(11/30/2013) We Are Still Sinning?

That sin has not been eliminated despite the sacrifice of Jesus at the cross is the topic, today. Also, there is more on the rich in divine relationship.  A writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “sudheer k” (Level 3 with 1,894 points, a member since 02 April 2008) posted the following originally asked at Yahoo Answers India:


Why are we sinning even after Jesus died for our sins?


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013)—In the same way it is forbidden believers in Christ to oppress and steal from the poor, we are forbidden to continually exploit and presume upon the rich. The rich are to be helped to understand that GOD is not their enemy.  The idea that we must compete against, prove ourselves equal to, or show ourselves better than the wealthy comes from pride, not from godliness or righteousness.  The need of the wealthy for healing and salvation is no less than our own, or that of every other created being and living creature.  Their pain may derive from other causes and circumstances than our own, nonetheless, they too bleed, struggle, suffer as they live, and are now objects of divine mercy, pity, and saving grace.  None are to despise or show contempt for the rich.  Often it is only by their hard work that our communities see employment opportunities, improvements to the quality of life, and benefits to families, small businesses, schools, and shared public facilities.  For the rich, the insurmountable barrier to relationship with GOD is not to be the body of believers.  Traditionally, it has been that relationship to GOD demands sacrifice.  Even when Christ offers himself to comfort and succor those who suffer loss, despite that they continue at risk for total damnation, many are unwilling to bear the removal of money, prestige and property.  See Deuteronomy 8:  18-19, Proverbs 13:  7, Proverbs 19: 22,  Psalms 50:  1-6, Micah 7:  2-9  and Luke 18:  17-30, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:  But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.  If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.  (1st John 1:  5-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Angels, Law and Sin (10/18/2013); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); Unseen Sin? (06/18/2013); Bible Authors and Truth? (06/19/2013); More Than Salvation (11/27/2012); Son of Man (11/28/2012); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012); Magick and Prayers? (10/29/2012)


“sudheer k”, here are a few points I am willing to share in the name of Jesus that speak to sin and the revealed process of GOD:

(1.)  Sin is no living matter, is nonmaterial, and may not be described as having physical or spatial dimensions such as depth, height, length, and weight.  Sin has no spirit substance from the makeup of GOD, sin has not been created by GOD, and sin has no power to control or influence the divine will.  With this in view, sin does not exist as a true object in Creation.  Even so, sin has direction, effect, and presence; and sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures.

(2.)  Given that sin is “no thing” and has no independent existence, sin cannot be destroyed.  The task to eliminate and permanently remove sin may not go forward by the ordinary tools available to finite beings such as feelings, intellect, knowledge, logic and science.  Multiple divine operations and sacred events are required that include baptism, birth, confession, covenant, death, rebirth, forgiveness, judgment, incarnation, love, prophecy, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification.

(3.)  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of divine person, and of all that has been put forth by GOD as Creation.  Because sin is not immediately experienced as contrary, foreign and strange to ones nature and inner makeup, many do not realize the full danger and destructiveness of sin; and sin is held to be acceptable, natural, and “normal.”  Sin was first recognized among the holy angels; and is now documented as binding, corrupting, and immobilizing the godly operation of self-will (we may say, will power).  The original endowment of spirit imparted at Creation to mankind has been diluted and weakened from the operations of sin.

There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Error and sin will continue as aspects of imbalance and subtlety (i.e., barely visible differences and shifts).  Like the back of ones head, without the tools provided by GOD, the true character and workings of sin would remain hidden and unseen to those under its control.  Through the earthly and heavenly ministry of Jesus Christ, believers receive fresh deposits of divinity that permit the living to detect and resist sin.  Once divine judgment of the righteous has been completed, Christ will come to harvest the earth.  At that time, mankind will be transformed to live as immortal and incorruptible.  All that will continue in eternal life will be perfected and no longer vulnerable to sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  We who claim place in covenant to GOD are to shine forth as a light to the world.  Happy Hanukkah to all.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/29/2013) The Rich in Divine Relationship?

Salvation for those possessing wealth is the topic, today.  Also, there is more on denominations, and points to consider before getting baptized.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Philippines” using the ID “Clara” (Level 1 with 10 points, a member since August 4, 2011) posted the following originally asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


Does being wealthy prevent you from having a relationship with god?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Before Getting Baptized? (11/28/2013)—  (5.)  The person who voluntarily approaches Jesus Christ for baptism through the church established in the earth should first acknowledge their human need for salvation, and that their submission to GOD through baptism is only a beginning for a new relationship with the Divine Creator that can not be fully realized except through an eternal life.  With this in view, confession of ones emotional, material, psychological and spiritual need should be in place before baptism as well as ones rejection of sin displayed through their own wicked behavior and conduct.  Thus, for example, a believer should grasp that repentance (turning to GOD at the same time one turns away from sin) may be gradual, and will continue over time only by multiple operations of the Holy Spirit.  Upon arriving at the age of accountability (it varies among denominations from ages 8-18), and following their instruction and upbringing within the church, those also who came to Christ through parental decisions for infant and child baptism, must make an independent and public choice for Christ.  (6.)  Denominations vary on the basis of doctrine and teachings, how they trace their origins to Christ, and their hierarchy and structure for overall administration and conduct of day to day affairs as an institution.  Thus, for example, Catholic and Episcopal believers are encouraged that many of their observances have come through an unbroken line of bishops that extends to the eleven apostles who actually lived and walked with Jesus; while Apostolic and Pentecostal believers trace their observances to widespread “awakenings” and spiritual revivals whereby modern-day believers received outpourings of the Holy Ghost like that of the early church on the day of Pentecost.  The new believer’s need for continuing encouragement and support can be very great, for all who follow Christ will encounter opposition by family, friends, and those of the world that can be devastating to ones developing faith.  Even so, their relationship to GOD must be the primary focus; and there must be trust that Christ will lead to GOD despite any human errors, failings, unanswered questions, ungodly obstacles, sin, or weakness.  GOD will be present to guide, correct, heal, and continually oversee ones acquisition of permanent change (we say, perfection).  (7.)  The disciples and followers of Jesus are to be an incarnation of Christ, and vessels containing divinity.  With this in view, death of the believer and receipt of new life through their baptism is experienced as a continuing truth recorded in the books of heaven, and not just a one-time social event that may be annulled through neglect, canceled, dismissed, and forgotten.  Like the Apostle Paul, believers should operate with an awareness that, through prayer and unselfish service, they are to “die daily” to sin, and are to be raised again to GOD and Christ.  See Galatians 2:  20, 1st Corinthians 1:  9-18, Romans 6:  1-23 and  1st Corinthians 15:  1-58, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Lift not up your horn on high:  speak not with a stiff neck.  For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.  But God is the judge:  he putteth down one, and setteth up another.  (Psalms 75:  5-7, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Head Not The Tail? (10/21/2013); Stronger Tests for the Strong? (10/22/2013); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); On Seeing Jesus Serve the Poor (12/03/2012); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012)


“Clara”, here are some points for consideration that have been useful to clarify various Bible teachings among Christian believers:

(1.)  Great wealth often triggers destruction of the spirit content from GOD that should reside in all living persons.  Corruption and decay of the divine endowment that had been established in the Creation of Adam has continued in humankind since the time of Adam’s transgression.  The rotting and wasting away of sacred content for all created beings and living creatures is accelerated within each individual who turns away from GOD under the influence of material objects and social pressures.

(2.)  The rich experience demands for consistency, distinction, duty, industry, regularity, predictability, and responsibility that often skewer a person’s self-awareness leading to arrogance, haughtiness, idolatry, and pride.  Additionally, great wealth can foster apathy, covetousness, decadence, cupidity, ennui, idleness, materialism, nonconformity, pleasure-seeking, squandering and waste.

(3.)  While many aspects of relationship to GOD are not dependent on choice and will among created beings and living creatures (e.g., Creation, judgment, salvation, sanctification), believers and disciples of Jesus Christ are those who willingly make a commitment to display the operation of GOD upon and through their being.  Just as the poor are always with us, and they are used by GOD to give warning, to stir compassion, and to demonstrate longsuffering; the wealthy serve in examples that make visible divine approval, pleasure, displeasure, and wrath against sin.

There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  For example, (4.)  It is not a sin to be wealthy; however, it is a sin to “forget GOD,” or deny that GOD is the source of ones blessing and prosperity.  Divine judgment is impartial, and there is no bias against those who are affluent.  Believers are not to condemn the wealthy, or continually rant against them with bitterness, censure, envy, negative criticism, and resentment.  Instead, it is the duty of those in Christ to display compassion, humility, and to pray for the continued success of the wealthy whereby many are being quietly benefited in unseen ways.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Surely The Light of the World will soon shine forth.  Happy Hanukkah to all.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/28/2013) Before Getting Baptized?

Happy Thanksgiving!  Today, a few points are shared that can be helpful before one is baptized.  Also there is more on atheists, teens, and parenting.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Malaysia” using the ID “JG” (Level 1 with 83 points, a member since October 16, 2012) posted the following originally asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


Does a person have to choose a denomination before getting baptized?

Can you be baptized and choose not to be a part of any specific Christian denomination? Or does being baptized in a church of a specific denomination mean you are choosing to be of that sect?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Kicked Out By Parents? (11/27/2013)—It will always be acceptable and correct for parents to establish discipline in the home (we used to say, provide home training) for their children—from feeding a newborn on a schedule that does not require walking the floor odd hours of the night and every time the baby cries, to refusing to breastfeed in every public setting.  The adults are to create and maintain boundaries, limits, and standards that will allow the child a sense of personal being and integrity as well as to acknowledge and respond to the human needs of their caretakers.  Yes, the early training of a child is by imposing a stronger will upon a less developed person; however, the child is not abused thereby, nor made an injured party, a sufferer, or a victim.  For the home also to nourish and prepare the parents for their encounters within the workplace, the marketplace, or even the privacy of their sexual sharing, there must be reasonable order and stability.  Minor children too must acquire skill as they are growing and learning to operate and fulfill ones duty despite their dislikes, likes, and preferences.  Children are to be a help and to provide emotional, psychological and spiritual relief for their parents through displays of enthusiasm, good cheer, kindness, humility, meekness, obedience, and zeal.  It remains that despite advancement of today’s social media and technology, development for teenagers continues to proceed by their asserting maturity without also affirming accountability, their operating without complete and correct information regarding the needs of others, and their risk taking without careful assessment and preparation to meet or address the consequences and outcomes of their actions.  Separation may seem a drastic remedy, at first, however, rightly understood and carried out with compassion, separation can be agreed upon as both the “best possible solution” and unavoidable.  (See Genesis  13:  1-18, Acts 15:  37-39 and 2nd Timothy 3:  1-5, KJV.)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.  This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.  And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue:  whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.  And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him:  who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:  For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.  (Acts 18:  24-28, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Not One Bible? (11/02/2013); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Money-changers in the Temple? (06/23/2013); Church is Good? (06/15/2013); Feeling Loved By GOD? (06/16/2013); Church Mandatory? (05/06/2013); A GOD of Love? (05/07/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012)


“JG”, here are a few points about baptism and becoming a Christian you should find useful:

(1.)  The thing that first draws us to Jesus Christ may be no more than curiosity such as drew Moses aside one day while he was going in from work.  He wanted to examine more closely something that had caught his eye, a flaming bush that gave off no smell or smoke, that when he had come closer, stopped and gazed on for a bit, continued to burn showing no ashes.  When Moses heard a voice speaking from the burning bush, he did not run away.  Instead, he was even more engaged, was sparked with questions, and desired to know and understand completely before he would walk away.  His intention, at first, was not to go aside to pray, to seek GOD, or to offer himself in service.  Even so, Moses prostrated himself in humility, having received, as it were, baptism by fire.  See Exodus 3:  1-14, KJV.

(2.)   Believers are to receive baptism as an experience wherein the same Spirit operates that served as agent in the creation of the earth, and the establishment of Adam as a living soul.  Baptism is a cosmic work that is not accomplished by human ceremonies, pageantry and rituals, nor by a believer’s intellect, imagination, and knowledge.  While the work of baptism is to purge (i.e., wash inside and out; clean through and through), and purify; baptism must also establish death, and rebirth whereby one acquires divine content (we say, divine DNA).

(3.)  Through baptism believers receive fresh endowment of divine substance.  GOD is a spirit, and does not exist displaying carnal, material, and physical characteristics except by using peculiar divine operations.  The substance of GOD may be described as such inseparable aspects of divinity as faith, forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, joy, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The incarnation of GOD (i.e., appearance using material form) is accepted as having been through a burning bush as well as through the person of Jesus of Nazareth.

There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Many denominations provide a church upon the earth for those upon the earth; and give less attention to being aware of sacred actions and divine presence.  A person desiring to become a member within a congregation and community of believers should respond to and trust only those who demonstrate correct, godly, and thorough knowledge of baptism and the many other elements of truth from GOD through Jesus Christ.  By “classes” offered before baptism, one is instructed and prepared for their own sacred transformation as well as given opportunity to determine whether a congregation may supply their personal needs for continued spiritual growth, learning, work and worship.  A pledge or membership agreement should not be entered into and sealed until after some “trial period” (for some, this is called “confirmation”).   A believer is to use the holy writings as the standard whereby one examines and tests the quality of what others may share.  After all, as what happened to Moses, baptism is a life-changing event, not just a tourist attraction, and more than simply social interaction.  Those born again are to learn, grow, and then perform service to GOD by their daily living that will lead others into right relationship with the Almighty.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Surely The Light of the World will soon shine forth.  Happy Hanukkah to all.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/27/2013) Kicked Out By Parents?

Atheist offspring, teens, and Christian parenting are in view as the topic, today.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Ksh 007-Rachel Madd” posted the following first asked at Yahoo Answers Canada:


13 Year Old Atheist Kicked Out By Parents?

Damn, whats wrong with these people!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Children, obey your parents in the Lord:  for this is right.  Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;  That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.  And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath:  but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.  (Ephesians 6:  1-4, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Unguarded Chocolates (09/07/2013); Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); How Children Learn (11/09/2013); A Lid on Love? (09/27/2013); Dying in Terror and Joy? (09/28/2013); Issues for Children’s Church (04/06/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013); Non-existent Debt? (03/07/2013); Childlike Faith? (10/18/2012); Why Did The Judges Fight? (10/19/2012)


The parents of that teenaged atheist you report must speak for themselves regarding their feelings, their purpose, and their accountability for their own actions.  Even so, here are a few points shared among Christian believers that may be taken into account:

(1.)  The Christian home should be a place of intimacy that may only thrive through cooperation, mutual respect, shared belief in GOD, and implicit trust.  Careful discipline and tested practices are maintained that promote achievement, balance, healthy exchange, growth, harmony, security, and the proper deepening of relationship with Divine Person.

(2.)  By contrast, awareness and self-will influenced by sin insist upon an independence that masks selfishness, and fosters betrayal, lying, malice, treachery, and violence.  The incorrigible child who repeatedly chooses to do the forbidden and unthinkable (i.e., disobey and dishonor their parents after careful instruction), may also “surprise” his caretakers by striking them dead in their beds as they sleep.  The child you may not trust with your property, you may not trust with your life; and the child who is destructive within the home also loses his place in the community (see Deuteronomy 21:  18-21, KJV).

(3.)  The burden of parental duty is greater than simply providing food, clothing and physical shelter.  Where parents are challenged to raise children who have problems communicating and special needs, it is not cruel, inappropriate, or unloving that they place their child in institutions, or with those who have the formal training, equipment, experience, and other resources for the child’s maintenance.  While it remains natural for the child to view this as abandonment, punishment, or rejection, such responses also are to be seen as parental acknowledgment that their child continues under the authority and nourishment of GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  For example, (4.)  In the same way, Satan and his angels continue through the mercy of GOD (we know they are wrong, but they don’t know it; and such are given opportunity to discover revealed righteousness), problematic children often require unique life experiences in protective custody, and structured settings outside the home.  Saying this another way:  some children outgrow their home, and their parents.  Yet, they must be assisted by giving them both correction and support to continue life.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/26/2013) An Unshakeable Kingdom?

Today, a brief study is shared using Scriptures on Scripture to focus on the promise of a home with GOD.

SOME THOUGHTS ON

25 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh.  For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:

26 Whose voice then shook the earth:  but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.
27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.

28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

29 For our God is a consuming fire.  (Hebrews 12:  25-29, KJV)


1st Timothy 3:  16 (KJV)  16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:  God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.


Exodus 23:  20 (KJV)  20 Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.  21 Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions:  for my name is in him.

Nehemiah 9:  6-8 (KJV) 6 Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.  7 Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham;  8 And foundest his heart faithful before thee, and madest a covenant with him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to his seed, and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous:

Hebrews 11:  7-10 (KJV)  7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.  8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.  9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:  10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Hebrews 11:  13-16 (KJV)  13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.  14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.  15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.  16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly:  wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God:  for he hath prepared for them a city.

Hebrews 12:  22-24 (KJV)  22 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,  23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,  24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

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

John 17:  24-26 (KJV)  24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.  26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:  that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

Mark 13:  33-37 (KJV)  33 Take ye heed, watch and pray:  for ye know not when the time is.  34 For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.  35 Watch ye therefore:  for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:  36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.  37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Revelation 1:  4-7 (KJV)  4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia:  Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;  5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth.  Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,  6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.  Amen.  7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him:  and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.  Even so, Amen.


There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  Again, I ask readers to share Scriptures they feel should be added in the Comments area (see example, below).  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/25/2013) Prayer on Behalf of Others?

Intercession and prayer as a spokesperson for others come into view, today; and there is more on hardness of heart against the gospel message.  A writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using ID “Joshua” (Level 4 with 3,101 points, a member since 12 July 2013) posted the following originally asked on Yahoo Answers United States:


Can a christian pray for people from other religion ?

I am a christian and I am wondering whether can I pray for people that come from other religion like Buddhist or Muslim.Maybe my question is stupid but I need a good answer.Thanks a lot :D


THE BATTLE AXE:  Hardness of Heart? (11/24/2013)— (4.)  All that will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2nd Timothy 3:  12-13, KJV).  Prophecy through the apostles of the early church describe hardness of heart and the process of opposition to Jesus and the Gospel as one that will continue until its final destruction through the completion of divine judgment.  Persecution appears where government authority, legislation, and physical force—by Satan and those within the hierarchy of heaven as well as within nations of the earth—are used to attack and suppress the sacred message, its followers, and those who foster its spread.  Oppression by those in government is only one form of the denial and rejection believers should be prepared to encounter.  Political and social movements as well as fashion and trends in popular culture will operate as barriers to those seeking to enter the kingdom of GOD.  Heresy and false messages will be eagerly embraced by believers who do not obey the Lord’s command to “watch and pray.”  Such are open and vulnerable from lack of prayer, and from repeatedly refusing study to internalize the plain teachings of Scripture.  Conviction for those who desire an easy way to GOD will be frustrated and overturned by doubt and unbelief, where they instead should be firmly rooted through the sure promises and prophesies provided by the ministries of Jesus.  Familiarity that gives sin the appearance of normalcy, reality, and truth will not be resisted from within themselves, for it will appear consistent with ones own true feelings and understandings.  Only by rebirth do created beings and living creatures escape the process whereby ones heart becomes “dead in sin” and completely closed to the divine provisions (see 2nd Timothy 3:  1-8, 1st Thessalonians 3:  3-4, 1st Peter 5:  6-11, and 1st Peter 4:  12-19, KJV).



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God.  He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.  If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:  For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.  (2nd John 1:  9-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013); Utterance is Spirit (09/08/2013); A Start for the Idea of GOD? (09/09/2013); Prayer not Enough? (07/12/2013); A Tree Falls To The South (07/13/2013); Unanswered Prayer? (09/11/2012); When You Pray (09/12/2012)


Joshua, most Christian believers experience a similar concern in the course of their learning and growing through Christ.  Here are a few points based upon Scripture you may find helpful:

(1.)  Prayers are spirit, thought and utterance directed to GOD, that may be offered aloud or silently.  Movement also is an aspect of prayer, and so there may be bowing, folding or uplifting ones hands, kneeling, and other gestures.  As intimate and private communication, prayer allows believers to discover aspects of their own character and personality as well as to affirm the operation and presence of GOD as he has become revealed to them.  The laws and rules for prayer, therefore, center in maintaining awareness of personal relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ, and are chosen or put into place as limits through the practice of each believer.  As for any fruitful relationship, there are basic demands for absolute honesty, respect, trust, and truth.  However, a believer is free to acknowledge and expose as much or as little of themselves as their needs and understanding permit.  How long or how often one prays may vary, just as the topics and subjects discussed may range.

(2.)  We are free to commend, make requests (we say, intercede, petition), and speak in a general way about others in prayer.  However, fervent and persisting prayer (importuning) will demand  detailed knowledge of their peculiar situation.  More challenging than speaking for ourselves is the prayer wherein we speak as if we are another person.  Through compassion and empathy, we “put ourselves in their place,” so to speak, and we then say to GOD what we understand to be appropriate.  Thus, were we to pray as prophets and spokespersons before GOD for those struggling to recover from the recent typhoon in Philippines, we might speak of our pain and uncertainty for still missing loved ones, our concern for rebuilding our homes and families, our need for strength to continue despite the lack of food, medicine, water, or true knowledge and correct information.

There is far more to be said, properly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Because our lives are connected before GOD, and we are one Creation before him, the benefit to one aspect of mankind should be a benefit to all.  Yet, like a farmer only goes forth to plant seed in the field where the rocks are removed, and the ground has been plowed and prepared, believers are cautioned to not bestow inordinate focus upon those who reject their ministrations.  “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine” (Matthew 7:  6, KJV), cautions one to assess their place with others carefully, and not to presume that all are willing to receive from GOD with genuine gratitude.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/24/2013) Hardness of Heart?

Some points regarding hostility against the message of the Gospel are shared, today.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Jimmie” (Level 3 with 2,151 points, a member May 11, 2013) posted the following:


Do you think it's sad how some people become hostile to the message of the gospel, that has saved so many?


And continues to save many, even today? I dont get why people reject the important message it holds, and the lessons on love, humbleness, peace, by being angry and negative about it?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  (John 1:  10-13, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Another Gospel? (10/19/2013); A Visit from an Angel? (10/20/2013); The Limit to Believing? (09/16/2013); All Things Possible? (09/17/2013); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); How To Accept Bible Truth? (04/17/2013); About Preaching the Gospel (04/18/2013); When Jesus Comes Back (04/19/2013)


“Jimmie”, here are a few difficult points to consider that nonetheless are correct for Christian believers:

(1.)  All men have not faith (2nd Thessalonians 3:  2, KJV).  The Gospel is sacred substance that is to be joined with the spirit content of created beings and living creatures.  Truth from GOD may only be received by those who have prepared themselves through such features as dutifulness, expectation (we say, hope), obedience, sacrifice, and submission.

(2.)  When Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart (Exodus 8:  15, KJV).  Hardness of heart is an operation of the Spirit from GOD, however, not by acting on, forcing, or manipulating a person’s feelings and thoughts.  Rather, the Holy Spirit acknowledges their enmity against GOD as irreversible without first ending their mortality, or by continued widespread death and destruction.  The Spirit may not righteously disregard or ignore persistent defiance of divine law, rejection of divine counsel, or denial of divine love.  The Spirit is obligated to abandon and make no further appeals where the minds and hearts of created beings and living creatures only invite being sealed against divinity.  Without the “pressure” of judgment, punishment, and divine wrath against sin many will not embrace what are, in fact, the difficult works of confession, repentance and truth. Sinners do not leave their “comfort zone” of arrogance, ignorance, selfish pleasure, and separation from GOD.

(3.)  But they have not all obeyed the gospel (Romans 10:  16, KJV).  To obey is to put aside ones own will to carry out or perform the will of another.  Thus, to obey is one of the most powerful ways of demonstrating love, the willingness to add value, and to unselfishly provide benefit to another.  Those who lack balance, poise, and stability (we say, maturity), and those who do not have a clear grasp of their own abilities, desires, and place in relationships usually also lack the awareness and strength necessary for love of Christ, and obedience to the Gospel.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  The carnal mind is not subject to the law of God (Romans 8:  7, KJV).  Human makeup (we say, the flesh) is designed to function in accordance with material and physical processes that are mechanical in their nature such as appetite, sensation, and mind.  Just like hunger, thirst, and sexual cravings cannot be eliminated by logic, reason and science, sin can not be overcome except through operations of the Spirit from GOD.  Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, yet, can not control the will of GOD.  The added endowment of Spirit supplied through the Gospel enables believers to correctly resist sin, and to continuously seek the perfection coming forth from GOD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/23/2012) Autumn Brown Studies 2013

Today, I share a recently penned poem (see below) as the product of daily efforts to relax from the stress of retirement.  Each day, I try to take a break from the blog writing of at least thirty minutes.  My work on a document is the planting of a seed, and continues from an often painful work to select a topic question using “Yahoo! Answers” until the replies to comments are posted, and announcements of the newly published work are sent out through Facebook and Twitter.  As a result, multiple documents and drafts have my attention night and day until I may feel the sacred truths they contain are correctly delivered to those choosing to be my readers.  During my break, I generally go outside where I may search the sky—Jesus will come with clouds—and stand on the entry platform of the apartment building where I live.  In addition to seeing and being seen by my neighbors, this allows me to consider occurrences and traffic on the street.  Even so, my mind tends to continuing working on the blog, realizing errors, improvements, and materials for re-write.  In the past few autumns I’ve been impressed by the trees changing color, and I have resisted the urge to write a poem as encroaching on my blog time.  Perhaps, because leaves on one of our two neighborhood cherry blossom trees have been brown since June, the trees have become more and more a focus in my feelings and thoughts during “break time.”  So, finally, the other day, I put some notes to paper, that started out as  tercets (verses or lines grouped in poetry using the a-a-a rhyme), that I thought might be “fresher” by my using a little “poetic license.”  To avoid an extended period of working on the piece, I decided to share it immediately; and so, I attempted to post the work elsewhere as a friendly greeting and alumnus encouragement to welcome a new faculty person to the History Department of Trinity College, Hartford, CT.

SWEET TOOTH

A poem shared on 21 November 2013 with History @ Trinity
To welcome Professor Jennifer Regan–Lefebvre, Ph.D.,
History Department, Trinity College, Hartford, CT

The trees along my street are autumn bright
And painted to arouse ones appetite
Dripping and swaying in the cooling air

Cream puff frosted like a French éclair
An oak tree stands, its leaves now chocolate brown
But most are maples honey-laded down

The smallest, youngest to be seen is tart
Strawberry red, a sacred work of art
Juicy and luscious like the elms that flame

And most of us don’t even know their names
Ambling among the leaves that drift to earth
Without a clue how much the lot is worth

A handiwork divine is on display
No wonder one is moved to think and say
Surely such a fruit will make me wise

Warned of sorrows, vigilant for lies
I choose a simple walking on in truth
Our Maker sure must have a huge sweet tooth

Michael Andrew Williams, AB 68
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/22/2013) How To Renew The Mind

Being born again, ones mind, and new life in Christ are topics, today.  Also, there is more on whether Satan is adversary or servant.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Gabrielle” (Level 2 with 257 points, a member since March 22, 2013) posted the following:


According to the Bible, how can a person renew his mind?


Romans 12:2:
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Adversary or Servant? (11/21/2013)—Because, in the beginnings of angelic sin, Satan did not openly oppose Christ as ruler of the angels, for his work in the Creation, or for his serving as the heavenly Advocate, Redeemer, Savior and Judge of mankind, many could not grasp that Satan opposes all sacred purpose, and the sovereign majesty of Almighty GOD.  While he is called an accuser of the brethren, a usurper, and one who seeks to wrest away command of the universe to himself, he convincingly presents himself among the angels and before men as an injured party, one whose freedom is threatened, and one whose reputation has been unfairly besmirched and tarnished.  Just like when he appeared to Eve in the Garden of Eden, Satan uses disguises, enticements, extortion, inappropriate comparisons, insinuation, questions, slander, and subtlety.  A master of deception, Satan exploits infirmity and weaknesses in others, and pursues the divisive policies that men label as ambition, lust, and self-centeredness.  Thereby, this heavenly prince has lost all voluntary capacity for love (i.e., ability to add value, continue in fruitful relationship, or provide benefit) to other created beings and living creatures.  Although he has been stripped of the princely authority and titles he once lawfully exercised in heaven, upon the earth, Satan dares persist as though having that same legitimate power.  Thus, he has been called the “Prince of Darkness,” “the prince of the power of the air,” “the prince of this world,” and “the god of this world” (see Ephesians 6:  10-18, John 12:  31, John 14:  30, Ephesians 2:  2 and 2nd Corinthians 4:  4, KJV).  Satan appears completely unaware that he has no true independence from the Host; that his knowledge is imperfect and incomplete; that many now correctly see him as one who “forgets GOD” and is proud, self-justifying and self-promoting; or that he is still bound to carry out and execute duty (necessary tasks that must be completed—like it, don’t like it—at all cost, despite every unpleasantness, and whatever the sacrifice.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:  And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:  But their minds were blinded:  for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.  But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.  Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.  Now the Lord is that Spirit:  and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.  (2nd Corinthians 3:  12-18, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Heart, Brain or Spirit? (10/09/2013); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Words Spoken by GOD? (06/05/2013); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); An Earth to Fix A Heaven? (05/18/2013); A Daily Revelation? (10/02/2012); Blessings, Curses and Woes (10/03/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012)


“Gabrielle”, where renewing the mind means establishing new focus for ones awareness, intellect, and self-will, here are a few points important to many Christian believers.  Simply put, we are to focus upon Christ:

(1.)  While Jesus is away from the earth, and occupied with the tasks of atonement, judgment, and purifying the Sanctuary as a divine High Priest in heaven, his followers are to continue his ministering presence as the Church.  Multiple endowments and sacred tools have been  bestowed upon mankind through his incarnate ministry of GOD.  Included are divine law, gifts of the Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit, sacred disciplines and practices (we say, sacraments), praise, prayer, promises, prophecy, wisdom, and a new nature that more readily detects, condemns and resists sin.

(2.)  Following baptism and the divine operations whereby a person is “born again” as if germinated from divine DNA and holy substance, a  believer is to “grow up again” by continuously sharing fellowship with others who have come to GOD through Christ.  Shared activity for building and learning will include making music and songs of praise; meeting challenges, emergencies and problems together; social events for exchange, recreation and rest; public speaking, teaching and writing; study of Scriptures; unselfish service to the congregation, to ones, family and friends, and others; and with group worship.  The community of believers must behave as agents and spokespersons for Christ toward other created beings and living creatures as well as toward GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Christian believers experience continuous change that is to nourish and preserve them in this present world as well as to prepare them for the coming of Christ to harvest the earth.  Some of these changes are instantaneous (we say, miraculous), others are gradual and progressive.  These changes are to be irreversible and permanent, however, can only be sealed by ones receipt of the imparted indwelling Spirit from GOD, the completion of ones mortality, and the transformations that occur with the appearance of Christ—corruption to incorruption, mortal to immortal.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/21/2013) Adversary or Servant?

A question on the status of Satan as servant to GOD is considered, today.  Also, there is more on divine peace.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Singapore” using the ID “David G” (Level 6 with 10,606 points, a member since 25 August 2007) posted the following that first was asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


Christians, is Satan God's servant?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Understanding Peace? (11/20/2013)—Peace will never be the outcome of war; yet, the world (the man-made system for interaction and support) has made war a life process indispensable to human survival.  Divine peace is the fruit of righteous judgment, the resolution of conflict and settlement of disputes.  For mankind, peace is a pattern in social behavior, events, exchanges, and experience that is marked by the absence of conflict, enmity, pain, struggle, suffering, tension, uncertainty, and violence.  Therefore, peace is regarded as a product of human actions, attitudes, choice, discipline, intellect, reason, speech and wisdom (for example, see Proverbs 11:  11-13, Proverbs 17:  27-28 and even Mark 4:  38-40, KJV).  For our Maker, peace is an eternal substance that always appears with other aspects of divinity such as awareness, being, holiness, life, person, and presence.  Divine peace exists within the Almighty and is indivisibly emanated with completeness, perfection, immutability, and truth.  Through operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit, created beings and living creatures acquire divine peace through change and growth; and peace is to be a permanent feature of their own make-up.  See Psalms 29:  11, Job 22:  21, Philippians 4:  7, Romans 8:  6 and Colossians 3:  15, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when he hath made an end of reconciling the holy place, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat:  And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness:  And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness.  And Aaron shall come into the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall put off the linen garments, which he put on when he went into the holy place, and shall leave them there:  And he shall wash his flesh with water in the holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people.  (Leviticus 16:  20-26, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013); Does Satan Know? (11/06/2013); The Return in Glory? (07/04/2013); Desire for Love? (07/05/2013); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); Those Who Never Heard (06/07/2013); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013); A Partnership (11/05/2012); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012)


“David G”, thank you for the chance to serve Jesus as my Savior by sharing a few points based upon his ministry to mankind demonstrated through Israel:

(1.)  Opposition to divine law was first expressed by a leader among the holy angels.  Created as finite beings with limited knowledge, limited abilities, and focused purpose, the angels are not mortal, neither are they immortal or incorruptible.  Their awareness and continuing existence do not depend upon conforming to the frameworks of time and space.  They are not all-knowing, do not have foreknowledge, and may not predict the future independent of divine utterance (e.g., law, proclamation, promise, and prophecy).

(2.)  In addition to the use of angels to serve as sacred messengers who appear to mankind, GOD employs angelic beings as servants who maintain order throughout the universe through ranks (e.g., dominions, principalities, thrones), and as those who praise and worship in the celestial presence (we say, heaven).

(3.)  Not all angels, or men, discern and recognize the defiance, disobedience, and rebellion of Satan (i.e., Adversary); and the ongoing process of divine judgment allows GOD to reveal the standards of absolute righteousness and the full nature of all who exist, including the rulers among the angels, and Christ, the Son of the Highest.  The true nature of sin goes beyond completing, performing poorly, or refusing to accept duty.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divinity, and all things put forth by GOD.  Human nature is not contrary or naturally opposed to that of the angels; and so many in the earth have dared agree with Satan and his followers embracing angelic error and sin.  Only by such operations of the Holy Spirit as baptism, death, rebirth, and repentance do men accomplish the multiple changes that are seen as resistance to sin, correct separation from Satan, and wrath against sin.

(4.)  Sovereign majesty and the fullness of Divine Person are not lessened or threatened by any finite being.  Sin did not first appear as upheaval and violence; and was not put forth from GOD as a creation, or an aspect of existence.  Because sin lacks divine matter and living substance, and of it itself is no material and physical matter, we say sin is “no thing,” sin cannot be detected without tools provided by GOD, and sin cannot be destroyed.  Even so, sin has direction, effect and presence; and sin may dominate awareness in created beings and living creatures.  Also, sin may diminish the endowment of spirit content (the breath of life) from GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (5.)  The Son of GOD, Jesus, is also the divine High Priest who is now completing tasks that relate to atonement, judgment and purification of the heavenly Temple.  While Christ is ministering within the Sanctuary, the Savior is absent from among the host in the heaven, just as he is now hidden from believers in the earth.  With this in view, many committed Christian believers are satisfied that Satan has been divinely preserved, and will be employed as “a servant” for an indispensable role in the destruction of sin, that of a goat of sacrifice.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/20/2013) Understanding Peace?

Divine peace is the topic, today; and there is more on questionable displays of the Holy Spirit.  A writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “strueimage” (Level 1 with 38 points, a member since 24 January 2012) posted the following first asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


In what way does “the peace of the Christ” control in a Christian’s heart?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Too Much Holy Spirit? (11/19/2013)—Correctly understood, no believer (either clergy or layperson) has authority to control, exploit, or manipulate the deposits and gifts from the Holy Spirit that exist in, and work from within a fellow believer.  Someone who is host to the Holy Spirit continues having ability to operate with awareness, discernment, intellect and self-will; therefore, that host remains accountable for their own behavior, choices and conduct at all times.  While the believer may not control the imparted Spirit from GOD; neither may the Holy Spirit control a believer as though he or she is an unfeeling, unthinking machine.  The host repeatedly must make the choice to acknowledge and yield to promptings by the Holy Spirit.  Just as the Holy Spirit may not be named as the cause of sins a host might commit, neither should the Spirit be accused, or condemned as the cause of carnal and worldly behavior performed by the host.  Under the power of the Spirit, believers may experience trances, or visions, and may perform involuntary acts (as when one collapses as though “slain” in the Spirit; see Daniel 10:  8-11, KJV).  Even so, believers are to prepare themselves and others for such sacred events, and when possible, establish beforehand the duration, location, and times when such events will be manifest to chosen witnesses.  Satan is often mistakenly accused of sending hypocrites, false prophets, and those in confusion who display counterfeits of the Holy Spirit, because fear and misunderstanding are increased by out of control behavior.  The spirit of any true prophet is “subject to the prophets.”  This does not mean one who prophesies is subordinate to another church member through hierarchy.  Rather, it states that every prophetic demonstration must meet a criteria of agreement, consistency, harmony and relevance to earlier divine proclamations and prophecies—those fulfilled as well as those continuing in process, and those the church must await.  The Spirit and the Word always agree.  (See 1st Corinthians 14:  1-40, KJV.)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me:  and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.  Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?  Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words:  and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.  He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings:  and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.  These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you:  not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.  (John 14:  21-27, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Heart, Brain or Spirit? (10/09/2013); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); The Dove (12/28/2012); Purchased With Blood? (12/29/2012); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Life Companion (11/07/2012); The “Lake of Mercy” (11/03/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012)


“strueimage”, here are a few points that strengthen Christian believers:

(1.)  Where the “peace of Christ” means the same certainty, confidence and security that was experienced by the Savior during his ministry upon the earth, there must be rebirth of the believer through operations of GOD described as baptism, cleansing, and death.  As new creatures (still in flesh and mortal, yet, containing added and fresh endowments of divine substance), believers are free from the human predicament that results by the operation of sin.  Included are release from conflict between and among such features as doubts, fantasy, knowledge, imagination, instinct and intuition as well as lack of clarity and inconsistency for desire, goals, hopes, and needs.

(2.)  In the world, today, many are emotionally and psychologically destroyed by continually seeing the differences between what things are, what things were, and what things can and should be.  By the peace of Christ, believers are made free of the frustration that comes from lacking all the necessary skill to put into practice and implement every aspect of good.  It remains that sin cannot be eliminated by the operations of human intellect, logic, reason, and science.  Through inseparable spirit content from Christ (such as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, joy, love, wisdom, wrath against sin) ones awareness and nature are being perfected and transformed.  Bitterness, distrust and resentment are removed; and there is reconciliation to GOD, and to divine law.  Because they correctly comprehend multiple divine operations and sacred purposes that demonstrate the justice and righteousness of GOD, believers embrace acceptance of their dependence, and have no quarrel against restriction to finite limits.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Peace that is an aspect of being and existence is more than simply inactivity, feeling, quiet, and stillness.  Divine peace does not “control” or manipulate behavior and conduct; cannot be mandated or negotiated by councils of men; and does not fade, or go and return as an element in the framework of time and space.  Like the knee or the elbow are parts of ones body always present as a feature of their movement and full person, peace from GOD through Christ is ever-present as believers interact with the Divine Person and with others, their peers in the earth.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/19/2013) Too Much Holy Spirit?

Exaggerated behavior, fanaticism, and zeal are topics, today.  Also, there is more on the dead in Christ.  A writer on “Yahoo! Answers Malaysia” using the ID “Candle4969” (Level 1 with 31 points, a member since April 3, 2012) posted the following originally asked on Yahoo Answers United States:


Can someone be over filled with the baptism of the holy spirit?

I was wondering I know a lot of people who are filled with the baptism of the holy spirit. Some people use it very little then there are others who use it all the time non stop. why is that can someone have the baptism of the holy spirit and be over filled with holy spirit.


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Dead in Christ? (11/18/2013)—(5.)  The work of Jesus in the Sanctuary is not open and visible to the holy angels, elders, and sacred beasts of heaven; and must be known to them through faith, for Jesus has remained unseen for an extended period.  While the Savior is thus occupied, and may not grant us his full and immediate attention, it is correct to direct ones prayers to the Father in the Savior’s name.  Like those upon the earth who lack faith and are overcome by a spirit of unbelief, Satan continues to operate proclaiming Christ is no more, and was totally defeated and removed by death upon the cross.  In the Adversary’s estimation, nothing of importance is going on there, nothing that will bestow honor, power or promotion.  It remains, however, that the works of judgment and salvation have many levels known only to GOD; and these have been entrusted only to Christ who now is Judge, the soon-coming King of Glory, and the eternal Son of the Highest.  More than behavior and conduct, divine judgment must also assess such elements as conformity to the life of Jesus, dutifulness, godliness, spirit content, and zeal.  The knowledge of Bible truth and Scripture is not the sole qualifier and requirement for salvation.  Those who walked in accordance with the light and truth that was available to them in their day as coming forth from GOD may not have received the same awareness and gifts granted to us in this present hour.  Even so, where they died believing and trusting GOD to fulfill the promises and words spoken in the hearing of Adam and Eve—or merely trusting the Almighty for compassion, mercy, and righteousness in judgment—these can be accounted as belonging to Christ, and will be received as the people of his eternal kingdom.  (See Isaiah 45:  11-13, Isaiah 50:  9-11, 2nd Corinthians 4:  1-7, Romans 3:  21-26, and Hebrews 9:  15, Ephesians 5:  8 and 1st John 1:  6-8, KJV.)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.  He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets.  A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.  (Matthew 12:  18-20, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); Need for A New Holy Spirit? (06/03/2013); Faith for Facing Tragedy (06/04/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers (04/07/2013); Confessing Only to GOD? (04/08/2013); The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012); Spirit Matter (10/21/2012); Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); Christian Modesty (10/15/2012); The Meek Will Inherit (10/16/2012)


“Candle4969”, here are a few points that should be useful among Christian believers:

(1.)  In the course of their development, most believers will display behavior and understandings that are exaggerated, inflated, understated, and otherwise unbalanced.  Once born again from divine DNA, so to speak, believers must also “grow up again” as new creatures who exist in an old and unchanged environment (i.e., the physical world and social system they receive as their family, the workplace, the nation and global community, etc.).  Growth only goes forward through change that is gradual, yet, also includes outbursts, life challenges (we say, growing pains), spurts, and suffering.

(2.)  Fanaticism and overly zealous conduct also may include legitimate charismatic displays (such as spontaneous and unplanned “holy rolling,” where believers fall to the floor humbling themselves, and “return to dust;” ecstatic gospel dancing; or speaking in tongues).  Even so, Christian believers are to respond to authority, discipline and order within the assembly regarding manifestations.  Out of control behavior only appears where believers are not continually experiencing Jesus as a living person in relationship with themselves.  The Savior’s manner and style continually acknowledges the presence of the Father through humility, piety, quietness, respect, reverence, and sobriety.  Also, as unfinished believers, fanatics and zealots will lack correct knowledge of divine law, of sacred purpose, and of the ongoing operations of GOD through the Holy Spirit.

(3.)  Believers are to stand upon their own faith, and obey the dictates of their own individual conscience.  However, none may trust in their own righteousness to be all they need for salvation.  Once separated from the counsel and guidance of other experienced believers, and leaders within their chosen assembly, unfinished believers are on dangerous ground (some say, Satan’s ground).  Those completely driven by their own strong emotions and feelings are exposed to, and repeatedly invite, the subtle attacks and “psychological warfare” upon true doctrine that now exists throughout popular culture and social media.  Isolation and separatism that may be useful for fasting, personal growth, prayer, private devotions, sanctification, and study, often prove inappropriate for the shared work of spreading the Gospel.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  It is not wise to deny all external authority outside of oneself, and to insist that ones own inner spirit is sufficient, and is the true source of the divine grace bestowed upon all.  Intellect and mind naturally embrace bias, counterfeit spirituality, fleeting impressions, and subjective sensation.  Believers are counseled to “try the spirits.”  While it is correct that our goals of achieving spiritual insight and maturity (we say, perfection) are attained only through operations carried out by ones own endowment of the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD provided through the ministry of Jesus Christ, genuine manifestations of that Spirit all are to be recognized as displaying balance, completeness, and regularity as well as circumspection, meekness and stability.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC