(09/16/2019) "Sneak Previews" Of Heaven

Today, reply is on the “sneak preview” divinity has provided through the holy writings that makes heaven known and approachable to those on the earth. The character of hope among Christians is very similar to that for divine law, and is presented and preserved through the Scriptures. Hope is the expectation believers are commanded to maintain as the focus of their awareness and self-will; and, like sacred law, divine promise, and prophecy yet unfulfilled, hope expresses the eternal purpose and sovereign will of divine fullness. It is written: Romans 15: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

If God really wants people to become Christians, shouldn't he offer them a sneak preview of heaven?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. (Revelation 22: 1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Heaven Speaks Using Mankind (09/15/2019); No Wall of Partition (07/05/2019); Spiritual Confusion About Heaven (05/31/2019); Divine Preparations for Advent (03/17/2019); According To The Pattern (09/27/2018); Mankind’s Priesthood in Heaven (02/16/2018); Material Things in Heaven? (11/10/2016); GOD Appearing in Dreams? (05/03/2015)

“Anonymous”, divinity already has provided a “sneak preview” of heaven through the holy writings that provide a record of divinity using thousands of events, within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years. Without guidance and spirit matter provided from GOD, sacred events (miracles) cause anxiety, fear, and spiritual confusion, not commitment, faith, and sacred expectation (i.e., hope). As we see with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, because of the process and substance of spirit, only those chosen and prepared through operations of GOD are granted the privilege to be aware and responsive to certain levels of sacred truth. Developing and mature Christian believers accept that the Scriptures are a primary tool for their consciousness and experience of divine truth; and that multiple operations and procedures are being used by divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) to make the celestial sphere of sacred presence knowable, approachable, and “visible”. In addition to testimonies and eyewitness reports of their own actual experiences, the holy writings contain accounts of dreams, prophetic proclamations, and visions provided by GOD to communicate with the living on the earth. Included are reports from the Patriarchs such as Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and the Prophet Daniel as well as accounts from the apostles of Jesus Christ. The Incarnation of divinity using human form was to prepare mankind to exist as a vessel of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Sinners who turn to GOD through the ministry of Jesus Christ receive a fresh endowment of the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) received by Adam at Creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 28: 10-14, King James Version (KJV): 10 And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. 11 And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. 12 And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. 13 And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; 14 And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.

2. Genesis 28: 16-18, KJV: 16 And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not. 17 And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. 18 And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.

3. Isaiah 6: 1-10, KJV: 1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. 2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. 6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: 7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. 8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me. 9 And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. 10 Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the words of Jesus answering Nicodemus, an elder from the Temple at Jerusalem, who came to him by night to avoid being condemned as a follower of Jesus: 4. John 3: 11-12, KJV: 11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded at 9:59 PM, September 15, 2019 @ https://searchisaiah.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/seraphim-with-a-live-coal-in-his-hand.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/11/2019) They Forgot His Name

Today, reply is on the name believers are to use when speaking of the true and living GOD, and on forgetting the name of GOD by pursuing false gods and idolatry. Divine names are memorials that mark and continue awareness of sacred events. Also, a sacred “name” proclaims the personhood and reputation divinity presents for communication, exchange, and interaction with created beings and living creatures. Forms of “forgetting GOD” include exaggerated pride, idolatry, presumption, exalting self-will above the divine will, and the worship of false gods. GOD is to be known and spoken of by acknowledging the divine achievements and works. It is written: Exodus 3: 14-15, King James Version (KJV): 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. 15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

Christians, what does God mean at Jeremiah 23:27 that they forgot his name through Baal worship?

Jeremiah 23:27: “Through their dreams that they tell one another, they plan to cause my people to forget my name as their fathers forgot my name through Baal worship.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint; Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that he might humble thee, and that he might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end; And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God. (Deuteronomy 8: 11-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Saying “In God's Name” (10/22/2018); Jesus Called “Almighty GOD?” (12/21/2017); Names For Sacred Persons? (08/01/2017); The New Testament Name (05/01/2017); Holy Fire From GOD? (04/27/2017); Warnings Against Forgetting GOD? (02/16/2017); True and Living GOD (08/03/2016); The Choice of Knowledge? (10/28/2015)

“Anonymous”, where false prophets and teachers appear who have not been anointed and sent from GOD, they often present dreams, interpretations, lies, and speculation about possible supernatural events. In so doing they encourage covenant believers to “forget” the sacred works whereby divinity is to be acknowledged, known, and continually respected. Prophets and teachers of error make false claims that the reputation and works that should be credited to GOD are from false gods, idols, or other men. Thus, they require the offerings, praises, sacrifices, thanksgiving, and worship that should be shown to GOD be given to another. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Proverbs 20: 11, King James Version (KJV): 11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Isaiah 42: 5-8, KJV: 5 Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: 6 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; 7 To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. 8 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:54 AM, August 11, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/564x/b1/02/10/b102103119e8c9a25d0e6f8995cfa41f.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/26/2018) Recognizing True Christian Prophets

Today, reply is on recognizing end time predictions, false prophets, and authentic divine spokespersons among Christian believers.  All Christian believers are to discover, explore, learn, and experience gradual growth for their own full realization of the truth from GOD provided to mankind.  The things of genuine faith will appear as knowledge that has been applied, repeatedly challenged and tested, yet, shown to be useful among those who are spiritually mature (i.e., who display such features as accountability, balance, commitment, consistency, discernment, sobriety, stability).  Because a believer’s focus must be upon GOD, who will remain invisible and unseen, a believer concentrates more on the fulfillment of the message, and the different signs that confirm its sacred origin, than upon the personality and traits of the messenger.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Sharon” (Level 3 with 2,057 points, a member since August 30, 2016) posted the following:


If I predicted "wars and rumors of wars" for 2019 would you revere me as a prophet? Why or why not?

If not, why do you believe the same claim is an amazing prophecy when you read it in the Bible?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee?  Ye have said, It is vain to serve God:  and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts?  And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.  Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another:  and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.  And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.  Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.  (Malachi 3:  13-18, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  On Facing The Future (01/17/2018); Avoiding Confusion About Antichrist (11/08/2017); Detecting Counterfeit Human Nature? (11/02/2017); Prophets and Christian Ambassadors (08/07/2017); Genuine Spiritual Discernment? (03/27/2017); Sharing The Correct Message (01/30/2017); The Spirit and Prophecy (01/04/2017)


“Sharon”, in the same way, the Holy Spirit is sent as an agent of Jesus Christ who does not promote himself, true prophets can be recognized by their not seeking social prominence, self-promotion, popularity, and reward from mankind.  The nature and process of prophecy is the imparting of divine law, proclaiming sacred judgment, providing revelation, and sharing substance from the makeup of divinity (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, Word) more than the providing of threats, warnings, and prediction of future events.  True apostles and prophets sent from GOD will appear as offspring of divinity and joint heirs with Jesus Christ, for they will present the inseparable aspects of spirit content received as a fresh endowment from GOD by rebirth.  Included will be balance, boldness, completeness, faith, holiness, humility, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

In place of finite human tools such as philosophy, politics, and secular knowledge authentic Christian prophets rely on sacred knowledge, the practice of various divine ordinances and sacraments (e.g., baptism, confession, fasting, praise, prayer, preaching), and the entire range of sacred declaration recorded as holy writings.  The Bible is used as a reliable standard for discernment of spirit substance appearing within oneself, other persons, events, proclamations, prophesies, visions, etc.  Predictions of doom and gloom, and calculations for dates of familiar events that appear in the Scriptures have been useful as important indicators that a prophetic ministry is promoting errors that are not according to the Gospel.

In Christian gatherings, every member of the body should be prepared to share their own peculiar divine gift and contribute to the comfort, nourishment, and encouragement of others.  Even so, their individual offerings are to be in harmony and consistent with the streams of truth clearly acknowledged by the body as a whole.  (All that glitters is not gold; and some elements may be shared in controlled situations and with restraint.  The shared purpose within the church is to maintain and reinforce unchanging things already revealed, therefore, believers often have to leave unspoken diverse challenging and unusual experiences.  The body is not a forum for anything and everything (e.g., dreams, gossip, rumors, slander, suspicion, superstition, the occult, uncertainty, witchcraft).  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 13:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder,  2 And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them;  3 Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams:  for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.  4 Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.  5 And that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams, shall be put to death; because he hath spoken to turn you away from the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed you out of the house of bondage, to thrust thee out of the way which the LORD thy God commanded thee to walk in. So shalt thou put the evil away from the midst of thee.

(2.)  Daniel 9:  1-6, KJV:  1 In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;  2 In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.  3 And I set my face unto the Lord GOD, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:  4 And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;  5 We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:  6 Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.

(3.)  Malachi 4:  5-6, KJV:  5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:  6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 12:  27-29, KJV:  27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.  28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.  29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Corinthians 14:  26-33, KJV:  26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.  27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.  28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.  29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.  30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.  31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.  32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.  33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/15/2017) Inheritance Must Become Commitment

 

Focus, today, is on Jacob and Esau, divine inheritance, and coming into covenant relationship with GOD.  The priesthood granted to Adam became an inheritance to all the Patriarchs.  Included were Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  Even so, inheritance must become more than simply duty and privilege; inheritance must become ones own choice to be in continuous acknowledgment, exclusive devotion, personal commitment, and solemn promise.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since May 14, 2017) posted the following:
 


If my mother is Jewish and my father is catholic and I was raised as a catholic what am I?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran.  And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep.  And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven:  and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.  And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac:  the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed;  And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south:  and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.  And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.  And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not.  And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.  And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.  And he called the name of that place Bethel:  but the name of that city was called Luz at the first.  And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on,  So that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God:  And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God’s house:  and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.  (Genesis 28:  10-22, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Church Attendance and Inheritance (09/11/2016); An Eternal Inheritance? (06/26/2016); GOD Appearing in Dreams? (05/03/2015); A Kingdom Now and One To Come? (09/05/2014); Comfort? (09/06/2014); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014); Contradictions (09/21/2012); The Spirit by Measure (09/22/2012)


“John”, consider again the words, You must be born again.  The process of divinity for establishing continuing relationship once began through inheritance, the peculiar spiritual gifts and status one receives as a child or an offspring of a parent who is in covenant with Deity.  The principles of inheritance that are described throughout the holy writings explain somewhat the devices and mechanisms used by GOD to restore personal relationship with mankind that was effectively lost through our first parents, Adam and Eve.  Because the Creator did not present the law written in stone (as for Moses and those who left Egypt), many now complain that GOD did not fully explain the law and its sanctions (declarations of consequences for obedience and violation—we say, provisions for correction and punishment).  Thinking the pair were ignorant, and “taken by surprise,” there are those who argue that GOD has been unjust and unrighteous.  Yet, divine law (i.e., commandments and statements to share the otherwise hidden intent and will of GOD) was provided to the pair that included, Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth as well as, From all the trees of the garden you may eat, except….  The full expression of their “offence” was not merely “transgression” and violating the “letter of the law;” the pair did not acknowledge and respond to divine love with acceptance, respect, and trust.

For this reason, there is a new conversation shared by believers in Jesus Christ that centers upon sinners receiving a fresh endowment of the inseparable sacred substances from the makeup of GOD that were imparted to Adam (the divine name given both the male and female).  Included are faith, holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Multiple sacred operations now must be completed that will allow mankind to exist as a companion to GOD, who must remain immortal, incorruptible, and invisible except as revealed in the person of Jesus Christ.

The account of Jacob that appears in the Bible goes a long way in illustrating the sacred truths that are here:  At a time when Esau was hungry, and felt he was starving to death, Jacob had already gotten his twin brother to “sell” for a bowl of beans his birthright and legal status as the firstborn and heir to Isaac.  Urged by his mother, Jacob then used deceit and guile (trickery) to steal the only sacred blessing Isaac could give as the heir of Abraham and true caretaker of mankind’s inheritance from GOD.  When Esau discovered how he had been deprived of his future under GOD, he swore to kill Jacob as soon as his father was dead.  His mother counseled Jacob to flee for his life, and to hide in the home of her brother.  On his way there, Jacob made camp for the night, and had a dream that was sent to him by GOD where he saw angels going up and down a ladder.  When he awakened he was filled with awe (the fear of the Lord), and he offered—where GOD would protect him, and prosper him in the way he would go—he would acknowledge the GOD of his father as his own GOD.  Like many of us today, Jacob did not recognize any connection between the birthright, his father’s blessing, his salvation from death at the hand of his brother (Cain and Abel), and the dream of revelation.  Even so, the principle, here, is that only on the basis of specific conditions, promises and their own works can the sons of Adam and Abraham enter into personal relationship with GOD.

Of course, there is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, through Jesus Christ sinners now may become the offspring (sons and daughters) of GOD, and joint-heirs with Jesus, the Son of the Highest.  As the children of GOD believers must display commitment, discernment, and responsiveness to the active presence who is GOD (we say, the imparted, indwelling Spirit) through their lifestyle and daily routine.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/05/2017) Fulfillment of His Dream?

Focus is on whether America will truly achieve the racial justice and social harmony described by Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. before his death in 1968.  Given that sin can not be eliminated without multiple interventions and sacred operations by divinity, there is the false appearance that crimes against humanity always will be present to plague mankind upon the earth.  Man’s salvation through Jesus Christ comes as atonement for sin, rebirth that provides spirit content from the makeup of GOD to the living as well as ability to more completely and correctly recognize, recover from, and resist the operations of sin.  Because Dr. King immersed himself in the human struggle against discrimination, hate, indifference, inequality, injustice, poverty, prejudice, racism against African Americans, and war many did not value his work for salvation as an agent of Jesus Christ, anointed to serve as a genuine Christian spiritual leader.  Even so, remembrance and respect for Reverend King also continues in obedience to commands written in the holy writings, for revelation and promises from GOD that are certain of fulfillment are at the core of what Dr. King preached and actively shared.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “TodayInHistory” (Level 1 with 81 points, a member since April 03, 2017) posted the following:


Today is the anniversary of Dr Martin Luther King's assassination. Do you believe his "dream" will one day come true?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.  But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,  Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.  And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also.  Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.  And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.  For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them.  And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.  And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.  But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest:  for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.  (Luke 6:  26-35, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Acknowledging The Precious Things (02/01/2017); Can Christians Be Racists? (07/25/2016); The Provision Against Racists? (01/19/2016); ...Ears That Hear Not? (01/18/2016); Poem, 2015: MOONLIGHT (01/19/2015); Escape from Racism (10/24/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012)


“TodayInHistory”, many mature Christian believers acknowledge the accomplishments and work of Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. as having been that of an advocate for civil rights, an anti-war protester, a reformer, a social activist, and a supporter of Constitutional law.  On the surface, then, Dr. King appeared to have focused only on things carnal, material, and social.  However, Martin Luther King, Jr. is also to be respected as a modern-day prophet and spokesperson for both GOD and mankind.  In this role shared by many clergy, Dr. King declared promises from GOD that are certain to appear among believers as commanded expectation (we say, hope).  The servant of the Lord also performed what is called “prophetic demonstration,” shared “personal testimony” (we could say, eyewitness report), and imparted that vision from GOD that many call his “dream”.  Dr. King’s dream of unity was in accordance with divine promises and prophesies that include no less than the assembling of the saints of GOD following the second resurrection.  Testimonies are statements admissible as evidence and truth provided under oath during tribunal and judgment.  Visions are images and scenes provided as nonverbal revelation.  Such matter are intended for those firmly grounded in sacred knowledge, who also have spiritual discernment (ability to recognize the deposits of spirit content from the makeup of Deity that appear within events, oneself, other persons, proclamations, prophecy, the holy writings, etc.) , and who regularly display sacred content as “born again” believers.  Consider again the following from Scripture:

(1.)  1st Thessalonians 5:  11-13, King James Version (KJV):  11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.  12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;  13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 

(2.)  Revelation 2:  10-11, 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.  11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

(3.)  Isaiah 65:  21-23, KJV:  21 And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.  22 They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat:  for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.  23 They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelations 7:  9-10, KJV:  9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;  10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/01/2017) Acknowledging The Precious Things

Today, the Duke and the King are remembered in a poem acknowledging the transformation of a culture.

COTILLION DREAMS
A Poem for Black History Month, 2017

There has to be a time to count the cost
To recognize the price we paid to gain
Acknowledging the precious things now lost
By choosing sacrifice and not surrender

And so be made to value here and now
In waking hours meant to build tomorrow
Assigning value both to what and how
As well as consequences unforeseen

My granddad lived his dream of gallant night
The ballroom lit with crystal chandelier
The gracious daughters beaming their dark light
An assemblage of urban princesses and queens

The freedom to seek their love, a willing mate
Who would dance and soar forever until dawn
When sunlight would restore a harsh, black fate
Cotillion and its liberty all gone

Until another generation lifts their heart
With dreams and hopes of shining in brigade
Sounding a trumpet to announce their start
Our entering nobility, coming of age

Just as I reached the day to dream the same
A new demand for Civil Rights was heard
The balm that lessened Segregation’s shame
Erased by the dream of struggle, honor, triumph

The black men we had thought we would become
Would never exist, the way to manhood’s joy
Revealed as marches, beatings, death for some
Jack and Jill, and debutante days a memory 

We are to understand what we now see
Was paid for not with trinkets of the past
But with futures and roots to our reality
And it’s right to ask, did we pay too much?

A people blessed by GOD to reign with style
Harassed by weak and beggarly police
The Nation owes a debt, return our smile
America’s dream for our youth must not cease

The Ellington elegance and beauty yet alive
Our passion for human dignity no less
Is not to be taken away before they dream it
Their inalienable right to be gentlemen and ladies

Thug life and branding irons cast away
Knowing their lives matter throughout a universe
And given their fair chance they will obey
The higher laws of grace and cotillion unafraid

A birthright has to be more than pain
And crops of poverty
The tears of grief instead of rain
To drench our thirsting sons

An inheritance must be more than dreams
And a heritage more than death
Ripples of honor should merge as streams
And join to deep oceans of faith

The surface of the earth our dwelling place
The sky an expanse for flight
With room for stars and every race
Forging bonds of possibility

The unforgettable victory
Fearless generations knit
New vision that otherwise would not be
Sacred music for satin dolls

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  Ephesians 6:  12-13, King James Version (KJV)

©2017.  Michael Andrew Williams, Washington, DC.  All rights reserved.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/016/2017) Poem: Adam's Time of Sleep

Still from a film reading Genesis 2
ADAM & EVE (THE TRUE STORY)

Today, a poem is shared recalling Citizen Martin Luther King, Jr.  Surely, the legacy of Reverend King began in Father Adam, the inheritance of priesthood and service to a righteous Creator.  The first man was granted an unexpected rest, and perhaps, a vision of family, a sharing of unity and peace, and an image of his sons as life to overspread the earth.  For mankind, the lasting gifts of life all follow some form of death and release (we say, rest, sleep) that signals continuity and the fulfillment of eternal purpose.   There are to be multiple transactions of purchase through sacrifice (Psalms 50:  5, King James Version, KJV).  (See the film from 4thaluvofit @https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xxx7m-1iik&t=423s)

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Look down from heaven, and behold from the habitation of thy holiness and of thy glory:  where is thy zeal and thy strength, the sounding of thy bowels and of thy mercies toward me? are they restrained?  Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not:  thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.  (Isaiah 63:  15-16, King James Version, KJV)

ADAM’s TIME OF SLEEP 
[For Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, 2017]

Supposing Adam dreamed
What do you think he saw
new formed, the shafts of time
And vision fearless still

Lives that do not matter?
His own sons wearing chains?
King Cotton and Jim Crow?
Mammon the Oppressor?

There was no darkness then
His mind the lamp light flame
His heart a candle glow
Sleep oozing like an oil

He drifted from command
Surrendering his sense
And body to be made
A new creation two

For names the beasts had come
Yet all as kinds and pairs
Sparking a vague regret
There was no vessel meet

And death would have to be
the tool to bring release
From agonies of fear
unutterable pain

And unnamed loneliness
Seed from the earth could be
Seed in the earth could not
And so must spring from he

A she whose work to sprout
A race of living seed
Bold heirs of breath and grace
An heritage from GOD

Awakening he saw
The one whom he must know
Oneness without sameness
To overspread the earth

It was his Son who came
With miracles of love
To die upon a cross
A testament in blood

Why do you pale or shrink
That other sons dreamed too
Who heard our father’s voice
And spoke sight to the blind

News of new creation
The coming of brief sleep
That we would overcome
That justice would prevail

That the liberty bell
Of life would sound and ring
Divine glory will shine
The Father’s face will beam

Anointed with gladness
His true sons will embrace
Crowned with honor and peace
Free at last, Free at last

Awake clear eyes receive
The earth made new our hope
Black and white together
Eternally alive

Unchanging, so diverse
The family of man
In the full strength of love
To study war no more

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2017.  All rights reserved worldwide.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/17/2016) The Cross and Arbitrary Differences

Today, points are shared on current issues in social media, and American liberty in the light of Jesus Christ dying upon the cross.  Arbitrary differences (we say, accidents, chance, or random conditions and events), individuality, and divisiveness continually threaten to alter policy, popularity, and standards within modern States, and even within our own homes.  (Included are characteristics and vital statistics describing the population such as density, distribution, growth rate; ethnic origins; regional customs; and even success for local athletes and their teams.)  Empathy, law, mutuality, reciprocity, and trust are the most fundamental and essential principles for strong communities, families, global leadership, secure nations, and covenant relationships that include marriage, peace treaties, and trade agreements.  Thus, the following words spoken by Jesus accurately describe what transforms a diverse multitude into a recognizable commonwealth:  “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”  (See Luke 6:  31, King James Version (KJV). )  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

What do Atheists think about this transgender teen boy who thinks he is a girl was allowed to participate in a girls track meet?

"In Alaska, a boy who thinks he’s a girl is allowed to participate in the girls’ track meet, and he wins. The girls are not happy, but are not quite sure how to express their protest since they don’t want to be branded as bigots for calling a boy a boy when that boy wants to be called a girl."

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20)

Update: http://www.courageouspriest.com/

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.  For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.  For even hereunto were ye called:  because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:  Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:  Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:  Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness:  by whose stripes ye were healed.  For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.  (1st Peter 2:  19-25, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); The Cross Condemns Fornication (05/20/2016); Gender, Sex and Christian Beliefs? (05/18/2016); A Bold Step Forward? (05/15/2016); A GOD of Judgment (12/01/2015); Many Are Called… (10/15/2015); Diversity and the Church? (07/22/2015); Different Strokes, For Different Folks? (06/22/2015); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, may I share a brief comment, here, despite being far from “atheist” and “transgender”.  With the unique understanding that comes by acknowledging the death of Jesus Christ dying upon the cross, for many mature Christian believers, the various conflicts and disputes we now see in the public forum come down to the opposition of arbitrary differences, fashions, personal preferences and things that frequently undergo change as well as traditions that are man-made, social and temporary in contrast to things described by divine law, sacred principles and spirit content along with things that are fixed and permanent (we say, eternal, everlasting) expressing divinity and spirituality.  What many in America regard as our special “liberty” and joy as a nation is the freedom to exercise conscience, work hard, fulfill our duties and answer our obligations, and then to indulge our private dreams, fantasies, and “flights of imagination.”  It is true:  We have had great fun within our homeland following much hard work; and this is counted as natural order.  Therefore, the prosperity and stability of our nation continues grounded upon such shared values as acceptance of others despite differences; acknowledgment of an equality that extends to all who live; mutual respect; assisting one another to meet common needs; heartfelt love, sincerity, and genuine tolerance as well as regard for the many forms of animal and human life that include the unborn.  Consider again the following points from the Bible that many feel also  correctly speak to the blessings, hope and spirit of America:

(1.)  Isaiah 61:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;  2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;  3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

(2.)  Psalms 119:  41-46, KJV:  41 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O LORD, even thy salvation, according to thy word.  42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me:  for I trust in thy word.  43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments.  44 So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.  45 And I will walk at liberty:  for I seek thy precepts.

There is far more that should be carefully said, thoughtfully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  James 2:  10-13, KJV:  10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.  11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.  12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.  13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.)  Even so, I am sure this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC