(11/30/2012) A Golden Ticket?

      Whether or not one may escape hell by reading the Bible is addressed today, along with more on the scale of acceptance for the resurrection of Jesus. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Mystaku” (Level 4 with 3,733 points, a member since January 6, 2011) posted the following:


Christians : Question on John 12:47-49 - Did I interpret it correctly?

So I had asked the question "Christians : If a hindu reads the bible & chooses to remain a hindu & not accept christ will he go to hell?"

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;…

And one of the answers had the verse from John 12:47-49

47 “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it. 48 There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. 49 For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it.

So this means that anyone who has read the bible but has chosen not to accept jesus/bible, he/she will be 'condemned till the last day" aka eternal torture in hell?

If you believe that a good person will go to heaven regardless of whether or not he/she has read the bible and/or follows/rejects jesus, are you saying that this verse from John is wrong?


THE BATTLE AXE: Given the Cloud of Witnesses (11/29/2012)—The holy writings and the indwelling spirit always agree; and by their combined testimony every believer experiences the exact same awareness given to an eyewitness. (See Isaiah 43: 8-12 and 44: 6-9, KJV.) In modern society, many declare that spiritual truth must come by personal understanding, and to that extent, belief is achieved in isolation, and may not depend upon trusting others. Many events from sacred history are recorded in the Bible that foretell and attest to the resurrection of Jesus. From the death of Abel and birth of Seth, to the account of Jonah delivered from the belly of a great fish, and to the raising of Lazarus, there are innumerable sacred documents of “witness” to the resurrection of Jesus as Christ and Messiah. However, the holy writings only permit shared focus and language to make visible a witness that is itself divine person residing within a believer. The conclusive proof and testimony a believer desires must come as spiritual substance from GOD, and is more than merely a record of extraordinary behavior, exchanges and social interactions. Believers, therefore, have been given clarifications that include John 5: 36-37, John 7: 16-18, 1st John 2: 20-27 and 1st John 5: 1-13, King James Version.)


THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (1st Corinthians 1: 18, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believing Everything? (11/23/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012); Magick and Prayer (10/29/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); The Gender of Angels (10/09/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012); Shaken Once More (08/22/2012)


      When a reader properly appreciates the holy writings (i.e., places the correct value upon them), it becomes clear that they are making more than a simple choice of pancakes for breakfast instead of waffles, and they are not just getting a “golden ticket” to heaven. The carnal, material and fleshy decisions are overshadowed by the weight of divine imperatives, and eternal issues. To a beginner, the full spectrum of divine person that finally is revealed cannot be recognized. More than this, beginners may fail to grasp that they are entered into a continuous process of transformation whereby GOD reconfigures their spirit makeup. The Gospel and other teachings infused with the Holy Spirit are more than an evidence or “foot-print” that records where the divine presence once existed. The Scriptures are an immediate and present appearance of Divine Person using the forms (i.e., body, incarnation) of utterance. Included are pledges, praises, prayers, proclamations, promises, and prophecies.

      Where one embraces the word from GOD as did James, John and the Apostle Paul, “to believe” means more than simply “to hold an idea” or “to support a peculiar statement.” Believing is an aspect of realizing what you are, and how you exist. Thus, believing is not at the level of an intellectual exercise, meditation and mental gymnastics. Also, ideas of argument, debate and self-expression are inappropriate. Believing pertains to faith, a divine substance that exists only within the fullness of spirit-person that men now speak of as “GOD.” Faith is inseparable from such other sacred content as glory, holiness, humility, joy, love, wisdom and wrath against sin. (So to speak, you can’t find one without the other.)

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, believers must “die to sin,” be re-born, grow and mature before they completely leave behind the flawed human idea of “good person” to direct their own choices and decisions after the model of Jesus. Various operations of the Holy Spirit must occur within them including illumination, insight, regeneration, and sanctification. Only ones beginnings may be regarded as simple and childlike. For believers are dealing with the grand issues of the universe: being, cause, consciousness, existence, knowing, origins, and eternal sovereignty.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/29/2012) Given the Cloud of Witnesses

     Faith, miracles, and the persistence of unbelief regarding the resurrection of Jesus are shared, today, along with more on the Savior as the “Son of Man.” A “Yahoo! Answers” contributor using the ID “Ford” (Level with points, a member since December 17, 2007) posted the following:

Christians: If many witnessed Christ's resurrection in scripture, then why do many still not believe?

THE BATTLE AXE: Son of Man (11/28/2012)—The peculiar duty of a son and firstborn heir is not merely to carry on the family business, or the family name (i.e., reputation) after the decease of ones father. While ones parents are yet alive, all their offspring are divinely charged to enrich the lives and relationships of everyone within the family, grow, learn, obey, continually show respect, and mature as believers in sacred truth. When the firstborn son receives inheritance of goods, property and substance from their departed father, a double portion is provided because he is the one that must complete the “unfinished business” from his father. In addition to supervising burial of ones parent, this may include canceling and collecting debts; completing assignments; fulfilling contracts, covenants, pledges and promises; and providing suitable memorials of the deceased. More than this, the son is to answer the challenges that derive from the father’s errors and sins. Rightly understood, it is an heir’s duty to apologize, correct and restore. Thereby the heir gives his father a new reputation performing service or sharing in his name, and establishing for the deceased things whereby he may be remembered as one righteous. Thus we see Solomon as son of David building a Temple at Jerusalem; and Jesus as son of Adam building a church in the earth patterned after the Temple in the heavens.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Hebrews 12: 1-3, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Thoughts on Faith and Miracles (01/25/2012); Sin Against The Spirit (01/26/2012); Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012); The Gospel not Logical? (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012); The Divine Tool of Death (08/11/2012); Is That All It Takes? (03/18/2012)

     As a mature believer in Jesus Christ being an appearance of Almighty GOD among mankind (called Incarnation), my answer to your question about why there has been widespread disbelief in the resurrection of Jesus speaks to the divinity of faith. In the same way huge crowds were present when Jesus performed various miracles, yet all did not accept him as Messiah or as the Promised One sent from GOD, only those prepared beforehand as apostles and disciples were granted the necessary endowment from GOD that permits one to operate as a witness of sacred process. Faith is not always an outcome or product of miracles. Even though miracles conform to specific divine laws, men are easily confused through the seeming contradiction by miracles of laws controlling nature. As a result, miracles also may generate doubt, fear, hysteria, madness and exaggerated self-focus. Miracles are of greatest value as products of spiritual commitment, obedience and faith.

     Faith is itself a spirit substance, and is inseparable from such aspects of divine person as holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Through the operation of sin, corruption afflicts created beings and living creatures altering and reducing the focus and power of their original endowment from GOD that was provided at Creation. The ministry of Jesus Christ, first upon the earth and now from the heavens, permits those who submit their consciousness to GOD to receive death, re-birth and new life through operations of the Holy Spirit. Spoken of as the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, and the Spirit of Prophecy, the imparted, indwelling Spirit is also described as the mind of Christ.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, for mankind, here, in the natural world, the flesh easily dominates our existence, and determines our awareness of good/bad, right/wrong, true/false. Included as the flesh are appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sense (e.g., hearing, smelling, seeing, tasting, touching) and mind (e.g., desire, emotion, imagination, recall). Without the endowments from GOD, the spirit aspects of our make up as human beings cannot truly be comprehended and displayed through the flesh.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/28/2012) Son of Man

      Titles from the Bible that are used in speaking of Jesus Christ, and more on divine purposes are covered, today. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “sudheer k” (Level 3 with 1,420 points, a member since April 1, 2008) posted the following:



Jesus is son of GOD as a human and Jesus is son of MAN as God - Is my understand correct?

To us son will be born and he will be called mighty God - Isaiah 9:6
Jesus as son of man as GOD

Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son - John 3: 18
--------------------------------------…
Jesus is GOD
Zechariah 2: 10-11

Jehovah Said "I am coming and I will live among you and you will know that Jehovah of hosts has sent me to you"

Jehovah of hosts has sent Jehovah
Father sent Jesus



THE BATTLE AXE: More Than Salvation (11/27/2012)—While created beings and living creatures speak of law, judgment and divine will as actions and deeds performed by GOD, it is more correct to conceive these elements as sacred being (i.e., they exist as aspect of divinity), and as spirit movement and spirit process within the holy person of GOD, who is only spirit. For the sake of simplicity and to accommodate the limits of our awareness, we continue to say Father, Son and Holy Spirit as though by appearing and functioning in multiple dimension the GODhead may somehow be divided. The three are inseparable; however, this truth may only be realized through operations of GOD upon and within a believer’s spirit, and may only be communicated using depictions, figures, metaphors, and types. With this in view, to be saved is to be acknowledged and recognized as having been put forth from GOD, and continuing to display sacred image.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (1st Corinthians 15: 45-48, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Asking Why (11/08/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012); Parental Duty? (10/08/2012); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); The Work of Jesus (03/13/2012); On The Messiah (02/19/2012); The First Jews (02/20/2012); Girdle 50: Unquenchable Life (01/06/2012); Girdle 32: Worship GOD (12/17/2011); Missing Years (02/25/2011); A Reborn Heart (02/26/2011)



      Christian believers generally understand that Jesus of Nazareth is given the title “Son of Man” for two reasons: (1) the title acknowledges Jesus as having the same anointing, authority, intimate relationship with GOD, and visionary spirit that was granted to several of the earlier major prophets, and therefore Jesus should be received as continuing the tradition of Moses (see Ezekiel 3: 4, 10 and 17, King James Version); also (2) the title names Jesus as the son of Adam who is heir to the priesthood from heaven that was given to mankind (Genesis 3: 21, KJV) as well as heir to the promises understood as the foundation for human hope (Genesis 3: 15, KJV).

      In the figure of Daniel, a judge, president and prophet ruling the covenant people of GOD, mankind receives the same eternal revelation that was intended for Adam (Daniel 8: 14, KJV). In the figure of Ezekiel, Jesus cleanses the Temple at Jerusalem by casting out the money changers and those selling livestock to be used for sacrifices (see Ezekiel 12: 3, 12: 9 and John 2: 13-21, KJV) and by challenging lack of faith, pride and selfishness among the priesthood (Ezekiel 34: 2 and John 11: 47-57, KJV). Jesus contends against and bruises Satan (called the king and prince of Tyrus) see Ezekiel 28 and Matthew 4: 1-11, KJV. Jesus teaches resurrection from the dead as in the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37 and John 11: 1-45, KJV).

      In the figure of Adam, Jesus suffers death upon the cross (see Romans 5, KJV). Through death and resurrection, Adam is restored, and receives a divine kingdom (Matthew 19: 28, KJV). Just as power to heal is given, power to forgive sin is granted mankind (Matthew 9: 6, KJV) where man is in service to Almighty GOD. The duty of created beings and living creatures is again enjoined, and mankind is to maintain divine law and divine rest (Matthew 12: 8, KJV).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the title “son of GOD” names Jesus as a sovereign heir of divinity (e.g., Matthew 3: 17, KJV). Divine inheritance derives through both divine law, and divine prerogative. As their offspring, Christ occupies the place of Adam (the male and female), who in union also are named son of GOD (Luke 3: 38, KJV).  As an eternal person, the Son, within the fullness of Almighty GOD, the spirit, is in union with the Holy Spirit and together are named as “the Godhead.”) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/27/2012) More Than Salvation

      That the life, death and resurrection of Jesus pertains to more than simply salvation for mortal beings is considered, today. Also, there is more on difficult passages within the Scriptures that impress some as pornography, and the error of reading the Bible to locate spicy material. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “God’s Father” (Level 4 with 2,554 points, a member since October 20, 2012) posted the following:



Christians, was the whole Jesus dying for our sins thing just a token ceremony...?

...or did it literally alter God's brain in a way that he was able to let sinners into heaven, something that he would have been unable to do before this?

If someone does something bad to me, and I can't forgive them, but I then have a son who gets crucified, will it change my brain chemicals so I'm suddenly able to forgive the person who wronged me?



THE BATTLE AXE: Pornography from the Bible (11/26/2012)—Many of us have had the experience as children growing up of looking in the dictionary to find “forbidden” words (ain’t, cain’t, and hate) as well as those ending with the letter “k” (d i_ _, f u_ _, puss_k). Titillated and thrilled, we were eager to show off to our friends, who rejoiced and agreed it was “totally scandalous!” In a sense, that is a normative pattern in child development. Similarly, in spiritual development, believers are often mislead to read the holy writings as if they may be understood using only the frameworks of carnal, material and social living. Thus, for example, that Ezekiel records prophecy, a revelation of Divine Person, and sacred visions appears irrelevant to readers who are not yet mature. Those adults who are malicious, and who seek to overthrow the salvation of GOD through Jesus Christ, can not be regarded as in the innocence (or the ignorance) of children. Failing to realize the proper application and the eternal value of such writings as the Song of Solomon, the teachings that speak in terms of adultery, or the epistles identifying intimate relationship for Jesus and the Church, those who share negative critiques of the Bible presume to destroy divine condemnation and sacred judgment. However, what they offer in place of redemption and salvation must be recognized as finite, lacking divine substance, temporal, and weak. Most NFL fans would love to have a copy of their coach’s playbook when only the most trusted players are to have it.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2: 11-14, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012); The Work of Jesus (03/13/2012); Signs of a Prophet (03/14/2012); Grace and Law (01/20/2012)



      Many mature Christian believers now understand the appearance of GOD upon the earth in human flesh (called the Incarnation) is more than a sacred process for the salvation of mankind. Apart from the intent of making divinity known and visible to created beings and living creatures, there are imperatives of divine existence that must be fulfilled for the balance, beauty and completeness of divine person. Saying this another way, for GOD to be all that GOD is, was and ever shall be, many possibilities of form and substance also must be made extant. Understanding that GOD is an eternal, unchanging spirit, we acknowledge Christ as a distinct appearance of GOD in flesh subject to both divine and natural law, and (therefore) capable of change, with the Holy Spirit, as the active aspect of divine will.

      Sin is not a material substance; and, despite that sin was first identified among the angels, sin is not a spirit, or substance having spirit matter. Sin has not been created by GOD, or by any living thing. Sin opposes the existence of divinity, and all the emanations from the divine. Included are authority, humility, law, love, person, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin. While sin is no “thing” that exists and lacks dimension, form and divine substance, sin may dominate the self-will of created beings and living creatures. Sin has effect, direction, and presence. Almighty GOD and his Christ have demonstrated that sin cannot overwhelm divine will; and the process for altering self-will to add divine substance, requires divine disclosure, revelation, consciousness and choice in the living.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, grace is the aspect of divinity whereby sin is dismissed through forgiveness, and a divine apparatus is put forth to reconfigure the Creation. Through grace death is established as a divine tool and is used in such divine operations as mercy, judgment, re-birth, regeneration, sanctification, and resurrection to secure both the dead and the living as well as make permanent a fellowship with GOD that may be spoken of as eternal life with GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/26/2012) Pornography from the Bible?

     Sexual imagery and language found in the holy writings are a topic, today, along with more on the value of the ancient text for modern believers. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Philips” (Level 1 with 33 points, a member since December 24, 2011) posted the following:



How many Churches allow reading the pornographic Bible chapters to their masses?

Ezekiel Chapter 23

1 The word of the Lord came to me: 2 “Son of man, there were two women, daughters of the same mother. 3 They became prostitutes in Egypt, engaging in prostitution from their youth. In that land their breasts were fondled and their virgin bosoms caressed. 4 The older was named Oholah, and her sister was Oholibah. They were mine and gave birth to sons and daughters. Oholah is Samaria, and Oholibah is Jerusalem.

5 “Oholah engaged in prostitution while she was still mine; and she lusted after her lovers, the Assyrians—warriors 6 clothed in blue, governors and commanders, all of them handsome young men, and mounted horsemen. 7 She gave herself as a prostitute to all the elite of the Assyrians and defiled herself with all the idols of everyone she lusted after. 8 She did not give up the prostitution she began in Egypt, when during her youth men slept with her, caressed her virgin bosom and poured out their lust on her.

9 “Therefore I delivered her into the hands of her lovers, the Assyrians, for whom she lusted. 10 They stripped her naked............
This is only the first 10 verses - would the word of God contain such lewd language? Surely throughout time it has been changed
The language is so lewd that it had been banned in some countries; South Africa who did not know at the time that it was from the Bible.

"There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses." - Ezekiel 23:20

Why do Christian ministers not read it to their Sunday congregation then?

The rest can be found in the link below

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel+23&version=NIV



THE BATTLE AXE: A Text for Lives Today (11/25/2012)—In the same way that our carnal and physical needs continue by our living on the earth, mankind’s need for spiritual substance continues. Such elements as confidence, humility, joy, longsuffering, patience, righteousness, wisdom, and even holiness are transmitted by the holy scriptures to all who submit to its truth. The Bible may be viewed as a collection of precepts and principles pertaining to being and existence, and that make holy substance visible through actions and events. The power of scripture to influence choice and decision-making is a surface aspect of its full work within the believer. Clarity, consistency, focus, and purity of purpose are put into place as well as breadth, depth, dimension, and comprehensive vision.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (Colossians 3: 4-10, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Attending Church (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Mockers in the Last Times (11/14/2012); Spirit Matter (10/21/2012); Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012)



     In the experience of the church, those who seek to condemn teachings from the holy writings usually have not been guided by the Holy Spirit sent forth by GOD and his Christ. Respecting you as a believer, I ask you to consider the following:

     The Bible is not written to amuse, arouse, and entertain those who have prurient interests (we say “dirty minds”). The Scriptures are set apart (sanctified) as a tool to educate and inform mankind regarding the presence of GOD throughout Creation. Saying this another way, the Bible is a peculiar revelation that makes GOD known and visible to believers.

     GOD has, in fact, established reality and truth for sexual behavior among created beings and living creatures. Appetite for sexual activity is no different than appetite for food (hunger) or drink (thirst); and is with the living from birth to death. In the same way intelligence, logic and reason are used to discipline, limit and restrain hunger and thirst, yet may not fulfill either or eliminate the pair, cravings for sex must be directed, structured, and not allowed to rule through animal instinct.

     The Scriptures include many cautions and warnings regarding sexual behavior, because sin (an influence opposing the existence of divinity, sacred law, and divine Creation) may dominate self-will in created beings and living creatures. Sin cannot be detected without using special tools provided by GOD (e.g., law, sacred history, the life of Christ, the imparted indwelling Spirit). Very different from the idea of “original sin,” believers must come to discern and recognize the operation of sin upon and through the flesh (appetite, sensation, and mind). What seems to be “natural” and “normal” entails consequences for the content of the endowment of divine person deposited by GOD within ones spirit.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, language describing marriage, sexual encounters and warfare are often used throughout the Scriptures because it is vivid, immediate, graphic and memorable. Most pastors and leaders choose the peculiar presentation of language that they use (just as you have) with the purpose of edifying, sharing insight, and uplifting others. They could stand in the pulpit using cheap talk, four-letter-words, slang, and “street language” to shock, shame and embarrass. However, in doing so, they would only wrongly portray themselves and their motives, and misrepresent the person of Jesus.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC

(11/25/2012) A Text for Lives Today?

     The value of the Bible for modern life, and more on having conviction are in view, today. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “The fastest ant” (Level 1 with 189 points, a member since August 20, 2011) posted the following:



How can a text written many years ago help to deal with lives today?



THE BATTLE AXE: How To Have Conviction (11/24/2012)—For most Christian believers, growth in certainty, commitment and confidence is fostered by associating with other believers who are experienced and mature. Avoid those who seem to always have a complaint against GOD, against religion, against their family or spouse, against the Scriptures, against young people, and against the church. Continue to be courteous, helpful and polite, however, distance yourself from those who behave and speak as atheists, politicians, unbelievers, and those caught up in spiritual confusion. Choose your companions understanding that those who display no knowledge of Scripture, those who insist upon non-Bible and secular knowledge, and those who overwhelm others with “chapter and verse” will be poor as sources for insight and support to spiritual growth, and are not reliable as friends to the sons and daughters of GOD.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. 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. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 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: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 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 Peter 1: 16-21, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believing Everything? (11/23/2012); How to Have Conviction (11/24/2012); Reading Only The Red Part (11/19/2012); According to the Eternal Purpose (11/20/2012); Repelled by the Bible? (08/13/2012); Marriage and Civil Law (08/14/2012); Bible Boring? (09/29/2010); Swearing? (09/30/2010)



     The holy writings that Christian believers receive as an inheritance from GOD document the operation of divinity upon the earth, and through created beings and living creatures. In addition to a record of priesthood and worship for mankind patterned after practices within the Temple in heaven, the scriptures detail various covenants, sacred law, the operation of agents for divine government (e.g., patriarchs, elders, judges, kings, emperors, messiah), birth records with genealogies that pertain to allocation and fixed patterns of ownership for land, principles for human life and survival as well as proclamations, promises, and prophesies from GOD.

     The Scriptures provide a transcript of oral history and a written historical record for the social development of mankind by GOD from the first marriage, to organization as tribes, and to the founding and stabilizing of a nation through law. While the Scriptures describe the lives and accomplishments of significant figures, and includes many confessions, prayers and personal testimonies, the holy texts are neither autobiographical writings, nor private memoirs. The Bible provides a divine perspective upon human existence, and the relationship between mankind and our Creator. Thus, the reader is granted a divine perspective, and sees thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, as divine utterance and the word from GOD, the Bible is timeless, unchanging truth. The Scriptures continue to convey spirit matter that amplifies, restores and supplements that endowment of Spirit breathed into mankind at Creation. Obedient believers in Christ receive spiritual gifts and power through the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of Prophecy); and the Spirit within believers is nourished and strengthened through the holy writings. More than this, the holy writings authenticate and witness to the actions and messages from the Spirit, while the Spirit clarifies and illuminates the Scriptures.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/24/2012) How To Have Conviction

     Conviction and salvation are topics, today, along with more on how much of the Bible to believe. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Florence” (Level 1 with 80 points, a member since November 23, 2012) posted the following:



Christian girl seeking advice - please help?

i want to become a christian again but i just feel confused because i feel that there are so many religions, denominations of christianity out there - how can i have the conviction that my religion (christianity - petencostalism) is correct?



THE BATTLE AXE: Believing Everything? (11/22/2012)—One of the many ways Scripture gives answer to the question is seen in 1st Corinthians 13: 1-13 (KJV). It is necessary to “believe everything” from the Bible only in the sense that the things written in Scripture are all interconnected and woven together as a single presentation of divine truth. For believers in Christ, reaching the point where you easily discern and recognize that this is so may require many years of spiritual development and growth. Obedience and trust are the primary mechanisms that energize the ongoing process of applying, including and integrating broader and deeper levels of sacred truth. Those lacking meekness that comes by the Holy Spirit insist that the Scriptures are a waste of time, cannot be understood, and are outdated and irrelevant. In doing so, they echo those holy angels in rebellion who were given at Creation the full measure of knowledge needed for the duration of their being and service. They do not learn and are distinct from mankind who, while finite and limited, is still fitted to acquire knowledge by experience and reflection. Through Christ, mankind is certain to prosper in their sincere quests for the inexhaustible, unchanging knowledge of GOD.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. (John 8: 3-9, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Asking Why (11/08/2012); Unto Caesar…? (11/09/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012); What Is Reality (a.k.a. Truth)? (09/29/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012); Yet If I Judge (09/05/2012); The Young Less Religious (08/18/2012); Why Jesus Prayed (09/19/2012)



     In a confidence that Jesus Christ is alive and operating in their lives through an imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD, many mature Christian believers would dare to speak in the name of Jesus, and in obedience to promptings from the Holy Spirit, and would say something like the following:

     Beloved, you do not have to convince and persuade others, or have authority over the beliefs you maintain for yourself, or those held by anyone else. My ministrations that makes the Father visible for mankind is a work to transform human substance, and is primarily carried out now through the Holy Spirit that resides within a person. As a young believer, you do not need to see the Spirit on a day-to-day, moment-by-moment basis, always in you or always in others around you. You need only continue to ask questions as one who is teachable, seek to understand the Gospel more completely and correctly, and respond to the many opportunities for spiritual learning and growth.

     Salvation is more than a process of academic study that focuses upon the holy writings, or social interaction (i.e., church attendance) that centers in family, friends and intimate relationships. Awareness of divine presence, sacred process and godly purposes must be established. Also, an “appetite” (i.e., demand by the organs and tissues of the body) for the things of GOD must be put into place that operates in the same way as hunger, thirst, and cravings for companionship. Church attendance as well as private meditation and reflection should be guided by ones inner spirit, not by emotion, fantasy, imagination, and human reason. Given that salvation goes forward though multiple progressions that are continuous (e.g., fear of the Lord, regeneration, sanctification), only its beginnings are discrete and finite. All else may be spoken of as “eternal life.”

     Certainty, confidence, and trust are received as aspects of faith, where faith is a content of the person of GOD. As the actual substance of divine being, faith is inseparable from such matter as holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom and wrath against sin. A believer may be absolutely certain that the elements of doubt, hesitation, shame and uncertainty do not come forth from GOD so much as they are from the flesh, the world, or the adversaries of GOD. Believers discipline their focus to grasp and apply the tools I have given for obedience to the Father, praise, thanksgiving and unselfish service to others.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, those who are saved, and born again” must “grow up again”, and face “growing pains.” Becoming a mature believer who is useful to ones community and the household of faith is no less difficult than becoming a mature adult, and establishing ones professional career. Become thoroughly familiar with the special gifts from GOD supplied for those who have a genuine desire to be his sons and daughters through the adoption of the Holy Spirit—his unfailing word shared as praise, proclamation, promise, and prophecy.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/23/2012) Believing Everything?

      Focus today is upon how much of the Bible a believer must accept; and there is more on the importance of how we are first introduced to Christ. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Mike M”(Level 1 with 101 points, a member since June 21, 2008) posted the following:


Do you have to believe everything in the Bible to get into heaven?

I know you have to believe in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, but what does the Bible say about getting into heaven, when it's talking about the Bible itself? Does one have to believe and like everything in the Bible?



THE BATTLE AXE: Unexceptional Beginnings (11/22/2012)—Many believers are misdirected for a great while when first coming to Jesus, because they think that salvation is through a social process where Christ is in a role of an estranged relative, a returning family member, or even as a friend-of-a-friend. Others get caught up in emotional and mental traps by pursuing argument, debate and intellectual competitions. The full extent of spiritual process whereby the Holy Spirit installs divine substance and benefit (e.g., confidence, faith, sacred knowledge, repentance, trust, truth, and godly vision) is going forward silently and unseen. When believers begin to arrive at maturity and greater perfection, they often realize that GOD had been working within them all their lives and long before they made any conscious decision to change their ways because of sin, or seek new life by organized religion. Those who reject the church because they fear losing their freedom as individuals, like those who deny the Bible or insist they can take responsibility for their own inner development, are like youngsters who spend long hours at practice shooting hoops or pitching the baseball, and refuse to play in the context of a team or organized league. They never really find out how great their mistake is until they find themselves envying others with less skill who nonetheless have gained clear benefit.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (Acts 20: 32, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); Why No Answer? (08/25/2012); To Be or Not To Be? (08/26/2012)



      Among other things, the Bible has special importance for Christian believers because (1) answers to many of their most frequent and necessary questions are found there; (2) commandments from GOD and law to direct the behavior and conduct of believers in various relationships (e.g., business partnership, courtship, friendship, governance, marriage, parenting) are recorded there; (3) examples from the lives of earlier believers are documented there to provide comfort, encouragement and instruction; and (4) spirit substance is conveyed from the Scriptures that amplifies and nourishes the imparted, indwelling spirit residing within the believer.

      The value of the Bible is not the same for believers and unbelievers. Just as two people may be given invitation to a concert, and the one who accepts has a very different experience than the one who declines, those who rightly respect the Bible as a way to communicate about, to and with GOD have a very different spiritual awareness, and experience salvation with a different consciousness of fulfillment and satisfaction. Those in the “cheap seats” and “nosebleed” sections get to see the same presentation as those in the sky-box and those having an “all-access pass”, yet, the richness of their insights and memories will not be the same.

      The Bible presents an “official” record of divine events whereby GOD, who is entirely made-up of spirit, has been made known and visible to created beings and living creatures in the realms of both earth and heaven. In addition to the Gospel that proclaims the good news of recovery for humankind from sin, the holy writings detail divine processes, sacred purposes, and godly mechanisms that generate life. Included are birth, covenant, death, family, forgiveness, judgment, priesthood, re-birth, repentance, revelation, and sanctification.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, getting to heaven is more a matter of what you are, not what you do. Mankind must be changed and transformed, because the endowment of divinity from GOD that was given in Creation has been corrupted and reduced by sin. Through the sacrificial death of Jesus, atonement has been provided, and the Holy Spirit is sent to obedient believers supplying them with a new infusion of divine nature. The same spirit content that makes GOD who he is, must make believers who they are.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/22/2012) Unexceptional Beginnings

Happy Thanksgiving! Topics today include how we first may have been introduced to Christ. Also, there is more on the use of alcohol and drugs along with a BATTLE CRY commending Christian rock group MercyMe. A “Yahoo! Answer” writer using the ID “ l.e.b. ” (Level 1 with 68 points, a member since November 19, 2012) posted the following:

Does god care how you became christian?

I became christian after i found out kanye west is a christian but i don't read the bible or go to church is this okay?


THE BATTLE AXE: Henceforth, Of This Fruit (11/21/2012)—Many young people in present day society approach the use of alcohol and drugs as a rite of passage, a process of growth, and a matter of facing ones fears essential to becoming adult. In their understanding, the sharing of food and drink should always be an acceptable and legitimate aspect of fellowship. For many younger Christians, their abstinence and putting away of alcohol and drugs are motivated by a desire to have clear grasp and comprehension of their experiences caused by the Spirit of GOD and to avoid all spiritual confusion, rather than by fears of addiction, fear of emotional and mental illness, or fear of punishments by the law and other bad experiences (see 2nd Peter 1: 10, KJV). The refusal of Jesus to partake of wine again pertains to the practice of ratifying a new covenant by sharing a meal that serves as a “deed” of accord and sealing as well as to the transformation of the Passover and its eternal purposes of GOD. New fruit and new life come in to view that emerges by the imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD (see Ephesians 5: 1-21 and Galatians 5: 16-26, King James Version).


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (1st Peter 2: 1-5, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Faith of Ones Parents? (11/18/2012); Reading Only The Red Part (11/19/2012); Escape from Racism (10/24/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Violence In The Bible (02/26/2012); When at Work… (11/08/2010)


THE BATTLE CRY: It has been a while since I last shared a comment on the works of those who prophesy and share as music ministers. Today, I encourage readers to hear an 8-time Dove Award winning Christian rock band, MercyMe. Formed in 1994, out of Greenville, Texas, the members of MercyMe are Bart Millard, vocalist; James Bryson, keyboardist; Robby Shaffer, percussionist; Nathan Cochran, bassist; Michael Scheuchzer and Barry Graul, guitarists. Be sure to hear “I Can Only Imagine” from the 2008 album Almost There, and the title selection from the band’s seventh album, “The Hurt & The Healer” 2012.


Many young people express a concern similar to yours where they were introduced to Christ in settings and situations apart from family values and “traditional church.” Included are evangelist crusades (tent meetings), mass media campaigns (e.g., Internet, radio, televangelism), Bible study groups, and concerts featuring Christian hip hop and rock music. Often, new believers are first encouraged to accept Christ by strangers who share Bibles, tracts and other materials; by athletes, news-makers and celebrity role models; as well as by those with whom they have or hope to develop intimate relationships (e.g., dates, friends, ones spouse). A person may have beginnings that are quiet, simple, and unexceptional. However, to correctly embrace the Savior is to embrace change, death, rebirth, growth, and eternity.

Where a person is “born again” they also have to “grow up” again. The new believer is like a baby and has much to learn in order to become full grown and mature in faith, service and understanding. In addition to being delivered from sin (called salvation), day-by-day, the believer must be made clean and set apart for GOD (called repentance, baptism and sanctification). All believers then receive duty and work (called ministry, priesthood and sharing the gospel). On the one hand, we cannot save ourselves, and Jesus Christ has done all the divine work necessary for mankind to have acceptance from Almighty GOD. On the other hand, there is a life-work that we must complete in order to have the full benefit from the sacred gifts that now are being shared with us.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, gaining new knowledge and mental growth are only one aspect of new life in Christ. There must be unseen spiritual growth that can be made visible through church attendance, forming new habits, praise, prayer, sacrificial giving and worship.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/21/2012) Henceforth, Of This Fruit

Bible counsels on drinking are the topic, today, along with more on the eternal purposes of GOD. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Kadar” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since November 20, 2012) posted the following:



Drinking prohibited in the bible. PROOF?

"drink neither win nor strong drink" - luke 1:15
you only choose the bits you like



THE BATTLE AXE: According to the Eternal Purpose (11/20/2012)—The eternal purposes of GOD go beyond the mere maintenance of created beings and living creatures that continually express carnal, material and spiritual needs. Like the children of GOD upon the earth, who have had to receive correction through patriarchs, covenant, judges, kings, prophets, apostles, bishops, sacraments, and sufferings, the angels “must be told” or they fail to recognize the fullness of divine will. Angels do not age, grow old, learn or mature, yet, contrary to divine intent, their rank and glory may be changed, and their sacred substance may be diminished through corruption. In the same way Almighty GOD is revealed to those of the earth through copies and depictions of things in heaven, the Most High is revealed to citizens of heaven through visible figures that are upon the earth. Both men and angels are challenged to know, love and serve an invisible, unseen GOD “by faith,” and through unity that derives from sacred purpose. Oneness prevails rather than equality, parity and sameness. Fullness and wholeness are accomplished through balance, diversity, meekness, obedience to divine law, reverence, worship and truth. Among men, many only account as truth what they themselves apprehend and discover through trial and error. Such are often being directly influenced by unseen spirits that receive enlightenment and insight only by creating and marking differences, disparity and imbalance. Those who are deceived cannot accept the truth that there is absolutely no way for angels to rule over mankind apart from GOD. Being fellow-servants and peers with mankind (Revelation 19: 9-10 and 22: 8-9, KJV), holy angels also are challenged to speak as did Job and David (Job 42: 5-6; Psalms 34: 13-19; and Psalms 51: 8-17, KJV). Given creatures from dust may grasp these things, angels are without excuse.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things. Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast. They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again. (Proverbs 23: 29-35, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: What Is Reality (a.k.a. Truth)? 09/29/2012; Divine Self-Sacrifice? (09/30/2012); All Righteousness (01/11/2012); Reason to Believe (01/12/2012); Diet and Food? (12/31/2010); Not Sure? (01/01/2011); Eat and Run? (10/21/2010); Divine Blessing (10/22/2010)



While juices and oils from plants often have profound impact upon the flesh (i.e., human appetite, senses, and mind), no beverage, drug or material substance can dominate or influence the living spirit from GOD that resides within mankind. Even so, here is the sort of counsel often shared by fathers and sons among the people of GOD through Jesus Christ:

The application of truth recorded in the Bible has to be in accordance with various conditions, needs, and understandings, just like advice from a doctor regarding ones health. Certain ideas about diet and food apply broadly, at most seasons, and in a variety of locations. At other times, abstinence and limits must be proscribed.

Many receive the Scriptures as not condemning out of hand the use of wine, strong beverages, and so-called “controlled substances” (e.g., caffeine, coffee, cola, hashish, marijuana, tobacco, rum, and whiskey). While many of these (particularly the drugs) have medicinal value, they pose serious threats to health, because they alter the functioning of the body, rather than encourage its functioning as do herbal remedies. Typically, users are unable to control the dosage and quality of those substances, and the patterns of use and experience are not consistent and predictable. For most mature believers, the primary proscriptions against drinking address drunkenness, intoxication, loss of inhibitions, and lack of sobriety. Respect for the pleasures of life is encouraged (e.g., Judges 9: 12-13; Ecclesiastes 2: 24 and 9: 7; John 2: 8-10, King James Version) while exaggeration, greed, and hedonism are condemned (e.g., Proverbs 20: 1 and 31: 4; Isaiah 28: 7, KJV).

The following are some of the many notable examples of counsel against drinking that are put before the covenant peoples of GOD. In each instance, discipline, obedience, preparedness, sobriety and vigilance are paramount. Readers should consider the sons of Jonadab (Jeremiah 35, KJV). Also, attend to Jesus, the Christ who counsels that we watch and pray in Matthew (26: 41), Mark (13: 33 and 14: 38) and Luke (21: 36). More than this, it is written: And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom (Matthew 26: 26-29, KJV).

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, believers all have duty to provide the best possible example to others. Hence, it is no error or offense to pursue the counsel of the Apostle Paul: 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. Romans 14: 21, KJV.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/20/2012) According to the Eternal Purpose

      Today’s presentation (below) focuses on the church of Jesus Christ as an endowment for the holy angels; and there is more on the value to full Christian belief for those portions of the Bible printed in red ink and identified as the words spoken by our Savior.



THE BATTLE AXE: Reading Only The Red Part (11/19/2012)—As surely as setting a glass of milk or a magazine atop the closed Bible was punishable by “tongue-lashing”, one could never throw a Bible into the trash that had frayed, missing and torn pages. The element of fear in many homes that surrounded the Scriptures, was as serious and solemn as when a flag must be burned after the desecration that occurs when the flag is dropped and touches the soil. Many regarded the red-letter Bible as actually printed using the blood of Jesus, and the red part was not from any book-maker’s ink. Even among scholars, forms of Bible-olatry are found where various collations, footnotes, languages, and translations are exalted as “more scholarly than thou.” Where the Old Testament writings may be characterized as forecasts and projections, New Testament writing is witness and testimony that affirm completed events, and continue the revelation of things already in process that are yet to be fulfilled. Mature believers, who themselves have been touched by the spiritual power of the Bible, generally endorse the counsel given by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, the first bishop and elder appointed to raise up churches among the Gentiles: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2nd Timothy 3: 16, King James Version)



THE GOLDEN ARROW: Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (Ephesians 3: 8-12, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Partnership? (11/05/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); The Gender of Angels? (10/09/2012); Repelled by the Bible? (08/13/2012); Marriage and Civil Law (08/14/2012); Coveting The Throne (03/07/2012); Bible Boring? (09/29/2010); Swearing? (09/30/2010)



      As I sat with my older brother and sister at Sunday morning breakfast, my brother strongly disagreed when I made point based on a Bible verse that is found in the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians. Proclaiming the supremacy of GOD over heaven and earth, I declared that mankind is on display before the holy angels and the living creatures of heaven. The church of Jesus Christ is an instrument for divine purpose that includes communicating sacred truth regarding sin, repentance, and the prolonged existence of spirit being.

      The angels were created as “finished” beings containing the full measure of divine endowment they would use throughout their presence and service before GOD. Included were such gifts as authority, joy, knowledge, and self-will. These holy beings were made having neither mortality nor immortality; and were not to be all-knowing or able to predict the future. Given that GOD did not create sin, sin is not spirit matter, and divine purpose does not include the operation of sin among the created, angels of the host were given no knowledge and understanding of sin, of repentance from sin, or of the evil (i.e., widespread damage, sudden reversals, upheaval) that results by sin. This permits us to say, both men and angels have been created with a peculiar ignorance. Even so, sin first appeared within the heavens; and various divine procedures are now in effect as an endowment that enables all to detect and resist sin.

      For mankind, embracing the earthly ministry, death, resurrection, and eternal priesthood of Jesus through spiritual re-birth establishes a divine nature and sacred will that are untouchable by sin. The breath of life bestowed upon mankind at Creation is increased and supplemented through the Holy Ghost (also called the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, and the Spirit of Prophecy). The divine content that resided within the heart and mind of Jesus are imparted as indwelling spirit. Such features should be seen as awe, faith, hope, humility, longsuffering, love, obedience, truth, wisdom and wrath against sin. When men hear, internalize and live the tenets of the Gospel, their spirit content is transformed; and they begin to operate as sons and daughters of GOD, who display incorruptibility, eternal life, and immortality.

      Thus, for the heavenly host, mankind serves as a living declaration from GOD that depicts otherwise invisible, and unknowable sacred purpose, and spirit truth. The angels do not know family and intimate relationships as men and women; and the ministering spirits are organized according to hierarchies and ranks that include dominions, powers principalities, and thrones. The church revealed as a mate and paramour to GOD perfected by Jesus Christ expresses and proclaims spirit-person and divine will just as Creation, the law, judgment, and prophecy.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, those angelic beings that seek to have dominion in the earth (called demons, devils, unclean spirits) are finite beings who were endowed to exist as princes and rulers within the heavens. These are not suited to reign upon the earth and within the same frameworks and limitations of mankind (e.g., flesh, mortality, time and space). Their efforts to rule will always be frustrated, and smashed apart by such features as death, fear, human error, lack of divine perspective, and mankind’s physical weaknesses.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/19/2012) Reading Only The Red Part

      The importance of the words of Christ as found in the Bible to the full content of Christian belief is in focus, today, along with more on the faith of ones parents. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “i don’t know” (a Top Contributor on Level 4 with 2,737 points, a member since July 17, 2012) posted the following:



If you only had Jesus' words without the rest of the bible, would you still be a Christian?

What if we only had his words and none of the gospels or other books? What would Christianity be like?



THE BATTLE AXE: The Faith of Ones Parents? (11/18/2012)—In every generation there are young people who condemn and dismiss the beliefs of their parents as harsh, primitive, outdated, superstitious, and unscientific. While they appear to compete at finding a clever atheistic put-down for their caretakers, the challenge that, in fact, produces genuine maturity is that children come to know and understand as well, or more completely and correctly than their parents. This is made difficult, because miscommunication, adult and child self-importance, and warped parental pride result in parents refusing all correction and instruction from their children, and all others—even officers within the church and worship assembly. At home, every effort by their children to learn or share what GOD has bestowed upon themselves is condemned by their parents as being only “back-talk,” disrespect, rebellion, rejection and “sass.” Often, parents loudly profess to have faith, and when asked to explain or provide a detailed understanding, they cover their faith with a cloak of silence, or they posture as though betrayed, deeply hurt and unjustly offended. In such moments, family, the church, and even GOD may be accused as those who mock and scorn an innocent victim in distress. Rightly understood, correct knowledge of sacred process, divine purpose, and godly truth is delivered only through operation of the Holy Spirit. All should rejoice as faith, holy wisdom, hope, meekness and love are shown to be present, the evidence of things unseen. Focus is upon the message from GOD and his Christ, and there ought be no quarrel against the messenger. In time, even a minor child comes to understand that.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. (Luke 24: 44-49, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); (10/23/2012); Contradictions? (09/21/2012); The Spirit by Measure (09/22/2012); Girdle 46: That Ye Be Likeminded (01/02/2012); Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012); The Gospel not Logical? (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012)



      During my middle school years, I believed everyone could have all the knowledge necessary from the Holy Bible by reading only “the red part.” In my understanding, then, the “red-letter edition” presented every word spoken by Jesus Christ, and, therefore, was more authentic as a presentation of divine truth since the quotations were all from the begotten son of GOD. At first, I thought the black letters introducing and following the words of Jesus could be ignored and skipped. I assumed, like many adults were doing, that anything I could not understand immediately was insignificant, and would add no weight. It was only a few short months before I realized that, when reading and studying the holy writings, the context is essential to clarity and full comprehension. It was many years before I learned to place correct value upon the Scriptures as holy utterance, and a mechanism that conveys spirit content and divinity.

      While the Bible was venerated in our home as more than a mere book, we were guilty of the widespread sin of “bible-olatry” that also occurred in the homes of our neighbors. The Bible would sit in an honored place on the coffee table, on a mantle or shelf, and no one was allowed to touch it (except for regular furniture dusting and polishing), or read it (except on very, very special occasions). Children were told, you are not grown up enough to read the Bible, the Bible is too hard to understand, the Bible is confusing even to educated people, and too much of the Bible drives men mad. Where, the holy book is treated with superstition, and as untouchable the Bible is no less than an idol, a household god, and a teraphim.

      My discovery of the Book of Acts, became my re-education to grasp the full meaning of Creation, divine person, salvation, and the perfecting of the church as a spiritual body and unique “spirit person.” Through Acts and the epistles, believers experience a personal growth that prepares one for spirit baptism, explanations of practices and standards within their own worship congregation, and vital truths that open understanding of prophecy. The unity of Scripture became blazingly clear, as all the prophets from Moses through Malachi, John the Baptist and John the Revelator were shown to speak from a single spirit, the very one Jesus spoke of called “the Comforter,” “the Spirit of Truth” and the “Spirit of Prophecy.” Instead of continuing as obstacles and stumbling blocks, such prophetic books as Daniel, Ezekiel, Psalms, and Revelation became further platforms for growth of the divine spirit that had been deposited to reside within me.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the Bible documents the priesthood given to Adam from heaven as an inheritance to mankind. Reading both the Old and New Testament are necessary to comprehend the full revelation without confusion regarding the place of judges, kings, patriarchs and prophets. The priest is authorized to make offerings and blood sacrifices for atonement, cleansing, and sanctification. As the Son of Man and Son of the Highest, Jesus Christ inherits and fulfills both the divine priesthood of earth as well as that in heaven.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/18/2012) The Faith of Ones Parents?

Concern that children are losing the faith of their parents, and more on lawful divorce are considered, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Leif Olafsen” (Level 4 with 4,087 points, a member since October 2, 2010) posted the following:
　

　
Are you concerned that many are losing the faith of their parents?

Many seem to be giving up the religion that was so generously bestowed upon them.


THE BATTLE AXE: Lawful Divorce (11/17/2012)—In holy matrimony GOD is called to witness and endorse a joining of spirits accomplished as out-breathing and utterance of promise. Through the two persons unified in action, belief, and purpose, marriage serves as a divine tool for revelation whereby GOD is made present and visible. While marriage entails commitment, duty and self-denial, marriage is not abasement, bondage, enslavement, or abject servitude. Also, as a carnal relationship, marriage is terminated by death, and does not exist in the grave, or in heaven. Through marriage, the active presence of GOD as an eternal, immortal person in covenant upon the earth is acknowledged by continuity, faithfulness, permanence, trust, and truth. Divorce always provides opportunity for a closer walk with GOD; and believers may receive comfort, confidence, healing, hope, reassurance, and strength to endure profound change. Divorce releases a couple from all obligation to cohabit; however, partnership with GOD, and requirements to share support, and love one another (even as your “enemy”) continues.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he hath established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast with God. (Psalms 78: 2-8, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012); The Meek Will Inherit (10/16/2012); Parental Duty? (10/08/2012); the Gender of Angels? (10/09/2012); The Young Less Religious (08/18/2012); Why Jesus Prayed (08/19/2012)
　

May I share comment; be careful for nothing:

At one time, I was alarmed that children in America both were being denied and were rejecting proper spiritual instruction on a broad scale. Christ helped me realize that spiritual birth and growth are through divine agencies, and not through the social patterns of competition, cooperation and exchange that we typically describe as education and instruction. Those we look upon as our ancestors and pioneers have often been blessed with only an “earnest of the spirit” (i.e., down payment, so to speak); and those who follow them are granted a greater dispensation. Thus, of those who left Egypt with Moses, only Joshua and Caleb actually survived and received a portion in the Promised Land. The experience in the wilderness was to equip the children and grandchildren of those in covenant to prosper through divinely given knowledge and understandings that had been rejected by their forefathers.

When GOD revealed himself to Moses, who was hidden in the cleft of the rock, he proclaimed his name (how he was to be known and spoken of) as the supreme Judge. In declaring the sins of the fathers are visited upon the children to the third and fourth generations (a generation is 40 years), we are cautioned that the challenge to ones children and the effects of our sin endure for as many as one-hundred-sixty (160) years. For our children to learn and do no differently than we have done would be the continuing of human error, and their doom.

Accepting GOD as ones divine teacher, knowledge, truth and wisdom come by prayer, re-birth, reflection, regeneration, study of the Scriptures, and sanctification. While church attendance usually includes experiences of the gospel being preached, only hearing the word is a small part of a believer being built up, and established as a disciple. There also must be opportunities for fellowship, giving, service to others, and worship.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the truth does not change, people do: our acceptance of the truth, our distance to and from the truth, our ability to recognize the truth. The sacred process of mankind’s progression to GOD is ordered and structured so that aspects of the full truth are given emphasis at different times, in different places. Saying this another way, there will be no new gospel, or new revelation. Yet, future generations will walk in light that is more full and complete than exists for us today.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC