(11/29/2020) Our Correct Sacred Priorities?

Correctness of members judging the clergy and others within the church, and the priority for clergy preaching the gospel compared to performing “good works” are topics, today. While all believers are to demonstrate and display the love of GOD, all are not called to serve as pulpit preachers. Those who talk about you yet do not speak with you can never correctly know the full extent of what you suffer for Christ, or the specific works he has chosen and fitted you to fulfill. Many within the church mistakenly regard works that are priority among those in the world as somehow vital to redemption and salvation. Such believers focus heavily on the giving of alms, ministering to families, relieving others in their distress and suffering, and devoting oneself to programs for change and social justice. They neglect the preaching of the cross; the needs for rebirth, sanctification, and reconciliation; and the necessity that all members of the church are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ within their own lifestyles and daily routines. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 1: 17-24, King James Version (KJV): 17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. The user in “Yahoo! Answers” Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Sparkles” (Level 1 with 204 points) posted the following:

Should a pastor spend more time helping the homeless on Sunday mornings rather than preaching inside the church?

My dad is a fundamental Baptist pastor, and recently he's been spending his sunday mornings helping the homelesss rather than preaching his sermons. Some members of our church committee have suggested that he should spend more time preaching and let the missionaries take care of the homeless.

Updated 20 mins ago:

My dad believes helping the homeless is more important since he is sharing the gospel with the unsaved, and most homeless people are willing to listen.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. (2^nd Corinthians 11: 23-30, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); 22 Years Spent Preparing (05/20/2020); The Testimony From GOD (10/22/2019); How Can Christians Preach? (09/25/2019); Giving To The Homeless (03/13/2019); The Answer From GOD (05/19/2017)

“Sparkles”, Christian believers are to demand perfection from themselves before demanding perfection from the clergy or other members of the church. Because the workings of divinity are Spirit in process and substance, many in the church can become confounded and deceived by things that are human concerns and that do not express sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. There are those who mean well, yet, they continue to behave as instruments of the flesh (e.g., appetite, sensation (such as hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and emotion/mental operations (e.g., anger, fear, imagination, recall) ). Putting aside the issue of whether you accept that your father has been ordained and is in a peculiar relationship with Jesus Christ as his head, your duty and responsibilities as a member in his flock do not include proclaiming his condemnation, performing judgment, or the posing of questions about his competence. Developing Christian believers must come to acknowledge that salvation is through acts of GOD such as baptism whereby a sinner’s inborn spirit dies, is buried, and is raised from the dead in rebirth and resurrection. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Romans 14: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

(2.) 2^nd Corinthians 10: 12, KJV: 12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

(3.) Luke 16: 10-15, KJV: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. 14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him. 15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Romans 14: 16-23, KJV: 16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. 20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. 21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. 22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. 23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:05 AM, November 29, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/f2/0a/a7/f20aa724ac0080b38b2850509d17a2b5.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/23/2020) What The Cave Comprehended

I recently heard a sermon broadcast at familyradio.org that included an account of the Cave and the Sun visiting one another so they might understand the other’s repeated references to “darkness” and “light”. As Christian believers, our anchor and focus for answering the challenging discourse and thoughts others share must always be the proclamations, promises, prophecies and unchanging purpose we receive from divinity. In that presentation, the Cave first visited the Sun and was dazzled by the presence of light that appeared to be everywhere. When the Sun made its visit to be with the Cave, the Cave led the Sun to a deep crevice to see gross darkness. However, both the Cave and the Sun saw only light. The Cave displayed isolated pits and other locations to the Sun. However, they all were filled with light. The Cave remarked that these places were filled with darkness until the coming of the Sun; and to me the point of the sermon seemed to be, life throughout Creation was filled with darkness until the coming of Jesus Christ. In reflecting on what I had heard, I realized the Cave and the Sun account is regarded by many as a classic of wisdom, yet, I remained unwilling to become entangled in fleshly truth or discourse that challenges the Bible. Beyond the cycles of darkness that present shadows and night there are multiple aspects of darkness that serve divinity. Included are gross darkness, obscure darkness, unfathomable darkness, and unspeakable darkness. Similar accounts have been found among the Sufi as well as the writings of Plato; and have been held to be an allegory, analogy, or parable distinct from a fable (that provides a lesson using animals and objects that speak). It is written: Isaiah 60: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. 19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20 Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

THE GOLDEN ARROW: In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living? (Psalms 56: 11-13, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Divinity Commanded the Void (01/28/2020); The Light Of Life (12/04/2019); To Learn From GOD (11/11/2019); When the Donkey Speaks? (11/03/2016); Living In The Light? (01/18/2015); Balaam (10/15/2013)

(1.) 2^nd Peter 1: 16-19, King James Version (KJV): 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

(2.) John 1: 1-5, KJV: 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

(3.) 1^st Samuel 2: 8-10, KJV: 8 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s, and he hath set the world upon them. 9 He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. 10 The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.

(4.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 5-7, KJV: 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

(5.) 1st John 1: 5-7, KJV: 5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

(6.) Malachi 4: 1-3, KJV: 1 For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. 3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the LORD of hosts.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnficXVgUTE.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:38 PM, August 20, 2020 @ https://takelight.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/suncave.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/20/2020) The Visibility of GOD

The Drum Major, Ernie Barnes

Today, reply is on Christ presenting both authentic humanity and complete divinity; and for many, this is a National day of memorial in America. Sunday morning, I listened to the last sermon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. preached before his assassination, “The Drum Major Instinct” (February 4, 1968; Ebenezer Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA). Jesus Christ demonstrated that all men have opportunity and are called to serve their Creator in ministry on the earth by displaying the image of GOD in their lifestyles and daily routines. As we acknowledge and remember Citizen King, who was the son of a preacher, we can see the same truth was manifest within Marvin Gaye, also the son of a preacher. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus as their redeemer and savior all are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of the Lord. It is written: Colossians 2: 6-10, King James Version (KJV): 6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 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: The writer at the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Princess” (Level 3 with 3,698 points) posted the following:

Christians claim Jesus was fully god and fully man. Isn't that like saying a person is fully male and fully female?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do. (Luke 17: 7-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Twenty, 20-20 (01/17/2020); The Light Of Life (12/04/2019); Godly Exercise of Authority (12/16/2018); Life And Divine Purpose (05/04/2018); George Washington Owned Slaves (08/17/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); What the Preacher Said…? (03/24/2015); About Good Sermons? (08/26/2014)

“Princess”, you use fully male/fully female, a contrast (showing differences between 2 things), where Christian believers use fully God/fully man, a comparison (showing likeness between 2 things). Through Jesus Christ mankind receives opportunity and possibilities to experience authentic humanity, and to exist on the earth as the children of GOD, heirs of divinity, and the new creation. The operations of divinity to draw sinners into a saving relationship are more correctly understood beginning at forgiveness, going on to acknowledge divine fullness appearing on earth using human form and flesh and blood as Jesus Christ, then, receiving into oneself a fresh endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD. Inseparable aspects of divinity will be imparted that include balance, faith, forbearance, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

GOD is a spirit, and the properties of spirit do not include measurable dimension (e.g., color; form; height; size; weight) and the regular excitement of sensory receptors within the living (e.g., ears, eyes, hands, noses). Through revelation that includes appearing in human form, divinity makes themselves knowable, known, accessible and approachable using sacred operations and material objects such as birth, sequential change, commitment, covenant relationships, emotions, death, discovery, gradual growth, humility, integrity, judgment, personhood, eternal purpose, sacred law, divine order, and discursive thought.

Divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) may be described as the summation of all spirit substance who is characterized by completeness, finality, perfection, and permanence. Divinity is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. Spirit appears and is “visible” through human attitudes, behavior, and expressions of self-will that display awareness, direction, effect, existence, life essence, movement that is self-regulated (in its initiation, direction, tempo, and termination is modulated and self-controlled), meaning, quality, presence, and value. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry archives by Marvin Gaye:

(1.) Colossians 1: 12-20, King James Version (KJV): 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

(2.) 2^nd Corinthians 5: 17-21, KJV: 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDxomUk52H4.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:35 AM, January 19, 2020 @ http://picture.xsrv.jp/sms/img/lineup_img_thedrummajor.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/25/2019) How Can Christians Preach?

Today, reply is on the anointing from divinity provided to those who preach. Those who preach have been commanded and supplied to do so. Preaching is to be understood as a sacred operation where human flesh and divine spirit work together imparting sacred knowledge. Among mature Christian believers, preaching arises from divine unction, and is not the same as academic lecturing, oratory, public speaking, and story-telling that often serve as sources of spiritual confusion. Preaching is an office and duty within the church founded by Jesus Christ, yet, preaching is not provided only by clergy who have had hours of experience as members of a debating team, students in a divinity school, or those who practice delivering sermons while receiving seminary instruction. In addition to bishops, deacons, and pastors there may be child preachers, sharing of prophecy by lay members, and mothers in the church who also preach. It is written: Revelation 14: 6-7, King James Version (KJV): 6 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, 7 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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Bob” (Level 6 with 10,447 points, a member since June 03, 2011) posted the following:

How can christians preach about what god wants when they don’t even know if it exists, surely it is impossible?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; (2^nd Corinthians 4: 13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Just Make Up Anything? (06/16/2019); You Will Receive Power? (12/28/2018); Christ Is The Head (07/12/2018); Those Apt To Teach? (06/20/2018); What the Preacher Said…? (03/24/2015); On Judging Preachers as “Fake” (12/23/2013); Jesus Arose Bodily (12/24/2013)

“Bob”, preaching is a work to bestow and impart spirit content from divinity who has appeared in human form as Jesus Christ. Preaching is a divine process to transfer divine substance. Christians preparing to meet Jesus Christ at his coming to harvest his followers from the earth are instructed that believers who are able to preach receive an anointing from divinity that serves as a “calling” and their official ordination to act as spokespersons for the church. Rather than academic facts and secular knowledge, there must be sacred knowledge and spirit presence. As those who are “born again,” all who preach also must “grow up again” and display balance, completeness, consistency, and stability. Sinners must be transformed by receiving a fresh endowment of inseparable aspects of spirit from the makeup of GOD (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The Holy Spirit is the primary agent and representative of the Lord on the earth, and supplies those who preach with the necessary spiritual appetite for sacred substance, with consciousness of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD, with discernment to identify divine spirit appearing within events, persons, and prophecies as well with the desire and willpower that are labeled as “zeal”. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Acappella:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 2: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

(2.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 5-11, KJV: 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

(3.) 1^st John 2: 27, KJV: 27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxg4IZTdUjI.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:47 AM, September 25, 2019 @ https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20190925145416AAHEDKy

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/20/2015) Jesus As America’s President?

Today, I share some Scriptures to review when considering Jesus Christ serving as President of the United States of America.  Presently, Christ only may serve as leader of this nation by operating through the spirit content and divine nature within a believer who attains the office by completing the currently lawful processes for elections and suffrage.  In addition to serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) responsible for management of day-to-day affairs and policy for all domestic Federal agencies, the Savior would have to serve as the Nation’s chief diplomat managing implementation of all international agreements and treaties.  Jesus also would be the highest ranking military officer, and the person held accountable as the Commander-in-Chief for commitments and preparedness of America’s armed forces.  While Christ could continue as an Everyman figure addressing the concerns of those from the many diverse and often conflicting cultures that make up our Nation, there might be a peculiar “spin” upon representative democracy wherein new emphasis is given to accountability, cooperation, consensus, duty, mutuality, participation, and unity.  Many, who now honor and respect Jesus as the promised Messiah and the Sacred Monarch who rules over the Kingdom of GOD expect divine government upon the earth to continue as eternal and permanent once the tribunals of judgment have been completed.  Mortality as a condition for existence will be ended; and the saved all will have been made immortal and incorruptible.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “strpenta” (Level 7 with 56,462 points, a member since May 10, 2006) posted the following:


Has Jeb Bush ever read the Sermon on the Mount?
(or the Constitution?)

He said Jesus would make a great president.
LMAOF


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I will declare the decree:  the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.  Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.  Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.  Be wise now therefore, O ye kings:  be instructed, ye judges of the earth.  Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.  Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.  (Psalms 2:  7-12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Human Law, Divine Favor? (03/23/2015); The American Covenant? (03/03/2015); Faith not Politics? (12/02/2014); Ye Are Not In The Flesh (12/03/2014); Separation of Church and State (07/04/2014); The Point of Wisdom? (07/05/2014); God Bless America? (09/12/2013); Law, Slavery and Redemption (09/13/2013); The Crux of the Matter (10/26/2012); Women Ordained to Minister? (10/27/2012)


“strpenta”, acknowledging the operations of Christ pertain more to relationship with Deity than to office and rank within government (and putting aside the obvious objection about conflict of interest), here are some points to consider on Jesus Christ serving as President of the United States:

