(10/31/2012) Saved in Childbearing?

      A reader at thoughts.com using the ID “Southern_Grace” made a comment that has challenged me to share as completely and plainly as I can my best, present understandings (see below) that answer the question, how is a woman saved in childbearing? To the extent I am not an evangelist or pastor overseeing a congregation of hundreds or thousands, I demand allegiance, obedience and financial support from no one. Even so, I trust these ideas have authority. I am only another anonymous and unknown Christian writer sharing ideas through the Internet, and what I say is binding upon no one. Nonetheless, where readers here will exercise discernment, they will not be offended in me, and may possess as their own all the divine content in what is written. Honor to GOD.


THE BATTLE AXE: The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012)—Many speak of fear as power, because fear appears capable of replacing logic and reason, and completely overwhelming human self-will. Just as parents must distance themselves from their children in order to correctly exercise authority over them, and properly discharge the many parental duties, GOD must also become known to mankind through their endurance of human experiences that include challenge, hardship, trials, and suffering. Far from being a work intended to destroy, enslave and intimidate mankind, through divine tests all created beings and living creatures are given opportunity to discover the fullness of GOD from within their own being. Many who lack understanding accuse and attack GOD expressing anger, bitterness, fear and hate. In their blindness and darkness of heart, they blaspheme and slander calling GOD a “super bully” because they do not yet rightly know GOD as surpassing all that is in beauty, compassion, goodness and grace. Fear of the Lord that is acquired through the imparted, indwelling Spirit is explained by the Gospel of Jesus Christ that proclaims the eternal love of GOD despite a consuming wrath against sin. Judgment is the final tool for revealing the righteousness of GOD; and even those who will be removed from Creation will first have seen “GOD in action” and in sacred process that displays their own lack of divine content and holy substance as a record of all that they preferred and chose for themselves in place of conformity, obedience, and submission.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2: 8-9, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Begotten not Made (09/08/2012); About False Witness (09/09/2012); Birth Control and Sexism? (03/16/2012); Many Forms of GOD (03/17/2012); What is Worship? (10/18/2010); No Free Will (10/19/2010)


      In the authority of a teacher sent from GOD, one directed to speak as the Holy Spirit gives utterance, the Apostle Paul proclaimed

For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety. (1st Timothy 2: 13-15, King James Version)

      Childbearing comes into view as an extension of Creation. More than this, childbearing pertains to revelation (how, and that GOD is known) as well as salvation (the incarnate operation of GOD in the person of Jesus Christ to restore mankind to right relationship with the Creator). The establishment of existence and the material that is life is exclusively the operation of the same Holy Spirit identified in the generation of heaven and earth. The depth and profound fullness of Creation must be understood as consisting in more than Almighty GOD imposing divine order upon conditions, immaterial substance, and non-matter. There is also the acknowledgment of law; the production and separation of what is and what has never been from nothing that is, has ever been, or ever shall be again; and the diversification and multiplication of what is as various dimensions, elements, forms, and images.

      Childbearing restores a woman to her proper place within godly order through her effecting divine purpose, through her response to the earliest blessing from GOD, and through her sacrificial obedience to law that was proclaimed in the first commandments declared before mankind: Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth (Genesis 1: 22 and 1: 28, KJV). Through their sexual union, man and woman were to increase their own kind to overspread the earth as were all other living creatures. During the development of a child within her womb a female must respond to operations by the Spirit of GOD, and acknowledge her lack of control over the processes of life. Typically, she experiences extreme, sudden, and otherwise unexplainable changes and shifts within her attitudes, body, feelings, mood, sense of wellbeing, her thoughts and sense of security.

      Many women do not accept that GOD should be present within, or operate through their bodies. Some resent being unable to pollute themselves as they see males do; and complain that GOD is biased, hateful toward women, and partial to men. However, her separation as special to GOD is granted every woman through water and blood, and are regularly signaled in menstruation and childbirth. For those in covenant with GOD, when a woman was in her uncleanness she was no longer fit for holy service, and was not to participate in communal worship without first re-dedicating and sanctifying herself through meditation, prayer and washing. As the vessel whereby sin was originally introduced to mankind, women have been given opportunity for almost constant practice of their heartfelt devotion, humility and reverence.
    
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, salvation is not a one-time event, an achievement, or an outcome of purely human works such as childbearing, marriage and other human social behavior, and conduct. The Apostle’s declaration includes the important word “if”, and goes on to identify spiritual conditions, and divine spirit content that must appear within covenant with GOD, and other continuing relationships.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/30/2012) The Fear of GOD

     I may have come to the finish of this work; opposition has risen to dangerous levels.  Readers have been given a reasonable opportunity to grow and share using my work for many years.  In addition to an archive of 150 postings at “Yahoo! Pulse” that are now no longer available, 255 documents previously posted are missing from thoughts.com, including three full-length bible-based books that were shared in serial presentation.  WordPress.com continues to display only some 490 articles.  Even though I used three different Internet sites to post yesterday’s presentation, not one was able to display my documents with all the usual formatting.  It may have been a result of the storm.  Today, I focus on what it means to be GOD-fearing.  Also, there is more on magic and prayers.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Garrett” (Level 2 with 809 points, a member since May 6, 2012) posted the following:


Christians, is it good to be "God-fearing"?

(Mark 12:28-30) 28 Now one of the scribes that had come up and heard them disputing, knowing that he had answered them in a fine way, asked him: “Which commandment is first of all?” 29 Jesus answered: “The first is, ‘Hear, O Israel, Jehovah our God is one Jehovah, 30 and you must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind and with your whole strength.’
It seems I always here people saying "I will raise my kids to be good, god fearing adults" Or something to that extent, telling people it's good to be god fearing.
However if the above passage point's towards saying that is not the right thing.... What is your opinion?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012)—The various forms of magic (e.g., angel magic, candle magic, crystal magic) all allow and introduce (1) deception, lying and manipulation of truth; (2) the influence of sin over self-will, (3) surrender of ones own will in obedience to aggressive and hostile powers outside of oneself, and (4) destructive competition among themselves by beings in hierarchies of authority and dominion.  Traditionally, the focus of witchcraft has been securing beauty, longevity, and control of storms and weather events as well as sexual initiations.  A male witch is called a “sorcerer”; and as heads of covens, the berserks exercise terrible power and specialize in corruption, cruelty, death, deception, massive destruction, wickedness, and violence.  While they are often compared to pimps in prostitution, they are, in fact, off the scale.  The operation of godly prayer is to achieve and bring about change within ones own attitudes, behavior and understanding, and is not intended to gain control over others or permit manipulating the outcome of natural events and social exchanges.   Saying this another way:  Prayer gives full glory, honor and power to GOD over ones own being and substance, and is counter to sin, the influence that may dominate the will of created beings and living creatures that opposes the existence of divinity.  Sin operates upon awareness as denial of divine being, sacred law, and everything that exists as created by GOD.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master:  if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?  Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.  And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts.  And now, I pray you, beseech God that he will be gracious unto us:  this hath been by your means:  will he regard your persons? saith the LORD of hosts.  Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought.  I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.  For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering:  for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.  (Malachi 1:  6-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Christian Modesty (10/15/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012); Binder 13:  Where Is My Fear? (10/10/2011); Awesomeness? (12/19/2010)


     Fear of the Lord (also called “awe” and “reverence”) is an important aspect of full awareness and devotion to GOD, and always appears where there is right relationship between the created and their Creator.  While many seek personal relationship with GOD, there must be a peculiar distance and separation that affirms the majesty and sovereign nature of divine person, and that generates balance, maturity and stability.  Fear of the Lord is counter to arrogance, presumption, pride, and self-promotion.

     Fear—anticipating damage and loss; anxiety; feelings and emotions of being under threat; lack of confidence; uncertainty—is generated from the flesh (appetite, sensation, and mind), where fear of the Lord is produced by an imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD, the Holy Spirit.  The Scriptures declare that “fear is torment” referring to being afraid and scared, conditions that often result from dreams, fantasy, imagination and projection, aspects of mind that lack both sacred content, and material substance.  Another name given “fear of the Lord” is “love”, and perfect love (developed, mature commitment) casts out fleshly fear (see 1st John 4:  8, KJV).

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, fear of the Lord is not expressed by avoidance, denial and running from the things given by GOD, and should characterize response to having access and structuring ones approach to GOD.  Correctly understood as consciousness derived from multiple divine operations, fear of the Lord includes such elements as confession, humility, obedience, respect, surrender, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/29/2012) Magick and Prayers?

      Comparison of magick and prayer is the focus, today, and more is shared on forgiveness of all sin allowing all to go to heaven. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Zia” (Level 1 with 24 points, a member since July 24, 2011) posted the following:
　

Is a prayer equivalent to magick (used in Paganism?)Christians, Muslims, etc use prayer.
Some pagans, like Wiccans, use magick...

Is it the same concept, different name?
　
THE BATTLE AXE: Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012)— All who have been forgiven through Jesus Christ have a special opportunity to approach GOD through fasting, meditation, prayer, service, study and supplication. As those for whom atonement has been made, believers are spoken of as “under the blood of Jesus,” where the blood is the life (i.e., the mechanism that carries being, animation, existence, presence and sacred substance to all the parts of the body). As an incarnate presentation of divinity, Christ determines resurrection for those whose mortality has been completed in covenant with him through faith, obedience and sacrifice. The place intended for mankind is the earth made new, and the Holy City from GOD, the New Jerusalem. Those who were forgiven, yet denied Jesus Christ as their salvation, will have no part with the heirs of eternal life.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. (Acts 8: 5-13, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Double Standard? (10/12/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); On Religious Items (08/29/2012); On Cults (08/30/2012); Thoughts On Faith And Miracles (01/25/2012); Sin Against The Spirit (01/26/2012)

 
      Here are some thoughts I have permission to share as a son of GOD through the provisions of Jesus Christ:

      For mature Christian believers, prayer derives from the indwelling spirit of GOD, and is an operation whereby the Spirit substance within created beings or living creatures asserts agreement and oneness with GOD while also acclaiming the exalted status of divine person. Where such elements as enchantment, idol worship, spell-casting, the use of familiars, and wishing appear, self-will operates to increase autonomy, independence and power without acknowledgment of GOD. While there are rejection of the flesh (e.g., appetite, sensation), the mind (e.g., desire, logic, reason) and the natural world, demigods and false gods are appealed to and reverenced indicating the presence and dominance of sin.

      Magick conforms to peculiar laws and regularities, as do divine healing and miracles. However, the function and purpose of magic typically does not include revelation of sacred person, fulfillment of spiritual purposes, and the accomplish of divine will. Where there is genuine manifestation of truth from GOD, each event or occurrence must amplify and clarify the things already documented as Scripture. Thus—despite marvels and wonders—all are able to see the operation of GOD among mankind as displaying consistency, integrity, righteousness, soundness, and utility. The practice of magick may include incantations (calling spirits into presence), petitions (making requests) and praise (declarations to acknowledge authority and power); however, many dimensions of godly prayer do not appear. Included are such elements as acknowledgment, confession of sin, dispelling fear, forgiveness, intercession, repentance, re-dedication, and supplication (bending to divine will).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the transformation of consciousness that one must undergo to accomplish full submission to GOD begins at being “born again”, and must go forward as growth and learning that entails multiple changes of ones inner nature. While death and rebirth are instantaneous arriving at complete trust and understanding is gradual. Such elements as fellowship in worship assemblies, practice of sacraments, study of Scriptures and private prayer are major mechanisms for supplying believers with both a new mental awareness, and new spirit content.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/28/2012) Does Everyone Go To Heaven?

     Forgiveness of all sins, the sacred process of salvation, and whether all go to heaven are topics, today. Also, there is more on women ordained to minister. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Chase” (Level 1 with zero points, a member since July 5, 2012) posted the following:


If all sins are forgiven, does everyone go to Heaven?

Jesus died for everyone, for ALL their sins to be forgiven. Does that mean we all go to heaven? Since everyone is cleansed of their sin.


THE BATTLE AXE: Women Ordained to Minister? (10/27/2012)—In the Old Testament, Huldah the prophetess lived in the second quarter of Jerusalem, and did not have ongoing access to either the king’s palace or the Temple located within Zion. New Testament models of consecrated service include the examples of the prophet Simeon, and the prophetess Anna. In devotion to GOD, Anna never left holy ground by leaving the Temple, and lived as a widow in continual fasting, prayer, and proclaiming testimony from GOD. Simeon was not a priest or Levite, yet, he also was sanctified, and continued as a constant presence among those of the Temple community. As with prophets, virgins and widows of the Mosaic covenant, their separation followed a spiritual event that served as their being “called”, and was confirmed by the fulfillment of foretold events that were to occur as signs. Many, today, disregard and ignore the requirement of being spiritually called and then affirmed through signs. Ministry is held to be a professional occupation, or a vocation (hobby), and one is qualified through academic examination, employment history, licensing, and self-selection. The social overlay upon the spiritual process of the church demands a high level of genuine discernment by all who seek to share in congregation. Ambition and desire for status are not generated or produced by the Holy Spirit. Where believers continue to need acknowledgment and praise from family, from peers, from others, or even from GOD, this contends against the assurances of faith. The pair, Aquila and Priscilla, who traveled with the Apostle Paul and sponsored a church within their home, served with no greater title and office than “helpers in Christ Jesus.” Given that the commission of those who serve may be known only to GOD (and through GOD by discernment of the Holy Spirit) believers are often denied by those having the celebrity of institutional identity. Several women are noted in the Scripture who supported the ministry of Jesus by their own ministry of giving. Apart from self-employed women (usually harlots), those having small businesses, and widows, there were relatively few independent women having financial means, and who managed property and large households. The New Testament contrast of Mary and Martha portrays the difference between passive and active service, intimate and impersonal relationship. Admonitions appear against “ever learning and never coming into the knowledge of the truth;” and believers are cautioned that “faith without works is dead.” As a result many women are now actively serving as evangelists, fundraisers, mothers over the church, school teachers, and “godmothers” who conduct new believers through preparation for baptism or confirmation. It remains that, exclusive and single-minded commitment of their lives to Christ appears most completely and correctly achieved today only by those women that serve as nuns. The threefold challenge to overcome the various aspects of the flesh, the material world, and the social milieu make it that every woman must prayerfully examine the divine dispensations of marriage, homemaking, and the promise written in Scripture that a woman shall be saved through childbearing.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. (1st John 3: 4-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Gospel not Logical? (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012); Chances for Change (09/15/2012); What He Died For (09/14/2012); Father Forgive (09/06/2012); Binder 35: Whom The Lord Loveth (11/01/2011); Forgiveness? (12/07/2010)

      
     Here are some answers shared among mature Christian believers:
      
     Forgiveness is only one aspect of the full work in the sacred process of salvation. A sinner seeking recovery to GOD must cooperate with, and yield to operations by the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). In addition to forgiveness there must be atonement, propitiation for sin, repentance, rebirth, regeneration and sanctification. Profound and involuntary change must occur in the life that goes beyond attitude, behavior, conduct and speech. Saying this another way: Once you are “born again” you must “grow up again;” encountering the “growing pains” of spiritual transformation while still in a material, nonspiritual and social world.
      
     New knowledge, information and understanding are important for making clear to others the changes they see occurring in the life of a believer. However, arguing, debate, logic and intellectual reasoning are not the actual substance that is to be shared with others. The believer demonstrates and displays to others a sacred content they otherwise would never be allowed to access or see. Included are faithfulness, godliness, holiness, humility, longsuffering, purpose, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

      Forgiveness does not remove defilement of body, mind, spirit and human will within created beings and living creatures. The corruption of divine substance must be halted and reversed. Forgiveness alone does not correct what and who a person has become through the influence of sin. The benefit of forgiveness appears as a counterweight provided in evaluation and judgment against sinful deeds as well as in the continuance of ones correct standing and position within relationship.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, just as the Scriptures describe both a first and second death, a first and second resurrection, there are a first and second judgment. The first judgment focuses upon ones sacred content, and is followed by destruction in the lake of fire of all those lacking the substance of GOD. The second judgment examines the deeds of all those from the earth who will then be immortal and incorruptible.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/27/2012) Women Ordained to Minister?

      Devotion and the service of women in the church are topics with more on the crux of the matter regarding modern social legislation. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Pastor Ken” (Level 1 with 180 points, a member since April 8, 2012) posted the following:



A woman ordained minister?

What could they do that is legal according to the bible? Would they even need to be ordained in the 1st palce? Only God ordains...

Additional Details

A woman with a paper that shes ordained is wrong isnt it?



THE BATTLE AXE: The Crux of the Matter (10/26/2012)—Given that law must be fundamental, and must serve as the anchor and base whereby exchange, interaction and continuing relationships are maintained, law is published and put into place before decision-making and opportunities for thought and action. Law proclaims and reveals probable consequences and outcomes of choices. Where current presentations of public issues through debate and media events repeatedly fail is in that they speculate or speak about the law, while not declaring the law. Lacking the authority of the law, the statements made are often misdirected, uninformed, and weak. Examples are seen in recent media campaigns to promote legislation in support of gambling initiatives in nearby Maryland that appeal to voters in terms of benefits to education, employment, and economic growth. Television ads have been broadcast featuring retired educators, government officials, and well-known athletes. None have raised the issues of social and spiritual corruption, the association of gambling with increased use of alcohol, or the influx of prostitution. There has been no mention of the impact upon the police burden (e.g., manpower, security, supervision of traffic, etc.). More than this, there seems to be no detailed, realistic and reliable public information on how both a gambling business and its host community become solvent and stable. The persistence of “hidden” and “unexposed” process is a sure sign that there will be unanticipated and unintended outcomes. An illustration of what results when a segment of a nation’s population denies that it must be accountable to law has been seen in the violence by drug cartels of Mexico that execute the entire family of drug enforcement officers. Their goal is not to control or replace the present government so much as to eliminate all law. Among men there are bad, oppressive and unfair laws; however, these do not come from GOD, and are not built upon precepts and principles for enduring productive relationships, and eternal life.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. (Revelation 2: 18-23, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Some to Rule? (03/31/2012); Birth Control and Sexism? (03/16/2012); Many Forms of GOD? (03/17/2012); Binder 28: Purity (10/25/2011)



      Here are some ideas that are shared among the mature sons and daughters of GOD through Jesus Christ:

      In accordance with the Scriptures, consecration for sacred service that pertains to atonement for sin was to meet a number of peculiar specifications. Separation, cleansing and anointing were essential as were considerations of birth order, priestly inheritance, maturity, stamina, and various levels of emotional and psychological strength needed for the slaughter of livestock. The physical limitations of women included their regular cycle to remove unfertilized eggs that would otherwise decay, and become poisons within their bodies. Also, the problems attending childbearing and birth limited the participation of women in all social and spiritual service. Generally, regardless of ones gender, an issue of bodily fluids, and certainly of blood, made one unclean, that is, unfit for sacred service and full participation within the community of believers.

      In the dispensation of the Gospel, women are not denied discipleship, and their function and service includes operating as prophetess and saint. Like women of the Old Testament, that include the judge Deborah, women often were the strength that nourished the bonds maintaining groups in faith. Nevertheless, the official titles, and division of labor for women within the assembly and community of believers do not include bishop, deacon, teacher, and apostle. Given the oneness of man and wife before GOD, many understand that both the bishop and his wife occupied the bishopric; and both were anointed in single service. Their specific duties, functions and works were different, even according to gender; however, the efforts of one always complemented and completed the efforts of the other.

      All believers have place in the work of spreading the Gospel, however, all are not to preach from the pulpit, teach in formal settings, or do anything other than display the Spirit of Christ in their daily living and routines of life. In their roles as wives and mothers, women are granted full authority to operate in the dictates of their faith that include humility, obedience, and unselfishness.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, in the dispensation from Christ, neither women nor children are denied opportunities to serve, share and express themselves in spiritual devotion to GOD. Where problems arise, there are usually worldly issues of envy, manipulation, presumption, pride, and social prestige. Divine authority and holy presence are not discerned.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/26/2012) The Crux of the Matter

      Today, I share some ideas that came to me with disturbing power as I was reflecting upon current efforts to establish legislation on marriage equality, and the many hidden meanings and invisible sacred purposes of divine law. There is no Battle Axe presentation:


　
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Can the rush grow up without mire? can the flag grow without water? Whilst it is yet in his greenness, and not cut down, it withereth before any other herb. So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite’s hope shall perish: Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider’s web. He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure. (Job 8: 11-15, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012); Justice Comes By Love? (10/01/2012); A Daily Revelation? (10/02/2012); Wrong To Love? (08/17/2012); The Young Less Religious (08/18/2012); Marriage and Civil Law (08/14/2012); Apostasy Forgiven? (08/15/2012); Faith Establishes Law (03/10/2012); Support For The Bible (03/11/2012)


The crux of the matter:

     Many created beings and living creatures see all law and judgment as arbitrary overlays upon existence. They hold that law, law enforcement (policing) and judgment are not defining elements that make us what, and who we are. In their view, all would be as well off, if not better, without law. Knowledge provided through the law may be dismissed and disregarded, and action commanded by the law may be ignored, refused and left undone. Since law may be broken, corrupted, unknown and violated, law cannot be binding, and is, therefore, superfluous and unnecessary.

     The present referendums and other legislative initiatives to establish “marriage equality,” should be understood as dangerous, because they do not completely and correctly expose the underlying issues regarding the place of GOD in human culture, law, and daily living. To legislate that GOD has no place in determining the identity, process and substance of mankind, is to dismiss all divine law.

     Were they asked to vote that (1) Mankind is never again to acknowledge Almighty GOD as the source of law for life, (2) Mankind is capable of creating righteous laws that can guide human behavior and conduct, and correctly meet the broad range of requirements for human life (e.g., emotional, psychological and spiritual needs) without appealing to GOD for correction and supervision, and (3) issues of civil right, parity and participation are exclusively within the domain of humankind, citizens of enlightened states would realize immediately, the thrust against GOD is not coming from GOD, nor from those in submission to GOD as believers.

     The wet cannot be separated from the water: There are many unspoken arguments that GOD is not to be the sole source of law. That divine law does not offer sufficient benefit. That the nature of divine law is destructive; such law, by existing at all, accuses and condemns. That there is to be no penalty for denial of divine law. That divine law is intrusion and meddling by GOD. That the allowances and privileges men grant to themselves and to one another cannot be canceled, nullified, or removed except by consensual human legislation. That we are correct to pursue the ideal of perfect self-government called “anarchy.” That human law need make no provision for divine promise.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, many of the articles above were advanced and practiced during the French Revolution, and go back to the rebellion in Heaven. The wonderful counsel of GOD pertains to life, death, error and truth. None may insist with integrity that Church and State address completely distinct, and separate matters, or that men and women trained to serve as impartial, secular “machines,” properly recognize and respond to the spirit content within life issues.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/25/2012) Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws

     Christian maturity, covenant, and law are topics, today, with more on escaping racism. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Ian” (Level 1 with 37 points, a member since September 30, 2012) posted the following:


Why do most Christians ignore God’s laws?


THE BATTLE AXE: Escape from Racism (10/24/2012)— Because they identify racism with social realities, many fail to recognize that racism is a spiritual problem that derives from sin, an influence that dominates the will of created beings and living creatures, and that opposes the divine existence of GOD. Despite accounts from the Bible and The Book of Mormon, bias, discrimination, prejudice and racism (called being a respecter of persons in Scripture) are forms of unrighteous judgment, and therefore are disgusting and hateful to GOD. Becoming free of racism within others as well as from within oneself, requires power that comes only from GOD. At no time in the history of mankind has the righteousness of GOD been identified as the result of skin color, and ethnic origin. Yet, condemnation, and the curse of GOD against sin have been promoted as portrayed through race. Mature believers from every ethnic origin now trust that Jesus Christ has broken-off every curse that may have come through earlier forms of the law. In many settings where racism now appears, doctrinal differences were first at issue; and racism emerged later as the corruption of sacred truth. While originally competition, conflict, division and schism may have begun through the Devil, racism appears maintained primarily through operation of the world system. There, contrary to the holy writings and promptings by the Spirit of GOD, mankind insists upon customs and traditions that amplify racial differences, and that enlarge human error. Clearly the Scriptures teach us that there are divine standards for holy service, for entering the presence of GOD, and for obtaining divine favor. As demonstrated by the account of Abel and Cain (sons of Adam), every sacrifice is not answered with holy fire confirming acceptable worship, and commanded obedience. Standards for the people of GOD, and genuine priesthood after the things in heaven, have been demonstrated through Jesus Christ, the Incarnate person of GOD. In Scripture, class differences began among the sons of Adam very early on the basis of such elements as prowess in hunting (Nimrod). Later, ethnic discrimination appears against the Jews (who were herdsmen, keepers of livestock), that apparently began in Egypt on the basis of occupation. The Jews were not chosen as a divine instrument to promote their ethnicity, their economic productivity, or any racial differences. Nor were the Jews taken into covenant to perpetuate racial conflict. Even so, wherever the people in the covenant of Moses have gone in Diaspora, there have been problems that result because they must separate (i.e., be cleansed and set apart) to serve Almighty GOD. Like many contemporary Jews, some Christians account themselves socially acceptable and involved in the great issues of modern society. However, they too have a duty to be “a peculiar people,” and should answer sanctification, the operation of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD whereby a believer is set apart to be further made fit for eternal life.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons; Specially the day that thou stoodest before the Lord thy God in Horeb, when the Lord said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. (Deuteronomy 4: 5-10, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Faith Establishes Law (03/10/2012); Support For The Bible (03/11/2012); Dispatch 42: Unprofitable Servants (09/21/2011); Why Disobey? (03/18/2011); Two Opinions? (03/19/2011); To Do His Will? (01/31/2011); To Get Wisdom? (02/01/2011)

    
     Until they are mature, created beings and living creatures do not fully grasp the divine realities of law from GOD. While the law is to make Almighty GOD, who is nonmaterial and spirit both known and visible, there are many other sacred operations and purposes accomplished through the law that at first cannot be seen, and understood. The law must respond to many subtle points (barely visible differences; fine details), and goes beyond attitudes, behavior, and conduct of the living. Law is a display of divine will, thus, in this sense, the law itself is invisible; and may only be “seen” after being assimilated, and internalized. Do you see what I mean?
    
     When still developing, many Christians acknowledge the covenant of Moses (called “the law” in Scripture) as an historical foundation for Christian belief. However, they mistakenly understand the covenant as having been ended by Jesus, rather than transformed, improved, and extended. These incorrectly apply the critiques that identify the shortcomings of the Mosaic covenant, and its system of animal sacrifices for atonement, and propitiation of sin. In addition to condemning the rites and ceremonies from the Tabernacle and Temple, many condemn all the civil law, ordinances, statutes and testimonies of Israel, pointing to them as the cause of the failures and sins of the people. More than this, they do not yet comprehend the various connections among faith, forgiveness, humility, judgment, love, obedience, and righteousness.
    
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, when lacking balance and depth of understanding, many are prone to regard salvation as a free gift that demands no action, or change on the part of believers. While they are correct that, as with the Creation of mankind, salvation is an operation of divine person, and that believers have no active part or “say” in the sacred process; it remains, believers must respond to various disciplines and standards for fellowship within the body of Christ. All believers do not preach or sing in the choir, yet, all are given the “work” of spreading the Gospel through their routines of daily living.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/24/2012) Escape from Racism

      Topics today include racism, salvation and systems of truth. Also, there is more on love in Christ. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer, using the ID “Leveret” (Level 1 with 85 points, a member since October 23, 2012) posted the following:


How to become less racist?

I’m like one of the most racist people. And I hate it. I always catch myself making racist jokes and comments. But the worst thing is, I think it too. I’ve always lived in a sheltered small town. Really just full of rednecks. When I was 4 we went to visit family in Denver, and I asked my mom why that man was so dirty. She told me about this, and he shook his head and said “Sheltered white girl”. I don’t remember, but my extremely racist family jokes about it all the time. All my friends are like this, and so is my whole family. My dad, grandpa, uncles, and my boyfriend all think that America was better off segregated. Hell, my boyfriend has a giant rebel flag hanging on his wall. And my cousin has KKK wicked small tattooed on his lower abs. He’s not in the KKK, so idrk why he has that, but it’s just the meaning. And my mom has a tshirt that says “White America”. I love my family and boyfriend with all my heart, but I can’t help but feel almost brain washed. Everytime I see a colored person, I get nervous and walk with my head down. Then with eveyr other race I just think about it. I feel mostly racist against colored people. And I want to stop. I’ve been trying to cut down on racist comments, but it’s really just how I think. How can I become more open minded? Thank you.


THE BATTLE AXE: Love in Christ (10/23/2012)—It is love to desire life, and right relationship with GOD for others as well as for oneself. Thus, by accepting accountability, obeying, and thoroughly performing the duty he was given Jesus demonstrated three of the highest expressions of love. As a living purpose, love shapes existence and is expressed as a goal to add value for, or unselfishly benefit another. Saying this a different way, love generates being, and life. Love often requires one set aside their own pleasure, and self-will to carry out and perform the will of another. Believers seek to apply the example of Jesus in all their relationships. This includes marriage, parenting, friendship, workplace behavior and fellowship in the church. Having the shared work of spreading his gospel, the followers of Jesus replace complaining, criticism, hostility and insults with encouragement, giving, and help to accomplish the mission.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6: 7-10, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Still the “Chosen”? (03/19/2012); GOD Does Exist (03/20/2012); The First Jews (02/20/2012); Upon This Rock (02/21/2012); The Cause Of Unrest (01/30/2012); The Need For GOD (01/31/2012); Dr. King (Poem 1) 08/27/2011; Lip Service? (03/01/2011); To Give a Life? (03/02/2011); Mankind’s World? (11/20/2010); For Our Sins? (11/21/2010)



     Thanks for your question; here’s what I may share at this time:

     For many mature Christian believers, the challenge to escape from racism is understood as the challenge to escape from “the world.” The major systems that determine our life values (and what we believe to be true/false, real/unreal, right/wrong, good/bad) include the flesh, the world, the Devil, and GOD. As we learn and grow from childhood, we come under the influence of all these systems; and, for many, life is a mix of beliefs, practices and standards generated by these four. Salvation and escape from the world through Jesus Christ involves allowing a Spirit sent from GOD to establish spiritual change that develops and is expressed by growth and learning.

      The flesh dominates action and thought as appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and mind (e.g., dreams, fantasy, imagination, recall). The world (e.g., culture, family, peers, society) dominates through such elements as shared education, fashion, history, language, names for things, and trade. The earth is believed created of GOD, however, the world is created by mankind to exchange and share resources for survival. By the Devil is understood all those created beings and living creatures in the earth realm that come under the influence of sin, that exalt self-will, and that oppose or resist the will of GOD. Included may be angels, animals and human beings.
    
     Where men and women come under the influence of GOD their awareness is transformed to continually address divine will. In addition to discernment (ability to correctly recognize the spirit content of accounts, events, experiences and messages) believers gradually gain certainty, confidence and a broad set of specific convictions, desires, duties, and expectations (i.e., hope) spoken of as an inheritance.
    
      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the substance of racism is anger, distrust, fear and hate, while the substance of fidelity, love and respect is always the Spirit of GOD. The duty to love carries one beyond the usual feelings of attraction, romance and self-interest. Giving, helping, sharing and unselfishness become “natural” and “normal”. Benefit to others, consideration, kindness and godly humility make “old” situations and relationships have “newness”. This is why Christian believers are called “born again”, “reborn” and “new creatures in Christ”.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/23/2012) Love in Christ

      The love of Christ, and more on Caesarea Philippi are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Monday” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since October 22, 2012) posted the following:


What is love in Christ all about?


THE BATTLE AXE: Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012)—The Jews of Caesarea were “lost” as children of GOD, because many were Hellenized, and assimilated themselves adopting the fashions and mannerisms of the Greeks, who had dominated that region. When Jesus began to establish his kingdom in the earth, Caesarea was an important seat of Roman government. Some encyclopedias identify the region as having been an early center for worship of the demi-god Pan. Later, Herod the Great erected a white marble temple there in honor of his patron (c. 20 BC). The Roman Emperor Vespasian, during the First Jewish–Roman War is reported as having rested his troops at Caesarea Philippi in July 67 AD. At that time, games were held there over a period of 20 days before the Romans advanced on Tiberias to crush the Jewish resistance in Galilee. In 361 AD, the Byzantine Emperor of the Roman Empire, Julian the Apostate, instigated a religious reformation whereby Julian supported the restoration of Hellenic paganism as the state religion in order to reestablish the former grandeur, and strength of the Empire. Supposedly, Julian commanded that all Christian symbols be removed, including a statue of Christ that had been erected by a woman whom Jesus miraculously healed from an issue of blood. A statue of Julian was to be put in its place. However, a violent fire fell from heaven that removed the head and neck of the statue; and it was allowed to remain standing in that condition.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. (Mark 12: 28-33, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Justice Comes by Love? (10/01/2012); A Daily Revelation? (10/02/2012); Wrong To Love? (08/17/2012); The Young Less Religious (08/18/2012); Jealous, Not Crazy (08/10/2012); Unconditional Love (03/28/2012); On Properly Setting Our Sights (03/29/2012); Girdle 28: Grounded in Love (12/13/2011)


      There are many important answers to your question. Here are some that have been shared with me:

      Almighty GOD appeared to mankind in the person of Jesus Christ, as if an ordinary human being, in order to bridge the huge gap in communication and understanding that otherwise exists between created beings and their Creator. In human form, GOD demonstrated a love to mankind that centered in (1) the fulfillment of covenants, proclamations, promises, and prophecies; (2) clarification of the divine law as a display of sacred person; (3) personal sacrifice and the putting aside of self-will to carry out divine will (i.e., obedience) as well as sharing an inheritance of eternal life, and faith.

      Love as shown in Christ is more than simply an array of emotions and feelings such as affection, attraction, concern, pity, and sexual desire. Rightly understood, love is a sacred purpose, and a spirit substance that is part of the makeup of divinity. Love is therefore inseparable from such other sacred content as being, faith, holiness, joy, truth, wisdom and wrath against sin. (Where you find one, all the others appear also.)

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the endowment of love deposited within mankind becomes defiled and diminished through sin, an influence upon the will of created beings and living creatures that opposes our continued existence. Through the life, death, resurrection, and ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ, mankind may be “born again” and receive a fresh deposit of will that properly recognizes and resists sin. As new creatures carrying the divine nature, men and women achieve relationships founded upon unselfishness.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/22/2012) Caesarea Philippi

      The significance in sacred history of Caesarea Philippi is the focus, today, along with more on spirit matter. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “abc123” (Level 2 with 305 points, a member since April 25, 2012) posted the following:


What is the meaning in the gospel story 'Caesarea Philippi'?

What is the meaning in the story and why is the story important to Christians?

Additional Details

Dude I'm not talking about the place


THE BATTLE AXE: Spirit Matter (10/21/2012)—While common sense, logic and reason may influence and guide human will, these are products of carnal being. They are nonmaterial in their nature, yet, these do not consist of spirit matter. There is no bad or wicked spirit matter, and it is not spirit matter that causes and encourages sin. Unclean spirits are those angelic beings defiled and weakened in their will through sin. In Scripture, evil is the reversal of circumstances, the sudden overturning of order, and the widespread damage and loss we know as calamity, disaster, and catastrophe. GOD may create evil; however, GOD does not create sin. Almighty GOD is not a spirit-being as those who are created inhabitants of heaven; neither are Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. The GODhead is comprised of spirit-persons, rather than spirit-beings. The divine spirit-persons are distinguished primarily by their functions instead of their spirit content, or form. While Christ as the Messiah and Son of GOD displays a human form, he exists within the GODhead in the oneness of sanctified spirit matter.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. (Acts 15: 4-11, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: What He Died For (09/14/2012); Chances for Change (09/15/2012); Still the “Chosen”? (03/19/2012); GOD Does Exist (03/20/2012); Upon This Rock (02/22/2012); Why Only Luke? (02/23/2012); On The Messiah (02/19/2012)

      
     The way you have worded your questions only identifies a place, and is no different than if you had asked, What happened in Jerusalem? Many important things happened there that signaled the operation and presence of GOD among mankind. In addition to accounts of apostles (Paul and Silas) being delivered from earthquakes and imprisonment at Caesarea (Acts 16, KJV), Gentiles (Cornelius, a Roman soldier, and his household) first received the Holy Spirit there (Acts 10, KJV). It was at Caesarea, Jesus foretold his own death and resurrection (Matthew 16:21-28; Mark 8:31-38;9:1; Luke 9:22-27, KJV). Also, it was at Caesarea during what is called “the Confession of Peter,” that Jesus acknowledged the operation of an imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD (in Simon Peter), after challenging his apostles, Who do men say that I am? Jesus then revealed that the nature and process of his church would proceed from that same Holy Spirit.
      
     By the time Jesus began his ministry, the issue of identifying the Messiah prophesied within the holy writings had become an element in popular culture as well as sacred tradition among the Jews that directed their attention to divine restoration of property rights, and the patterns of material inheritance established through the prophets, Moses and Joshua. With this in view, many expected some one of the ancient prophets to reappear signaling renewal of direct government of the covenant people by GOD. As the sign from GOD assuring the reality and truth of Messiah’s advent, such men as Elijah, Jeremiah and Isaiah were expected to herald his arrival. Jesus explained that John the Baptist—the first prophet to appear among the Jews in over four hundred years—was the awaited sign. Before Jesus was anointed during his baptism by John the Baptist, many took John to be the long awaited Messiah.
      
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, until the falling of the Holy Spirit in the home of Cornelius authenticated by Peter, the church of Jesus Christ was made up entirely of Jews, and those who continued to acknowledge the authority, ceremonies and practices of the Temple community.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/21/2012) Spirit Matter

      The human spirit, self-will and the substance of divinity are topics, today.


THE BATTLE AXE: The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012)—In the Holy Bible, various mechanisms of the flesh are labeled “the carnal mind” (see Romans 8, KJV). Such features as appetite, emotion, and passion may activate the mind, and human self-will; also, spirit within the living may trigger responses by the self-will. However, human self-will is limited in its power to move the inborn spirit, or to control the elements of the flesh. Thus, the will may initiate a series of actions to satisfy hunger or thirst, yet one cannot eliminate bodily needs simply by focusing their will without also taking action directed by thought. The spirit often stirs the will to physical action that the body and mind are unable to execute. Rightly understood, the carnal mind is enmity against divine will in the sense that, the carnal mind has not been designed to acknowledge and obey divine will. So to speak, the carnal mind—and the carnal man—are not equipped to obey Almighty GOD perfectly, even where self-will urges them to do so. Human self-will (for want of a better word, “endowed-will”) is often believed the same in substance as divine will (“source-will”), and only different in degree. The Gospel of Jesus Christ favors the idea that conflict between endowed-will in humankind against source-will within divine person result from differences in spirit. Human will cannot generate or produce divine will; nor can human spirit generate or produce divine spirit. Through the ministry of Jesus, mankind is now offered an added endowment of divine spirit, (called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy). The substance of divine person is imparted as a living presence to indwell the born-again believer.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. (Revelation 22: 8-18, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); The Gender of Angels? (10/09/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Does GOD Feel? (10/05/2012)

    
     Mature Christian believers generally accept the doctrine that GOD is a spirit, and we must worship him in spirit and in truth (John 4: 22-24, KJV). Divine being is manifest, or made known and visible through spirit matter. While spirit matter cannot be described as having dimension, form, mass and shape, Almighty GOD has revealed many truths that allow created beings and living creatures to know the makeup and substance of Divine Person. Because material substance, and objects encountered in time and space appeal to aspects of awareness and self-will in created beings (such as appetite, sensation and imagination), living creatures do not easily recognize and respond to spirit matter. Spirit matter is acknowledged and discovered by practicing discernment, that is, using things with clear spirit content as standards for comparing, contrasting, and examining any other things promoted as also being spiritual in nature, or containing spirit substance.

      Each angelic and human being contains a portion of spirit matter that has been put forth from GOD, and that, in fact, is GOD. Animals, insects, and creatures spoken into existence appear as configurations of “word”; and word is spirit matter directed as “breath” or utterance. The holy scriptures convey spirit matter engaging human consciousness as word. While blood is material, blood conveys spirit matter that is life. Animation, existence, life and presence are dynamic effects of spirit matter. Spirit-beings, such as the angels, the sacred beasts of heaven, and the 24 elders, are created and put forth by Almighty GOD, and do not encompass and include the same fullness of spirit matter as the Creator. Divine being is the only source for spirit matter, and for all existence.

      The spirit matter of GOD, the elements or features that make up sacred person includes faith, forgiveness, grace, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, truth, will, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Each consists entirely of unique spirit matter. Therefore, holiness is comprised of holiness, love of only love, and righteousness is purely of righteousness. As divine substance, this spirit matter is inseparable (where one is found, all appear); and divine spirit matter (also called “divinity”) is found in full scale and boundless proportion only within the Oneness that is GOD.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the endowment of spirit matter imparted to the holy angels at Creation cannot be increased. Presently, mankind may be re-directed to GOD by added deposits of spirit matter; however, once mankind is sealed in spirit, they will be fixed in their spirit matter as are the angels.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/20/2012) The Spirit is Willing

      Vigilance against sin is the topic, today, along with more on why there was warfare against Canaan. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Jamaica” (Level 1 with 28 points, a member since September 25, 2012) posted the following:


What do they mean when they say 'the soul is willing but the flesh is weak'?

The Bible often uses a figure of speech to describe the outcome of things and certain events that went on in the past and are going on right now. So what does it mean when they say your 'soul is willing but' your 'flesh is weak'? Please answer me that.


THE BATTLE AXE: Why Did the Judges Fight? (10/19/2012)—Many of those who left Egypt with Moses were proud, selfish and unspiritual. To them, the conflict to gain the promised land was purely a human struggle for property and wealth that depended solely upon desire, desperation and fear. Telling their story is not the purpose of Scripture. Rightly understood, the holy writings focus entirely upon the workings of Almighty GOD upon the earth, through mankind. During the 40 years that GOD lead the covenant people through undeveloped areas and uninhabited wasteland, GOD destroyed every man who had left Egypt, pledged themselves in covenant, and then disobeyed and rebelled. Only Joshua and Caleb, two who were sent to explore the land as spies, and the offspring of those who left Egypt actually set foot in, and established their own homes within the promised land. Even Moses was denied. Later, many of the tribes made treaties and agreed to receive tribute from the enemies of GOD. They did not completely expel those who had broken covenant from the land as they had been commanded. As a result GOD allowed his enemies to continue as the enemies of Israel both surrounding and within the borders of their homeland (see, for example, Joshua 15: 63, Joshua 17: 12-13, Joshua 22: 13 and Judges 1: 21-33, KJV).


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26: 40-42, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirit by Measure (09/22/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Binder 15: Even From Everlasting (10/12/2011); Will in Heaven? (03/03/2011); Jephthah’s Oath? (03/04/2011)


      Here are some ideas Christ has been willing to share among his followers:

      During the night before Jesus was arrested and crucified, he cautioned the apostles to be prayerful and vigilant at all times. They were to stay alert, and recognize when they were being lead into peculiar situations that would challenge, and test the depth of their commitment and understanding. Until the falling of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, the primary tool given to mankind to make sin known and visible had been various forms of divine law. Law was “given a human face” through mechanisms that included the priesthood by heads of families (Patriarchs such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac), the covenant of Moses, the system of judges (captains over 10’s, 20’s, 50’s, 100’s, 1000’s), and a line of kings. Jesus Christ provided in the flesh a perfect and complete presentation of the righteousness and sacred spirit that are conveyed to mankind through the divine law.

      Sin was first discovered among the holy angels. However, sin is not a spirit-being, is not spirit matter, and does not operate upon living spirit. Sin is not a carnal, material, or physical thing; and sin has no dimension (e.g., height, length, shape, size, weight) or substance (e.g., matter, particles, stuff, etc.). Nevertheless sin has direction, effect, and presence. We could say, “sin is nothing”; yet, contrary to intelligence, logic, and reason, sin may dominate the will of created beings and living creatures. Sin is not created by GOD, or by the living. Sin does not obey divine will; neither is the will of GOD subject to sin. Sin opposes the existence of GOD, of divine Creation, of divine law, of eternal life, and of all that is. Apart from awareness generated from GOD, created beings and living creatures cannot detect sin as foreign and separate from ones own being; and repeatedly obedience to sin is embraced as natural and normal.

      In their creation, the holy angels were supplied with the total measure of authority, knowledge and spirit that they could receive throughout their continuance. (The angels are neither mortal nor immortal, and complete their existence only by immersion in holy fire.) In the creation of humans, divine spirit was imparted as a “breath of life.” While the holy angels do not acquire knowledge by experience as humans (i.e., learn and grow), they can be influenced by one another, and by mankind. Through Jesus Christ, provision has been made that mankind may receive additional deposits of Spirit that enable discernment of, and resistance to sin.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the flesh dominates human awareness as appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, craving for sex), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) and mind (e.g., desire, fantasy, imagination). As events that operate in time, the elements of flesh “come and go.” Thus, the weakness of the flesh includes exhaustion, immaturity, instability, malnutrition, and mortality.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/19/2012) Why Did The Judges Fight?

     Blood, covenant, judgment and war are topics, today, along with more on the meaning of childlike faith.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “SIMON” (Level 3 with 1,631 points, a member since January 11, 2012) posted the following:


Why did the Judges have to fight the Canaanites ?

Was it Joshua Ch24;vs1 and what significance does Exodus Ch33;vs20 have on mental health ?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Childlike Faith (10/18/2012)—Christian believers are often spoken of as if they were children.  For example, the broad dependence of children upon adults for health, nourishment, protection and shelter is used to depict rebirth, redemption and salvation.  Believers are sons and daughters of GOD, the children of GOD, through adoption of the Holy Spirit.  As such, their legitimacy may not be challenged or questioned, they have legal standing,  and they must answer to various levels of limited accountability.  Language is used whereby the operation of divine grace is spoken of as a free gift, an inheritance, and as unearned reward.  Also, being “children” the people of GOD are described as forward-looking, (having expectation, futurity, hope, and joy), and as teachable.  All continually receive chastisement and correction, and routinely display gratitude, humility, obedience, patience, unity, and zeal.  Dead to sin, yet alive to GOD through Jesus Christ, believers are also spoken of as new creatures, because they continually experience the things of GOD having a sense of amazement, awe, newness and wonder.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Hear, O Israel:  Thou art to pass over Jordan this day, to go in to possess nations greater and mightier than thyself, cities great and fenced up to heaven,  A people great and tall, the children of the Anakims, whom thou knowest, and of whom thou hast heard say, Who can stand before the children of Anak!  Understand therefore this day, that the LORD thy God is he which goeth over before thee; as a consuming fire he shall destroy them, and he shall bring them down before thy face:  so shalt thou drive them out, and destroy them quickly, as the LORD hath said unto thee.  Speak not thou in thine heart, after that the LORD thy God hath cast them out from before thee, saying, For my righteousness the LORD hath brought me in to possess this land:  but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD doth drive them out from before thee.  Not for thy righteousness, or for the uprightness of thine heart, dost thou go to possess their land:  but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee, and that he may perform the word which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  Understand therefore, that the LORD thy God giveth thee not this good land to possess it for thy righteousness; for thou art a stiffnecked people.  Remember, and forget not, how thou provokedst the LORD thy God to wrath in the wilderness: from the day that thou didst depart out of the land of Egypt, until ye came unto this place, ye have been rebellious against the LORD.  (Deuteronomy 9:  1-7, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The First Jews (02/20/2012); The Cause of Unrest? (01/30/2012); The Need For GOD (01/31/2012); Dispatch 29:  More (09/08/2011); Dispatch 4:  Weapons (Man of War) 08/12/2011


     Be encouraged as you consider the following ideas shared among Christian believers as sacred history; many important points must come into view:

     The people living in the “promised land” before the tribes of Jacob came out of Egypt had been able to prosper for hundreds of years and become great nations, because they were favored by Almighty GOD through covenant.  The seven nations (the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and the Jebusites) did not maintain right relationship with the covenant-making GOD; and defiled the land by worshiping idols, and shedding human blood.  Cleansing and restoration of the land would require the blood from those who had shed blood be soaked into the soil.  Also, the sacred purposes of GOD would require that another people be chosen to inhabit the land.

     The twelve tribes, and many of the mixed multitude who followed Moses, had undergone transformation from a pastoral people, whose major vocation was herding and keeping livestock, to being subservient in the economy of Egypt as construction laborers.  GOD would carry them further to become an independent people, and an army of GOD—not for conquest and warfare—for execution of divine judgment.  Like many, today, the Canaanites were so turned away from GOD, that the will of the Creator could only be established among them through death and violence.

     As always, the issues of divine judgment go beyond punishing “bad behavior” and naughtiness.  The divinity, integrity and righteousness of GOD are in question along with the possibilities for relationship, revelation, trust and truth.  Fulfillment of a commission to remove the Canaanites from the promised land was to be “an evidence of things unseen” that would impress the hearts and minds of all mankind.   Assurance, certainty and confidence were to be imparted that Israel would continue as the people of divine covenant.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, GOD is a spirit, yet we speak of Almighty GOD as if divinity can be known using the things of our carnal, material and social reality.  At best the things of our physical world only suggests truth that must be confirmed by the spirit existing within each person.  Jesus Christ may be thought of as a “bridge” whereby the divine and human spirits are re-connected, and the provider of a covenant from GOD that embraces his redeemed believers and followers.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC