(10/02/2019) Through Faith And Patience

The image depicts Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

 purified in the fiery furnace.

Today, reply is on salvation for sinners being primarily through the life and works of Jesus Christ, rather than by a believer’s own experience of water or fire baptism. The name of Jesus (i.e., his completed, ongoing, and yet to be finished works that are the basis of his reputation as sent from GOD) is to be acknowledged as a full and sufficient divine provision for remission of sin on earth as it is in heaven. It is written: Acts 4: 12, King James Version (KJV): 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Norine” (Level 1 with 97 points, a member since October 01, 2019) posted the following:

How do we reconcile TWO baptisms into "one" (Ephesians 4:5) when there's a water baptism and a Holy Spirit baptism?

Update: @ANON

JESUS SAID IN MARK 16:16 >>>"HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM"<<<

>>>"SAVES!"<<<

OTHERWISE YOU ARE

>>>"DAMNED!"<<<

YOU JUST TOLD JESUS TO "SHUT UP" WHICH IS "BLASPHEMY" (MATTHEW 12:31-32)

AND ARE

>>>"DAMNED!"<<<

"REPENT!"

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (1^st Corinthians 3: 11-15, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Baptism Is Not DIY (05/28/2019); Offering Yourself To Christ? (12/27/2018); Preparing For The Rapture (11/09/2018); Baptism, Rebirth, and Resurrection (09/18/2018); When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); The Household Of Cornelius (05/17/2018)

“Norine”, there are only one baptism and one resurrection from death that can be acknowledged as joining mankind to divinity in rebirth, redemption, and salvation. Just as the presence of Jesus Christ within the fiery furnace preserved the companions of Daniel (Shadrach Meshach and Abednego), those who would have forgiveness for sin and reconciliation to GOD must have the presence of Christ in the life. Consciousness and self-will (willpower) within sinners and developing Christian believers must undergo permanent changes through operations of the Holy Spirit so that they completely abandon the inborn, self-centered process of heart and mind that is an obstacle to realizing the new creation. While all are to be held accountable for the fruitage they themselves produce by word and deed, they also must come to the sacred knowledge that atonement for sin, and the fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) available from divinity are gifts bestowed on the basis of lovingkindness, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation on readiness for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ from the music ministry of Debra Barnes and the Barnes Family:

(1.) Hebrews 6: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And this will we do, if God permit.

(2.) Romans 6: 3-13, 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. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

(3.) Colossians 2: 8-13, KJV: 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHQULXLmfl0). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:18 AM, October 01, 2019 @ https://vineyardmsa.org/baptism-in-fire/

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/27/2018) When Christians Attend Funerals

Today, reply is on the duty of Christians to proclaim hope, share divine ministry, and acknowledge genuine sacred events (miracles; resurrection) when attending funerals.  Within the church, only apostles have been granted lawful authority and faith by being charged and ordained to raise the dead as representations of Jesus Christ.  Therefore, like atonement accomplished only by Christ as High Priest, raising the dead is not a benefit, duty, or privilege routinely imparted to born-again followers of Jesus Christ.  The raising of the dead is not intended to cause confusion, intimidate, strike fear among, or threaten the living.  For Christian believers the raising of the dead is a divine operation and entails sacred processes that reveal the authority, power, and eternal purposes of divine fullness.  Responding to the needs or requests of loved ones, Jesus raised multiple persons from the dead (e.g., Jairus’ daughter; the son of the Widow at Nain; Lazarus) in demonstration of his divine origin (“I am the resurrection”); none of them are alive on the earth today.  This helps us understand that the aspects for resurrection that pertain to eternal life are very different.  Followers of the Lord will not endorse accounts and explanations that continue antichrist sentiment; horror movie and fictional characters along with so-called living things created or re-animated by science (e.g., clones, Frankenstein, flesh-eating ghouls, vampires, zombies); superstition; beliefs in the occult and the supernatural; sorcery and witchcraft; or other forms that allow and generate spiritual confusion.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “?” (Level 4 with 3,457 points, a member since August 31, 2014) posted the following:


Should Christians only attend funerals if they are planning to raise the dead as Christ instructed us to do?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:  and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:  and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.  (1st Thessalonians 4:  14-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Be Still Before GOD? (05/20/2018); “I Am The Resurrection” (03/25/2018); Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Our Present Comfort? (06/28/2013); Come As You Are? (06/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013); Why Jesus Authored No Books (05/01/2013)

“?”, it is a Christian’s duty to counsel and assist those who are in mourning to practice forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, and “the patience of the saints.”  The raising of the dead pertains to the deceased appearing alive before GOD through the harvesting of the earth by Jesus Christ (we say, Advent; his appearing; the Rapture; the Second Coming) as well as the restoration of the dead to appear in tribunals of final judgment.  Resurrection of the dead provides more than a response to human needs that are emotional, financial, and social in nature.  The primary purpose of a funeral is a public witness to the burial and internment of the physical remains (body; cadaver; corpse) of someone deceased.  With this in view, Christians are to attend funerals as acquaintances, co-workers, family, and friends who respond to the bereavement and loss of others through personal expression more than as spiritual spokespersons sent to alter the beliefs of others, to make prophetic demonstrations, or to be witnesses who authenticate and testify regarding divine operations and sacred process.  Believers may not raise the dead by the application of their own self-will, on the basis of their own emotions and feelings, or as a practice of personal power.  Christians are to establish the active presence of divinity by being those who prophecy (i.e., comfort, edify, exhort) and share testimony in divine judgment.  The believer is to display humility, glorify GOD, and avoid magnifying his own office and self-promotion.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Luke 9:  57-60, King James Version (KJV):  57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.  58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.  59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.  60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead:  but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 15:  12-14, KJV:  12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?  13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:  14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 15:  50-57, KJV:  50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Philippians 3:  7-14, KJV:  7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.  8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:  for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,  9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:  10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;  11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.  12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect:  but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.  13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:  but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/15/2018) A Response For Survivors...

Today, a response is made to encourage accountability, healing, holy boldness, and new strength throughout our communities.  In times of crisis, hardship and suffering, caretakers, parents, teachers and others who are close must not fail to share with our youth the very beliefs and understandings teens often find most difficult and strange.  Christian believers rely upon the sacred things imparted to us from the makeup and substance of GOD for the comfort and reinforcement we need to carry on and to persevere.  It is not always a matter of asking for, or expecting sudden changes and miracles (we say, sacred events) so much as it is one of ourselves realizing and helping others to recognize that GOD continues to be an active presence among us who becomes “visible” through his creation and those who are vessels of divine spirit.  The living become the offspring (sons and daughters) of GOD, heirs with Jesus Christ, and saints within the divine kingdom through divine DNA, so to speak.

Those “born again” must “grow up again” by enduring “growing pains” and meeting the same life challenges as all others on the earth.  There must be discovery, gradual growth, fellowship with other believers, unselfish service, and becoming mature.  In addition to faith, developing believers receive inseparable spirit content from the makeup of divinity that includes balance, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following that may already be familiar from the Bible and from four contemporary music ministries:

(1.)  1st Thessalonians 5:  11, King James Version (KJV):  11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

“Be Grateful” (Original, 1978) Walter Hawkins, Lead by Lynette Hawkins Stephens, written by Walter Hawkins.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-UdwIHSyqo

(2.)  Psalms 23:  1-6, KJV:  1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.  2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:  he leadeth me beside the still waters.  3 He restoreth my soul:  he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.  4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:  for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:  thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:  and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

“No Need To Fear” Wintley Phippshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=359&v=eV37H4sjbok

(3.)  2nd Timothy 1:  7, KJV:  7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
“Worth” (Official Music Video) Anthony Brown and grouptherAPyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX59fjowutw

(4.)  Psalms 100:  1-5, KJV:  1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.  2 Serve the LORD with gladness:  come before his presence with singing.  3 Know ye that the LORD he is God:  it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.  4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise:  be thankful unto him, and bless his name.  5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

“Be Grateful”
Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Roots at the Terminal 5 in New York City, on 23 September 2010.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kd8LsuqzHpY


There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/14/2018) Bloody Sunday -- Black History

Today, a second Black History Month poem is shared acknowledging faith as a grain of mustard seed, American democracy, and some of the special, present-day work of former civil rights leader, Congressman John Lewis of Georgia.  I was very impressed by a news broadcast that included the congressman responding to questions from elementary and high school aged children, their parents, and teachers.  Congressman Lewis explained to one student that when he first met Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. the famous leader for social justice asked Lewis whether he was “the boy from Troy?”  [Troy, Alabama], and that was how Lewis at first would be known (see John Lewis Teaches Md. Students About Civil Rights Movement, by Meagan Fitzgerald News 4 @ https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Rep-John-Lewis-Teaches-Md-Students-About-Civil-Rights_Washington-DC-473990323.html).


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord.  Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.  Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain:  and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.  (Zechariah 4:  5-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Black History -- Johannesburg Gold (02/05/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); George Washington Owned Slaves (08/17/2017); Righteousness Exalts A Nation (07/04/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); Can Christians Be Racists? (07/25/2016); Cultural, Political, Spiritual Growth? (07/10/2016)

BLOODY SUNDAY

A Poem Acknowledging the courage of Congressman John Lewis and the Young People of America Willing to Recall The Civil Rights March, Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, (03/07/1965) - Black History Month, February 13, 2018.


The Congressman was called to work, today
Among the young to point the path and way
A span to reach tomorrow that would arch
From yesterday that taught the bloody march.

The elder sat with sprouts and budding youths
Who showed a hunger for the lasting truths
To let them tap his courage once again
With wisdom words and answers that were plain.

Too often, we leave needed things unsaid
Because we fear to have them in our head,
Our heart, deep wounds that only close
When truth is shared and everybody knows.

Black students understood for things to change
The promise of America can’t be strange
Or foreign to those born, raised in this land.
For power of the vote, they took a stand.

On U.S. Highway 80 was the site
Where lawless pride created darkest night
With death and oppression threatening to destroy
The hope for freedom in the Boy From Troy.

S.N.C.C. rallied those who dared to walk in peace
So being without voting rights would cease.
After years of work, the time had come to go
But brutal police power told them, NO!

To register to vote at freedom’s call
Should never be a cause for one to fall
To fail in fear, or die, or run and scatter
As though it is not true that Black lives matter.

Corruption, hatred, rot, should not prevail
Even where it means you go to jail
The justice of the cause can make men strong
To be steadfast, and work to right the wrong.

When children look into the past to learn
Their lessons must surpass “burn, baby, burn.”
We fashioned then a voice to crack the silence,
Insured their home through patience and nonviolence.

The future leaders for our land have shared
With one who held the line that day, and dared.
They too will live the dream in victory
Casting the single vote to keep all free.

©2018.  Michael Andrew Williams.  All rights reserved



There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/13/2018) To Bear Wrongs Patiently?

Today, focus is on expressing anger, and the conduct and standards commanded within the church and among saints in the kingdom of GOD.  Because they lacked faith, only two of the more than ½ million men who left Egypt that were numbered as the army of Israel actually were able to secure and stand on their own portion of the Promised Land; and Moses was not allowed to set foot on that inheritance because of his many acts of disobedience through unbridled anger that included manslaughter, and failing to give glory to GOD when requiring water from a rock .  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:


What does it mean in Christianity to bear wrongs patiently?

Does this mean we forgive even when the person has no remorse and if so is feeling angry a sin?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Use hospitality one to another without grudging.  As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.  If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth:  that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you:  on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.  But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.  Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.  For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God:  and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?  Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.  (1st Peter 4:  9-19, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Joy, Survival and Worship (06/21/2017); Judged For Acts and Thoughts? (08/14/2014); Humility Needed for Salvation? (08/15/2014); Wrong Not to Forgive? (03/05/2014); Done in Faith? (03/06/2014); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could Have Life? (12/09/2013)


“Anonymous”, many behaviors and responses to life challenges commanded through the Bible are provided for the creation of the church as an institution embracing carnal, material, secular, and social elements on the earth.  More than this, however, sacred law and standards are an aspect of the full revelation of the character, makeup, and nature of divinity.  Through the things commanded, GOD is made knowable, known as present, accessible, and approachable.  So to speak, by their rebirth and gradual growth receiving and applying sacred truth in place of secular knowledge, sinners are to exist as the new creation of Jesus Christ, and display the image of GOD imparted from divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit).  As vessels containing a fresh endowment of divine substance, sinners will exist as developing Christian believers, the offspring of GOD, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.  Inseparable aspects of divinity will be present including balance, completeness, faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The sacred process of salvation is no one-time event, and unfolds through discovery, fellowship, focused learning, praise, prayer, and unselfish service.  (Often, knowledge acquired through discovery has been retained longer, and has proven more trusted than information from classrooms and settings for formal instruction.)  Thus, the personal practice of godliness is essential to complete and make visible the permanent changes that will occur through the unseen operations of the Holy Spirit.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Timothy 3:  14-16,  King James Version (KJV):  14 These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:  15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.  16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:  God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

(2.)  Mark 11:  24-26, KJV:  24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.  25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any:  that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.  26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

(3.)  Romans 8:  26, KJV:  26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:  for we know not what we should pray for as we ought:  but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

(4.)  Ephesians 4:  25-27, KJV:  25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour:  for we are members one of another.  26 Be ye angry, and sin not:  let not the sun go down upon your wrath:  27 Neither give place to the devil.

(5.)  James 1:  19-21, KJV:  19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:  20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.  21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (6.)  1st Corinthians 6:  3-11, KJV:  3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?  4 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.  5 I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?  6 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.  7 Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?  8 Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.  9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived:  neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,  10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.  11 And such were some of you:  but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/08/2017) In Her father's House?

Today, reply is given to a teenager struggling with issues of Christian belief, parental approval, racism, and sexual relationships.  Being related by blood is called “kinship”, being related through love, respect and trust are called “family”.  Young people often are impractical, express exaggerated pride, and insist they can rely upon the certainty, protection and security provided by genuine feelings of love.  Even so, the combination of desire and imagination can produce an uncontrollable fantasy of love.  Weeds of deceit, fornication, and “playing the whore” can infest the places intended for the plantings of marriage.  Considered in the light from Scripture, both the law of ones father (and its alternative, the law of the husband) come into view along with the provisions for young women becoming released from their promises to GOD.  Our youth often fail to correctly acknowledge the fact that, while they are under the authority and protection of their parents, the law requires that what they account as their own private affairs must be approved, monitored, and supervised by their adult caretakers.  In innocence and ignorance, the offspring willingly make promises to surrender the life and property of their parents for payment of the debts and obligations of their children.  Thus, it is legitimate that parents oversee marriage, courtship, and dating because unseen legal obligations may be cemented that include liability through misunderstood and unintended verbal contracts and promises, incurring unexpected and unwanted debts as well as having to seek relief for a fair division or return of shared personal property.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (New Zealand)” using the ID “Joe” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since February 07, 2017) posted the following:

Kicked out and disowned for having a black/mixed boyfriend? Help..?

I'm 18, and as I grow older I have only been attracted to colored men. I have tried dating my own race (white) but its just hard and annoying. In the past, my ex was black and my mom kicked me out until I broke up with him and came back. She also took the car she gave me (i paid 300 dollars on it!) And gave it to my brother. I stayed at my current boyfriends house and got depressed and lost my job. I look back and shouls have kept the job but i was younger and upset by my mom. But today, I am talking to a boy i really really like, he's mixed. My mom claims to be "strict Christian" and said mixing races is bad. Yet she sleels with men she isn't married to and judges people, she thinks kicking me out is a lesson and only because i dont follow her rules i cant live in her house. Though i am good at school, working, and i clean. I don't do anything bad but date other races. She verbally abuses me daily and reminds me everything i never do. I just want to have a normal relationship.. go to prom and my mom take pictures, i wish she would be happy for me. And also, my redneck dad said if i had a mixed baby he would disown me.. yet he loves my sister and her mixed baby.. its stressful and i dont know if i can move out yet.. i have to wait for my new job so i have no money. Help please..

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If a woman also vow a vow unto the LORD, and bind herself by a bond, being in her father’s house in her youth;  And her father hear her vow, and her bond wherewith she hath bound her soul, and her father shall hold his peace at her; then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she hath bound her soul shall stand.  But if her father disallow her in the day that he heareth; not any of her vows, or of her bonds wherewith she hath bound her soul, shall stand:  and the LORD shall forgive her, because her father disallowed her.  And if she had at all an husband, when she vowed, or uttered ought out of her lips, wherewith she bound her soul;  And her husband heard it, and held his peace at her in the day that he heard it:  then her vows shall stand, and her bonds wherewith she bound her soul shall stand.  But if her husband disallowed her on the day that he heard it; then he shall make her vow which she vowed, and that which she uttered with her lips, wherewith she bound her soul, of none effect:  and the LORD shall forgive her.  But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, wherewith they have bound their souls, shall stand against her.  And if she vowed in her husband’s house, or bound her soul by a bond with an oath;  And her husband heard it, and held his peace at her, and disallowed her not:  then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she bound her soul shall stand.  But if her husband hath utterly made them void on the day he heard them; then whatsoever proceeded out of her lips concerning her vows, or concerning the bond of her soul, shall not stand:  her husband hath made them void; and the LORD shall forgive her.  Every vow, and every binding oath to afflict the soul, her husband may establish it, or her husband may make it void.  (Numbers 30:  3-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Can Christians Be Racists? (07/25/2016); Flesh Against the Spirit? (06/19/2016); Discipline and The Cross (06/16/2016); On Controlling Lust (01/05/2016); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015); Understanding Spiritual Growth? (03/13/2015); Not Yet Delivered From Racism? (12/21/2014); Racism Is Not From GOD (12/22/2014)

“Joe”, for there to be a “happy ending” at your father’s house there are many important points for you to consider.  You seem to be confusing issues of being respected as an adult, Christian belief, race, and sexual freedom.  Mature Christian believers regard themselves as “married” and bound to GOD through Jesus Christ.  Nowadays, as they are developing to be full persons, young females encounter many intense emotional and psychological challenges; and they are likely to be exploited, overwhelmed, and “kicked to the curb.”  Like anyone else, you want to be free and pursue your own feelings and thoughts, however, you are not yet an independent or mature adult.  (Maturity is marked by balance, completeness, consistency, and stability.)

All lasting relationships and adult notions of love—be they with family, friends, or romantic interests—require that one be accountable, committed, and also willing to show love through restraint, sacrifice (i.e., doing whatever is demanded; paying every cost, even, laying down ones life), and self-denial.  Where you are prepared to talk about what you want from others, you also must be prepared to say what you are willing to give in return.  Parents are not unreasonable to deny “sexual relationships” to their daughters while they are living at home.  It is not that they are ignorant of how powerful and demanding sexual appetite in young people can be.  Nor is it that they can read people’s minds, or foretell the future so much as it is a matter of recognizing familiar patterns.  Once you see ABCDEFG, it is reasonable to think XYZ is on the way, and not 8-9-10-11.

In the same way it sends a message about how you value your parents for you to say, I can not stop smoking for two or three years while I am in my father’s house, I can not stop drinking alcohol, or attending foot ball games until after I am married, to say, I can not stop dating tells them there is a serious problem that goes beyond their having authority, duty, and willingness to trust you as their offspring.  It sends a message regarding what you think of yourself.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, the benefits of going to school and taking on small jobs include gaining self-confidence and acquiring self-discipline.  Having “a future” with the big life-accomplishments of career, marriage, and family are not possible for those who do not first learn to patiently wait, and while waiting direct their energy into things that will make them stronger and more well prepared for the things they truly want that remain ahead.  Where you and your male companions insist you are adult enough to maintain sexual relationships, you should only do so on your own terms, and in your own shared place.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC

(11/07/2016) On Expecting Quick Results

Jan van Eyck diptych (circa 1430) Crucifixion; the Last Judgment

Today, focus is on change, patience, divine response to needs of the living, and sacred process as deliberate and extended.  Many only turn to divinity because they experience intense needs for comfort, healing, prosperity, and permanent relief from suffering.  However, it is the character and nature of divinity that, in fact, dictates the course of divine response.  With this in view, there can be no “quick fix” or “slap dash” from GOD.  Because it is always in accordance with prophecy and revealed truth, the divine process may be regarded as disciplined, inevitable, methodical, and predictable.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Political Commentator” (Level 1 with 7 points, a member since December 09, 2015) posted the following:

Christians - Do you agree that repentance can be a protracted process, but some people expect quick results to get it off their chest...?

...Without realising just how seriously they have sinned against God.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,  Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come:  and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.  And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.  And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:  And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever:  and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.  Here is the patience of the saints:  here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.  (Revelation 14:  6-12, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Waiting For His Appearing (02/09/2016); Wanting To Know When? (10/18/2015); Christ Coming Soon? (10/16/2015); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014); Of Sure Hope and Certainty (09/05/2013); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013) 

“Political Commentator”, repentance is a process carried out by will of the Creator, not that of the created.  Only as sinners are “born again” do they acquire proper expectations for eternal life.  GOD responds to the living on the basis of aspects of full divinity and sacred purpose, rather than the mundane events, personalities, and problems that are boundaries and conditions within their sphere of life.  Finite created beings and living creatures, who rely upon the frameworks of time and space to order, and give structure to the data and information coming to them as life experience, must be permanently changed through fresh deposits of spirit content from GOD that allow correct and more complete grasp of the operations by spirit, divine utterance, and sacred word that eventually will appear in ones lifestyle and practice as rebirth, redemption, repentance, salvation, and sanctification.  Human intellect, logic, philosophy, or reason will focus upon the awesomeness, omnipotence, omniscience, and oneness of GOD, failing to take into account also the immortality, immutability, and incorruption of Deity.  The character, makeup, and nature of divine spirit must be described as active, diffuse, organic, unbounded, yet, also constant, continuous, directed, enduring, and purposeful.  The sacred events (we say, miracles) that appear to be instantaneous and sudden usually follow long periods of gradual development, growth, patient expectation, or even, affliction, chastisement, and suffering.  Reacting to carnal, material and social pressures, the flesh is not in accord with divinity.  Unseen elements have influence such as appetite, covetousness, emotion, mind, and sensation.  The demand and prayers for quick responses from GOD are not ignored and unheard; however, divine answers must acknowledge divine order, sacred law, and unambiguous Spirit process.  Consider again the following points from the Bible:

(1.)  Jeremiah 42:  4-8, King James Version (KJV):  4 Then Jeremiah the prophet said unto them, I have heard you; behold, I will pray unto the LORD your God according to your words; and it shall come to pass, that whatsoever thing the LORD shall answer you, I will declare it unto you; I will keep nothing back from you.  5 Then they said to Jeremiah, The LORD be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not even according to all things for the which the LORD thy God shall send thee to us.  6 Whether it be good, or whether it be evil, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God, to whom we send thee; that it may be well with us, when we obey the voice of the LORD our God.  7 And it came to pass after ten days, that the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah.  8 Then called he Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the forces which were with him, and all the people from the least even to the greatest,

(2.)  Daniel 10:  12-14, KJV:  12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel:  for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.  13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days:  but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.  14 Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days:  for yet the vision is for many days.

(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.

(4.)  2nd Peter 3:  8-10, KJV:  8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended, here.  (For example, (5.)  Hebrews 10:  35-37, KJV:  35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.  36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.  37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/19/2016) Flesh Against the Spirit?

Today, appetite, independence, obedience, self-control, and sexuality before marriage are in view.  Adult privilege is obtained on the basis of acquiring adult knowledge, continually carrying out adult responsibilities, and routinely maintaining adult standards.  Those having developed genuine maturity are able to display balance, commitment, completeness, consistency, patience (i.e., ability to wait quietly, without complaining), sobriety, and stability.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Paige” (Level 1 with 99 points, a member since June 19, 2016) posted the following:

My parents are christians and think I am a pretty good kid. They do not want me too have se before marriage but I rlly want to? Any help??/?

Update: *sex

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,  Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,  Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like:  of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  Meekness, temperance:  against such there is no law.  And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.  (Galatians 5:  19-25, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Discipline and The Cross (06/16/2016); The Cross Condemns Fornication (05/20/2016); Answered by The Cross? (03/14/2016); On Controlling Lust (01/05/2016); The Wife of Your Youth? (12/22/2015); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015); Punishment To Show Love? (11/29/2015)

Galatians 5: 17, King James Version (KJV):  17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh:  and these are contrary the one to the other:  so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

Ephesians 6: 12, KJV:  12 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.

“Paige”, in obedience to Jesus Christ I am sharing with you a message from the cross.  Your question made a statement (I want to disobey and ignore my parents, because I want to have sex, I don’t want to be a Christian, and all I need is courage that will come from the strangers who will agree with me.).  The warnings from Scripture are to be joined to those from “common sense.”  Sexual desire is an animal and carnal appetite like hunger and thirst.  It can not be satisfied merely by using imagination, logic, make believe, reason, or thought.  Thus, self-acceptance and inner peace through sexuality are very difficult to achieve.  Even so, like hunger and thirst, lust and sexual appetite must be disciplined and trained by the human, and spirit parts of who we are. 

When your body begins to behave like that of an adult, then you want your mind and your spirit to also behave like that of an adult—the duties, problems, and responsibility of an adult are soon to follow.  Giving oneself in sexual union should be in accordance with full authority over ones own life expressed in emotional and financial independence.  Then, you (and your partners) acknowledge accountability for your own actions and choices without burdening others by the consequences of your errors and mistakes.  You make a home for yourself, provide food, hygiene, and health care for your self.  You understand that sexual joining may be accomplished by behavior as simple as holding hands, or a kiss on the cheek.  Sexual behavior always occurs on multiple levels all at the same time that include emotional, material, psychological, and spiritual exchange.

There is far more that should be carefully said, thoughtfully examined, and spiritually understood.  For example, while we may find forgiveness at the cross, and children can find forgiveness with their parents after betraying them concerning their own desires for sexual pleasure, it remains that, knowing the message they were given was shared with them in love, the child will always be without excuse, or justification.)  Even so, I am sure this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/09/2016) Waiting For His Appearing

Scripture points are shared, today, in reply to concern aroused by a fake report that the Vatican decided to stop waiting for the coming of Christ (see http://www.examiner.com/article/fake-vatican-report-creates-real-outrage-over-end-times-prophecy).  Consider again the following Scriptures and the response below:

Isaiah 50:  9-11, King James Version (KJV):  9 Behold, the Lord GOD will help me; who is he that shall condemn me? lo, they all shall wax old as a garment; the moth shall eat them up.  10 Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.  11 Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks:  walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow.

Acts 5:  29-32, KJV:  29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.  30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.  31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.  32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Hebrews 10:  35-37, KJV:  35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.  36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.  37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “BleuMonday” (Level 1 with 175 points, a member since July 11, 2013) posted the following:


Is it a sin as a Christian to not believe in the return of Jesus, and are you "waiting!?"?

It's no surprise that The Vatican stopped waiting for the return of Jesus upon its 1,891st anniversary of doing so.
Here is an article link if interested- http://www.examiner.com/article/vatican-announces-jesus-is-not-coming-back

I don't think anyone is actually "waiting," but what if any is the major belief on this subject by Christians? To all the atheists, try not to have too much of a field day with this, I'm actually looking for serious answers from believers. Thanks!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:  Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:  that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;  And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;  And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.  Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:  for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  (2nd Peter 1:  2-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Promise of Return (01/15/2016); In Times of Progress? (12/21/2015); Christ Coming Soon? (10/16/2015); About The End Of The World (08/30/2015); Becoming Ripe for Harvest? (07/03/2015); The Soon Return of Jesus? (01/05/2015); About the Second Coming? (01/18/2014); Unprofitable Servants? (01/19/2014)


“BleuMonday”, for believers who trust the holy writings as a true record showing divinity made known and knowable through thousands of lives and thousands of events, over the course of thousands of years, the operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Creator and Law Giver, and essential order put forth as a platform for the universe.  The importance of commitment and cooperation with the things from divinity intended as benefit for created beings and living creatures should be self-evident.  The Christian believer is affirmed and endowed with divine substance  through acknowledgement of proclamations, promises and prophecies from GOD along with specific expectations (we say, hope) believers are commanded to embrace regarding coming sacred events.  Consider again the following verses from the Bible:

(1.)  John 14:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Let not your heart be troubled:  ye believe in God, believe also in me.  2 In my Father’s house are many mansions:  if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

(2.)  Acts 1:  7-11, KJV:  7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.  8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:  and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.  9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.  10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;  11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

(3.)  John 8:  23-26, KJV:  23 And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above:  ye are of this world; I am not of this world.  24 I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins:  for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.  25 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith unto them, Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning.  26 I have many things to say and to judge of you:  but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him.

(4.)  Acts 10:  40-44, KJV:  40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;  41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.  42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.  43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.  44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.

(5.)  2nd Timothy 4:  1-3, KJV:  1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;  2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.  3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

(6.)  Revelation 1:  7-8, KJV:  7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him:  and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.  8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.) 2nd Timothy 4:  8, KJV:  8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day:  and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC