou considered my servant Job?, is not the same as, have you discovered every flaw and weakness within mankind? have you attacked mankind to the uttermost? Job was to be examined as a means of gaining correction, insight, sacred knowledge, and divine wisdom. More than this, Job was to serve as an appearance of the mind of Christ. The process and purpose of GOD are not shown to be condemnation, destruction, or rejection of the holy angels, Satan, Christ, Job or mankind.
(6.) The account of Eve being tested in the Garden of Eden by Satan disguised as a serpent also reveals the desire of Satan to possess the dominion of mankind over Adam’s “flesh of my flesh, bone of my bone” as well as dominion of the pair over the physical earth. The separation of Job and his wife are not to be overlooked as an indication of the deceiver’s working. Consider again Genesis 3: 1-19 and 6: 1-3, Job 1: 6-22, Job 2: 1-7, Zechariah 3: 1-10, Matthew 4: 1-11, Matthew 16: 13-24 and 2nd Thessalonians 2: 7-12, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2nd Peter 1: 2-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); Delusions and Revelation (09/23/2014); Why The Bible Makes Sense (09/19/2014); GOD and The Framework of Time (09/20/2014); Emotional Appeal? (04/02/2013); Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); How To Have Conviction (11/24/2012); A Text for Lives Today? (11/25/2012)
“Matthew”, here are a few points based upon the holy writings that many Christian believers have found helpful:
(1.) Like thoughts, emotions, feelings and trust based upon carnal, material and social elements are temporal, and only endure for a brief time. Often, changes and shifts in ones attention occur suddenly that may be subtle (i.e., barely visible; hidden), that may be extreme, and that completely break off focus and patterns that may have been ongoing for long periods.
(2.) The presence of the Holy Spirit is to be known by faith that comes through hearing divine utterances (e.g., commandments, law, praises, principles, proclamations, promises, prophecy). Saying this another way, by permanent changes made through operations from GOD. Faith is an aspect of the full makeup of divinity along with such elements as forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(3.) To receive the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, believers must place themselves in postures that invite (some say, invoke) the active presence of GOD. Such practices as baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), confession, sacrificial giving, prayer, and study of the holy writings convey spirit content, and generate organic exchange and interaction among the various inseparable aspects of ones own divine content.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Believers see the invisible, and know what is otherwise unknown by continually exercising discernment, using ones own divine spirit content to recognize and respond to the spirit content presented in such life challenges as events, messages, objects, other persons, prophecy, and Scripture.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, October 6, 2014
(10/06/2014) The Testing of Job?
The account of Job, human suffering, and the further revelation of GOD are topics, today. Also, there is more on the continued relevance of resurrection. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers UK & Ireland” using the ID “….” (Level 6 with 18,812 points, a member since December 28, 2007) posted the following:
If God hates to see people suffer, why did He allow satan make Job suffer in many ways?
Was Gods heart broken over Job seeing He Himself was the one who gave satan permission to harm Job with many afflictions
THE BATTLE AXE: His Resurrection Still Relevant? (10/05/2014)—(5.) The resurrection of Jesus was to be an inarguable sacred event (we say, miracle, sign) provided by GOD to prove that the doctrines, proclamations, and prophesies made by Jesus truly had come forth from GOD the Father. The authority, duty, privilege and works demonstrated in Jesus were to be clearly understood as emblems of his identity as the Son of GOD. See again Isaiah 55: 6-7, Matthew 11: 2-6 and 27-30, Acts 17: 29-31, 1st Corinthians 15: 12-26, Ephesians 1: 17-23, John 7: 16-18 and 1st Peter 1: 18-25, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. (1st Peter 4: 12-19, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013); Chosen To Serve As Prophets (01/01/2014); (09/23/2013) Evil is not Sin? (09/22/2013); Moses Killed? (09/23/2013); The Power of Death? (01/01/2013); Divine Love Revealed? (01/02/2013)
“….”, here are a few points to consider that acknowledge the righteousness of GOD throughout the outworking of human existence:
(1.) Job appears as an incarnation of GOD—that is, an embodiment of sacred substance—a foreshadowing of Christ, and a revelation of divine being and purpose. In the account of Job, challenges to the purpose of GOD that mankind exist as an eternal companion to divinity are described, and the sacred process for making divinity known and visible to created beings and living creatures is further detailed. The interaction of the Creator and creation is shown to involve the proclamation of sacred law, the establishment of access to the divine presence, the accomplishment of judgment (i.e., assigning value; the resolution of conflicts and settlement of disputes through law), the provision for direct divine intercession and mediation as well as changes in the established order that includes the priesthood for mankind originally granted to Adam.
(2.) The account of Job may be seen as a report of necessary “growing pains” in a process of transformation to benefit mankind. Job practiced a form of priesthood that centered upon taking initiatives within his relationship with GOD on behalf of his own family, his own property, and his own needs. The “captivity” of Job was turned when Job began to minister in obedience by praying unselfishly for his friends.
(3.) Job was used as a tool upon the earth to accomplish change through objective witness within the kingdom of heaven among the holy angels. Sin was first realized to be present as an artifact of self-will among the angels that was later established upon the earth through the attack upon Adam by the serpent. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the divine law giver, and of divine order throughout the universe dependent upon sacred law.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) GOD is not embarrassed or overwhelmed by human suffering; for there has never been anything that men undergo as aspects of their usual life process that can not be undone through the many operations of GOD performed through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Godly suffering is to be understood as a divine tool for reshaping the spirit content within the living, rather than a mechanism for destruction, or a process to be used among the dead. The outcome of suffering is to be intimate relationship with GOD that can be recognized (discerned) immediately. Thus, after the time of Job we later see a resurrection of Christ having power to validate the suffering of all mankind as well as the incarnate ministry of Jesus.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
If God hates to see people suffer, why did He allow satan make Job suffer in many ways?
Was Gods heart broken over Job seeing He Himself was the one who gave satan permission to harm Job with many afflictions
THE BATTLE AXE: His Resurrection Still Relevant? (10/05/2014)—(5.) The resurrection of Jesus was to be an inarguable sacred event (we say, miracle, sign) provided by GOD to prove that the doctrines, proclamations, and prophesies made by Jesus truly had come forth from GOD the Father. The authority, duty, privilege and works demonstrated in Jesus were to be clearly understood as emblems of his identity as the Son of GOD. See again Isaiah 55: 6-7, Matthew 11: 2-6 and 27-30, Acts 17: 29-31, 1st Corinthians 15: 12-26, Ephesians 1: 17-23, John 7: 16-18 and 1st Peter 1: 18-25, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. (1st Peter 4: 12-19, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013); Chosen To Serve As Prophets (01/01/2014); (09/23/2013) Evil is not Sin? (09/22/2013); Moses Killed? (09/23/2013); The Power of Death? (01/01/2013); Divine Love Revealed? (01/02/2013)
“….”, here are a few points to consider that acknowledge the righteousness of GOD throughout the outworking of human existence:
(1.) Job appears as an incarnation of GOD—that is, an embodiment of sacred substance—a foreshadowing of Christ, and a revelation of divine being and purpose. In the account of Job, challenges to the purpose of GOD that mankind exist as an eternal companion to divinity are described, and the sacred process for making divinity known and visible to created beings and living creatures is further detailed. The interaction of the Creator and creation is shown to involve the proclamation of sacred law, the establishment of access to the divine presence, the accomplishment of judgment (i.e., assigning value; the resolution of conflicts and settlement of disputes through law), the provision for direct divine intercession and mediation as well as changes in the established order that includes the priesthood for mankind originally granted to Adam.
(2.) The account of Job may be seen as a report of necessary “growing pains” in a process of transformation to benefit mankind. Job practiced a form of priesthood that centered upon taking initiatives within his relationship with GOD on behalf of his own family, his own property, and his own needs. The “captivity” of Job was turned when Job began to minister in obedience by praying unselfishly for his friends.
(3.) Job was used as a tool upon the earth to accomplish change through objective witness within the kingdom of heaven among the holy angels. Sin was first realized to be present as an artifact of self-will among the angels that was later established upon the earth through the attack upon Adam by the serpent. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the divine law giver, and of divine order throughout the universe dependent upon sacred law.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) GOD is not embarrassed or overwhelmed by human suffering; for there has never been anything that men undergo as aspects of their usual life process that can not be undone through the many operations of GOD performed through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Godly suffering is to be understood as a divine tool for reshaping the spirit content within the living, rather than a mechanism for destruction, or a process to be used among the dead. The outcome of suffering is to be intimate relationship with GOD that can be recognized (discerned) immediately. Thus, after the time of Job we later see a resurrection of Christ having power to validate the suffering of all mankind as well as the incarnate ministry of Jesus.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
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