Points are shared on water and fire baptism, today. Also, there is more on the tactics of the enemy in spiritual warfare. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “A B” (Level 5 with 9,024 points, a member who joined 2 years ago) posted the following:
Christians, what baptismal formula does the bible prescribe?
I know Matthew 28:19 says baptize in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, but acts 2:38, 8:16 and 10:48 says the disciples baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
THE BATTLE AXE: Herod the Great? (06/29/2014)—(5.) Honest efforts, mistakes that come by trial-and-error, and our necessary missteps made in innocence when one seeks to learn and grow in spiritual truth are usually marked by humility and surrender to GOD, never self-justification and self-promotion. The process of those who advance spiritual warfare against Christ as a disguised challenge to the righteousness of GOD as judge over mankind usually is to select a “villain” from Bible history such as King Herod who reigned at the time Jesus was born, Pharaoh of Egypt who reigned at the time Moses was born, or Pontius Pilate who ruled at the time of the Savior‘s death. Those pursuing the error also will choose figures from modern history such as Hitler, Stalin, and Bin Laden. The indictment then is made that, by having foreknowledge (we say, omniscience), and using people as instruments to carry out the divine will, GOD is directly responsible for mass murder, and guilty of the many faults and crimes of mankind. A variation of the “great villain” scenario is the accusation against GOD on the basis of incidents that demonstrate divine judgment and wrath against sin such as the ten plagues of Egypt, destruction of the city of Jericho, and a gang of children mauled by a bear when they attacked an elderly prophet of GOD. Believers are to be manipulated into agreeing that divinity is to be condemned and despised as cruel, hateful, and hostile to all life upon the earth.
(6.) Believing that GOD has provided no mechanism within divine law whereby created beings and living creatures may call forth clarifications and review of divine actions, many feel mankind must insist upon standards from human law that will allow such charges as bias, favoritism, indifference, injustice, and malfeasance, to be brought against Almighty GOD. Human law does not have jurisdiction over GOD, except as divinity appears in flesh (we say, incarnate). Thus, the public exposure, arrest, trial, scourging, and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and all the details for atonement, redemption, and salvation are to be seen as a complete divine provision for lawful dispute, and resolution for all opposition to divinity: GOD has provided a lamb.
(7.) Just as created beings and living creatures fail to recognize and resist sin when unaware of divine law, sinners fail to realize the advantage, benefit, and protection and from GOD when consciousness of divine law is lost. Posing questions can be important to communication, dialog, and cooperative exchange. Merely asking a question to gain new knowledge or increase ones understanding is not automatically an offense against GOD. However, those influenced by sin repeatedly employ devices that do not emerge from an appetite for the things of GOD. As sinners, inquirers operate from a base of intellect and imagination, rather than from the imparted Spirit of GOD. Believers should be alert and vigilant when conversations that begin by quoting the Scriptures conclude with citations from extra-biblical sources. For example, conditional and hypothetical questions with no spiritual material may appear that require acceptance of assumptions and conditions contrary to the declarations of GOD (we say, that do not exist, are not genuine, are not true). Thereby false information is introduced. Attackers will use analysis to foster error that breaks or conceals necessary links for the full integrity, soundness and wholeness of scripture truth. Imposters are unable to completely disguise their aggression, bitterness, ignorance, and lack of correct understanding. Those whose focus is primarily prohibitions, punishments, and threats of hell center their awareness in one dimension (measurable aspect) of divine law. Forgiveness is held to be granted as an arbitrary exercise, and so is regarded as changeable, erratic and unpredictable. Counsel to such persons absolutely must be, get to know Christ for yourself. Focus upon being in a relationship with GOD, not being just another object in Creation. See again Psalms 10: 1-18, Psalms 36: 1-3, Psalms 109: 1-4, Job 15: 31, Jeremiah 9: 4-6, Mark 12: 24 and Romans 16: 17-18, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him, Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles: And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again. And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire. And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized: (Mark 10: 32-39, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sprinkled, Immersed, Named? (02/01/2014); Forgiveness Through GOD? (02/02/2014); Before Getting Baptized? (11/28/2013); The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Money-changers in the Temple? (06/23/2013)
“A B”, here are a few points that are useful for a full Christian understanding of baptism:
(1.) There is no verbal formula (we say, charm, enchantment, slogan, spell) used to complete water and fire baptism. Because water baptism is an operation carried out by the Spirit of GOD in respect to the Father (as we see with John the Baptist), or as the agent of Jesus Christ (as seen in the instance of Saul of Tarsus answered through the disciple, Ananias), baptism is both a sacred event (we say, miracle), and a sacrament (sacred practice). Fire baptism may occur before water baptism as shown in the instance where those in the Gentile household of Cornelius were all endowed with the gifts from the Father before Peter could finish his sermon.
(2.) The Apostle Paul, following the example of Jesus himself, did not conduct many baptisms in order to establish the rite as a sacred act establishing divinity within flesh (we say, incarnation), and linking flesh (mankind) to Spirit, rather than a process joining followers to their teachers, and linking believers to those from whom they received instruction and personal ministry.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (3.) In water baptism ones inborn spirit dies, is buried, and is replaced by a new spirit having the same content and makeup as the Holy Spirit that operated in Creation, and that resided within Jesus of Nazareth. Through the ministry of Jesus upon the earth, and from the heaven, believers are granted fresh endowments of that same Spirit that was breathed into Adam, and that provides awareness and self-will as the children of GOD. The church has used language both to acknowledge that Christ is come in flesh fulfilling the Scriptures as well as to proclaim fulfillment for the promise of the Father regarding gifts of the Spirit.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, June 30, 2014
Sunday, June 29, 2014
(06/29/2014) Herod the Great?
Judgment, justice, and tricks of the enemy in spiritual warfare are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Bruce” (Level 7 with 101,630 points, a member since August 13, 2007) posted the following:
Was Herod the Great, who ordered the massacre of the innocents, welcomed into heaven or sent off to hell?
Besides ordering the murder of all children under 2 in Bethlehem, Herod executed his wife, her mother, and three of his children. There is not even a hint that he had the slightest pang of conscience in his murderous rampage, let alone repented (which would have been headline news in ancient Jerusalem). I'm just wondering how far my Christian friends will go with the retort than only God can judge. Hasn't he already judged?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Ephesians 6: 11-13, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Self-control and Law (04/15/2014); A Conflict of Interest? (04/16/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); Are We the Spoils of War? (01/08/2014); The Fullness of GODhead? (01/09/2014)
“Bruce”, here are a few points many Christian believers consider when challenged to engage in spiritual warfare:
(1.) Those who know and respect the law of GOD also know the penalties, precepts, principles, and sanctions declared through the law. Because divine law is the “expressed will of GOD,” there is no question whether GOD’s final sentence in judgment will contradict the proclamations of law.
(2.) The “sneak attack” against the law is often a distraction to turn the battle away from the blasphemy against divine righteousness. Great damage is done through the suggestion that men (or angels) can be more compassionate, fair, impartial, merciful, and unbiased than GOD. Divine love and eternal life are the priorities of divinity; therefore, such sacred operations as correction, forgiveness, incarnation, rebirth, regeneration, salvation, and sanctification appear.
(3.) Believers are cautioned to understand that sin operates upon the awareness and self-will of created beings and living creatures using subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences, hidden shifts in value and meaning). Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the Law Giver, and of all divine order generated by law. Relying upon such finite human tools as intellect, logic, mathematics, reason, and science, sin can not be detected, eliminated, or resisted.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) What appears as a thrust and condemnation against Herod, in fact, can be a challenge to prophecy and divine revelation, that replaces knowledge of divine events and sacred process with expressions of human feeling and thought. Believers know the mind of Christ only by having experienced the full power of baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, and rebirth having an endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD). Thus, the answer to every question about who goes to heaven is declared in Christ harvesting the earth at his appearing. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Was Herod the Great, who ordered the massacre of the innocents, welcomed into heaven or sent off to hell?
Besides ordering the murder of all children under 2 in Bethlehem, Herod executed his wife, her mother, and three of his children. There is not even a hint that he had the slightest pang of conscience in his murderous rampage, let alone repented (which would have been headline news in ancient Jerusalem). I'm just wondering how far my Christian friends will go with the retort than only God can judge. Hasn't he already judged?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Ephesians 6: 11-13, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Self-control and Law (04/15/2014); A Conflict of Interest? (04/16/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); Are We the Spoils of War? (01/08/2014); The Fullness of GODhead? (01/09/2014)
“Bruce”, here are a few points many Christian believers consider when challenged to engage in spiritual warfare:
(1.) Those who know and respect the law of GOD also know the penalties, precepts, principles, and sanctions declared through the law. Because divine law is the “expressed will of GOD,” there is no question whether GOD’s final sentence in judgment will contradict the proclamations of law.
(2.) The “sneak attack” against the law is often a distraction to turn the battle away from the blasphemy against divine righteousness. Great damage is done through the suggestion that men (or angels) can be more compassionate, fair, impartial, merciful, and unbiased than GOD. Divine love and eternal life are the priorities of divinity; therefore, such sacred operations as correction, forgiveness, incarnation, rebirth, regeneration, salvation, and sanctification appear.
(3.) Believers are cautioned to understand that sin operates upon the awareness and self-will of created beings and living creatures using subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences, hidden shifts in value and meaning). Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the Law Giver, and of all divine order generated by law. Relying upon such finite human tools as intellect, logic, mathematics, reason, and science, sin can not be detected, eliminated, or resisted.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) What appears as a thrust and condemnation against Herod, in fact, can be a challenge to prophecy and divine revelation, that replaces knowledge of divine events and sacred process with expressions of human feeling and thought. Believers know the mind of Christ only by having experienced the full power of baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, and rebirth having an endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD). Thus, the answer to every question about who goes to heaven is declared in Christ harvesting the earth at his appearing. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Saturday, June 28, 2014
(06/28/2014) Points on Bible Study
Today, I share points (below) that should be helpful for Bible study along with more on flesh and blood inheriting a divine kingdom. As I began my late night Bible study, returning to an online presentation of Genesis 2 from www.jw.org and the New World Translation of the Scriptures (2013 Revision), I realized I had missed some of the important material that accompanies the sacred text. In addition to an outline display that groups and summarizes the chapter according to verses, I had overlooked multiple links to footnotes and marginal references appearing throughout the chapter presentation. Upon reading Genesis 1, I had been careful to begin reading aloud what would be the frontmatter of a print edition (e.g., introduction, forward, appendices, etc.). However, I had completely dismissed numeration of the verses, and the little plus signs and stars included with almost every phrase within each verse. Starting over, I calculated that it may be well after December of 2016 before I complete this study of a contemporary language version for the holy writings that I’ve begun in summer of 2014. The accounts recorded as the Bible are not intended for amusement and entertainment. Yet, reading the Scriptures should not be called “hard work;” it should be thought of as careful work.
THE BATTLE AXE: Inheriting the Kingdom (06/27/2014)— (5.) In using the human frameworks of time and space to describe the coming kingdom, Jesus does not detail the features of any region upon the earth, or the beauty of an ideal location in the heaven. Instead, the Savior makes numerous comparisons and contrasts that explain sacred events, parables, proclamations from GOD, lessons from the Scriptures, and prophecy. The kingdom Jesus spoke of was a condition for existence, a governing principle, a life process, and an intimate relationship driven by divinity that would establish all created beings and living creatures as immortal and incorruptible. The word “kingdom” identifies an aggregate or collective that operates under a single sovereign authority, and is distinct from democracy, a system to allow equal access to and participation in decision-making. On the one hand, membership in the divine kingdom can only be gained through election (we say, by being divinely chosen; by the divine operations of grace and faith). On the other hand, each member must be self-selected by accepting a fresh endowment of divine spirit content, acquiring sacred knowledge, practicing preordained sacraments and spiritual works, and surrendering self-will to divine-will as obedience. The kingdom experience is one of being cleansed, encounter, new learning, and realization of collective strength. By speaking and thinking in terms of a sacred kingdom, believers are able to communicate having greater clarity, both with one another and with those outside their assembly. The human tool of language may be used to crystallize experiences of divinity using such terms as ambassadors, citizens, duty, followers, heirs, soldiers, or kings and priests of the kingdom.
(6.) An important change occurred for the operations of consciousness and focus within mankind by the divine creation of a female aspect to Adam. GOD was no longer the primary companion to the male. The male made a proclamation asserting authority, ownership, and self-will: Flesh of my flesh, bone of my bone. When aroused by the woman, the tree of knowledge and the tree of life were seen by Adam as material objects that would maintain the bond of flesh and bone, rather than spiritual sources to maintain the bond with divinity. Subtleties (barely visible distinctions, hidden shifts in meaning and value) and multiple errors were introduced. In the light of flesh and blood, acquiring authority, knowledge, and power appeared possible by what one consumed or ingested, rather than strictly by what would be communicated and transmitted from GOD through continuing companionship. Spiritual confusion had been launched, and the process of discernment (recognition of divine substance in aspects of experience such as events, objects, other persons, proclamations, praise, and utterance) permanently became clouded, murky and unclear. In the proclamation of Jesus, the second Adam, consuming the Savior’s flesh and blood is revealed as a sacred process to establish eternal life. Consider again Genesis 9: 3-5, Leviticus 17: 11, Zephaniah 1: 16-18, Matthew 16: 16-17, John 6: 48-58 and 1st Corinthians 15: 39-50, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecclesiastes 12: 10-14, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014); Denying Oneself (05/17/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014); By Inspiration of GOD (10/27/2013); Believing Everything? (11/22/2012); How To Have Conviction (11/23/2012)
1. There is no way to have full understanding by a partial reading of the Scriptures. At first, ones focus should exclude academic and extra-biblical material from such fields as archeology, anthropology, history, philology and psychology. Footnotes are always important to correct reading of contemporary language editions and various translations. Marginal references should always be read because they identify places within the same volume where a peculiar verse is expanded, or repeated.
2. Like time and space, daily reading of the Scriptures provides a framework of order and structure for finite awareness and life experience. More than this, the Scriptures are a food and beverage for the divine content within mankind. Spirit is nourished, refreshed and revived through added spirit introduced using such devices as breath, forgiveness, praise, prayer, preaching, proclamation, promise, prophecy, and utterance.
3. Readers and students of the Scriptures are being called (we say, recruited) to serve as ministers to others. Those having sacred knowledge are to break the bread of the Scriptures to those who desire correct understanding. Mastery for ones own reputation and self-promotion are not a goal. Believers are not to become critics, jailers, and wardens continually punishing the errors of others. The eternal purpose is that of admonishing, feeding, sharing, and making others fit to live in accordance with the will of GOD.
4. The Adversary and enemies of divinity will attempt to fight on every front (i.e., argue and question every point of sacred mystery) to generate dissension and division. Readers are to understand, there is no desired growth or spiritual gain from searching the Scriptures to find contradictions, errors, or misstatements. The life essence (we say, breath, spark, spirit) contained, preserved, and transmitted through the Scriptures can not be received or recognized using only finite standards and tools that are secular.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) Diversity among the various presentations of the Scriptures should be acknowledged in the same way as diversity among flowers and song birds. For readers using discernment (applying their own spirit content to recognize oneness, spirit matter and unity within such elements as current events, messages, law, other persons, and utterance), restatements of Scripture that use patterns and emphasis different from those first received or used for an extended period can not violate the principles embedded there that are enduring and eternal light. Through Christ, the power of “If bodda you dat you goin mahke, fo shua you goin mahke. But if you like do everyting you do fo me, an no bodda you if you mahke fo dat, den you goin live fo real kine.” (Matthew 16: 25, Hawai’i Pidgin, HWP) is no less than that for “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16: 25, King James Version, KJV), both displayed at the Internet site www.BibleGateway.com. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
THE BATTLE AXE: Inheriting the Kingdom (06/27/2014)— (5.) In using the human frameworks of time and space to describe the coming kingdom, Jesus does not detail the features of any region upon the earth, or the beauty of an ideal location in the heaven. Instead, the Savior makes numerous comparisons and contrasts that explain sacred events, parables, proclamations from GOD, lessons from the Scriptures, and prophecy. The kingdom Jesus spoke of was a condition for existence, a governing principle, a life process, and an intimate relationship driven by divinity that would establish all created beings and living creatures as immortal and incorruptible. The word “kingdom” identifies an aggregate or collective that operates under a single sovereign authority, and is distinct from democracy, a system to allow equal access to and participation in decision-making. On the one hand, membership in the divine kingdom can only be gained through election (we say, by being divinely chosen; by the divine operations of grace and faith). On the other hand, each member must be self-selected by accepting a fresh endowment of divine spirit content, acquiring sacred knowledge, practicing preordained sacraments and spiritual works, and surrendering self-will to divine-will as obedience. The kingdom experience is one of being cleansed, encounter, new learning, and realization of collective strength. By speaking and thinking in terms of a sacred kingdom, believers are able to communicate having greater clarity, both with one another and with those outside their assembly. The human tool of language may be used to crystallize experiences of divinity using such terms as ambassadors, citizens, duty, followers, heirs, soldiers, or kings and priests of the kingdom.
(6.) An important change occurred for the operations of consciousness and focus within mankind by the divine creation of a female aspect to Adam. GOD was no longer the primary companion to the male. The male made a proclamation asserting authority, ownership, and self-will: Flesh of my flesh, bone of my bone. When aroused by the woman, the tree of knowledge and the tree of life were seen by Adam as material objects that would maintain the bond of flesh and bone, rather than spiritual sources to maintain the bond with divinity. Subtleties (barely visible distinctions, hidden shifts in meaning and value) and multiple errors were introduced. In the light of flesh and blood, acquiring authority, knowledge, and power appeared possible by what one consumed or ingested, rather than strictly by what would be communicated and transmitted from GOD through continuing companionship. Spiritual confusion had been launched, and the process of discernment (recognition of divine substance in aspects of experience such as events, objects, other persons, proclamations, praise, and utterance) permanently became clouded, murky and unclear. In the proclamation of Jesus, the second Adam, consuming the Savior’s flesh and blood is revealed as a sacred process to establish eternal life. Consider again Genesis 9: 3-5, Leviticus 17: 11, Zephaniah 1: 16-18, Matthew 16: 16-17, John 6: 48-58 and 1st Corinthians 15: 39-50, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecclesiastes 12: 10-14, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014); Denying Oneself (05/17/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014); By Inspiration of GOD (10/27/2013); Believing Everything? (11/22/2012); How To Have Conviction (11/23/2012)
1. There is no way to have full understanding by a partial reading of the Scriptures. At first, ones focus should exclude academic and extra-biblical material from such fields as archeology, anthropology, history, philology and psychology. Footnotes are always important to correct reading of contemporary language editions and various translations. Marginal references should always be read because they identify places within the same volume where a peculiar verse is expanded, or repeated.
2. Like time and space, daily reading of the Scriptures provides a framework of order and structure for finite awareness and life experience. More than this, the Scriptures are a food and beverage for the divine content within mankind. Spirit is nourished, refreshed and revived through added spirit introduced using such devices as breath, forgiveness, praise, prayer, preaching, proclamation, promise, prophecy, and utterance.
3. Readers and students of the Scriptures are being called (we say, recruited) to serve as ministers to others. Those having sacred knowledge are to break the bread of the Scriptures to those who desire correct understanding. Mastery for ones own reputation and self-promotion are not a goal. Believers are not to become critics, jailers, and wardens continually punishing the errors of others. The eternal purpose is that of admonishing, feeding, sharing, and making others fit to live in accordance with the will of GOD.
4. The Adversary and enemies of divinity will attempt to fight on every front (i.e., argue and question every point of sacred mystery) to generate dissension and division. Readers are to understand, there is no desired growth or spiritual gain from searching the Scriptures to find contradictions, errors, or misstatements. The life essence (we say, breath, spark, spirit) contained, preserved, and transmitted through the Scriptures can not be received or recognized using only finite standards and tools that are secular.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) Diversity among the various presentations of the Scriptures should be acknowledged in the same way as diversity among flowers and song birds. For readers using discernment (applying their own spirit content to recognize oneness, spirit matter and unity within such elements as current events, messages, law, other persons, and utterance), restatements of Scripture that use patterns and emphasis different from those first received or used for an extended period can not violate the principles embedded there that are enduring and eternal light. Through Christ, the power of “If bodda you dat you goin mahke, fo shua you goin mahke. But if you like do everyting you do fo me, an no bodda you if you mahke fo dat, den you goin live fo real kine.” (Matthew 16: 25, Hawai’i Pidgin, HWP) is no less than that for “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16: 25, King James Version, KJV), both displayed at the Internet site www.BibleGateway.com. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, June 27, 2014
(06/27/2014) Inheriting the Kingdom?
Today, a few points are shared on blood, incarnation, inheritance, and the kingdom of GOD. Also, there is more on removing ones ornaments and divine judgment. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Ian” (Level 1 with 1 point, a member who joined 2 months ago) posted the following:
Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God?
THE BATTLE AXE: Sanctify Yourselves? (06/26/2014)—(6.) In addition to judgment, the requirement that Israel remove all their ornaments pertains to the principle of faith demonstrated through works. Perfection (we say, maturity, readiness and ripeness for harvest), salvation, and the many operations of divinity embracing created beings and living creatures are conditional and progressive. A series of related responses are called forth, and the “saved” are seen to advance by gradual yet permanent change, growth, learning, reconciliation, and regeneration. As seen through intercession by Moses, when GOD is correctly acknowledged, and transgressors respond with needed adjustments, improvements and renewal of covenant, mercy may be stirred and execution of divine sentences expressing the wrath of GOD may be delayed, or softened. See Exodus 32: 9-14, Numbers 16: 20-22, Joshua 24: 14-28 and 2nd Kings 22: 18-20, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8: 13-17, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014); Spirit Gives Birth to Spirit (01/22/2014); Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013)
“Ian”, here are a few points that will add to your full knowledge of Christian beliefs:
(1.) GOD is a spirit who has expressed active presence and person by putting forth created beings and living creatures, the conditions for their duration, and the spheres wherein they may abide. Mankind is to have eternal existence as a companion to GOD, and must be permanently changed to be immortal and incorruptible.
(2.) The language “flesh and blood” refers to devices, mechanisms and living processes for finite and mortal creatures upon the earth such as animals, fish, insects, and men. Included are appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, craving for sex), sensation (hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and emotional/mental functions (e.g., desire, fear, imagination, logic, reason, recall). While angels, sacred beasts, and other creatures continue in the same immediate sphere as GOD (we say, heaven), they are neither immortal nor incorruptible, and only endure on the basis of grace and divine prerogative.
(3.) GOD has used flesh and blood to appear in the earth as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation); and to complete, further, or initiate multiple sacred operations for the salvation and transformation of mankind. Included are adoption as children of GOD, atonement, baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), forgiveness, resurrection, sacrifice, and sanctification.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Blood is the divine tool that circulates to the many hidden and unseen parts within the living. Blood is therefore useful as a vehicle to rinse and wash away uncleanness as well as to convey and transfer life essence (we say, breath, spirit, utterance, word).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God?
THE BATTLE AXE: Sanctify Yourselves? (06/26/2014)—(6.) In addition to judgment, the requirement that Israel remove all their ornaments pertains to the principle of faith demonstrated through works. Perfection (we say, maturity, readiness and ripeness for harvest), salvation, and the many operations of divinity embracing created beings and living creatures are conditional and progressive. A series of related responses are called forth, and the “saved” are seen to advance by gradual yet permanent change, growth, learning, reconciliation, and regeneration. As seen through intercession by Moses, when GOD is correctly acknowledged, and transgressors respond with needed adjustments, improvements and renewal of covenant, mercy may be stirred and execution of divine sentences expressing the wrath of GOD may be delayed, or softened. See Exodus 32: 9-14, Numbers 16: 20-22, Joshua 24: 14-28 and 2nd Kings 22: 18-20, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8: 13-17, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014); Spirit Gives Birth to Spirit (01/22/2014); Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013)
“Ian”, here are a few points that will add to your full knowledge of Christian beliefs:
(1.) GOD is a spirit who has expressed active presence and person by putting forth created beings and living creatures, the conditions for their duration, and the spheres wherein they may abide. Mankind is to have eternal existence as a companion to GOD, and must be permanently changed to be immortal and incorruptible.
(2.) The language “flesh and blood” refers to devices, mechanisms and living processes for finite and mortal creatures upon the earth such as animals, fish, insects, and men. Included are appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, craving for sex), sensation (hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and emotional/mental functions (e.g., desire, fear, imagination, logic, reason, recall). While angels, sacred beasts, and other creatures continue in the same immediate sphere as GOD (we say, heaven), they are neither immortal nor incorruptible, and only endure on the basis of grace and divine prerogative.
(3.) GOD has used flesh and blood to appear in the earth as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation); and to complete, further, or initiate multiple sacred operations for the salvation and transformation of mankind. Included are adoption as children of GOD, atonement, baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), forgiveness, resurrection, sacrifice, and sanctification.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Blood is the divine tool that circulates to the many hidden and unseen parts within the living. Blood is therefore useful as a vehicle to rinse and wash away uncleanness as well as to convey and transfer life essence (we say, breath, spirit, utterance, word).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Thursday, June 26, 2014
(06/26/2014) Sanctify Yourselves?
In place of foreknowledge and divine omniscience, topics, today, include human choice, the making of Israel as a nation, judgment, revelation, and salvation. Also, there is more on all sin as the same. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Wick” (Level 3 with 1,383 points, joined 3 months ago) posted the following:
Why did the Lord need the people to remove their ornaments before He'd know what to do to them (Ex 33:5)?
"5 For the Lord had said to Moses, “Say to the children of Israel, ‘You are a stiff-necked people. I could come up into your midst in one moment and consume you. Now therefore, take off your ornaments, that I may know what to do to you.’”
THE BATTLE AXE: All Sins Are Equal? (06/25/2014)—(5.) Where the holy writings speak of sin (singular, not plural) a peculiar spiritual effect and posture toward divinity should come into view expressed through, yet, different from the various offenses, behaviors and crimes that men commit. So to speak the whole is greater than simply the sum of its parts. All sin appears through the same inner mechanisms and operations. All sin is directed to the same end, generates a single outcome, and is described by a single existential purpose. All sin generates and maintains evil (i.e., arbitrary and unintended change; calamity, catastrophe, widespread destruction, upheaval), inequality (we say, disproportion, imbalance, immaturity, instability), ungodliness, and wickedness. All sin is addressed by GOD through sacred provisions such as atonement, baptism, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, judgment, love, and sanctification. Just as sin opposes the continued existence of divinity, sin opposes sacred knowledge and right relationship with GOD, correct reverence, and proper worship. See Isaiah 66: 1-4, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. (Deuteronomy 8: 1-3, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); The Bible is Unchanging? (03/23/2014); Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); When Does Judgment Begin? (06/27/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Why Jesus Must Be A Jew (03/18/2013); The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013)
“Wick”, here are some points to consider regarding divine judgment and salvation:
(1.) The people who left Egypt hoping to be led into a new land were spiritually corrupt. While they had maintained their identity as kinspersons, families, and tribes, their social customs and worship traditions had become heavily influenced by their desire to be a part of the world, and their having been grafted (we say, assimilated) into the culture of Egypt. Despite the demonstrations of divine wrath against the sins of Egypt, many were motivated more by a desire to escape poverty, and to possess their own property, than a desire to know, or serve the true and living GOD. Many were still in conflict, did not understand the full commitment being required, and had not put away all their fear of the unknown.
(2.) The revelation of GOD to Moses, to Egypt, and to all mankind is to be seen as the appearing of divinity through judgment. Removal of their ornaments pertain to cleansing, humility, stripping away the old errors and sin as well as to being set apart for divine service (we say, anointing, consecration, purification, sanctification).
(3.) By the Exodus, the process of divine judgment is shown as having more aspects and levels than simply condemnation and punishment. There also are such facets as correction (we say, instruction), death with rebirth, endurance (we say, longsuffering, patience), forbearance, forgiveness, and repentance (return to GOD). A person chooses and determines their own position and standing before GOD through their actions applying sacred knowledge, their continuing expression of attitudes and beliefs, and their responses to adversity that display the measure of divinity within themselves.
(4.) The number of those who left Egypt with Moses is not recorded in the holy writings. However, a census of those who would serve as the army of Israel was taken, and more than ½ million males of fighting age were mustered. Because they lacked faith and continued under the influence of sin, of that number only two would actually enter the Promised Land and receive their divine allotment (Joshua and Caleb). Neither Aaron nor Moses crossed the Jordan River.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) Israel was not yet a nation, and could only become a sovereign state in covenant with the Holy One by facing multiple challenges as a united collective, and remaining steadfast in relationship to one another and to GOD. Just as divinity was being revealed using the frameworks of time and space, the nature of Israel as a people would have to emerge through repeated opportunities to fulfill their pledge to GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why did the Lord need the people to remove their ornaments before He'd know what to do to them (Ex 33:5)?
"5 For the Lord had said to Moses, “Say to the children of Israel, ‘You are a stiff-necked people. I could come up into your midst in one moment and consume you. Now therefore, take off your ornaments, that I may know what to do to you.’”
THE BATTLE AXE: All Sins Are Equal? (06/25/2014)—(5.) Where the holy writings speak of sin (singular, not plural) a peculiar spiritual effect and posture toward divinity should come into view expressed through, yet, different from the various offenses, behaviors and crimes that men commit. So to speak the whole is greater than simply the sum of its parts. All sin appears through the same inner mechanisms and operations. All sin is directed to the same end, generates a single outcome, and is described by a single existential purpose. All sin generates and maintains evil (i.e., arbitrary and unintended change; calamity, catastrophe, widespread destruction, upheaval), inequality (we say, disproportion, imbalance, immaturity, instability), ungodliness, and wickedness. All sin is addressed by GOD through sacred provisions such as atonement, baptism, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, judgment, love, and sanctification. Just as sin opposes the continued existence of divinity, sin opposes sacred knowledge and right relationship with GOD, correct reverence, and proper worship. See Isaiah 66: 1-4, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. (Deuteronomy 8: 1-3, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); The Bible is Unchanging? (03/23/2014); Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); When Does Judgment Begin? (06/27/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Why Jesus Must Be A Jew (03/18/2013); The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013)
“Wick”, here are some points to consider regarding divine judgment and salvation:
(1.) The people who left Egypt hoping to be led into a new land were spiritually corrupt. While they had maintained their identity as kinspersons, families, and tribes, their social customs and worship traditions had become heavily influenced by their desire to be a part of the world, and their having been grafted (we say, assimilated) into the culture of Egypt. Despite the demonstrations of divine wrath against the sins of Egypt, many were motivated more by a desire to escape poverty, and to possess their own property, than a desire to know, or serve the true and living GOD. Many were still in conflict, did not understand the full commitment being required, and had not put away all their fear of the unknown.
(2.) The revelation of GOD to Moses, to Egypt, and to all mankind is to be seen as the appearing of divinity through judgment. Removal of their ornaments pertain to cleansing, humility, stripping away the old errors and sin as well as to being set apart for divine service (we say, anointing, consecration, purification, sanctification).
(3.) By the Exodus, the process of divine judgment is shown as having more aspects and levels than simply condemnation and punishment. There also are such facets as correction (we say, instruction), death with rebirth, endurance (we say, longsuffering, patience), forbearance, forgiveness, and repentance (return to GOD). A person chooses and determines their own position and standing before GOD through their actions applying sacred knowledge, their continuing expression of attitudes and beliefs, and their responses to adversity that display the measure of divinity within themselves.
(4.) The number of those who left Egypt with Moses is not recorded in the holy writings. However, a census of those who would serve as the army of Israel was taken, and more than ½ million males of fighting age were mustered. Because they lacked faith and continued under the influence of sin, of that number only two would actually enter the Promised Land and receive their divine allotment (Joshua and Caleb). Neither Aaron nor Moses crossed the Jordan River.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) Israel was not yet a nation, and could only become a sovereign state in covenant with the Holy One by facing multiple challenges as a united collective, and remaining steadfast in relationship to one another and to GOD. Just as divinity was being revealed using the frameworks of time and space, the nature of Israel as a people would have to emerge through repeated opportunities to fulfill their pledge to GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
(06/25/2014) All Sins Are Equal?
Today, points are shared to clarify how all sin can be the same. Also, there is more on salvation before the time of Christ incarnate upon the earth. A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Lady Bunt” (Level 1 with 237 points, a member since March 18, 2014) posted the following:
Is it true that Protestants think that all sins are equal in the eyes of the Lord?
if they do, this is the stupidest belief I've ever heard in my life
This is against reason and logic. And this is against God, given that God is logos, then the pure reason
So according to Protestant a liar is as sinful as a serial killer who murdered 20 people. This is absurd
Not even the state reasons in such a ridiculous way. In fact for the law a fraud is not punished in the same way as a serial killer
or, dear Protestants, should you advise the state to give all criminals the same penalty?
THE BATTLE AXE: Salvation Before Christ? (06/24/2014)—(5.) For many doctrines and teachings recorded within the Scriptures the labels and familiar language we now use to speak of salvation do not appear. Yet, there are multiple demonstrations and events that carry the same essence (we say, spirit), meanings, precepts, principles and values. Included have been comfort, covenants, deliverance, prophetic demonstrations, healing, messages, miracles, proclamations, signs, sacred songs, and victory in battle. From before Creation, at its beginning, and for all mankind that would ever exist, there has been only one divine mechanism for atonement and propitiation of sin: a presentation of divinity through blood offered in sacrifice from GOD appearing incarnate in the person of Jesus Christ. All upon the earth have been challenged to acknowledge salvation as faith fostered by the promises of GOD. All have been directed to continue specific observances and practices (we say, ceremonies, rituals, sacraments) that crystallize the expectation (hope) for a visible divine appearing (we say, revelation). Both the righteous and the unrighteous have been preserved by GOD through operations of death, and are to be returned to their bodies to appear before GOD. Even those from the earliest days of the earth can be taken up as saved to meet Christ in the air at his second coming (some say, Advent, the Rapture, the first resurrection). Others will be raised from the dead for judgment (we say, the second resurrection) as the wicked who must appear in an open tribunal where Christ will preside as judge. Atonement (applying the blood of Jesus to cover sin) and sealing to identify those belonging to Christ will have been completed before the first resurrection. Yet, those lifted then will participate in judgment to determine their eternal access to divinity, privileges and status (we say, rewards). When Christ comes to harvest the earth of those who have been purchased through the blood of atonement and redemption, only those who correctly responded to the many provisions for salvation will be granted life from the dead as the first resurrection. See again Acts 13: 38-39, Romans 6: 16-18, 1st Corinthians 3: 11-15, 1st Thessalonians 4: 14-16, Hebrews 11: 1-40 and 1st Peter 4: 1-7, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. (James 2: 5-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Speaking of GOD (10/20/2010); Sin Causes Death? (02/04/2014); Succession (02/05/2014); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); Why Blood? (04/13/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013)
“Lady Bunt”, here are a few points that have been useful for many Christian believers that might help strengthen your understanding:
(1.) GOD is a spirit who has put forth material beings and living creatures, the spheres wherein they may abide and endure, and the various conditions for them to gain sacred knowledge as well as to participate in intimate relationship with divinity.
(2.) Awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures may be dominated by sin. Sin is no material or spirit thing that has been created by GOD, has no concrete form or measurable dimension, yet, has direction, effect, and presence. Sin is an artifact of discrete being, independence, and separation from GOD; and sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the divine Law Giver, and of the universe manifest through divine law. Sin can not control or influence divine will.
(3.) Sin does not contain or have “existence” (an aspect of divinity). Thus, sin can not be suddenly and completely destroyed, eliminated and removed using such finite human tools as intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, reason, and science. To detect, correctly recognize, and resist sin, men and angels must receive inseparable, invisible aspects from the life essence of GOD that establish the power of divine will. Multiple divine operations are occurring that limit sin, and that are necessary to avoid cosmic upheaval for all divine order.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) In order to correctly communicate about the things of life or death from GOD, believers all must learn and use a shared language of spiritual experience that is distinct from what we have through carnal, material, and social activity. So to speak, we must master talking about bananas to describe watermelons. Putting aside their size and weight differences, the two are exactly the same: Both are fruit. Both are green (at least for a while). Both have the same function of protecting and distributing seed. Also, both are pretty tasty. Sin first may become known and spoken of on the basis of such features as attitudes, behavior, and conduct; however, sin is a profound aspect of spirit substance, existence, and interaction.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest in safety. Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid; yea, many shall make suit unto thee. But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, and they shall not escape, and their hope shall be as the giving up of the ghost. (Job 11: 18-20, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Is it true that Protestants think that all sins are equal in the eyes of the Lord?
if they do, this is the stupidest belief I've ever heard in my life
This is against reason and logic. And this is against God, given that God is logos, then the pure reason
So according to Protestant a liar is as sinful as a serial killer who murdered 20 people. This is absurd
Not even the state reasons in such a ridiculous way. In fact for the law a fraud is not punished in the same way as a serial killer
or, dear Protestants, should you advise the state to give all criminals the same penalty?
THE BATTLE AXE: Salvation Before Christ? (06/24/2014)—(5.) For many doctrines and teachings recorded within the Scriptures the labels and familiar language we now use to speak of salvation do not appear. Yet, there are multiple demonstrations and events that carry the same essence (we say, spirit), meanings, precepts, principles and values. Included have been comfort, covenants, deliverance, prophetic demonstrations, healing, messages, miracles, proclamations, signs, sacred songs, and victory in battle. From before Creation, at its beginning, and for all mankind that would ever exist, there has been only one divine mechanism for atonement and propitiation of sin: a presentation of divinity through blood offered in sacrifice from GOD appearing incarnate in the person of Jesus Christ. All upon the earth have been challenged to acknowledge salvation as faith fostered by the promises of GOD. All have been directed to continue specific observances and practices (we say, ceremonies, rituals, sacraments) that crystallize the expectation (hope) for a visible divine appearing (we say, revelation). Both the righteous and the unrighteous have been preserved by GOD through operations of death, and are to be returned to their bodies to appear before GOD. Even those from the earliest days of the earth can be taken up as saved to meet Christ in the air at his second coming (some say, Advent, the Rapture, the first resurrection). Others will be raised from the dead for judgment (we say, the second resurrection) as the wicked who must appear in an open tribunal where Christ will preside as judge. Atonement (applying the blood of Jesus to cover sin) and sealing to identify those belonging to Christ will have been completed before the first resurrection. Yet, those lifted then will participate in judgment to determine their eternal access to divinity, privileges and status (we say, rewards). When Christ comes to harvest the earth of those who have been purchased through the blood of atonement and redemption, only those who correctly responded to the many provisions for salvation will be granted life from the dead as the first resurrection. See again Acts 13: 38-39, Romans 6: 16-18, 1st Corinthians 3: 11-15, 1st Thessalonians 4: 14-16, Hebrews 11: 1-40 and 1st Peter 4: 1-7, KJV.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. (James 2: 5-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Speaking of GOD (10/20/2010); Sin Causes Death? (02/04/2014); Succession (02/05/2014); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); Why Blood? (04/13/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013)
“Lady Bunt”, here are a few points that have been useful for many Christian believers that might help strengthen your understanding:
(1.) GOD is a spirit who has put forth material beings and living creatures, the spheres wherein they may abide and endure, and the various conditions for them to gain sacred knowledge as well as to participate in intimate relationship with divinity.
(2.) Awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures may be dominated by sin. Sin is no material or spirit thing that has been created by GOD, has no concrete form or measurable dimension, yet, has direction, effect, and presence. Sin is an artifact of discrete being, independence, and separation from GOD; and sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the divine Law Giver, and of the universe manifest through divine law. Sin can not control or influence divine will.
(3.) Sin does not contain or have “existence” (an aspect of divinity). Thus, sin can not be suddenly and completely destroyed, eliminated and removed using such finite human tools as intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, reason, and science. To detect, correctly recognize, and resist sin, men and angels must receive inseparable, invisible aspects from the life essence of GOD that establish the power of divine will. Multiple divine operations are occurring that limit sin, and that are necessary to avoid cosmic upheaval for all divine order.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) In order to correctly communicate about the things of life or death from GOD, believers all must learn and use a shared language of spiritual experience that is distinct from what we have through carnal, material, and social activity. So to speak, we must master talking about bananas to describe watermelons. Putting aside their size and weight differences, the two are exactly the same: Both are fruit. Both are green (at least for a while). Both have the same function of protecting and distributing seed. Also, both are pretty tasty. Sin first may become known and spoken of on the basis of such features as attitudes, behavior, and conduct; however, sin is a profound aspect of spirit substance, existence, and interaction.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest in safety. Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid; yea, many shall make suit unto thee. But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, and they shall not escape, and their hope shall be as the giving up of the ghost. (Job 11: 18-20, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
(06/24/2014) Salvation Before Christ?
Salvation for those who died before the time of Christ is the topic, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Keller” (Level 1 with 105 points, a member since June 22, 2014) posted the following:
Christians: What happened to those who died before the time of Christ?
Since Christianity technically wouldn't have existed or been heard of anywhere, how was it expected for people to lead a Christian lifestyle thus granting them a place in Heaven?
Were they accepted into Heaven by deafault? If this were the case, then they could commit any kind of evil during their time on Earth and get away with it, which doesn't sound fair to me.
Hell (man's common grave) wouldn't have existed either since it was first mentioned in Genesis 3:19 which is after the creation of humanity.
This leaves two options: Either everyone went to Heaven no matter what crimes they committed or they simply ceased to exist when they died - there was no afterlife. Neither of those two scenarios seem 'perfectly moral' as God is supposed to be, to me.
Which is right, or is there a third explanation?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And the LORD God said unto the woman, what is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. (Genesis 3: 13-16, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); If You Are Sent… ? (06/08/2013); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012)
“Keller”, here are a few points you should find helpful:
(1.) For those who are a part of the kingdom of GOD in Christ, the sacred precepts, principles, and divine processes for Christian belief all appear within the chapters of Genesis. However, their divine nature and operation can not be understood immediately by those who lack spiritual discernment (i.e., the ability to use ones own spirit content from GOD to recognize and respond to spirit matter in such life experience as events, messages, motives, objects, other persons, purposes, and utterance). Where one relies only upon finite human notions such as intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, reason, and science, they are repeatedly overwhelmed by such elements as diversity, subtlety (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value), and suspensions of temporal order (we say, past, present, future).
(2.) Salvation from GOD first appears in the holy writings with the accounts of Creation and judgment that feature Adam as a single created being existing in two forms (male and female). Their transgression of divine law (the expressed will of GOD), along with violation of a relationship with divinity that could only continue through intimacy and trust, threatened divine order for heaven, the earth, and the entire universe.
(3.) Christ was first proclaimed and promised through a statement from GOD to a different living creature, the serpent (we say, the devil, the Adversary, the Fallen Angel). The word of GOD spoken as an expression of divine wrath uttered in judgment, and in rebuke of sin, was overheard and received by Adam as promise, prophecy, and a sure word of divine intent. Sin had first been discovered among the holy angels who voiced opposition to the continued existence of divine law not realizing that that was also opposition to the continued existence of GOD, and all Creation. The serpent introduced Adam and the entire sphere of earth to the non-material, non-spirit influence we now call sin.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Adam was granted a priesthood modeled after that in heaven that was to be an inheritance for the sons of GOD upon the earth. All mankind was to hold that GOD is providing for mankind’s release from sin, and that this includes that divinity eventually would appear incarnate (having the form of man, as an offspring of Adam), would endure suffering as a holy sacrifice, and would accomplish reconciliation between GOD and all the created beings and living creatures. Those who would be saved as the offspring of Adam would receive salvation by looking forward to the Advent (we say, coming) of the Holy One, and through sacred operations that centered in faith, hope (we say, expectation), and divine love seen in such spiritual elements as forbearance, forgiveness, humility, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Christians: What happened to those who died before the time of Christ?
Since Christianity technically wouldn't have existed or been heard of anywhere, how was it expected for people to lead a Christian lifestyle thus granting them a place in Heaven?
Were they accepted into Heaven by deafault? If this were the case, then they could commit any kind of evil during their time on Earth and get away with it, which doesn't sound fair to me.
Hell (man's common grave) wouldn't have existed either since it was first mentioned in Genesis 3:19 which is after the creation of humanity.
This leaves two options: Either everyone went to Heaven no matter what crimes they committed or they simply ceased to exist when they died - there was no afterlife. Neither of those two scenarios seem 'perfectly moral' as God is supposed to be, to me.
Which is right, or is there a third explanation?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And the LORD God said unto the woman, what is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. (Genesis 3: 13-16, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); If You Are Sent… ? (06/08/2013); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012)
“Keller”, here are a few points you should find helpful:
(1.) For those who are a part of the kingdom of GOD in Christ, the sacred precepts, principles, and divine processes for Christian belief all appear within the chapters of Genesis. However, their divine nature and operation can not be understood immediately by those who lack spiritual discernment (i.e., the ability to use ones own spirit content from GOD to recognize and respond to spirit matter in such life experience as events, messages, motives, objects, other persons, purposes, and utterance). Where one relies only upon finite human notions such as intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, reason, and science, they are repeatedly overwhelmed by such elements as diversity, subtlety (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value), and suspensions of temporal order (we say, past, present, future).
(2.) Salvation from GOD first appears in the holy writings with the accounts of Creation and judgment that feature Adam as a single created being existing in two forms (male and female). Their transgression of divine law (the expressed will of GOD), along with violation of a relationship with divinity that could only continue through intimacy and trust, threatened divine order for heaven, the earth, and the entire universe.
(3.) Christ was first proclaimed and promised through a statement from GOD to a different living creature, the serpent (we say, the devil, the Adversary, the Fallen Angel). The word of GOD spoken as an expression of divine wrath uttered in judgment, and in rebuke of sin, was overheard and received by Adam as promise, prophecy, and a sure word of divine intent. Sin had first been discovered among the holy angels who voiced opposition to the continued existence of divine law not realizing that that was also opposition to the continued existence of GOD, and all Creation. The serpent introduced Adam and the entire sphere of earth to the non-material, non-spirit influence we now call sin.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Adam was granted a priesthood modeled after that in heaven that was to be an inheritance for the sons of GOD upon the earth. All mankind was to hold that GOD is providing for mankind’s release from sin, and that this includes that divinity eventually would appear incarnate (having the form of man, as an offspring of Adam), would endure suffering as a holy sacrifice, and would accomplish reconciliation between GOD and all the created beings and living creatures. Those who would be saved as the offspring of Adam would receive salvation by looking forward to the Advent (we say, coming) of the Holy One, and through sacred operations that centered in faith, hope (we say, expectation), and divine love seen in such spiritual elements as forbearance, forgiveness, humility, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, June 23, 2014
(06/23/2014) Abandoned by GOD?
Focus, today, is upon the charge that GOD has abandoned mankind. A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Ben” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since June 22, 2014) posted the following:
Has god abandoned us?
Why has god abandoned us? Now im not saying i dont believe in god but why doesnt he show himself to us when now of all time we need him most? We cant see touch smell or hear him. So how am i supposed to believe hes there? And if we abandoned him, why doesnt he try again? I mean if he loves us so much yet he doesnt try to communicate with us.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God. (Mark 15: 33-39, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus Scourged (04/05/2014); Brothers, Not Equals (04/06/2014); A Worthy Miracle? (04/07/2014); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could Have Life? (12/09/2013); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Life Companion? (11/07/2012)
“Ben”, here are a few points to consider that are aspects of the full divine panorama that comes into view through the cross.
1) The idea that creation, mankind, or those in covenant with GOD have been denied and rejected by the Almighty has been revealed as an accusation in judgment (we say, charges, indictment) against divinity made by one who is a betrayer, a deceiver, and a false witness. The claim that GOD has not fulfilled promise, has not maintained integrity within covenant, and, therefore, is faithless and unrighteous has been “nailed to the cross” in Jesus Christ, and destroyed for all eternity through glorious resurrection.
2) Created beings and living creatures having their own measure of awareness and self-will (we say, sentient beings) only “know” the existence of GOD by applying and focusing their own content of divinity. Discernment (ability to use ones own spirit content to recognize and respond to spirit content within such features of life experience as events, messages, persons, promises, purposes, and utterances) must be developed through continual practice. GOD is a spirit, and the intent, operations, and eternal process of GOD is displayed without interruption through spiritual things.
3) The cry made by Jesus while yet upon the cross was in the nature of acknowledgment, appeal, and intercessory prayer. More than simply physical pain, Jesus endured an agonizing transformation wherein he became an embodiment of all non-material, non-spirit sin from the living and the dead throughout Creation—from those among the angels to Adam, to those of the present day, to those who will be on the earth at the Second Coming. And that’s what’s so serious about it.
Pace yourself. There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, 4) The process of GOD for salvation simultaneously employs flesh and Spirit. Many trust that GOD has appeared using human form (we say, incarnation) as a distinguishing sacred event (we say, miracle). However, the things of salvation pertain to eternal life, impact the entire universe, and are not limited to the sphere of the earth. Through baptism (death of ones inborn nature, rebirth from divine DNA so to speak), Christian believers receive a fresh endowment of divinity from the makeup of GOD. Included are various inseparable (where one appears, all are present) aspects of the Spirit that resided within Christ while he was upon the earth such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (2nd Corinthians 5: 20-21, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Has god abandoned us?
Why has god abandoned us? Now im not saying i dont believe in god but why doesnt he show himself to us when now of all time we need him most? We cant see touch smell or hear him. So how am i supposed to believe hes there? And if we abandoned him, why doesnt he try again? I mean if he loves us so much yet he doesnt try to communicate with us.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God. (Mark 15: 33-39, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus Scourged (04/05/2014); Brothers, Not Equals (04/06/2014); A Worthy Miracle? (04/07/2014); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could Have Life? (12/09/2013); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Life Companion? (11/07/2012)
“Ben”, here are a few points to consider that are aspects of the full divine panorama that comes into view through the cross.
1) The idea that creation, mankind, or those in covenant with GOD have been denied and rejected by the Almighty has been revealed as an accusation in judgment (we say, charges, indictment) against divinity made by one who is a betrayer, a deceiver, and a false witness. The claim that GOD has not fulfilled promise, has not maintained integrity within covenant, and, therefore, is faithless and unrighteous has been “nailed to the cross” in Jesus Christ, and destroyed for all eternity through glorious resurrection.
2) Created beings and living creatures having their own measure of awareness and self-will (we say, sentient beings) only “know” the existence of GOD by applying and focusing their own content of divinity. Discernment (ability to use ones own spirit content to recognize and respond to spirit content within such features of life experience as events, messages, persons, promises, purposes, and utterances) must be developed through continual practice. GOD is a spirit, and the intent, operations, and eternal process of GOD is displayed without interruption through spiritual things.
3) The cry made by Jesus while yet upon the cross was in the nature of acknowledgment, appeal, and intercessory prayer. More than simply physical pain, Jesus endured an agonizing transformation wherein he became an embodiment of all non-material, non-spirit sin from the living and the dead throughout Creation—from those among the angels to Adam, to those of the present day, to those who will be on the earth at the Second Coming. And that’s what’s so serious about it.
Pace yourself. There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, 4) The process of GOD for salvation simultaneously employs flesh and Spirit. Many trust that GOD has appeared using human form (we say, incarnation) as a distinguishing sacred event (we say, miracle). However, the things of salvation pertain to eternal life, impact the entire universe, and are not limited to the sphere of the earth. Through baptism (death of ones inborn nature, rebirth from divine DNA so to speak), Christian believers receive a fresh endowment of divinity from the makeup of GOD. Included are various inseparable (where one appears, all are present) aspects of the Spirit that resided within Christ while he was upon the earth such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (2nd Corinthians 5: 20-21, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Sunday, June 22, 2014
(06/22/2014) The Fire From GOD?
Atonement, cleansing, fire as a divine tool, judgment, and separation are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using as his ID “child progeny” (Level 6 with 17,953 points, a member since May 11, 2011) posted the following:
Is the fire God used for the burning bush the same fire that burns souls in Hell?
So they can burn and burn and burn without being consumed?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: In that day shall the branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel. And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem: When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning. And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence. (Isaiah 4: 2-5, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014); The Need to Purify Heaven (11/17/2013); Salted with Fire? (09/24/2013); A Halo Upon Jesus? (09/25/2013); On Marketing Church, and Speaking by Occasion (09/26/2013); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013); The “Lake of Mercy” (11/03/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012)
“child progeny”, here are a few points to carefully consider that agree with the teachings of Scripture. In the boldness granted me through Jesus Christ, I have dared to utter the following:
1. Fire is a manifesting of divinity. GOD is a spirit whose makeup is entirely of spirit matter. Inseparable (where one is found, all appear), and pure aspects of divinity interact having no measurable dimensions such as quantity, shape and size. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Thus, we say, GOD as a discrete being having attributes of awareness, life essence (we say, breath, utterance, word), person, presence, purpose and sovereign will is without concrete boundaries, form, or limit. Similarly, the authority and power of GOD is unlimited, even where divinity appears incarnate (in flesh and blood) as Jesus Christ.
2. Fire is a divine tool. Where water is used to wash and carry away uncleanness that is surface and that appears on the outside, fire is used as a tool to cleanse inwardly, and to purify within. Therefore, holy fire pertains to sanctification, rather than destruction and elimination. Consider again the fire that fell at Pentecost.
3. Fire is a signal (we say, sign) of judgment. GOD revealed divinity to Moses as continuously expressed through divine law, governance and judgment. Throughout the Scriptures, burning and fire signify judgment, and are used to provide familiar forms of admonition, cautions, prohibitions, reminders, and warnings.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Fire establishes separation. We see this clearly in the account where a pillar of cloud by day, and fire by night stood, between Pharaoh and Moses. This truth also comes to us as a major key for understanding judgment. Atonement is a divine operation wherein holy blood conveys sacred spirit that separates created beings and living creatures from sin. Also, the process for offerings and sacrifices laid upon the holy altar is one of separation: Sin is destroyed while heartfelt gifts such as gratitude, humility, praise, and righteousness are released and carried up to GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Psalm 121: 6-8, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Is the fire God used for the burning bush the same fire that burns souls in Hell?
So they can burn and burn and burn without being consumed?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: In that day shall the branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel. And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem: When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning. And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence. (Isaiah 4: 2-5, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014); The Need to Purify Heaven (11/17/2013); Salted with Fire? (09/24/2013); A Halo Upon Jesus? (09/25/2013); On Marketing Church, and Speaking by Occasion (09/26/2013); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013); The “Lake of Mercy” (11/03/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012)
“child progeny”, here are a few points to carefully consider that agree with the teachings of Scripture. In the boldness granted me through Jesus Christ, I have dared to utter the following:
1. Fire is a manifesting of divinity. GOD is a spirit whose makeup is entirely of spirit matter. Inseparable (where one is found, all appear), and pure aspects of divinity interact having no measurable dimensions such as quantity, shape and size. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Thus, we say, GOD as a discrete being having attributes of awareness, life essence (we say, breath, utterance, word), person, presence, purpose and sovereign will is without concrete boundaries, form, or limit. Similarly, the authority and power of GOD is unlimited, even where divinity appears incarnate (in flesh and blood) as Jesus Christ.
2. Fire is a divine tool. Where water is used to wash and carry away uncleanness that is surface and that appears on the outside, fire is used as a tool to cleanse inwardly, and to purify within. Therefore, holy fire pertains to sanctification, rather than destruction and elimination. Consider again the fire that fell at Pentecost.
3. Fire is a signal (we say, sign) of judgment. GOD revealed divinity to Moses as continuously expressed through divine law, governance and judgment. Throughout the Scriptures, burning and fire signify judgment, and are used to provide familiar forms of admonition, cautions, prohibitions, reminders, and warnings.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (4.) Fire establishes separation. We see this clearly in the account where a pillar of cloud by day, and fire by night stood, between Pharaoh and Moses. This truth also comes to us as a major key for understanding judgment. Atonement is a divine operation wherein holy blood conveys sacred spirit that separates created beings and living creatures from sin. Also, the process for offerings and sacrifices laid upon the holy altar is one of separation: Sin is destroyed while heartfelt gifts such as gratitude, humility, praise, and righteousness are released and carried up to GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Psalm 121: 6-8, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Saturday, June 21, 2014
(06/21/2014) Consecrated in Christ?
Blood, divine inheritance, priesthood, and sin are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Wick” (Level 3 with 1,357 points, a member since March 23, 2014) posted the following:
If we're destined to be priests do we have to have blood put on our right ear, thumb and big toe like God said in Exodus 29:20?
"20 Then you shall kill the ram, and take some of its blood and put it on the tip of the right ear of Aaron and on the tip of the right ear of his sons, on the thumb of their right hand and on the big toe of their right foot, and sprinkle the blood all around on the altar."
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (Hebrews 10: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014); Responsible for Sin? (05/30/2014); Choosing a Church? (05/31/2014); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Why Blood? (04/13/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013)
“Wick”, here are a few points to consider that pertain to the inheritance believers receive as joint-heirs with Jesus Christ:
(1.) Priesthood upon the earth was first established in Adam as a divine mechanism to continue the sacred bond between the Creator and mankind. In spite of forbearance, forgiveness and divine love, the male and female pair would have to endure the losses that came by disobedience, distrust, and broken relationship. Where the law, as admonition, warning and the expressed will of GOD was insufficient, human experience would have to establish change, new awareness, repentance, and submission to the salvation GOD would provide.
(2.) The priesthood granted the tribe of Levi, and established for the covenant of Moses, focused upon sacred operations and practices to deliver atonement and propitiation for sin; and acknowledged that sin would not be eliminated through the finite works of created beings and living creatures. Temporary cleansing and purity could be bestowed upon chosen servants by the use of blood from animals offered as sacrifice (i.e., a loss one suffers willingly). Also, as the vessel for distributing and transferring life essence, blood was a fit vehicle for demonstrating the return of spirit content to GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (3.) The priesthood granted Melchizedek and bestowed upon Jesus Christ is accomplished through eternal life, and entails sacred service both upon earth and in heaven. Sin can not be detected and removed relying only upon finite human resources such as feelings, intellect, logic, mathematics, persuasion, reason, and science. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ upon the cross, mankind comes under the Savior’s divine anointing, and is made “born again,” consecrated, purified and sanctified. Humanity is transformed to become immortal and incorruptible at the appearing of Christ, and until that event is empowered to minister upon the earth through his glorious resurrection.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. (Malachi 2: 1-2, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
If we're destined to be priests do we have to have blood put on our right ear, thumb and big toe like God said in Exodus 29:20?
"20 Then you shall kill the ram, and take some of its blood and put it on the tip of the right ear of Aaron and on the tip of the right ear of his sons, on the thumb of their right hand and on the big toe of their right foot, and sprinkle the blood all around on the altar."
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (Hebrews 10: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014); Responsible for Sin? (05/30/2014); Choosing a Church? (05/31/2014); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Why Blood? (04/13/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013)
“Wick”, here are a few points to consider that pertain to the inheritance believers receive as joint-heirs with Jesus Christ:
(1.) Priesthood upon the earth was first established in Adam as a divine mechanism to continue the sacred bond between the Creator and mankind. In spite of forbearance, forgiveness and divine love, the male and female pair would have to endure the losses that came by disobedience, distrust, and broken relationship. Where the law, as admonition, warning and the expressed will of GOD was insufficient, human experience would have to establish change, new awareness, repentance, and submission to the salvation GOD would provide.
(2.) The priesthood granted the tribe of Levi, and established for the covenant of Moses, focused upon sacred operations and practices to deliver atonement and propitiation for sin; and acknowledged that sin would not be eliminated through the finite works of created beings and living creatures. Temporary cleansing and purity could be bestowed upon chosen servants by the use of blood from animals offered as sacrifice (i.e., a loss one suffers willingly). Also, as the vessel for distributing and transferring life essence, blood was a fit vehicle for demonstrating the return of spirit content to GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (3.) The priesthood granted Melchizedek and bestowed upon Jesus Christ is accomplished through eternal life, and entails sacred service both upon earth and in heaven. Sin can not be detected and removed relying only upon finite human resources such as feelings, intellect, logic, mathematics, persuasion, reason, and science. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ upon the cross, mankind comes under the Savior’s divine anointing, and is made “born again,” consecrated, purified and sanctified. Humanity is transformed to become immortal and incorruptible at the appearing of Christ, and until that event is empowered to minister upon the earth through his glorious resurrection.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. (Malachi 2: 1-2, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, June 20, 2014
(06/20/2014) Blessed Are The Peacemakers
Topics, today, include corporate identity, Native Americans, racism, and slander. I expand upon a comment I shared in response to a television news report where a Federal agency having oversight on trademarks announced a ruling on the legitimacy of a name used among professional athletes. The following statement was posted on my Facebook page (06/18/2014):
REDSKINS family, What’s In a Name? Given the issue is racism, it is vain (a waste of time; pointless idolatry; bollix, BS, and talking smack) to quarrel about the name of an athletic team, and offer no solutions that include dialog; learning, living, sharing, and working together; or correctly identifying goals, consequences, and opportunities for change. Invite team members to live among the peoples during off season; have team members open their homes and teepees. Offer space for training camps, sponsor education programs, however, do not keep promoting sanctimonious drivel. Lead by example and hard work in projects for genuine change. Offer a vision of the future, instead of continuing to rue the past. Just like Federal copyright registration is only ONE way to establish and protect ones ownership of patents and other intellectual property, trademark registration is not the only way to validate ones lawful ownership of logos and similar material. At best, those insisting they have a “cause” have missed the mark by choosing the wrong target. Be encouraged!
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Matthew 5: 9, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Understanding Peace? (11/20/2013); Adversary or Servant? (11/21/2013); Unseen Sin? (06/18/2013); Bible Authors and Truth? (06/19/2013); Unless You Repent (03/05/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); Escape from Racism (10/24/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012)
For many years now, my life has been hidden in Christ; and I have been working to be known as a full-time Christian writer. Sanctified, and set apart by the work I do, I can not now say that I personally know a single entertainer, government official, head of state, politician, college or professional athlete, corporate executive, or television evangelist anywhere in the world. I do not have Jewish friends with whom I study Siddur, Torah, or observe the Sabbath. Nor may I say, I personally have friends who are Native Americans. Even so, it has been my duty to humbly offer intercession and prayer on all their behalf, on behalf of Jerusalem, on behalf of all Israel, on behalf of Washington, DC, and on behalf of all America. With this in view, and saying what’s been said another way, I share the following counsel as one who is impartial and unengaged:
The Great Spirit, who is maker and keeper of the buffalo, who wears a rainbow about his shoulders, who hides his laughter in the rivulets and streams, the One who is Father of all pure waters, is not pleased to see new war being made upon the basis of old wounds. Some youth who have not truly known the battles whereby they have been brought forth accuse him of their hunger and thirsts that are not yet quenched. They grumble and moan as though the earth now shrinks and wastes away because He no longer marks a trail for justice and for truth. The One who marked a path for the rain, the thunder, the lightning, and the hail, also is He who marks the path for peace.
Do not be deceived. Corporations do not operate as sovereign states, or nations; and are not living entities or peoples. Renegades and outlaws often infest them, who seek little more than 30 pieces of silver (in Bible days, the price of a dog, and the price of a whore). Just as the NBA showed itself absurd in response to recent events (racism will not be ended by the sale of a team, and the change of its ownership), the NFL will show itself inept. Arguments made on the basis of emotion and feeling are not the same as those rooted in law, principle and vision. Response by the American games establishment has become as predictable as the attitude of Congress against the President of the United States whenever the Chief Executive responds to any domestic or international crisis.
Historically, racism is a disease that plagues both those operating as though superior as well as those who see themselves as victims. The symptoms of racism always appear as denial of accountability, denial of ones involvement, and denial of gain and any continuing benefit from negative conditions. There is no genuine grasp or understanding of the work that must be done for correction, for the victims recovery, or for the continued survival of all. There is always refusal to respect the integrity and value for the culture, lives, and traditions of others. Therefore, racism spreads as a poison of discontent, hate crimes, ignorance, indifference, false claims of innocence, and, finally, violence.
Genuine nobility and peace will never come through short-sighted protests. They must come by all who live drawing closer, not by their moving far apart. Because it is not yet truly in their spirit, neither “Hail to the Redskins,” nor “Hail to the Oneida” will be the same as “Hail to the Peacemakers.” The echo and the whisper are cousin to the shout; what was taken as a slogan was not to be forgotten: Blessed are the peacemakers. The wisdom of the eagle is not to fight the currents of the air, or to seek to lift himself by his own power and strength. The air will do the lifting where the eagle will yield and turn according to its prompting. What he wants is not forbidden, or withheld from him. He must know, he will never soar to see the fruits within the valley, or serve as spirit guide to those who wear the feather, by beating against the power of the winds.
So far, arguments against the continued use of “REDSKINS” seem all on the level of “common sense.” As a result, what we have heard up to this point seems no different than the complaint that “Mother F…er,” “SOB” and similar invective are libel and slander against all women, and must be expunged from our language. Where arguments against the team name go to the level of law enforcement, judicial action, and public tribunal, the community correctly expects a clear and detailed presentation of evidence for accountability and involvement in direct damage, for criminal intent as well as for malice and motive.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the cry of the eagle is followed by silence. Many are still listening to hear invitations to cooperative action. Could there be peace and a broken arrow through proposals and requests for support to the national Native American museum in Washington, DC; for grant programs to develop curriculum and research in anthropology, Native American studies, history, etc.; or for funding action programs like those of the Peace Corp to ensure resources and services for Native American communities? Clearly, few are now upon the proper path that leads to peace, and until we walk again in brighter light, all America will keep drinking shame like water.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. (Matthew 13: 51-52, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
REDSKINS family, What’s In a Name? Given the issue is racism, it is vain (a waste of time; pointless idolatry; bollix, BS, and talking smack) to quarrel about the name of an athletic team, and offer no solutions that include dialog; learning, living, sharing, and working together; or correctly identifying goals, consequences, and opportunities for change. Invite team members to live among the peoples during off season; have team members open their homes and teepees. Offer space for training camps, sponsor education programs, however, do not keep promoting sanctimonious drivel. Lead by example and hard work in projects for genuine change. Offer a vision of the future, instead of continuing to rue the past. Just like Federal copyright registration is only ONE way to establish and protect ones ownership of patents and other intellectual property, trademark registration is not the only way to validate ones lawful ownership of logos and similar material. At best, those insisting they have a “cause” have missed the mark by choosing the wrong target. Be encouraged!
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Matthew 5: 9, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Understanding Peace? (11/20/2013); Adversary or Servant? (11/21/2013); Unseen Sin? (06/18/2013); Bible Authors and Truth? (06/19/2013); Unless You Repent (03/05/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); Escape from Racism (10/24/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012)
For many years now, my life has been hidden in Christ; and I have been working to be known as a full-time Christian writer. Sanctified, and set apart by the work I do, I can not now say that I personally know a single entertainer, government official, head of state, politician, college or professional athlete, corporate executive, or television evangelist anywhere in the world. I do not have Jewish friends with whom I study Siddur, Torah, or observe the Sabbath. Nor may I say, I personally have friends who are Native Americans. Even so, it has been my duty to humbly offer intercession and prayer on all their behalf, on behalf of Jerusalem, on behalf of all Israel, on behalf of Washington, DC, and on behalf of all America. With this in view, and saying what’s been said another way, I share the following counsel as one who is impartial and unengaged:
The Great Spirit, who is maker and keeper of the buffalo, who wears a rainbow about his shoulders, who hides his laughter in the rivulets and streams, the One who is Father of all pure waters, is not pleased to see new war being made upon the basis of old wounds. Some youth who have not truly known the battles whereby they have been brought forth accuse him of their hunger and thirsts that are not yet quenched. They grumble and moan as though the earth now shrinks and wastes away because He no longer marks a trail for justice and for truth. The One who marked a path for the rain, the thunder, the lightning, and the hail, also is He who marks the path for peace.
Do not be deceived. Corporations do not operate as sovereign states, or nations; and are not living entities or peoples. Renegades and outlaws often infest them, who seek little more than 30 pieces of silver (in Bible days, the price of a dog, and the price of a whore). Just as the NBA showed itself absurd in response to recent events (racism will not be ended by the sale of a team, and the change of its ownership), the NFL will show itself inept. Arguments made on the basis of emotion and feeling are not the same as those rooted in law, principle and vision. Response by the American games establishment has become as predictable as the attitude of Congress against the President of the United States whenever the Chief Executive responds to any domestic or international crisis.
Historically, racism is a disease that plagues both those operating as though superior as well as those who see themselves as victims. The symptoms of racism always appear as denial of accountability, denial of ones involvement, and denial of gain and any continuing benefit from negative conditions. There is no genuine grasp or understanding of the work that must be done for correction, for the victims recovery, or for the continued survival of all. There is always refusal to respect the integrity and value for the culture, lives, and traditions of others. Therefore, racism spreads as a poison of discontent, hate crimes, ignorance, indifference, false claims of innocence, and, finally, violence.
Genuine nobility and peace will never come through short-sighted protests. They must come by all who live drawing closer, not by their moving far apart. Because it is not yet truly in their spirit, neither “Hail to the Redskins,” nor “Hail to the Oneida” will be the same as “Hail to the Peacemakers.” The echo and the whisper are cousin to the shout; what was taken as a slogan was not to be forgotten: Blessed are the peacemakers. The wisdom of the eagle is not to fight the currents of the air, or to seek to lift himself by his own power and strength. The air will do the lifting where the eagle will yield and turn according to its prompting. What he wants is not forbidden, or withheld from him. He must know, he will never soar to see the fruits within the valley, or serve as spirit guide to those who wear the feather, by beating against the power of the winds.
So far, arguments against the continued use of “REDSKINS” seem all on the level of “common sense.” As a result, what we have heard up to this point seems no different than the complaint that “Mother F…er,” “SOB” and similar invective are libel and slander against all women, and must be expunged from our language. Where arguments against the team name go to the level of law enforcement, judicial action, and public tribunal, the community correctly expects a clear and detailed presentation of evidence for accountability and involvement in direct damage, for criminal intent as well as for malice and motive.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the cry of the eagle is followed by silence. Many are still listening to hear invitations to cooperative action. Could there be peace and a broken arrow through proposals and requests for support to the national Native American museum in Washington, DC; for grant programs to develop curriculum and research in anthropology, Native American studies, history, etc.; or for funding action programs like those of the Peace Corp to ensure resources and services for Native American communities? Clearly, few are now upon the proper path that leads to peace, and until we walk again in brighter light, all America will keep drinking shame like water.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. (Matthew 13: 51-52, KJV)
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Thursday, June 19, 2014
(06/19/2014) Certainty by Faith or by Tradition?
Resurrection and the account of Jesus raising a young girl from the dead is topic, today. Also, there is more on discernment. The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using ID “Christian Metal Dru” (Level 2 with 696 points, a member since April 13, 2012) posted the following:
Who here can explain the meaning behind mark 5 40?
And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he took the father and mother of the damsel and those who were with him, and entered in where the damsel was lying.
THE BATTLE AXE: Discernment (06/18/2014)—(6.) Correctly understood, discernment is more than an activity of ones mind, an intellectual operation, or a mental process. All Spirit matter from GOD is alive (we say, active), is dynamic, and is organic indicating the continuing presence of divine awareness, direction, eternal purpose, sacred operations, and sovereign will. Discernment is a gift from the Holy Spirit that appears through interactions and shifts occurring among and between spirit substances from the makeup of GOD that reside within created beings and living creatures. Through baptism and continuing growth, every believer in Jesus Christ receives inseparable spirit matter that includes such aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, truthfulness, and wrath against sin. Just as ones faith may be no more than a grain of mustard seed, yet, exert extraordinary spirit power, other aspects of divinity may appear in what seems a minimal amount, yet put forth a fullness of divine force and effect. Sacred knowledge and truth are not dependent upon the amount or quantity of the various sacred elements that appear so much as upon their balance and proportion within the inseparable whole. For where one aspect of divinity appears, all are present. Sin may not dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, where consciousness and volition have been in-filled by divinity that appears as discernment.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee. (John 11: 20-28, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Our Present Comfort? (06/28/2013); Come As You Are? (06/29/2013)
Trusting GOD to make answer, here are a few points to consider that may be useful:
(1.) On the surface, the first account of Jesus Christ reviving a dead person (we say, raising the dead) is a sacred event (we say, miracle) focused upon life and death. More correctly, Christian believers are to realize there is a shift in sacred process away from the historical covenants and divine law, to the processes of faith, promise, and prophecy from GOD. The Spirit content within created beings and living creatures is revealed as paramount to their divine judgment, and their eternal existence.
(2.) Jairus is a ruler (we would say, officer in charge) of a local congregation (a synagogue). Having heard reports of healings performed through the ministry of Jesus, Jairus approached Jesus to ask help for his teenaged daughter, who was dying back at their home. Jesus agreed to intervene, however, before the two could arrive at Jairus’ home, three notable events occurred: a) A woman having an issue of blood for more than a decade was healed by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment without his awareness, and without his first having granted her permission to touch him; b) Jesus complained that “virtue” (we may say, healing power) had gone out of himself; and c) a servant came with the message not to trouble Jesus, for the child was already dead. Jesus encouraged Jairus to “only believe.”
(3.) When Jesus arrived with Jairus, the professional mourners had already gotten there before him, and were beginning to wail and perform their traditional services to induce weeping and catharsis (we say, emotional release). Jairus was again given assurance that his daughter would be recovered, that death is only “sleep”, and she would be awakened.
(4.) As in the miracle of feeding 5,000 (where all were seated in groups of 50) and rebuking the storm at sea (peace be still), Jesus first established divine order. The Savior dismissed the mourners, and created a select group of witnesses (3 disciples with the parents of the dead child).
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) In the account of Jairus’ daughter, Jesus is revealed as an incarnation of divinity, and is titled “the resurrection and the life.” As the One come down from heaven, Jesus contains a supply of divine substance that is transferred when healing, and must be replenished through regular praise, prayer and worship. Also, the first demonstrations of resurrection power are shown through a spoken word (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, utterance).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Who here can explain the meaning behind mark 5 40?
And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he took the father and mother of the damsel and those who were with him, and entered in where the damsel was lying.
THE BATTLE AXE: Discernment (06/18/2014)—(6.) Correctly understood, discernment is more than an activity of ones mind, an intellectual operation, or a mental process. All Spirit matter from GOD is alive (we say, active), is dynamic, and is organic indicating the continuing presence of divine awareness, direction, eternal purpose, sacred operations, and sovereign will. Discernment is a gift from the Holy Spirit that appears through interactions and shifts occurring among and between spirit substances from the makeup of GOD that reside within created beings and living creatures. Through baptism and continuing growth, every believer in Jesus Christ receives inseparable spirit matter that includes such aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, truthfulness, and wrath against sin. Just as ones faith may be no more than a grain of mustard seed, yet, exert extraordinary spirit power, other aspects of divinity may appear in what seems a minimal amount, yet put forth a fullness of divine force and effect. Sacred knowledge and truth are not dependent upon the amount or quantity of the various sacred elements that appear so much as upon their balance and proportion within the inseparable whole. For where one aspect of divinity appears, all are present. Sin may not dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, where consciousness and volition have been in-filled by divinity that appears as discernment.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee. (John 11: 20-28, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Our Present Comfort? (06/28/2013); Come As You Are? (06/29/2013)
Trusting GOD to make answer, here are a few points to consider that may be useful:
(1.) On the surface, the first account of Jesus Christ reviving a dead person (we say, raising the dead) is a sacred event (we say, miracle) focused upon life and death. More correctly, Christian believers are to realize there is a shift in sacred process away from the historical covenants and divine law, to the processes of faith, promise, and prophecy from GOD. The Spirit content within created beings and living creatures is revealed as paramount to their divine judgment, and their eternal existence.
(2.) Jairus is a ruler (we would say, officer in charge) of a local congregation (a synagogue). Having heard reports of healings performed through the ministry of Jesus, Jairus approached Jesus to ask help for his teenaged daughter, who was dying back at their home. Jesus agreed to intervene, however, before the two could arrive at Jairus’ home, three notable events occurred: a) A woman having an issue of blood for more than a decade was healed by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment without his awareness, and without his first having granted her permission to touch him; b) Jesus complained that “virtue” (we may say, healing power) had gone out of himself; and c) a servant came with the message not to trouble Jesus, for the child was already dead. Jesus encouraged Jairus to “only believe.”
(3.) When Jesus arrived with Jairus, the professional mourners had already gotten there before him, and were beginning to wail and perform their traditional services to induce weeping and catharsis (we say, emotional release). Jairus was again given assurance that his daughter would be recovered, that death is only “sleep”, and she would be awakened.
(4.) As in the miracle of feeding 5,000 (where all were seated in groups of 50) and rebuking the storm at sea (peace be still), Jesus first established divine order. The Savior dismissed the mourners, and created a select group of witnesses (3 disciples with the parents of the dead child).
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. For example, (5.) In the account of Jairus’ daughter, Jesus is revealed as an incarnation of divinity, and is titled “the resurrection and the life.” As the One come down from heaven, Jesus contains a supply of divine substance that is transferred when healing, and must be replenished through regular praise, prayer and worship. Also, the first demonstrations of resurrection power are shown through a spoken word (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, utterance).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
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