(1.)  But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.  (James 3:  17-18, King James Version, KJV)

(2.)  God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:  Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.  For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?  And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.  (Hebrews 1:  1-6, KJV)

(3.)  That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:  Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;  Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:  to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.  (1st Timothy 6:  14-16, KJV)

(4.)  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood:  and his name is called The Word of God.  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations:  and he shall rule them with a rod of iron:  and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.  (Revelation 19:  11-16, KJV)

(5.)  When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:  And before him shall be gathered all nations:  and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:  And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.  (Matthew 25:  31-33, KJV)

(6.)  My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:  And he is the propitiation for our sins:  and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.  And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.  He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.  But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected:  hereby know we that we are in him.  (1st John 2:  1-5, KJV)

(7.)  Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;  And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;  Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.  (Hebrews 5:  8-10, KJV)

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (8.)  For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:  Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.  And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.  And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.  So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.  As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.  Hebrews 5:  1-6, KJV.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/24/2015) What the Preacher Said…?

Today, reply is made to a question about gold existing in heaven, and whether heaven is real.  In addition to a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity such as faith, holiness, wisdom, and wrath against sin, believers in Christ also must develop discernment (ability to use ones own spirit matter as a standard to recognize and respond to the sacred content in events, other persons, Scriptures, etc.), and increasingly practice meekness (humility and the ability to accept instruction, testimony, or witness from operations of the Holy Spirit, or from clergy and other believers).  Where questions arise regarding any of the information shared during a meeting (e.g., announcements, doctrines, proclamations, sermons, or even casual and offhand remarks) members are to apply the means and practices provided by GOD that include dialog with other believers (particularly, the one who was the original source of what is being shared), prayer, reflection, translation, and careful study of the holy writings.  Trust also is fostered by believers knowing that what is spoken before a congregation is often utterance guided by the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  All who serve as prophets, spokespersons, and those sent in the name of divinity are in the ongoing process of divine judgment, and must speak truth only.  More than simply those who make a mistake, perjure themselves, or sin through ignorance, false prophets and liars are condemned as blasphemers against the Holy Spirit, who will never be granted divine forgiveness.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using “Anonymous” as an ID (no profile information available) posted the following thrust:


Is Heaven real? if so, is it really made of real Gold? That's what the preacher said Sunday morning.?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.  Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?  Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.  Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.  But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.  This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.  For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.  But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.  And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.  (James 3:  10-18, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  How Do You Know? (02/25/2015); GOD Is A Spirit? (12/17/2014); The Storm-battered City? (03/29/2014); All Lying Forbidden? (03/04/2014); Wrong Not to Forgive? (03/05/2014); Face to Face Like Moses? (01/28/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014);  Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature? (03/23/2013); Spirit Matter (10/21/2012); Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012)


“Anonymous”, Christian believers must hold to understandings that emerge as sacred knowledge and divine revelation.  Believers are to carefully examine what is said to them by clergy and others against the holy writings.  Thus, consider the following:

(1.)  John 3:  11-13 King James Version (KJV):  Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.  If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?  And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.

(2.)  John 14:  1-3 (KJV):  Let not your heart be troubled:  ye believe in God, believe also in me.  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.  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.

(3.)  Romans 1:  16-21 (KJV):  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:  for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.  For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith:  as it is written, The just shall live by faith.  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:  Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

(4.)  1st John 5:  9-11 (KJV):  If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater:  for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.  He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself:  he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.  And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

There is far more to be plainly said, correctly understood, and to get a proper grip upon.  (For example, (5.)  The idea of material things in the highest place of spirit beings (angels, sacred beasts, immortal Deity) is as difficult as the teachings about Jesus remaining incarnate (having a body of flesh and bone) and serving as High Priest within the Temple Sanctuary of Heaven.  Believers absolutely must trust that nothing is impossible for GOD.  Thus, as we continue to “grow again” (once born again), we accept that the streets of gold appear within the city, the New Jerusalem, that is to be placed upon the earth.  Nor do we doubt that the sea of glass, the tree of life, and the crowns cast away by the twenty four elders are physical and real.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/04/2015) Recounting Past Sins?

Today, points are shared on why preachers sometimes speak publicly about the errors and faults they committed before and since they came to Christ.  Where their utterance is by the Holy Spirit, they make no boast of their own merit.  They acknowledge, extol, and praise GOD for what divinity has done, is continuing to do, and will do in times that are yet to come.  Many believers mistakenly think that salvation means one is to “forgive and forget.”  They rejoice speaking of their own sins as having been buried in the “sea of forgetfulness.”  In fact, however, believers are to have an ongoing awareness of the damage they received by sin as an aspect of correctly knowing and valuing their deliverance.  Believers in Jesus are never to forget; they are to change, grow, learn, and serve having new purpose and strength from Christ.  All clergy are challenged to demonstrate a correct knowledge of human nature as well as of mankind’s spiritual potential.  Confession, humility, intercession and personal testimony often appear when the “good news” is proclaimed because they provide background, context, and a bridge for recognizing the sameness among certain secular and spiritual truths.  Becoming committed to Christ (we say, becoming saved) is not achieved on the basis of abstract arguments and analytical debates.  There must be contact, exchange, and interaction that are alive, intimate and personal.  All are to receive a revelation that is in harmony with the material and natural world, yet, is an expression of divine essence and power.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Rigal T” (Level 5 with 7,575 points, a member since September 04, 2008) attacked using the following:


Why do Christians brag about their past 'sins'?

Evangelists and apologists often go into great detail about their 'wicked lives' before they found Jesus. Televangelists seem especially proud of their past 'sinful' accomplishments.
Update: Some go on about so much that I think they take a perverse pride, agree?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I have preached righteousness in the great congregation:  lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.  I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation:  I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.  Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD:  let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.  (Psalm 40:  9-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Inseparables? (07/15/2014); On Christians Being Inclusive? (07/16/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Life Choices (12/14/2013); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); Law A Schoolmaster (10/03/2013); Was Jesus Literate? (10/04/2013); How Do I Repent? (05/16/2013); The “Jesus Way”? (05/17/2013)


“Rigal T”, here are some important points to consider when viewing the work of divinity through flesh and blood:

(1.)  Discernment (the ability to use ones own spirit content to recognize the spirit substance within such features as events, oneself, other persons, purposes) is a gift through the Holy Spirit that must be developed by acquiring sacred knowledge, continuing in fellowship with more experienced believers, observing sacred practices (we say, sacraments), and meaningful study of the holy writings.

(2.)  Believers must receive a fresh endowment of the same spirit matter deposited within the first male and female (Adam) that came directly from the makeup of Deity.  Water baptism depicts the many unseen divine operations carried out to terminate ones inborn spirit and regenerate their nature in rebirth.  More than simply the washing away of sins, baptism establishes the believer as an incarnation (we say, vessel) containing aspects of divinity such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3)  Generally, where men define sin, no more than attitudes, behavior, and conduct are described.  However, sin that was unleashed upon the earth through Adam is no “thing” that exists, and is not material, mental, or tangible.  Sin has not been created by or put forth from divinity; yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence, and may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures.  Sin is only recognizable because it opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the universe that functions through divine order rooted in law. 

(4.)  Sin can not be eliminated using such finite human tools as intellect, logic, persuasion, philosophy, and science.   Those who choose to stand before GOD through Jesus Christ as their mediator are permanently altered to recognize and resist sin through sacred operations that convey divine power such as admonition, forbearance, forgiveness, love, promise, prophecy, and resurrection.  The many things of our salvation can not all be comprehended in an instant.  

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Repentance is not a one-time event; and must be achieved as an ongoing process in the life of a believer.  Personal testimony also is shared among believers as sacred truth.  It is an artifact in divine judgment, and has the same power and weight as ballistic evidence, fabrics, fingerprints, and psychiatric evaluations (we say, expert witness).  False witness and lying would be accounted as blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/26/2014) About Good Sermons?

More points are shared on sermons, today.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Sermons About Good Sex? (08/25/2014)—(5.)  Rightly understood, sermons are not casual and informal conversations, or personal exchanges based on private opinions.  Preaching, prophesying, and sermons are authoritative proclamations and statements made by spokespersons sent from GOD, who speak as the Holy Spirit gives utterance.  All believers are not called to  be pulpit preachers; however, all are challenged to hear, and be doers of the word.  Saying this another way:  Sermons are proclamations of divine law as seen with Moses and those who gathered at Sinai, or with Ezra and those of the Exile who gathered in Jerusalem.  Sermons are delivered to full congregations—minor children included—and are to establish unity through shared awareness of conditions, duties, privileges and responsibilities that extend to all within the body.  In addition to pastoral counseling conducted as private sessions, personal ministries of the church also are provided that supply needed fellowship and intimacy, the peculiar details, and the special needs of various groups such as singles, married believers, those returning from the military or prison, those recovering from addictions, and young adults.

(6.)  As with sacred knowledge regarding redemption, salvation, serving as vessels for the Spirit from GOD, and eternal life, many reject the church as a source for instruction regarding the process of life commanded by the Almighty.  Within the body of believers, standards for communication must be in place so that all things may be done decently, and in order.  This may include restrictions upon such verbal behavior as pronouncing curses (wicked prayers for the harm of others), swearing an oath, speaking in tongues when interpretation is not available, using profanity, and making threats of violence.  Valuable sermons regularly include those that establish the presence of Jesus in the hearts and minds of believers; that correctly present the  full Gospel and detail the plan of salvation; that prepare  believers for the promised coming of Jesus; that remind believers of neglected and overlooked doctrine, practices and teachings that have been provided for benefit, fulfillment and power.  Examples include, the seventh day Sabbath, the gifts of the Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit, and the specific expectations believers are commanded to maintain as hope.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel.  And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.  And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.  And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.  And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:  And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God.  And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands:  and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.  Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law:  and the people stood in their place.  So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.  And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.  Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared:  for this day is holy unto our Lord:  neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.  (Nehemiah 8:  1-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); Snake Handling? (02/19/2014); Should I Speak? (12/13/2013); Life Choices (12/14/2013); Blessings, Curses and Woes (10/03/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012)


There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.)  Sermons may include the quoting of Bible verses and Scripture passages for many different reasons.  Foremost is that the holy writings are to be acknowledged as a common source of sacred truth for all believers.  Thus, Scriptures are used as the “shared language” and familiar expression whereby the concepts and thoughts under consideration are made immediately recognizable.  Discernment is encouraged (a believers use of spiritual things to recognize and respond to the spirit content in such aspects of life experience as events, objects, other persons, and prophecy.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/25/2014) Sermons About Good Sex?

Today, points are shared on instruction by the church regarding how to achieve sexual satisfaction.  Also, there is more on whether the Scriptures teach that some people are “just bad.”  The “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Connie” (Level 4 with 3,523 points, a member since September 30, 2013) posted the following:


Why do pastors never give a sermon about good sex?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Some People Are Just Bad? (08/24/2014)—(6.)  Given that all have sinned, from the divine point of view, there now are only two kinds of people in the world:  repentant sinners (those having godly sorrow for sin, who have claimed the revealed mercy of GOD) and impenitent sinners (those experiencing neither godly sorrow for their own sins nor divine wrath against sin as an obstacle to their own eternal life, and are determined to continue a life of offenses against GOD and mankind).  As with rebirth through baptism, acquiring forgiveness and salvation are instantaneous operations of GOD, that must be followed by continuing change and gradual growth for a believer to reach the status of spiritual maturity and divine perfection.

(7.)  The Scriptures teach that certain functions, life processes, operations, and roles were put into place in the beginnings of Creation along with admonitions, sacred laws, and sanctions to preserve and maintain divine order.  Thus, an unnamed blind man appears in Scripture who was sightless from birth in order that GOD’s glory and power would be demonstrated, and revealed through Jesus healing him in the Temple at Jerusalem.  While it was predetermined that someone would betray Jesus into the hands of the corrupt priests at the Temple, no specific person was named by GOD, or prophesied in the Scripture to carry out the task:  Judas Iscariot was self-appointed.  As with the judgment of Achan by Joshua, the penalty for ones crime or transgression may be announced long before any offense is committed; yet, does not cancel or deter its being carried out.  That a person performs works that carry out destructive or negative aspects within the divine plan (e.g., Korah, Dathan and Abiram; Caiaphas; Pontius Pilate) does not relieve the persons who commit those acts of their accountability before GOD.  With this in view, we understand that no infant is born automatically condemned to become a thief; it is through self-promotion and by self-selection that a child may end its life upon that path.  Similarly, no child is born predestined through the workings of GOD to some day marry in a same sex wedding ceremony.  Everyone who experiences being sexually attracted to a person(s) of the same gender, do not commit themselves to a gay or lesbian lifestyle.

(8.)  The Scriptures also teach there are classes of created beings and living creatures who are already sealed in judgment, and labeled as “an evil and adulterous generation,” apostates, children of disobedience, infidels, heretics, and “those who kept not their first estate.”  Such continue to operate within the spheres of life (earth and heaven), yet, there is no teaching that encourages belief that the things provided through Jesus Christ for mankind will also be applied to their condition.

(9.)  Knowing that GOD can open hearts and minds that are otherwise closed and shut to clergy, co-workers, family, and friends, believers are instructed to avoid “jumping to conclusions” (i.e., condemnation; final judgments) of others.  Believers may appear indifferent, and uncaring, yet, they are not to repeatedly challenge, confront, and harass others.  Those in Christ also must accept the divine limits upon their own ministry.  Believers are to “bide their time” submitting themselves in judgment to GOD without bias and prejudice against others.  Every offense believers are able to recognize in the attitudes and behavior of others exist within the full spectrum of their own inner life.  This includes desires, errors, fantasies, and lusts that may be disguised or maintained having an altered form.  Being truly released from all the operations of sin requires what only GOD may do, and proceeds through connections and interactions structured by divinity, rather than flesh.  Consider again Jude 1:  3-8, Psalms 53:  1-4, John 8:  23-45, 1st Corinthians 4:  5, 2nd Corinthians 6:  14-18, Colossians 3:  5-7, Titus 3:  1-11, 2nd Timothy 3:  1-9, Matthew 25:  41-46 and Revelation 21:  8, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  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.  But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.  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.  (Galatians 5:  16-21, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Condemned by the Church? (08/19/2014); Principles of Correct Belief? (08/20/2014); Pornography from the Bible? (11/26/2012); More Than Salvation (11/27/2012); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012)


“Connie”, here are a few points that should advance the growth of your spirit in agreement with Christian belief:

(1.)  The most necessary and urgent work for the church is the establishment of an added, fresh endowment of divinity from the makeup of GOD within those who are carnal, yet are seeking new life through Jesus Christ.  Ones inborn spirit that focuses upon appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) and emotion/mental functions (e.g., anger, fantasy, fear, imagination, recall) must be replaced by spirit matter that is constantly in harmony with divine person.  Believers must be prepared to receive inseparable aspects of divinity such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, humility, longsuffering, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(2.)  Where pastors speak about satisfaction through sexual intimacy their focus may be upon chastity, fornication or marriage, because all sexual behavior is more than a simple, physical act.  There are emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions as well.  All sexual behavior—even holding hands and a kiss on the cheek—may establish a joining of spirits.  Thus, for example, joining oneself to a sex worker introduces multiple spirits from unknown and unseen persons that may confuse, defile, dominate, and otherwise weaken ones inborn spirit.  Even within marriage, there must be a preparation for, and an acceptance of permanent changes within ones own person through their spouse.  Only by death, or the operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, can such joining be dissolved.

(3.)  There are many secular settings that provide counseling and instruction on the mechanics of sexual arousal and intercourse.  The duty of the church is not to compete against or replace the instruction by educated, skilled, and thoughtful caretakers, parents, medical professionals, and others.  However, many see the church as imposing discipline and law upon sexual matters because there also must be a focus upon the maintenance of sexual innocence, and purity.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  The church must be understood as a diverse body made up from persons who have achieved varying levels of emotional, intellectual and spiritual maturity.  Through the provision of GOD, a particular sermon will deliver to all who hear exactly what their spirit has confessed in prayer to be their most heartfelt offerings as well as their most pressing needs.  While only 30 seconds of a 20 minute presentation may seem relevant, because it is from GOD, it operates on multiple levels to cleanse, heal, and nourish.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/18/2014) Arguing Against the Bible in Church?

Today, some points are shared on ones freedom to argue against the Bible when in church.  Also, there is more on relationships where believers may get spiritual knowledge.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Cloudberry vs Boysenberry” (Level 1 with 244 points, a member since May 11, 2009) posted the following:


Christians, during church can you argue against something from the bible?

Let's say you read something in the bible and say to yourself "I don't think that is true, I want to argue that". Can you do that? Can you get with other Christians and say that somethings are just inaccurate in the bible?

If you do that, how will others look at you? Will you be looked at as weird or odd for even questioning the bible?

Additional Details

What's wrong with the question? Scientists do this all the time. They argue points, disprove theories and still move on. That is not negative in any way shape or form.

My question is for Religion. How do they handle something like this?

"Deadeye" so you are saying you have to read the bible cover to cover before you convert? Most of us were children that didn't have much of a choice but and went along with mom and dad.


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Right Place to Get Knowledge (02/17/2014)—(5.)  In a certain sense, believers should only seek spiritual knowledge from within themselves.  In the holy writings, Christian believers are commanded to avoid relationships and situations that compromise, and work against the divine content they receive as part of the church.  Even family, and others in close association may operate as those who  contend against the Gospel, and continually promote sin.  The Internet, social media, television, and the public forum are not dedicated, disciplined, and set apart (we say, sanctified) to serve Christian believers, and using these tools require the same balance, discretion, and maturity as choosing ones friends, and deciding how to interact with ones spouse, schoolmates or co-workers.  Believers all must arrive at the point where they stand entirely upon their own measure of faith from GOD.  All develop discernment whereby they make choices and decisions for companionship and participation.  Through the ministry of Jesus Christ, believers are built up in understanding, and guided by the imparted, indwelling Spirit (called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  A fresh endowment of spirit content from GOD is acquired through baptism that operates upon awareness and self-will within the believer.  Christians must answer many things that are contrary to, and different from, their own spiritual beliefs, cravings, and understandings.  Included are atheist beliefs, Buddhism, the Koran, Greek myths, Hindu, mathematics, occultism, philosophy, politics, popular culture, shamanism, and witchcraft.  Believers may freely examine and study various belief systems, yet, they must be careful to maintain a disciplined grasp upon those things from GOD that provide genuine nourishment of the divine spirit they themselves contain.  See Proverbs 13:  20, Proverbs 22:  4, Luke 14:  25-27, Romans 10:  5-10, 2nd Corinthians 1:  24, 2nd Corinthians 6:  14-18, 2nd Timothy 2:  3-4, 2nd Timothy 3:  1-5 and 1st John 2:  18-29, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:  A sower went out to sow his seed:  and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.  And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.  And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.  And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold.  And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.  And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?  And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God:  but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.  Now the parable is this:  The seed is the word of God.  Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.  They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.  And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.  But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.  (Luke 8:  4-15, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Jesus Authored No Books (05/01/2013); Recognizing True Prophets (05/02/2013); Quoting Scripture to GOD? (04/24/2013); Illusion? (04/25/2013); How To Accept Bible Truth? (04/17/2013); About Preaching the Gospel (04/18/2013); No Contradictions? (01/15/2013); Accomplished in Christ? (01/16/2013); Believing Everything? (11/23/2012); How To Have Conviction (11/24/2012)


“Cloudberry vs Boysenberry”, here are a few points intended for the children of GOD that I can share from my experience:

(1.)  In classroom situations and settings for instruction, many opportunities for discussion and exchange are provided.  Believers freely raise questions, and offer responses that display not only their understandings of various doctrines, policies of the church, and Scripture verses, they also deliver and exchange insights, personal testimonies, and prophetic proclamations.  There are many rules that may apply, and respect is to be maintained throughout.

(2.)  Argument, debate, and private opinions are accounted as useless.  The body and congregation are to welcome only statements that clarify the divine law, sacred duty, the operations of divine spirit, and eternal purpose.  For this reason, many assemblies discourage the use of speaking in tongues and their translation, and interruptions during lessons, particularly sermon presentations.

(3.)  While everyone attending a meeting or session may be a baptized adult, a member of the church in “good standing” who actively participates in the several ministries available, and has met all their obligation to support the church by giving, all believers are not equal, and have not achieved the same levels of responsibility, authority, knowledge, and maturity.  Differences, diversity and imbalance are necessary as a dynamic for the church that provides energy, growth, and movement.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. ( For example, (4.)  Within the church, the process and duty for believers is to first, prepare their Spirit for participation by submitting themselves to GOD in prayer; listen carefully to any presentations that are offered while they are in the gathering place (take nothing for granted, no matter how casual, or offhand it may seem); reflect; then go to GOD for confirmation of sacred truth through prayer, and further study of the holy writings.  In the final stage, one may have to accept and acknowledge correction, and begin to display change as well as resolve to practice according to the new light they have received.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


He that hath knowledge spareth his words:  and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.  Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise:  and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.  (Proverbs 17:  27-28, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC