(09/29/2017) Rebirth, Growth and Transformation

Today, reply is on reconciliation and salvation as divine operations that go forth in stages.  There must be a complete transformation of a sinner’s spirit content from GOD before they acquire the full strength of will to eliminate sin in the life.  Believers are to make every honest effort they can; endure suffering and occasional uncertainty; and persevere on the basis of faith, nourishment and trust that have been provided through proclamations, promises, and utterances from GOD, more than on the basis of events in the carnal, material, and social arenas.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “PopPrincezz014” (Level 1 with 5 points, a member since July 03, 2009) posted the following:


God loved us while we were sinners, so god loves us now as we believe?

My thing is I'm human and tho I try not to sin I do sin, I know some of my sins aren't what god would want me to do but that doesn't mean he leaves me? Right? I believe but sometimes I give in to other things? God understands right? It's eating at me


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.  (Romans 5:  8-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Our Glory From GOD (09/24/2017); Obstacles To Developing Believers (07/24/2017); Meekness, Mortality and Salvation? (07/13/2017); Discernment, Focus and Meekness? (07/07/2017); Transformation Not Obedience Alone (07/02/2017); Conforming to Divine Standards (06/18/2017); Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); The Process of Forgiveness? (10/21/2015)


“PopPrincezz014”, be encouraged!  Believers must endure an intense process of re-creation and renewal (as with the removal of a rib from Adam to make the woman) that is anchored in divine utterance (praise, prayer, proclamations, promises, prophecy, etc.).  Salvation is not a “one-time” event in the life of a sinner.  Becoming a mature believer in the things of GOD through Jesus Christ is done only through multiple stages of gradual change, growth and learning.  There must be a separation from secular knowledge and life experience organized by the frameworks of time and space.  This shift is so great that believers say, You must be born again!  Through the sacred operations of baptism, there are the death and burial of ones inborn spirit, its resurrection, and their re-emergence having divine DNA, so to speak.

In place of the familiar things of flesh (e.g., appetite, senses, emotion/mental functions) and the material world, one must install sacred knowledge centered upon divine spirit.  Every believer must receive a fresh endowment of “life essence” (breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of divinity.  Included are such inseparable aspects of Deity as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Those who are “born again” also must “grow up again” and become ripe for harvest (i.e., balanced, complete, sober, stable).  Those who are mature will be taken from the earth by going to meet the Lord in the air (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Their transformation (perfection) that has been ongoing from before the founding of heaven and earth will be completed in the “twinkling of an eye.”

While the salvation of mankind and the earth have required the Incarnation of divinity (GOD using flesh to appear among the living); the death of Jesus on the cross, his resurrection, and ascension as well as the imparting of gifts and operations by the Holy Spirit, sin is still not totally eliminated.  The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the entire universe.  Sin does not exist as a physical object that may be destroyed; yet, sin displays direction, effect, and presence; and sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) in created beings and living creatures.  The finite human tools (e.g., emotion, intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science) are not enough to correctly recognize, reject and resist sin.  Through Christ, sinners may receive fresh deposits of the divine will that are not subject to sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Peter 1:  13-23, King James Version (KJV):  13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.  17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:  18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.  22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:  23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-19, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/27/2017) Gossip and Malicious Silence?

Today, reply is on the duty of believers through and with the law to help one another discern, recognize and resist error and sin.  Believers do not “snitch” or become betrayers and traitors by carefully helping each other identify error and sin.  Often, behavior that seems harmless and innocent to ourselves can be very damaging to others; and our mistakes will not be detected and correctly valued until seen through the light of divine law.  Also, when someone has been hurt or offended by another, and does not hold their attacker openly accountable, the result can be a dangerous and explosive build up of anxiety, bitterness, fear, suspicion, and uncertainty.  The provisions from GOD to expose the operations of sin have included sacred law; family; friendship; covenant nation; the Incarnation of divinity as Jesus Christ; the Savior’s death on the cross, resurrection and ascension; and the provision of fellowship for believers within the body of Christ (the church).  In an effort to avoid appearing to be unnecessarily judgmental and overly critical of others, many Christian believers “ignore” and behave as if they are blind to insulting attitudes and conduct from fellow believers that are disrespectful and offensive.  Obeying a rule from the World (live and let live), yet committing a serious error, many believers will make no complaint against what are clearly transgressions of sacred law.  Exaggerated pride influences the living to believe there is no need for law from GOD, and that they may be a “law unto themselves.”  In part the law has been given because the operations of sin can appear to be natural and normal as though they are the truest expression of ones own character and makeup.  Sinners do not discern the actual nature of sin, and that sin is contrary to their own continued existence.  By contrast, developing believers will increasingly agree that to maintain divine order and godliness we also require the vocal support and vigilance of others who are sharing in the new creation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 40 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:


For those "PROCLAIMING" Christianity, What Does Leviticus 19:17 Mean?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another:  for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.  For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  Love worketh no ill to his neighbour:  therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.  (Romans 13:  8-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017); The Operations of Sin (07/25/2017); Obstacles To Developing Believers (07/24/2017); Christian Beliefs About Sin (07/20/2017); Fellowship With the Father (06/13/2017); A Fool of the Church? (01/26/2016); A Slip of the Tongue (09/17/2014); Which Things We Speak (09/18/2014)


“GRANNY NORINE”, gossip, grudge-bearing, and malicious silence are forbidden among those who are the new creation through Jesus Christ.  Formal statements recording the law from GOD appear throughout the holy writings.  In addition to exposing error, sin, and their consequences, the work of the law is to make the heart and mind of divinity knowable, known, and “present”.  Commandments, judgments (rulings to settle disputes), ordinances (required ceremonies and observances), prohibitions, and statutes are shared to amplify, “bring to life,” and detail the practices and principles provided to Adam and the Patriarchs as a divine inheritance.  Along with the words spoken by GOD at Mount Sinai, the written law would be developed and proclaimed as a living and organic aspect of communication, exchange, and  interaction within and between the tribes of Jacob as they were being transformed and permanently bound together as a single nation in covenant with GOD. 

For those who are mature, the expression of love always includes the acceptance of accountability.  Within the shared covenant, believers have standing as “brothers”, “neighbors” and “partners” (not siblings).  The rule [Leviticus 19:  17, King James Version (KJV):  17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart:  thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.] forbids being critical of others (their attitudes, behavior and conduct), yet, not answering directly to them to make them aware of their offenses against yourself, or their  transgressions against GOD and the divine law.  It is more an act of love to deliver admonition, caution, chastisement and warning, than to maintain a silence that may fester and become a “root of bitterness,” or that falsely will appear as approval and agreement.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 14:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Ye are the children of the LORD your God:  ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead.  2 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.  3 Thou shalt not eat any abominable thing.

(2.)  Proverbs 30:  11-14, KJV:  11 There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.  12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.  13 There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.  14 There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

(3.)  Jeremiah 6:  13-15, KJV:  13 For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.  14 They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace.  15 Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush:  therefore they shall fall among them that fall:  at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the LORD.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 18:  15-17, KJV:  15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone:  if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.  16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.  17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church:  but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/25/2017) The Makeup of GOD

Today, focus is on the totality of operations, purposes, and substance acknowledged by the living as divinity and spirit.  In addition to the Father, who is spirit, and the Incarnate Son who appears using flesh and bone, the Holy Spirit depicted by a dove completes the three persons of the One we call the GODhead.  The Holy Spirit is also known as the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Spirit of Truth.  The holy writings convey and impart spirit matter, and speak of ministering spirits (the holy angels); spirit substance from the fullness of divine being such as faith, holiness, immortality, incorruption, wisdom, and wrath against sin; the spirit imparted to mankind from GOD that is life essence (we also say, breath, word); the spirit matter that indwelled Jesus Christ while on the earth; the spirit that operates in rebirth and resurrection of a sinner’s inborn spirit; and the gifts of the Holy Spirit that are required to edify and empower the community of believers who follow Christ as his church.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 3 points, date enrolled is withheld) posted the following:


What do christians mean by 'spirit'? What is spirit, like when they say that god consists of spirit?

And is it the same stuff as souls are made of?

Please be as specific as possible, since this is a very important aspect of theology to understand.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth:  with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.  The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.  (Isaiah 11:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Hope That Is True (02/20/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); Learning From A Spirit? (08/25/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015); Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015)


“John”, the finite tools of created beings and living creatures such as emotion, intelligence, logic, philosophy, science and technology are useless to completely and correctly apprehend “spirit” .  Moreover, sacred knowledge from GOD, about GOD, is granted on a “need to know” basis through discovery and is given to those who are in peculiar personal relationships with divinity (e.g., apostles, covenant partners, offspring, prophets, spokespersons).  Those who receive revealed truth become shielded against spiritual confusion and error by themselves containing aspects of divine person (we say, the imparted spirit); and by their being directed and focused through divine law, sacred practice, and eternal purpose.

The GODhead (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) should be acknowledged as a single fullness who manifests all divine substance.  The three persons of the GODhead interact having oneness without sameness.  Inseparable aspects of Deity (where you find one, all the others also appear; however, not necessarily in the same measure or proportion) continually coalesce, interact, distance themselves from one another without separation, and reconfigure.  Included are such substance as authority, awe, completeness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, perfection, person, presence, righteousness, and sovereign will.

Man became a “living soul” when GOD imparted life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, word) into a form that had been prepared to serve as a vessel for divine substance.   Spirit may exist without form (we say, body); and the dead may be understood as spirit separated from body; however, the living must have both form and spirit.  Because the Scriptures do speak of “souls under the altar,” many believe there can be disembodied souls, and even, undying and eternal souls.  Resurrected spirits without their body from GOD are like promises, prophecies, and visions without their fulfillment.  Just as “possibilities” have existence without material form; resurrected spirits are as shadows, and lack full substance to those in mortality.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 29:  29, King James Version (KJV):  29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God:  but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

(2.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  1st Corinthians 13:  11-13, KJV:  11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:  but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/24/2017) Our Glory From GOD

Today, focus is on divine glory and the endowments of divinity imparted to mankind.  What mature Christians understand to be “divine glory” pertains to how we apprehend and discern the active presence of spirit substance who is GOD.  Given the truth that GOD beams, emanates, and puts forth aspects of his own makeup when establishing all that exists or lives, his glory is all that we may perceive and realize as eternal, exalted, holy, and sanctified.  Because the glory of GOD further displays the spirit character and nature of GOD, the full glory of GOD is proclaimed as a single GODhead of multiple persons who share oneness without sameness.  Glory is more than a visual presentation and something you see such as blazing, gleaming, illumination, shining, or sparkling.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 31 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:


What Does II Corinthians 3:18 Mean? How Do "...We all...change from GLORY to GLORY..."?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  (John 17:  22-24, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sacred Baptism, Divine Resurrection?  (09/14/2017); On Men Wearing Veils (08/13/2017); Clothed In Divine Light? (08/02/2017); Inheritance Must Become Commitment (05/15/2017); The Hope of Glory (03/02/2017); Called, Justified, and Glorified? (01/08/2017)


“GRANNY NORINE”, here are some thoughts I can share that might be helpful.  The process of GOD established for the consciousness of mankind can be described as one of continuous change and gradual growth as well as of acquiring sacred knowledge through multiple streams of truth (we say, revelation).  Created beings and living creatures all enter fixed levels and plateaus of existence and life process, and pass on to higher or lower levels that manifest the completeness and fullness of their spirit content from the makeup of Deity. 

In the same way the angels are described as ascending and descending Jacob’s Ladder to fulfill their sacred assignments and missions, and this reflects that they are trusted and worthy to serve, mankind may be understood as rising, falling, and being lifted to new heights through sacred operations, and is being made fit to serve as a true companion to divinity.  Sinners must be transformed and undergo permanent changes by the sovereign will of GOD that moves them from faith to faith, glory to glory, and hope to hope.

The Apostle Paul taught that there are various appearances of “glory” (e.g., that of the sun, the moon, the stars), and they are not all the same.  Most properly understood, only GOD is immortal and incorruptible; and only GOD has divine glory and full sovereignty.  Thus, when Moses returned to the camp after receiving the tables of stone bearing the covenant law, his face shone with glory; yet, the glory was not his own.  Moses was a reflection and transmitter of the divine glory, and an appearance of to the people of the same burning bush he himself had encountered.  At his Advent (we say, his appearing, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming) Jesus Christ will display the Incarnation for 3 persons in GODhead.  Believers will discern and recognize his own glory with that of the Father and that of the Holy Spirit.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 42:  8, King James Version (KJV):  8 I am the LORD:  that is my name:  and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

(2.)  Isaiah 48:  10-12, KJV:  10 Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.  11 For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it:  for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another.  12 Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last.

(3.)  Exodus 34:  29-30, KJV:  29 And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.  30 And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.

(4.)  John 17:  1-5, KJV:  1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:  2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.  3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.  4 I have glorified thee on the earth:  I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.  5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

There is far more that should be considered and properly understood.  (For example, (5.)  2nd Corinthians 3:  7-16, KJV:  7 But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:  8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?  9 For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.  10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.  11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.  12 Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:  13 And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:  14 But their minds were blinded:  for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.  15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.  16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/22/2017) Divine Forgiveness Not Enough?

Today, focus is on why the divine process for salvation includes GOD appearing in flesh and dying on the cross.  The sacred system and law for offerings and animal sacrifices allowed sinners to obtain atonement, redemption, and remission of sins through blood; however, by conforming to and obeying those laws and standards no one could receive the fresh deposits of spirit content that were needed from the makeup of GOD.  Divine forgiveness that addresses discrete acts and one-time events can encourage change in attitudes and behavior, fuel repentance, heal fractured relationships, and communicate enduring love.  Even so, forgiveness alone is not enough to eliminate sin completely, or establish (1) the new consciousness, (2) an ongoing, uninterrupted connection and relationship with GOD, and (3) the willpower a sinner must receive to identify, resist, and reject sin.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Frank Barnwell” (Level 4 with 2,785 points, a member since October 04, 2011) posted the following:


Sin is something that is forbidden by God. Why would God come to earth and die for a human being sin when he can just forgive the sin?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;  Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;  Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  (Colossians 1:  10-20, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Balance, Forgiveness and Justice (08/08/2017); Transformation Not Obedience Alone (07/02/2017); Salvation Goes Beyond Forgiveness (06/30/2017); Christ Died For His (06/09/2017); His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); The Work of Forgiving (11/23/2016); The Practice of Forgiveness (07/03/2016)


“Frank Barnwell”, the process of GOD for mankind’s salvation acknowledges that sin is not a one-time event in human experience, and sin must be addressed through a continuous relationship with the Creator.  The sinner must be transformed to share in the oneness without sameness that exists among the persons of GOD.  Many are unable to recognize and understand that sin is contrary to their own  makeup that includes life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, word) from GOD.  Thus, angels and men may take sin to be natural and normal; however, the character, nature, and substance of sin have not been created by GOD.

Because sin is the transgression of divine law, sin appears on a level of engagement with GOD that is greater than a mere “mistake”.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divinity, yet, sin has direction, effect and presence.  The operations of sin promote chaos, non-existence, and the restoration of conditions that existed before the creation of heaven and earth.  The operations of sin may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures.  

Inseparable aspects and qualities that establish both existence and life within mankind have been imparted from the makeup of GOD.  Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  In the same way, Adam had to be put to sleep (death) for the separating of a rib that would be made his female companion, for mankind to receive a fresh endowment of spirit content that would include a measure of divine will that can not be dominated and influenced by sin first required the appearance of GOD in the person of Jesus Christ (the Incarnation).  So to speak, through death and burial of ones inborn spirit, resurrection from the dead, and rebirth from divine DNA become possible.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 6:  3-11, King James Version (KJV):  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:  6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.  8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:  9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.  10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once:  but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.  11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/21/2017) Idolatry -- Exalting Human Devices?

Today, focus is on mathematics as a tool for describing and knowing divinity that can introduce spiritual confusion, and its use be a form of idolatry.  Properly understood, spirit substance is immeasurable.  Because of the many subtleties involved (barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning, quality, and value) human attainments are often thought to be manifestations of divine power.  Included are astronomy, history, medicine, science and technology.  Arithmetic and mathematics are closed number systems that only permit the assignment, quantification, and manipulation of discrete values in accordance with fixed patterns and regularities.  While divinity appears as immortal, immutable, incorruptible, and unchanging, Deity also manifests the highest authority, dominion, divine prerogative, and sovereign will that establish autonomy, independence, and sanctification.  GOD is only predictable on the basis of his own acts of revelation, proclamation, promise, and prophecy; and will always remain mystery in multiple aspects of sacred being.  The  fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Malaysia)” using the ID “ιℓσνєιѕℓαм يا رب العالمين” (Level 2 with 888 points, a member since July 04, 2017) posted the following:


How is the trinity explained via math?

This is Monotheism: 1 God + 0 others = 1 God.

This is the trinity:
1 Father + 1 Son + 1 Spirit = 1 God.
ie, 1+1+1=1.
Simplified 3 =1

Some people say it's 1x1x1=1.
But that is incorrect because the father/son/holy spirit are not equal.
The son has less power and knowledge than the father, etc. Not equal.
So it would be more like 1.5x1x0.5 =1 which is mathematically not sound.

Your thoughts, Christians?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God:  for they are foolishness unto him:  neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.  (1st Corinthians 2:  9-14, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Law and Divine Process (05/28/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Time Is Not A Deity (11/30/2015); The Correct Prescription? (11/19/2015); No Other gods? (08/14/2015); Our Need for a Son (03/04/2013); Unless You Repent (03/05/2013)


“ιℓσνєιѕℓαм يا رب العالمين”, using the finite human measuring tools of arithmetic and mathematics to describe divinity is inappropriate, and borders upon idolatry (attributing celestial authority and power to a man-made object or process).  GOD must be understood as the active presence who has put forth all that exists.  Included are created beings and living creatures as well as their spheres of life and the settings for their activity, duration, and conclusion as a life form.

The full sum of divine substance (i.e., the total makeup of GOD) must be understood as spirit in its character, nature, and substance.  Thus, it is irrelevant and foolish to describe divinity in terms of the measurable dimensions observed for things carnal, material, secular, and social.  We can no more accurately describe GOD using the ideas of amount, size, and weight than we may by using physical senses such as seeing, tasting, and touching with our hands to know roughness, sharpness, and smoothness.

Even so, GOD makes Deity knowable, known, and “approachable” (we say, reveals divinity) using material forms, divine operations, sacred processes, and eternal purposes.  Increasingly, Christian believers are encouraged to apprehend that GOD is a spirit who may appear and exist within events, natural and sacred law, life essence (we also say, breath, word), prophecy, promises, themselves, and throughout the holy writings.  Inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD may be imparted to those who are “born again” such as faith, gratitude, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Such persons also must “grow up again” and become mature as vessels of divine spirit living on the earth.

That there can be oneness without sameness among the persons of the GODhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) is properly regarded by mature believers as a “sacred mystery” to be acknowledged, yet, not challenged or questioned; for such a truth is grounded on divine prerogative, imperatives of eternal purpose, sacred law, and sovereign will.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 29:  29, King James Version (KJV):  29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God:  but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 12:  3, KJV:  3 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.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/20/2017) Making A Perfect World?

Today, a reply is shared on making a world so “perfect” that those living in it would never be able to corrupt or defile it.  Through Jesus Christ the elements required for the completeness and integrity of heaven and earth are shown to be more than simply independence, secular knowledge, pleasure, prosperity, and self-will.  An emptiness and void can appear that are best filled using challenge, duty, hardship, trial, and suffering.  For Christian believers, the standards that actually generate and ensure the possibilities of perfection are the character, makeup, and personness of GOD.  Thus, among followers of Jesus Christ every act of fruitful creation will continue oneness without sameness, eternal revelation, righteousness, sanctification, sacred substance, and indicators of yet unseen truth.  In sum, yet not in every part, the perfection found throughout such Creation will display the inseparable aspects of the authority, awesomeness, glory, majesty, and sovereign will of GOD.  The writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia) using the ID “Master Debater” (Level 3 with 1,444 points, a member since April 07, 2017) posted the following:


Christians, do you have a different definition of a "perfect" world than I do?

If I was making a perfect world, I would make it so my perfect world couldn't be ruined by its imperfect inhabitants.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Sanctify them through thy truth:  thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee:  but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.  And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:  that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.  (John 17:  17-26, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Multiply, Replenish and Rule (08/27/2017); Adam’s Imperfection and Sin? (08/10/2017); Miracles Are Not Everlasting (07/18/2017); Corruption of Ones Spirit? (05/14/2017); Incarnate, GOD May Die (05/11/2017); The World and The Cross? (04/19/2016); Belief In Another World? (02/17/2016)


“Master Debater”, you have not told us what you mean by “perfect”, and you suggest by your question that divinity has failed to create a “perfect” world.  Even so, here are some points that are helpful to consider on your topic:

(a.)  What it takes to create a “perfect world” are the authority, jealousy, love, power, wisdom, and wrath against sin only found within the GODhead.  GOD has put forth everything that exists and has life.  This includes the created beings and living creatures as well as their spheres of life (i.e., the environments and settings that nourish and support their activity, development, growth and learning as well as their death, or conclusion as life forms).

(b.)  The heaven and earth are both spheres of life (like the land, the sea, and the full universe) that include family, language, marriage, and religious observances as institutions that had their origin because of GOD.  We also speak of the place of the dead (the grave), however it is not a place where the living abide and routinely make their homes.

(c.)  The world is a system of related exchanges, interactions, meanings, practices, standards, and values used by the living to maintain communication, cooperation, safety, and survival.  Where the earth is the creation of GOD, the world is the creation of men.  Thus, the world includes such finite devices and tools as government, history, language, money, politics, science, and technology.

(d.)  Christian believers regard life as having multiple possibilities for permanent change that are generated by the “active presence” who is the Creator, and is an immortal, incorruptible, invisible spirit.  Elements important for survival in the world are accounted as having less substance and usefulness (for example, the frameworks of time and space), and even death and sin are seen as reversible.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (e.)  Continuing life and existing on the earth for mankind may be totally changed through baptism (i.e., death and burial of ones inborn spirit, becoming born-again through divine DNA, so to speak).  Baptism may be thought of as a “first step” in a full series of divine actions that result in mankind’s perfection.  Where a sinner is granted rebirth, they become a “child of GOD” containing spirit content from the makeup of divinity.  They then can display inseparable aspects of GOD as faith, holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Once born again, every believer must “grow up again” by meeting life challenges and “growing pains” upon the earth.  At the coming of Jesus (we also say, at his appearing, the Advent, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming) those who are “ripe” (mature) will be taken up to meet the Lord in the air.  Their perfection to exist as companions of divinity will be completed in an instant; and they will go to be with him throughout eternity upon the earth made new.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/19/2017) Sons of GOD Suffer?

Today, focus is on divine solutions for sin, and suffering by the sons of GOD.  The children of GOD all serve in the revelation of divinity displaying the image of GOD.  As sons and daughters of the Father in heaven and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, all will serve as apostles, intercessors, covenant partners, prophets, or spokespersons on the earth.  By passing through the human condition, and meeting the challenges of obedience and suffering, all become incorruptible and “ripe for harvest” (mature).  Only by sacred operations and divine processes do the sons and daughters of GOD become fit to be taken up from the earth at the coming of the Lord (we say, his appearing, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  One of the fighters as “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


Why did god need to make his son suffer?

If god is all knowing and is everything. Then why would he need to kill his son god is apparently all knowing. There is no strong argument of why he wouldlogicaly need to kill and troture his own son. What evil would do this.

Pathetic


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.  And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.  Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:  (For until the law sin was in the world:  but sin is not imputed when there is no law.  Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.  But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.  And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift:  for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.  For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.  (Romans 5:  10-21, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); Jesus And The Torah? (09/06/2017); “Occupy Till I Come” (08/30/2017); Belief, Faith, and Proof (03/02/2014); Miracles and Visitations? (03/03/2014); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013)


“Anonymous”, many mature Christian believers are willing to acknowledge that you are trying to do a good thing, and that you mean well by your condemnation of GOD.  However, by exalting yourself to take over the position held by divinity as High Priest and Judge, it is strongly suggested that you are not yet aware how the sacred processes and eternal purposes of GOD require inseparable aspects of Spirit.  Included are authority, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, power, sovereign will, and wrath against sin.  GOD, who is spirit, responds to conditions, divine law, and standards unseen by men and angels when  dealing with flesh and blood.  You offer no solution to eliminate sin that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the Creation that relies upon sacred law to generate divine order.  To sinners, the operations of sin are comfortable, natural, and normal; sin is not contrary to their own character, makeup, and nature.  Divine law and the holy writings have been provided that depict and make visible the despair and devastation spread by sin; they can expose and show the life process under the direction of sin, however, they can not condemn sin and establish a new creation that overcomes sin.  The presentation of men and women in ongoing relationships with GOD have permitted many points of sacred truth that opposes sin to be clarified, such as the daily sacrifices in the Tabernacle under Moses and the offering of Isaac by Abraham.  Even so, it has been required that there be the embodiment of divinity in human form (we say, Incarnation).  This permits both the presentation of atonement for sin through the blood of Jesus Christ, and the final destruction of sin by the Savior’s dying on the cross.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Galatians 1:  3-5, King James Version (KJV):  3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,  4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:  5 To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

(2.)  Romans 5:  6-9, KJV:  6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.  7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die:  yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.  8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

(3.)  1st Peter 3:  17-18, KJV:  17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.  18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  3-9, KJV:  3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/17/2017) Knowing the Invisible GOD

Today, the topic is knowing and worshiping an invisible GOD.  On the one hand, divinity is making himself known to all created beings and living creatures.  On the other hand, personal relationship with the Creator requires his imparted Spirit, and is only possible for those entrusted with the oracles of GOD through covenant, priesthood, rebirth, and diverse forms of stewardship (e.g., elders, judges, kings, prophets, sabbath-keepers).  Believers are commanded and given divine instruction they must share with one another to know correctly and completely the things they must do and regularly practice (i. e., ceremonies, liturgy, mysteries, ordinances, rituals, sacraments, sacrifices) as acceptable worship.  The most necessary tools for relating to divinity are commitment, discernment (ability to recognize the presence of spirit content within events, oneself, other persons, prophecy, etc.) and faith, rather than eyesight.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “lone wolf” (Level 1 with 53 points, a member since September 01, 2017) posted the following:

How can we worship a god we can't see and don't know?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;  While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen:  for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.  (2nd Corinthians 4:  17-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divinity Appears Using Form (07/26/2017); Becoming A Full Person (02/12/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); How Christ Is Known? (04/24/2017); Genuine Spiritual Discernment? (03/27/2017); How To Know GOD? (12/12/2016); The GOD Named “Jealous” (09/15/2016)

“lone wolf”, more important than “seeing” the invisible GOD are “knowing by faith,” “trusting” and “obeying” his word appearing as law and promises.  Thus, the “image of GOD” is a matter of the divine character and makeup more than what he “looks like.”  Divinity is operating on the earth in multiple ways that allow mankind to “know” and acknowledge its Creator on the basis of sacred practices and standards, natural laws, the process of life, eternal purpose, and unchanging truth.  Many different divine processes are directed to establishing consciousness of spirit (e.g., atonement, birth, death, judgment, repentance, resurrection) and the sacred substance we should call “the divine will,” and are not directed primarily to our intellect, logic, secular knowledge, and physical senses (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching).  As Christian believers, sinners embrace what Deity is revealing to make himself knowable, known, and approachable.  The living all are to realize that GOD is a separate and active presence who has put forth existence, diverse forms of life, and the spheres for their duration.  Communication, exchange and interaction with GOD is possible through the deposits and endowments of divine spirit that were bestowed during Creation, and may now be received by those “born again.”  Inseparable aspects from the makeup of GOD may be imparted as life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, word).  Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Those who become vessels of divine spirit are to operate among us as apostles, the children of GOD, prophets, and spokespersons sent from divinity, who demonstrate, proclaim and share his imparted, transforming spirit as sacred truth.  Consider again the following that uses the language of the Bible:

(1.)  Psalms 19:  1-6, King James Version (KJV):  1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.  2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.  3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.  4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,  5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.  6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it:  and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

(2.)  Genesis 1:  25-27, KJV:  25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind:  and God saw that it was good.  26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:  and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.  27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

(3.)  Romans 1:  18-20, KJV:  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

(4.)  Hebrews 11:  6, KJV:  6 But without faith it is impossible to please him:  for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.) Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/15/2017) Driving Away the Enemy?

Today reply is on GOD allowing the wicked to have authority over saved persons.  Properly understood, the process of salvation is one wherein divinity enables a sinner to remain free from the wicked forever.  Sin has not been eliminated from the earth, yet, sinners can be permanently changed through rebirth, and equipped to recognize, reject, and resist sin.  Believers gradually achieve maturity and the full spiritual blessing of eternal life after completing mortality, enduring hardship and suffering, and overcoming challenges, persecution, and loss.  One of the fighters using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

What when God allow the wicked act over a saved person?


Without reaction.I though that saved persons would have the power to make the wicked go away.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility:  for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  (1st Peter 5:  2-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sacred Baptism, Divine Resurrection? (09/14/2017); Fear, Revelation and Desire (05/22/2017); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); Forgiving Enemies a Condition for Salvation? (05/11/2015); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


“Anonymous”, the process of receiving salvation among  Christian believers is one of discovering sacred knowledge and things from GOD, experiencing gradual growth, maintaining focus on the character and makeup of Jesus, and putting to work all that you learn.  The devil, sinners, and the wickedness found in the world will go away for a while, and seek to come back when a believer seems confused, double-minded, and open to attack.  For this reason, believers are taught to think of their new life in Jesus Christ as a “fight of faith” and spiritual warfare where we must stay alert, where we may become injured or wounded, and where we even may lose our natural lives.

Believers must rely on the authority and power of divinity to drive away and limit the influence of evil, yet, must cooperate with GOD by their own commitment to Christ in what they say and do, in their discipline and self-government, and in their not giving up (we say, perseverance).  As sinners who become “born again,” developing believers also must “grow up again” and become ripe (mature) for harvesting by the Lord at his coming (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  In addition to inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin), the mature believer will display such features as balance, completeness, humility, divine purpose, sobriety, and stability.

Given GOD is on their side, Christian believers can not lose.  Even so, in the same way every soldier in an army might not have the same duty, knowledge, rank, skills, and weapons as others who are on the same side as he, there is great diversity among Christians.  We do not all have the same knowledge of the holy writings, the same level of spiritual maturity, and the same personal strength.  Believers, therefore, come together as a church and community of faith to share comfort, communication, encouragement and support.  Believers are to provide one another whatever the other may lack.  Thus, in our battles against lying, lust, sin, and ungodliness, it is right that we turn to each other as the Lord’s people for help, protection, and victory.  Believers are not indestructible, yet, having the promises of GOD, we become fearless and unbeatable.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)   James 4:  4-10, King James Version (KJV):  4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.  5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?  6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.  7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.  9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep:  let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.  10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

(2.)  1st Peter 5:  8-9, KJV:  8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

(3.)  Revelation 2:  10, KJV:  10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:  be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Timothy 6:  12-16, KJV:  12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.  13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;  14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:  15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;  16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:  to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC