Human nature and the final outcome for conflicts and disputes based upon religion are the focus, today. Because the origin of many differences in the earth should be understood as the inner spirit content that resides within created beings and living creatures, the resolution of certain conflicts can only come by operations of divinity, and through divine law. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Flowerchild” (not correctly shown here because it is framed with floral and smiley dingbats) is on Level 3 with 1,535 points, a member since May 11, 2013, and posted the following:
Where, precisely, do you think all the wrath, hatred, and bitterness towards religion, faith, and spirituality ultimately heading to?
Since the internet began, knowledge of spirituality, religion, and faith has been spreading deep understandings of the lessons they teach, along with the importance of love. It has been a source of direction, strength, and hope for generations, and is proving to be the same for this generation too. Even researchers admit that it is a part of human nature, which will continue.
On the other hand, some people who have argued against the study of spirituality, religion, and faith (often from the fallacious position of personal incredulity, which is not understanding it, or misunderstanding it), have gone beyond disagreement, and fortify positions of bitterness, wrath and hatred towards those who seek the deep lessons of spirituality, religions, and faith. Often, when you try to determine why this is, it stems from a petty or biased understanding of things.
We have seen what extreme measures the bitter, negative, and hateful ideals can lead to, as they dominated the headlines of the 20th century. But despite this, people still continue growing hatred, bitterness, and wrath towards spirituality, faith, and religion.
Where is this heading? Another genocide? What is its ultimate end game?
Why not love one another and work towards harmony?
*P.S.: Please answer the question without trying to avoid the main theme, or divert it. Yes, people can disagree, but this is not about disagreements, but people who take it beyond disagreement into bitterness, hatred, and wrath.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then say thou, Thus saith the Lord GOD, The city sheddeth blood in the midst of it, that her time may come, and maketh idols against herself to defile herself. Thou art become guilty in thy blood that thou hast shed; and hast defiled thyself in thine idols which thou hast made; and thou hast caused thy days to draw near, and art come even unto thy years: therefore have I made thee a reproach unto the heathen, and a mocking to all countries. Those that be near, and those that be far from thee, shall mock thee, which art infamous and much vexed. Behold, the princes of Israel, every one were in thee to their power to shed blood. In thee have they set light by father and mother: in the midst of thee have they dealt by oppression with the stranger: in thee have they vexed the fatherless and the widow. Thou hast despised mine holy things, and hast profaned my sabbaths. In thee are men that carry tales to shed blood: and in thee they eat upon the mountains: in the midst of thee they commit lewdness. In thee have they discovered their fathers’ nakedness: in thee have they humbled her that was set apart for pollution. And one hath committed abomination with his neighbour’s wife; and another hath lewdly defiled his daughter in law; and another in thee hath humbled his sister, his father’s daughter. In thee have they taken gifts to shed blood; thou hast taken usury and increase, and thou hast greedily gained of thy neighbours by extortion, and hast forgotten me, saith the Lord GOD. Behold, therefore I have smitten mine hand at thy dishonest gain which thou hast made, and at thy blood which hath been in the midst of thee. Can thine heart endure, or can thine hands be strong, in the days that I shall deal with thee? I the LORD have spoken it, and will do it. (Ezekiel 22: 4-24, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Not Yet Delivered From Racism? (12/21/2014); Racism Is Not From GOD (12/22/2014); Prince of Peace? (07/18/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); What Salvation Is (01/25/2014); Bible Justice? (01/26/2014); Why Christians Pray for Others (01/12/2014); GOD is Jesus? (01/13/2014); GOD is Showing You (01/14/2014); Understanding Peace? (11/20/2013); Adversary or Servant? (11/21/2013)
“Flowerchild”, many share your concern for the future along with dismay and shock that religious beliefs, today, all appear to be generating condemnation of others, conflict, irreconcilable divisions, and unjustified violence. Even so, here are a few points regularly shared among Christian believers that continue balance, focus, and peace of mind:
(1.) Given that anger, fear, hatred and bitterness are made up of emotional and intellectual substance, these conditions and states are temporal (we say, they come and they go). As operations of the flesh (appetite such as hunger, thirst, sexual cravings; sensation such as hearing, seeing, tasting, touching; emotional/mental functions such as desire, imagination, recall), emotions and mental functions have great influence and power upon awareness and self-will.
(2.) Presently, where individuals or groups pursue such motives as reprisal, retribution and revenge they are often persistent, relentless and uncompromising. Yet, as the alternative to destruction, genocide and warfare to eliminate opposition, the primary responses to accomplish change and reconciliation tend to be emotional and practical appeals that are inappropriate and irrelevant.
(3.) The full framework of Christian belief describes the course of human development and transformation focusing upon the divine spirit content within mankind, the peculiar purposes of divinity, and the multiple sacred events and operations that are being carried out to establish a permanent harmony and peace for all who will live within the active presence of Deity. Thus, themes of atonement, forgiveness, death, judgment, rebirth, spirit growth, and sanctification must come into view.
(4.) Current conflicts have been “foretold” and prophesied, however, not in terms of their specific details. Believers are not to become emotional and fearful, distraught, or confused. Present day events are affirmations and evidence of their faith being valid. Yet, for our faith to also be fruitful and productive, we are to continue our positive efforts to build a world that is godly, righteous and divinely beautiful.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) As surely as diverse cultures maintain distinctive behaviors, language and approaches to life experience, we are not correct to think that all systems of religious belief are directed to the same goals, must employ the same means, and can accomplish the very same objectives. There remain many who seek to thrive upon the sufferings of others. Christians are encouraged to trust that the peace sought by honest-hearted men and women throughout the world definitely will be supplied on the basis of divine purpose and the grace of our Creator.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, January 30, 2015
Thursday, January 29, 2015
(01/29/2015) Divine Love Seen As Hate?
Points on divine love, hate, and judgment in Christian belief are shared, today. Only those without eyes, who are not equipped to discern holiness, remain blind to divine love revealed in Jesus Christ. The spiritual substance in such experiences as affection, cheer, comfort, commitment, consolation, and rest all are appearances of divinity. Yet, a fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Floyd” (Level 3 with 1,764 points, a member since March 28, 2014) posted the following:
Why is there so much hate and judgement in Christianity?
And there are so many people saying that only their church is the right way and anyone else who isnt a member of their church isnt a christian. Cant we all relax and accept that we're all followers of Jesus? Cant we all just try to show each other a little bit of love, forgiveness and compassion? Who wants a hug?
Update : And if your not a Christian, you can still have a hug too!
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. (1st John 4: 10-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Love in Knowledge and Judgment? (09/30/2014); One Faith, One Lord? (09/26/2014); Healing is By Relationship? (09/27/2014); On Christians Being Inclusive? (07/16/2014); War and Peace? (07/17/2014); A Conflict of Interest (04/16/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014)
“Floyd”, here are some points that promote joy and mature belief among Christians:
(1.) Many fail to correctly judge (i.e., assign value; determine the presence and action of divine substance) because they are not equipped to acknowledge the many sacred events and operations that have been used by Deity to establish right knowledge of the full GODhead. For example, when GOD appeared to Moses using the form of a bush that was burning, yet, gave off no ashes or smoke, Moses only saw a strange sight that aroused his curiosity, at first. Later, GOD would privilege Moses to see other aspects of divinity displaying the nature and substance of GOD, and would proclaim his name aloud. From the beginning, then, the Holy One who would deliver Israel was to be known as a god of judgment.
(2.) GOD has appeared in the earth as Jesus Christ using the device of incarnation. Through the ministry established by the Lord, water baptism provides death of ones inborn spirit with rebirth from the spirit content of divinity. Believers receive inseparable aspects from the divine makeup such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, love, righteousness, and wrath against sin. Through what is called fire baptism, believers receive gifts for their service as priests and kings. Those lacking the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD often are bitter, defiant, envious, rebellious and resentful toward GOD, for they see others rejoicing and able to understand, and count themselves unfairly condemned.
(3.) All believers must serve in aspects of divine judgment. At the least, we are like those who assembled, dismantled and carried the Tabernacle with Moses in the wilderness, and will set up the thrones for judgment against the wicked. Others serve like the apostles, believers who were witnesses to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus; and who correctly discern the spirit content within conditions, events, persons, utterance (e.g., confession, praise, prayer, promises, prophecy), etc. Their own spirit content must be used as a standard to identify and respond to the issues of divine love, eternal life, and the sacred will of GOD. In final judgment, there will be no accuser except the record of ones own deeds as they appear recorded in the Books of Life. Thus, attitudes, behavior, and conduct become visible as the primary indicators of ones divine spirit content.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Just as genuine love between married persons, or parents and their children demands accountability, discipline, forbearance, respect and restraint, being in a relationship with divinity demands alertness, dutifulness, enthusiasm, and unselfishness. There must be sacred knowledge, holy precepts and principles as well as eternal purpose. More than this, there must be exclusiveness, priority and privilege; those who do not belong through Christ are shut out, albeit in a gentle and kindly manner.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why is there so much hate and judgement in Christianity?
And there are so many people saying that only their church is the right way and anyone else who isnt a member of their church isnt a christian. Cant we all relax and accept that we're all followers of Jesus? Cant we all just try to show each other a little bit of love, forgiveness and compassion? Who wants a hug?
Update : And if your not a Christian, you can still have a hug too!
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. (1st John 4: 10-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Love in Knowledge and Judgment? (09/30/2014); One Faith, One Lord? (09/26/2014); Healing is By Relationship? (09/27/2014); On Christians Being Inclusive? (07/16/2014); War and Peace? (07/17/2014); A Conflict of Interest (04/16/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014)
“Floyd”, here are some points that promote joy and mature belief among Christians:
(1.) Many fail to correctly judge (i.e., assign value; determine the presence and action of divine substance) because they are not equipped to acknowledge the many sacred events and operations that have been used by Deity to establish right knowledge of the full GODhead. For example, when GOD appeared to Moses using the form of a bush that was burning, yet, gave off no ashes or smoke, Moses only saw a strange sight that aroused his curiosity, at first. Later, GOD would privilege Moses to see other aspects of divinity displaying the nature and substance of GOD, and would proclaim his name aloud. From the beginning, then, the Holy One who would deliver Israel was to be known as a god of judgment.
(2.) GOD has appeared in the earth as Jesus Christ using the device of incarnation. Through the ministry established by the Lord, water baptism provides death of ones inborn spirit with rebirth from the spirit content of divinity. Believers receive inseparable aspects from the divine makeup such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, love, righteousness, and wrath against sin. Through what is called fire baptism, believers receive gifts for their service as priests and kings. Those lacking the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD often are bitter, defiant, envious, rebellious and resentful toward GOD, for they see others rejoicing and able to understand, and count themselves unfairly condemned.
(3.) All believers must serve in aspects of divine judgment. At the least, we are like those who assembled, dismantled and carried the Tabernacle with Moses in the wilderness, and will set up the thrones for judgment against the wicked. Others serve like the apostles, believers who were witnesses to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus; and who correctly discern the spirit content within conditions, events, persons, utterance (e.g., confession, praise, prayer, promises, prophecy), etc. Their own spirit content must be used as a standard to identify and respond to the issues of divine love, eternal life, and the sacred will of GOD. In final judgment, there will be no accuser except the record of ones own deeds as they appear recorded in the Books of Life. Thus, attitudes, behavior, and conduct become visible as the primary indicators of ones divine spirit content.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Just as genuine love between married persons, or parents and their children demands accountability, discipline, forbearance, respect and restraint, being in a relationship with divinity demands alertness, dutifulness, enthusiasm, and unselfishness. There must be sacred knowledge, holy precepts and principles as well as eternal purpose. More than this, there must be exclusiveness, priority and privilege; those who do not belong through Christ are shut out, albeit in a gentle and kindly manner.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
(01/28/2015) Adam, Pharaoh and All Mankind?
Today, points are shared on Pharaoh of Egypt and the divine preparation given those who left Egypt with Moses. A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Oscar You re a grouch” (Level 1 with 21 points, a member since March 21, 2013) posted the following:
Why did god harden the pharaoh a heart?
Was he desperate for some spilt blood that day? Does he like killing more than saving?
Update : Noah's ark suggests he does
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Upon his ruin shall all the fowls of the heaven remain, and all the beasts of the field shall be upon his branches: To the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves for their height, neither shoot up their top among the thick boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that drink water: for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit. Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when he went down to the grave I caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained the floods thereof, and the great waters were stayed: and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him. I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to hell with them that descend into the pit: and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the earth. They also went down into hell with him unto them that be slain with the sword; and they that were his arm, that dwelt under his shadow in the midst of the heathen. To whom art thou thus like in glory and in greatness among the trees of Eden? yet shalt thou be brought down with the trees of Eden unto the nether parts of the earth: thou shalt lie in the midst of the uncircumcised with them that be slain by the sword. This is Pharaoh and all his multitude, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekiel 31: 13-18, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Harden Not Your Hearts? (09/08/2014); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); A Hardened Spirit? (06/12/2014); Mary (06/13/2014); The Judges Who Condemned Jesus? (01/17/2014); Hardness of Heart? (11/24/2013); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only”? (03/13/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013)
“Oscar You re a grouch”, here are some points shared among Christian believers who use their own faith and other spirit content from GOD to examine the things recorded in the holy writings:
(1.) Pharaoh was used by GOD as a tool to demonstrate to Israel and all mankind unseen aspects of the human condition, the nature of divinity, and the opposing presence of sin. The tribes of Jacob were being entered into a process of permanent change, restoration, temptation (we say, challenge, testing, trial), and transformation.
(2.) In addition to explanations and warnings through things that occurred in the very beginning of Creation, all were to be prepared and strengthened through sacred events (we say, miracles) and judgment (resolution of conflict and settlement of disputes through law) that would make visible and reveal their own true nature, the operations of sin as well as divine intent, sacred process, and eternal purpose .
(3.) Just as GOD proclaimed his name (we say, his accomplishments, how he is to be known and spoken of, his reputation) to Moses the Deity is revealed to Pharaoh and all of Egypt as a sovereign ruler and judge. Egypt existed as a one-world empire controlling or influencing the economy and lifestyle of every other nation. Pharaoh had proclaimed himself a god; and was shown to be both an idol (an object having no divine content, yet, revered and worshiped), and an adversary of the true GOD.
(4.) The figure of Pharaoh appears as a type used to present various major themes within Scripture. In the same way Adam was to exercise dominion over all the earth that served as a seat of divine power (we say, throne), and the primary sphere of life for humanity, we repeatedly see all mankind and Satan striving to have authority, control, possession, and presence within the earth.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Learning to repeat the ABC’s is not enough for a child to read and write. You must learn to combine and recombine the individual letters, and master comprehension. Similarly, the things of GOD for those who left Egypt, wandered in the wilderness, and entered into the Promised Land were all a preamble to the coming of Jesus, the establishment of salvation, and the bestowing of eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why did god harden the pharaoh a heart?
Was he desperate for some spilt blood that day? Does he like killing more than saving?
Update : Noah's ark suggests he does
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Upon his ruin shall all the fowls of the heaven remain, and all the beasts of the field shall be upon his branches: To the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves for their height, neither shoot up their top among the thick boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that drink water: for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit. Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when he went down to the grave I caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained the floods thereof, and the great waters were stayed: and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him. I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to hell with them that descend into the pit: and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the earth. They also went down into hell with him unto them that be slain with the sword; and they that were his arm, that dwelt under his shadow in the midst of the heathen. To whom art thou thus like in glory and in greatness among the trees of Eden? yet shalt thou be brought down with the trees of Eden unto the nether parts of the earth: thou shalt lie in the midst of the uncircumcised with them that be slain by the sword. This is Pharaoh and all his multitude, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekiel 31: 13-18, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Harden Not Your Hearts? (09/08/2014); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); A Hardened Spirit? (06/12/2014); Mary (06/13/2014); The Judges Who Condemned Jesus? (01/17/2014); Hardness of Heart? (11/24/2013); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only”? (03/13/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013)
“Oscar You re a grouch”, here are some points shared among Christian believers who use their own faith and other spirit content from GOD to examine the things recorded in the holy writings:
(1.) Pharaoh was used by GOD as a tool to demonstrate to Israel and all mankind unseen aspects of the human condition, the nature of divinity, and the opposing presence of sin. The tribes of Jacob were being entered into a process of permanent change, restoration, temptation (we say, challenge, testing, trial), and transformation.
(2.) In addition to explanations and warnings through things that occurred in the very beginning of Creation, all were to be prepared and strengthened through sacred events (we say, miracles) and judgment (resolution of conflict and settlement of disputes through law) that would make visible and reveal their own true nature, the operations of sin as well as divine intent, sacred process, and eternal purpose .
(3.) Just as GOD proclaimed his name (we say, his accomplishments, how he is to be known and spoken of, his reputation) to Moses the Deity is revealed to Pharaoh and all of Egypt as a sovereign ruler and judge. Egypt existed as a one-world empire controlling or influencing the economy and lifestyle of every other nation. Pharaoh had proclaimed himself a god; and was shown to be both an idol (an object having no divine content, yet, revered and worshiped), and an adversary of the true GOD.
(4.) The figure of Pharaoh appears as a type used to present various major themes within Scripture. In the same way Adam was to exercise dominion over all the earth that served as a seat of divine power (we say, throne), and the primary sphere of life for humanity, we repeatedly see all mankind and Satan striving to have authority, control, possession, and presence within the earth.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Learning to repeat the ABC’s is not enough for a child to read and write. You must learn to combine and recombine the individual letters, and master comprehension. Similarly, the things of GOD for those who left Egypt, wandered in the wilderness, and entered into the Promised Land were all a preamble to the coming of Jesus, the establishment of salvation, and the bestowing of eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
(01/27/2015) Prayer, Dreams and Messages?
Some points on dreams, divine messages, prayer, and prophecy are shared, today. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “GisherJohn” (Level 3 with 1,434 points, a member since September 02, 2008) posted the following:
Praying seems to bring me more vivid dreams and I get messages, is this normal?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD. Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that steal my words every one from his neighbour. Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use their tongues, and say, He saith. Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD. And when this people, or the prophet, or a priest, shall ask thee, saying, What is the burden of the LORD? thou shalt then say unto them, What burden? I will even forsake you, saith the LORD. And as for the prophet, and the priest, and the people, that shall say, The burden of the LORD, I will even punish that man and his house. Thus shall ye say every one to his neighbour, and every one to his brother, What hath the LORD answered? and, What hath the LORD spoken? And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man’s word shall be his burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God. (Jeremiah 23: 28-36, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How GOD Answers Prayer? (01/09/2015); Stories Repeated in the Bible? (08/30/2014); Why Similar Accounts (08/31/2014); Intercession (12/27/2013); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013); Alpha and Omega (12/29/2013); About Conversion (09/03/2012); Ghosts (09/02/2012)
“GisherJohn”, there are many points of understanding I would like to share with you that are important among Christian believers who want to avoid spiritual confusion. Keeping it brief, however, consider these:
(1.) One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism. The operations of GOD to reveal divinity are all directed to specific divine purposes and truths that are now documented in the holy writings. The sacred writings all have been generated by a single spirit, therefore, legitimate experience of communion with Christ is recognized by a process of spirit we call “discernment”. Ones spirit content from the eternal makeup of Deity must be the “standard” used to compare and contrast spirit content within finite events, guidance, objects, and other persons.
(2.) There Is No New Message. GOD is immutable and unchanging (we say, the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow) yet, interacts with created beings and living creatures whose awareness is continually subject to change, modification and movement that will include multiple levels and objects of focus. The Word (we say, breath, essence, spirit) is that aspect of the fullness of GOD that may be known as utterance (e.g., commandments, praise, proclamation, promise, prophecy). GOD has appeared incarnate (we say, in flesh) as Jesus Christ to complete and fulfill major events and requirements for eternal life.
(3.) Frameworks of Time and Space. Divine order is established, maintained, and appears as divine law, sacred principles and eternal precepts. The many operations of GOD to benefit created beings and living creatures upon the earth were initiated before the Creation began. Included are atonement, birth, death, forgiveness, incarnation, judgment, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, revelation, salvation, and sanctification.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Not of Private Interpretation. Dreams and messages that proceed from GOD are intended for the full body of believers who are in covenant agreement, and so must come under the consideration of other believers entrusted with the same sacred truth. Dreams that express features for ones individual character and personality emerge from such finite elements as emotions, intellect, logic, philosophy, and science.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Praying seems to bring me more vivid dreams and I get messages, is this normal?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD. Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that steal my words every one from his neighbour. Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use their tongues, and say, He saith. Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD. And when this people, or the prophet, or a priest, shall ask thee, saying, What is the burden of the LORD? thou shalt then say unto them, What burden? I will even forsake you, saith the LORD. And as for the prophet, and the priest, and the people, that shall say, The burden of the LORD, I will even punish that man and his house. Thus shall ye say every one to his neighbour, and every one to his brother, What hath the LORD answered? and, What hath the LORD spoken? And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man’s word shall be his burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God. (Jeremiah 23: 28-36, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How GOD Answers Prayer? (01/09/2015); Stories Repeated in the Bible? (08/30/2014); Why Similar Accounts (08/31/2014); Intercession (12/27/2013); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013); Alpha and Omega (12/29/2013); About Conversion (09/03/2012); Ghosts (09/02/2012)
“GisherJohn”, there are many points of understanding I would like to share with you that are important among Christian believers who want to avoid spiritual confusion. Keeping it brief, however, consider these:
(1.) One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism. The operations of GOD to reveal divinity are all directed to specific divine purposes and truths that are now documented in the holy writings. The sacred writings all have been generated by a single spirit, therefore, legitimate experience of communion with Christ is recognized by a process of spirit we call “discernment”. Ones spirit content from the eternal makeup of Deity must be the “standard” used to compare and contrast spirit content within finite events, guidance, objects, and other persons.
(2.) There Is No New Message. GOD is immutable and unchanging (we say, the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow) yet, interacts with created beings and living creatures whose awareness is continually subject to change, modification and movement that will include multiple levels and objects of focus. The Word (we say, breath, essence, spirit) is that aspect of the fullness of GOD that may be known as utterance (e.g., commandments, praise, proclamation, promise, prophecy). GOD has appeared incarnate (we say, in flesh) as Jesus Christ to complete and fulfill major events and requirements for eternal life.
(3.) Frameworks of Time and Space. Divine order is established, maintained, and appears as divine law, sacred principles and eternal precepts. The many operations of GOD to benefit created beings and living creatures upon the earth were initiated before the Creation began. Included are atonement, birth, death, forgiveness, incarnation, judgment, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, revelation, salvation, and sanctification.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Not of Private Interpretation. Dreams and messages that proceed from GOD are intended for the full body of believers who are in covenant agreement, and so must come under the consideration of other believers entrusted with the same sacred truth. Dreams that express features for ones individual character and personality emerge from such finite elements as emotions, intellect, logic, philosophy, and science.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, January 26, 2015
(01/26/2015) Agents of Allah?
Today, faith, jihad, judgment, and performing the duties of sacred law are topics. Every legitimate public executioner is held accountable by principles expressed as law, and recognized by every sovereign nation. More than this, no demand for monies are made that give off the stench of crime and extortion. All believers must carefully examine those claiming to be “sent” who promote themselves as agents and representatives carrying out the will of Almighty GOD. In divine judgment, it is the righteousness of GOD—not of mankind—that must appear. The sacred process of judgment is demonstrated against chosen ones who are in service to GOD, rather than those being exalted by others like themselves. Where what is shown the world is only condemnation, death, destruction, and self-righteousness, the supposed servants of GOD can be seen as merely presumptuous heathen, and rightly regarded as having no part with He who rules heaven, who provides eternal life. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Michael Vick’s” (Level 2 with 394 points, a member since August 16, 2013) posted the following:
When a muslim chops off your head in the name of islam, is he just misguided and not representative of the religion?
Should we not refer to him as muslim? What do we call all these muslims chopping everyone's head off?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. (Romans 13: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Holy Wars? (11/06/2014); Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); Thoughts Upon A Warrior’s Fall (11/15/2012); The Slave to Law and Sin Made Free (11/16/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012)
“Michael Vick’s”, here are a few points now increasingly shared among Christian believers to counteract the terrible spread of ignorance about the true meanings of “duty” and “faith”:
(1.) The term musleem (akin to “muslim” yet not the same) is understood as “being in total submission to GOD.” The patriarch Abraham, acknowledged in the holy writings as “the Friend of GOD” also is revered as having been musleem. Abraham established a spiritual inheritance for mankind as a covenant partner in relationship to the Creator.
(2.) The holy writings teach that GOD used Israel as a tool in revelation to demonstrate divine authority, grace, and wrath against sin. As surely as GOD created the armies of Israel using herders and keepers of livestock, because they lacked faith, he also denied them the place as those who would serve by populating the Promised Land. Similarly, when King David wanted to build a Temple that would be the House of GOD, his status as a bloody warrior-king disqualified him.
(3.) Where “faith” is understood as spirit matter that must be deposited within mankind from divinity, selected men may become recognized as those in covenant with GOD who serve as agents, apostles, imams, judges, prophets, representatives, rulers, and spokespersons provided by Deity.
(4.) In the same way, law enforcement officers are not judges and jurists, those claiming status as soldiers and warriors are not legitimate as executioners who are lawfully appointed officers of the court (often mistakenly seen as corrections officers, that is, prison guards). Similarly, soldiers are not used as clerics or workers of miracles (we say, sacred events), given the great danger of increasing spiritual confusion.
(5.) Lawful agents of a community in covenant are authorized to apply sanctions against other members within the community, however, not to those who are “outsiders”. Such servants must make themselves openly known, yet, can appear “wearing the mask” to maintain their integrity as agents of the law who would come under attacks from those punished through the law. The lack of regard for law and order on a broader scale that also acknowledges operations of GOD within other communities does not continue to manifest the higher purposes of GOD proclaimed by unity.
(6.) Sin may not be eliminated or removed by finite human tools such as emotions, intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, pride, and science. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the universe that requires divine order grounded in law.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) Service in combat and open warfare are declared to be “the lesser jihad.” The “greater jihad” is the pursuit of life and peace by service to establish and maintain community. Thus, family life, marriage, and parenting are to be ranked as blessing, more godly, and having higher sacred value.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
When a muslim chops off your head in the name of islam, is he just misguided and not representative of the religion?
Should we not refer to him as muslim? What do we call all these muslims chopping everyone's head off?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. (Romans 13: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Holy Wars? (11/06/2014); Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); Thoughts Upon A Warrior’s Fall (11/15/2012); The Slave to Law and Sin Made Free (11/16/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012)
“Michael Vick’s”, here are a few points now increasingly shared among Christian believers to counteract the terrible spread of ignorance about the true meanings of “duty” and “faith”:
(1.) The term musleem (akin to “muslim” yet not the same) is understood as “being in total submission to GOD.” The patriarch Abraham, acknowledged in the holy writings as “the Friend of GOD” also is revered as having been musleem. Abraham established a spiritual inheritance for mankind as a covenant partner in relationship to the Creator.
(2.) The holy writings teach that GOD used Israel as a tool in revelation to demonstrate divine authority, grace, and wrath against sin. As surely as GOD created the armies of Israel using herders and keepers of livestock, because they lacked faith, he also denied them the place as those who would serve by populating the Promised Land. Similarly, when King David wanted to build a Temple that would be the House of GOD, his status as a bloody warrior-king disqualified him.
(3.) Where “faith” is understood as spirit matter that must be deposited within mankind from divinity, selected men may become recognized as those in covenant with GOD who serve as agents, apostles, imams, judges, prophets, representatives, rulers, and spokespersons provided by Deity.
(4.) In the same way, law enforcement officers are not judges and jurists, those claiming status as soldiers and warriors are not legitimate as executioners who are lawfully appointed officers of the court (often mistakenly seen as corrections officers, that is, prison guards). Similarly, soldiers are not used as clerics or workers of miracles (we say, sacred events), given the great danger of increasing spiritual confusion.
(5.) Lawful agents of a community in covenant are authorized to apply sanctions against other members within the community, however, not to those who are “outsiders”. Such servants must make themselves openly known, yet, can appear “wearing the mask” to maintain their integrity as agents of the law who would come under attacks from those punished through the law. The lack of regard for law and order on a broader scale that also acknowledges operations of GOD within other communities does not continue to manifest the higher purposes of GOD proclaimed by unity.
(6.) Sin may not be eliminated or removed by finite human tools such as emotions, intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, pride, and science. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the universe that requires divine order grounded in law.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) Service in combat and open warfare are declared to be “the lesser jihad.” The “greater jihad” is the pursuit of life and peace by service to establish and maintain community. Thus, family life, marriage, and parenting are to be ranked as blessing, more godly, and having higher sacred value.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Sunday, January 25, 2015
(01/25/2015) Babies Given A Second Life?
Baptism for babies, duty to continue and preserve covenant, and responsible parenting are topics, today. For many Christian families hope for the future, a well-defined, disciplined, godly lifestyle, shared purpose, and the spiritual visions once passed down from their pioneers are now being refused by those embracing popular culture with its emphasis upon independence, and living for oneself. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Should Speech Hurt” (Level 7 with 27,153 points, a member since October 03, 2012) posted the following:
Religion & Spirituality: What good does it do to baptize a baby?
The baby isn't making the choice to dedicate its life to God.
Why would God even care about an act done to it, by another person?
My mom had me baptized as a baby, and I don't even remember it. I certainly didn't choose to have my head sprinkled with water.
So why would God want it done and why would he possibly reject a baby who died without experiencing this ritual?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? (John 3: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Sin Covered By Salvation? (12/28/2014); Mortality Is Required Because of Sin (12/29/2014); Sprinkled, Immersed, Named? (02/01/2014); Forgiveness Through GOD? (02/02/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013)
“Should Speech Hurt”, here are a few points shared among those who are born again through Jesus Christ:
(1.) The parental choice to baptize ones children is based upon multiple aspects of their commitment to acknowledge and provide the best for their child including the purest elements within their own emotional, psychological, and spiritual makeup. Just as ones life and ones love are shared expressed as spiritual conviction, ones duty, ones hope, and ones comprehension of divine revelation must be part of the inheritance parents provide to their offspring.
(2.) As in circumcision, through their baptism children are entered into the covenants of their family line and parents, and are instructed, nourished, and prepared to continue the divine relationships established for their own benefit, and for that of future generations. Today, many are unwilling to be accountable to their ancestors and their forerunners; and effectively are the last of their line. Marriage is despised, abortion is practiced, and many intend to have no offspring. For such persons concepts like “family name” (we say, reputation), honor, and “inheritance” are often cast only in terms of belongings, disease or illness, money, and property.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The sacred knowledge that explains baptism to Christian believers must be received through operations of their indwelling Spirit from Christ. The child or adult who is “born again” undergoes a permanent change in their spirit content. Their inborn spirit “dies”, is buried, and a rebirth occurs from a fresh deposit of substance from the makeup of GOD. The believer must become a vessel for aspects of divinity such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, and love. What you call a “ritual” is a standard or traditionally acceptable act witnessed by the community of believers that authenticates various unseen operations from Deity.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Religion & Spirituality: What good does it do to baptize a baby?
The baby isn't making the choice to dedicate its life to God.
Why would God even care about an act done to it, by another person?
My mom had me baptized as a baby, and I don't even remember it. I certainly didn't choose to have my head sprinkled with water.
So why would God want it done and why would he possibly reject a baby who died without experiencing this ritual?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? (John 3: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Sin Covered By Salvation? (12/28/2014); Mortality Is Required Because of Sin (12/29/2014); Sprinkled, Immersed, Named? (02/01/2014); Forgiveness Through GOD? (02/02/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013)
“Should Speech Hurt”, here are a few points shared among those who are born again through Jesus Christ:
(1.) The parental choice to baptize ones children is based upon multiple aspects of their commitment to acknowledge and provide the best for their child including the purest elements within their own emotional, psychological, and spiritual makeup. Just as ones life and ones love are shared expressed as spiritual conviction, ones duty, ones hope, and ones comprehension of divine revelation must be part of the inheritance parents provide to their offspring.
(2.) As in circumcision, through their baptism children are entered into the covenants of their family line and parents, and are instructed, nourished, and prepared to continue the divine relationships established for their own benefit, and for that of future generations. Today, many are unwilling to be accountable to their ancestors and their forerunners; and effectively are the last of their line. Marriage is despised, abortion is practiced, and many intend to have no offspring. For such persons concepts like “family name” (we say, reputation), honor, and “inheritance” are often cast only in terms of belongings, disease or illness, money, and property.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) The sacred knowledge that explains baptism to Christian believers must be received through operations of their indwelling Spirit from Christ. The child or adult who is “born again” undergoes a permanent change in their spirit content. Their inborn spirit “dies”, is buried, and a rebirth occurs from a fresh deposit of substance from the makeup of GOD. The believer must become a vessel for aspects of divinity such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, and love. What you call a “ritual” is a standard or traditionally acceptable act witnessed by the community of believers that authenticates various unseen operations from Deity.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, January 23, 2015
(01/23/2015) Heroes Who Are Atheists?
Atheism, damnation, divine judgment, and salvation through good works or public service are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “antiesta” (Level 4 with 3,796 points, a member since July 26, 2009) posted the following:
Do heroes like 9/11 firefighters go to Hell if they are atheists?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. (Matthew 7: 18-27, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Soon Return of Jesus? (01/05/2015); Being Good, Enough? (01/06/2015); Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Salvation for Atheists? (06/14/2013); Church is Good? (06/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012)
“antiesta”, here are a few points to consider that are aspects of the full revelation to Christian believers regarding divine judgment:
(1.) Atheists are not in any of the necessary covenant relationships with divinity. The blessings of immortality, incorruptibility and eternal companionship with Deity are only extended to those acknowledging the divine provisions that now exist for finite created beings and living creatures to undergo permanent change. Divine operations must be completed that include atonement, baptism, death, forgiveness, promise, prophecy, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification.
(2.) Just as one can not achieve a place in heaven simply by serving as one who provides emergency medical assistance, a firefighter, a law enforcement officer, elected officials, and sanitation workers can not gain or win a place in heaven simply by their employment as guardians and protectors of their community. Following the completion of judgment, these peculiar roles will not exist upon the earth, or within the Holy City, the New Jerusalem.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) As an aspect of the character, makeup and nature of divinity, the work of judgment has always existed—even before the creation of holy angels and the sacred beasts of heaven—and will continue after all mortality has been completed and removed. No one will be accused by GOD, by Christ, or even by the Devil. Ones record within the books of life is examined in detail because, a person’s invisible and unseen spirit content from the makeup of GOD only becomes completely visible to their peers (who are to be witnesses to judgment as the revelation of divine righteousness) through attitudes, behavior, and conduct by the living.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Do heroes like 9/11 firefighters go to Hell if they are atheists?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. (Matthew 7: 18-27, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Soon Return of Jesus? (01/05/2015); Being Good, Enough? (01/06/2015); Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Salvation for Atheists? (06/14/2013); Church is Good? (06/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012)
“antiesta”, here are a few points to consider that are aspects of the full revelation to Christian believers regarding divine judgment:
(1.) Atheists are not in any of the necessary covenant relationships with divinity. The blessings of immortality, incorruptibility and eternal companionship with Deity are only extended to those acknowledging the divine provisions that now exist for finite created beings and living creatures to undergo permanent change. Divine operations must be completed that include atonement, baptism, death, forgiveness, promise, prophecy, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification.
(2.) Just as one can not achieve a place in heaven simply by serving as one who provides emergency medical assistance, a firefighter, a law enforcement officer, elected officials, and sanitation workers can not gain or win a place in heaven simply by their employment as guardians and protectors of their community. Following the completion of judgment, these peculiar roles will not exist upon the earth, or within the Holy City, the New Jerusalem.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) As an aspect of the character, makeup and nature of divinity, the work of judgment has always existed—even before the creation of holy angels and the sacred beasts of heaven—and will continue after all mortality has been completed and removed. No one will be accused by GOD, by Christ, or even by the Devil. Ones record within the books of life is examined in detail because, a person’s invisible and unseen spirit content from the makeup of GOD only becomes completely visible to their peers (who are to be witnesses to judgment as the revelation of divine righteousness) through attitudes, behavior, and conduct by the living.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Thursday, January 22, 2015
(01/22/2015) Partially Baptized?
A believer poses a personal question about their own baptism experience, today. Surely, the only answer to the question “Have you been baptized?” must be a firm “yes” or “no” that will also state ones acceptance of Jesus Christ as their own redeemer and savior. “I don’t know,” “maybe”, and “perhaps” are totally unacceptable. The single word used to reply will reveal the measure they contain of such elements as faith, holiness, love, maturity, respect, sacred knowledge, trust, and other spirit content from divinity. The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Mark” (Level 1 with 46 points, a member since January 16, 2015) posted the following:
Is it a sin to get Baptized twice?
I got Baptized about 10 years ago at around the age of 13. My Baptism took place in a Church swimming pool and there was a few of us getting Baptized that night.
Shortly afterwards my Mum told me she thought she saw my nose was above the water during the Baptism.
what does it mean if during my Baptism that my nose was above the water and not beneath it ?
Also if I got re-Baptized is that a sin to god or blaspheming the Holy Spirit?
please answer both my question's. God Bless
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5: 1-6, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Walk As He Walked? (11/16/2014); To Continue In His Footsteps (11/17/2014); A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014); Inseparables? (07/15/2014); On Christians Being Inclusive? (07/16/2014); A Formula for Baptism? (06/30/2014)
“Mark”, I bypassed your question before. However, I now think you truly are concerned and need a sound answer, so I hope you will consider the following points:
(1.) Water baptism as a ceremony or ritual within a community of faith is an outward display that signals the unseen operations of divinity. Rightly understood, baptism is a sacred process carried out by the same Spirit that established the firmament of heaven and earth, and was breathed into Adam. In this sense, baptism does not depend upon human awareness or self-will, the amount of water applied (whether immersed, splashed, or sprinkled), and whether the water was running (as in a river) or standing (as in a pool). Some argue the differences are important, however, the thought at the core of their thinking is, only running water carries away sin(?)—where a higher idea is needed: only faith, conviction, and new divine substance establish death and its removal of sin, rebirth, and new life.
(2.) As one born again, the ideas and understandings of our natural mothers, other family, co-workers and friends must have less influence, because they may still be based upon carnal, material and social truth, rather than upon our own measure of faith. A new relationship with GOD through Christ must come into effect. The authority once placed in parents and pastors should now indwell you. All believers must learn to practice discernment (ability to use their own spirit content to recognize and respond to the divine spirit contained in events, objects and other persons). Increasingly, ones experiences must be gauged against the standards provided through sacred knowledge, fellowship with other mature believers, and unselfish service.
(3.) Believers should not accept baptism without first preparing themselves through prayer and study of the holy writings that will clarify its meaning, purpose, and value. Many believers understand baptism as an act to cleanse that may be repeated periodically, like foot-washing. Others believe new baptism is appropriate when one arrives at a new level of spiritual comprehension, and makes a new life commitment. Still others feel that baptism is like bathing, you get a bath whenever you feel the need. Such baptisms are a matter of conscience; however, we are warned our conscience can become seared (closed, sealed) allowing nothing to be leaked or lost, yet, allowing nothing to enter.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Before Jesus was arrested, he washed the feet of eleven apostles after one had gone out. Peter was outraged that the Lord would debase himself and behave like a servant, and make himself unclean. Jesus told him, where I do not wash your feet, you have no part with me. Peter then insisted, Be sure to get my hands and head! Jesus said, no more is needed than that I wash your feet. Focus your understanding upon the operations of Christ as our savior. Willingly receive instruction, however, do not entertain any accusation that comes against your faith.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Is it a sin to get Baptized twice?
I got Baptized about 10 years ago at around the age of 13. My Baptism took place in a Church swimming pool and there was a few of us getting Baptized that night.
Shortly afterwards my Mum told me she thought she saw my nose was above the water during the Baptism.
what does it mean if during my Baptism that my nose was above the water and not beneath it ?
Also if I got re-Baptized is that a sin to god or blaspheming the Holy Spirit?
please answer both my question's. God Bless
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5: 1-6, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Walk As He Walked? (11/16/2014); To Continue In His Footsteps (11/17/2014); A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014); Inseparables? (07/15/2014); On Christians Being Inclusive? (07/16/2014); A Formula for Baptism? (06/30/2014)
“Mark”, I bypassed your question before. However, I now think you truly are concerned and need a sound answer, so I hope you will consider the following points:
(1.) Water baptism as a ceremony or ritual within a community of faith is an outward display that signals the unseen operations of divinity. Rightly understood, baptism is a sacred process carried out by the same Spirit that established the firmament of heaven and earth, and was breathed into Adam. In this sense, baptism does not depend upon human awareness or self-will, the amount of water applied (whether immersed, splashed, or sprinkled), and whether the water was running (as in a river) or standing (as in a pool). Some argue the differences are important, however, the thought at the core of their thinking is, only running water carries away sin(?)—where a higher idea is needed: only faith, conviction, and new divine substance establish death and its removal of sin, rebirth, and new life.
(2.) As one born again, the ideas and understandings of our natural mothers, other family, co-workers and friends must have less influence, because they may still be based upon carnal, material and social truth, rather than upon our own measure of faith. A new relationship with GOD through Christ must come into effect. The authority once placed in parents and pastors should now indwell you. All believers must learn to practice discernment (ability to use their own spirit content to recognize and respond to the divine spirit contained in events, objects and other persons). Increasingly, ones experiences must be gauged against the standards provided through sacred knowledge, fellowship with other mature believers, and unselfish service.
(3.) Believers should not accept baptism without first preparing themselves through prayer and study of the holy writings that will clarify its meaning, purpose, and value. Many believers understand baptism as an act to cleanse that may be repeated periodically, like foot-washing. Others believe new baptism is appropriate when one arrives at a new level of spiritual comprehension, and makes a new life commitment. Still others feel that baptism is like bathing, you get a bath whenever you feel the need. Such baptisms are a matter of conscience; however, we are warned our conscience can become seared (closed, sealed) allowing nothing to be leaked or lost, yet, allowing nothing to enter.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Before Jesus was arrested, he washed the feet of eleven apostles after one had gone out. Peter was outraged that the Lord would debase himself and behave like a servant, and make himself unclean. Jesus told him, where I do not wash your feet, you have no part with me. Peter then insisted, Be sure to get my hands and head! Jesus said, no more is needed than that I wash your feet. Focus your understanding upon the operations of Christ as our savior. Willingly receive instruction, however, do not entertain any accusation that comes against your faith.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
(01/21/2015) When Asked to Serve?
Some points are shared for consideration among those who are asked to serve in worship. Many fail to realize that serving the Lord also means what some account as difficult: suppressing anger, not complaining, not continuing in fear, not lying. A fighter challenging Christian believers at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no further information) posted the following:
Question for Roman Catholics!?
I volunteer at Little Sisters of the Poor, and recently one of the sisters asked me to read in mass every month. The problem is, I get really high anxiety when I read in front of people. (It's not just old people I'm reading to, it's my friends too) so I really want to get out of doing this! What do I say without looking like a chicken? ??
Update : I was thinking about starting a miniature girl's choir for the girls who don't want to read. (They desperately need better music)
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. (1st John 4: 10-19, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Bible and Spirit (04/26/2014); Unprofitable Servants? (01/19/2014); Should I Speak? (12/13/2013); Life Choices (12/14/2013); Chosen To Serve As Prophets (01/01/2013); Lawful Revenge? (01/02/2013)
Every believer experiences moments of hesitation and reluctance to participate in sacred activity that must be carried out in a public forum. This may result from personal weaknesses and flaws such as fear of incurring divine wrath, speech impediments (like Moses), shyness, or lack of conviction and uncertainty concerning the many doctrines and teachings one is expected to know. Nonetheless, each believer is to understand that their every opportunity to serve is also their opportunity to proclaim their gratitude, their love, and their respect to all divinity.
As with anything that demands we leave our “comfort zone,” new experience within the worship community also calls forth confession of need and intimate fellowship with Christ through prayer. This is the example we see in the Scriptures for all those appointed as apostles and witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus. Despite their years of companionship, instruction, and preparation by the Lord, following their anointing at Pentecost, the entire community of faith importuned before GOD that the full body would receive holy boldness to act, speak and correctly submit themselves to the unseen power.
When asked to respond to a specific need for the congregation believers are to assume the request has come through operations of the Holy Spirit. The prophetic work they are to perform is intended to build up (we say, edify), comfort, and exhort (we say, encourage, urge on) the one who serves as well as the household of faith. More than change in ones confidence and poise, the benefit to the one who serves may appear as an increase of their divine content such as dutifulness, humility, insight, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, and truthfulness.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, The sharing of oneself for those who are born again may be understood as merely “growing pains.” What we are called to do must be seen in the light of the crown of thorns, and the Savior’s death upon the cross. That we endure or suffer unselfishly for his name and reputation gains for us a more certain place as joint heirs, sons and daughters of GOD, and those who will abide with Christ eternally.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Washington, DC
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
(01/20/2015) The Idea of Perfection?
Spiritual confusion stemming from the account of sin among angels in heaven comes into view, again. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Earl” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since November 21, 2013) posted the following:
If demons are angels that sinned, doesnt that mean heaven isnt perfect?
Maybe god isnt perfect either , or maybe there is no such thing as perfect when referring to a "being"
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2nd Peter 1: 2-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Scriptures and Perfection? (10/27/2014); GOD to “Try Harder”? (03/17/2014); Unclear Scriptures? (03/18/2014); A Perfected Body (03/09/2014); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); The Adversary? (12/05/2012); “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why "Mysterious" (11/11/2012)
“Earl”, your expression of faith moves me to share a few points from my own understanding of divine perfection:
(1.) While to be “perfect” is to be complete, finished, and at the highest level of quality, the perfection of GOD expressed through material creation, created beings, and living creatures also generates change, development, diversity, growth, and movement. Divine perfection must be established using a divine standard that would include balance, all specific holy intent, eternal life, and sacred purpose.
(2.) GOD is a spirit, and the perfection of spirit is not apprehended using finite intellect, logic, mathematics, reason, philosophy, and science. Spirit is without measurable dimensions that are the core substance for secular knowledge. Aristotle’s course for classifying and grouping things is plain, and has served on many levels for human experience. When applied to spiritual things that rule becomes what Christians call “discernment” (spirit content must be used to recognize and respond to other spirit content).
(3.) Sin is no material or spirit thing put forth from the Creator, yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence. Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living. Christians who receive Jesus Christ as redeemer and savior also acknowledge his office as the High Priest within the Temple of heaven. The cleansing and removal of the marks from sin are accomplished only by applications of blood that convey life and sacred substance (we say, divinity).
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Just as their place in relationship are not the same as that for Deity, perfection for GOD is not that for finite beings. The Creator is immutable and unchanging; and is being made known and revealed to the created through multiple sacred processes. Included are atonement, advent, correction, healing, incarnation, death, judgment, rebirth, resurrection, and sanctification.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
If demons are angels that sinned, doesnt that mean heaven isnt perfect?
Maybe god isnt perfect either , or maybe there is no such thing as perfect when referring to a "being"
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2nd Peter 1: 2-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Scriptures and Perfection? (10/27/2014); GOD to “Try Harder”? (03/17/2014); Unclear Scriptures? (03/18/2014); A Perfected Body (03/09/2014); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); The Adversary? (12/05/2012); “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why "Mysterious" (11/11/2012)
“Earl”, your expression of faith moves me to share a few points from my own understanding of divine perfection:
(1.) While to be “perfect” is to be complete, finished, and at the highest level of quality, the perfection of GOD expressed through material creation, created beings, and living creatures also generates change, development, diversity, growth, and movement. Divine perfection must be established using a divine standard that would include balance, all specific holy intent, eternal life, and sacred purpose.
(2.) GOD is a spirit, and the perfection of spirit is not apprehended using finite intellect, logic, mathematics, reason, philosophy, and science. Spirit is without measurable dimensions that are the core substance for secular knowledge. Aristotle’s course for classifying and grouping things is plain, and has served on many levels for human experience. When applied to spiritual things that rule becomes what Christians call “discernment” (spirit content must be used to recognize and respond to other spirit content).
(3.) Sin is no material or spirit thing put forth from the Creator, yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence. Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living. Christians who receive Jesus Christ as redeemer and savior also acknowledge his office as the High Priest within the Temple of heaven. The cleansing and removal of the marks from sin are accomplished only by applications of blood that convey life and sacred substance (we say, divinity).
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Just as their place in relationship are not the same as that for Deity, perfection for GOD is not that for finite beings. The Creator is immutable and unchanging; and is being made known and revealed to the created through multiple sacred processes. Included are atonement, advent, correction, healing, incarnation, death, judgment, rebirth, resurrection, and sanctification.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Monday, January 19, 2015
(01/19/2015) Poem, 2015: MOONLIGHT
Some thoughts as shared through poetry are presented, today. Readers are asked to continue using discernment as they consider MOONLIGHT addressing America, civil rights, idolatry, nonviolence, and sacred process.
The light seen from the moon is not its own
A dead world shining in the night
Cold, indifferent without the heat of love
Divine order establishing its right
A Georgia boy, a colored man to some
Proclaiming gospel truth received
Igniting hearts and minds, a soul
To liberate the ones deceived
Many curse him still for being flesh
Mere mortal, just another coon
Fleeing from the hounds having his scent
Condemned, revealed, betrayed by the full moon
Because the many stars are not enough
Until they focus beaming over all
The stripes of hatred, poverty and war
Are felt by true men great and small
A nation without light to guide the world
A flag stained with the blood of innocents
A sign promising tomorrow will be soon
The blessing comes because the land repents
His doctrine may not have been his own
Neither the spirit putting forth its might
Buddha? Gandhi? Nehru? Or Jesus Christ?
A manifesting of Eternal Light
The victory of Selma shines today
where streets of Ferguson now gleam in blood
The lives of children may never be our prey
or shackled marchers tramping through the mud
Immigrant youth, black teens, and those suspect
Regarded as “the problem” and “the least”
Are no less due freedom, law, and our respect
For theirs is not the nature of the beasts
It is the life for creatures of the night
To live by noose, evasion, knife, and gun
To quench the flames of brotherhood and trust
The healing light provided through the sun
Beneath Diana’s light, sport reigns supreme
And graven images are hailed unseen
The lunatics prevail. Yet by the King’s great work
We know the color for all lawns is green.
Suffering done in silence done
Creation words that made a thunder sound
Let there be light, diversity, and unity
The rainbow of the Maker’s common ground
The sweet sonata must not be dismissed
Ignored, manna rejected, heaven’s dew
The callings of our duty, righteousness
Let them awake and fall afresh on you
©Michael Andrew Williams, 2015. All rights reserved worldwide.
MOONLIGHT
[A Poem Celebrating Citizen King Day, 2015]
The light seen from the moon is not its own
A dead world shining in the night
Cold, indifferent without the heat of love
Divine order establishing its right
A Georgia boy, a colored man to some
Proclaiming gospel truth received
Igniting hearts and minds, a soul
To liberate the ones deceived
Many curse him still for being flesh
Mere mortal, just another coon
Fleeing from the hounds having his scent
Condemned, revealed, betrayed by the full moon
Because the many stars are not enough
Until they focus beaming over all
The stripes of hatred, poverty and war
Are felt by true men great and small
A nation without light to guide the world
A flag stained with the blood of innocents
A sign promising tomorrow will be soon
The blessing comes because the land repents
His doctrine may not have been his own
Neither the spirit putting forth its might
Buddha? Gandhi? Nehru? Or Jesus Christ?
A manifesting of Eternal Light
The victory of Selma shines today
where streets of Ferguson now gleam in blood
The lives of children may never be our prey
or shackled marchers tramping through the mud
Immigrant youth, black teens, and those suspect
Regarded as “the problem” and “the least”
Are no less due freedom, law, and our respect
For theirs is not the nature of the beasts
It is the life for creatures of the night
To live by noose, evasion, knife, and gun
To quench the flames of brotherhood and trust
The healing light provided through the sun
Beneath Diana’s light, sport reigns supreme
And graven images are hailed unseen
The lunatics prevail. Yet by the King’s great work
We know the color for all lawns is green.
Suffering done in silence done
Creation words that made a thunder sound
Let there be light, diversity, and unity
The rainbow of the Maker’s common ground
The sweet sonata must not be dismissed
Ignored, manna rejected, heaven’s dew
The callings of our duty, righteousness
Let them awake and fall afresh on you
©Michael Andrew Williams, 2015. All rights reserved worldwide.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
(01/18/2015) Living In The Light?
Today, some points are shared on light and spiritual growth. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Ruth” (Level 7 with 92,201 points, a member since December 04, 2010) posted the following:
Since Christians are to live in the light why so many are not?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. They hatch cockatrice’ eggs, and weave the spider’s web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works: their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace. Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness. We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noon day as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men. (Isaiah 59: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Walk As He Walked? (11/16/2014); To Continue In His Footsteps (11/17/2014); Coming to the Light? (09/29/2014); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013); Candles of GOD? (12/26/2012); Hellfire and Brimstone Preaching? (12/27/2012)
“Ruth”, Christian believers are to regard as “darkness” the criticisms and judgments that come from anyone other than our Savior. Even so, here are a few points on “light” you may find useful:
(1.) By “being in the light” many mistakenly think that believers are to perform and “show-off” in the public forum and social media (give us a sign, give us a sign!). Celebrity, controversy, fame, notoriety, and popularity are actually their goals; and the fruits of their labors are usually division, error, schism, and spiritual confusion. Outsiders will see only a shadow from the intimacy and spiritual power of a Christian life that is correctly personal and private.
(2.) Many are feeling and groping about because they are blind from misapplying and misusing the light provided by the holy writings. Their goals are to control and master the light, rather than reflect and shine forth as lights. Such persons are spiritually dead and unproductive, for they fix their gaze, and stare into light, ever learning and never coming into the knowledge of the truth. Light intended to allow change, choice and growth should also destroy doubt, ignorance, and lack of accountability.
(3.) For mature Christian believers, “light” is easily understood as a set of divinely given laws, precepts, and principles that determine the duration, quality, and spirit content of created beings and living creatures along with their communication, exchange and interactions within and because of relationship to divinity.
(4.) There is a superabundance of light. Covenant, law, the Gospel, and the Revelation of Jesus Christ are all spoken of as “light”. Believers may vary in the extent of experience and the fullness of instruction they have received regarding the things of prophecy and salvation (no one knows it all, so to speak); yet, all are accountable for the measure of light they have been exposed to, now comprehend, and should practice. All are to operate in accordance with their own knowledge of divinity, and the light will anchor their understanding to acknowledge Jesus Christ at his appearing.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Believers use the language of “light” because light is a condition that allows directed motion. Changes in the amount and intensity of light support our frameworks of time and space as well as our sense of opportunity and possibility. The imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) is emanated as light and utterance (we say, word).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Since Christians are to live in the light why so many are not?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. They hatch cockatrice’ eggs, and weave the spider’s web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works: their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace. Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness. We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noon day as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men. (Isaiah 59: 1-10, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Walk As He Walked? (11/16/2014); To Continue In His Footsteps (11/17/2014); Coming to the Light? (09/29/2014); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013); Candles of GOD? (12/26/2012); Hellfire and Brimstone Preaching? (12/27/2012)
“Ruth”, Christian believers are to regard as “darkness” the criticisms and judgments that come from anyone other than our Savior. Even so, here are a few points on “light” you may find useful:
(1.) By “being in the light” many mistakenly think that believers are to perform and “show-off” in the public forum and social media (give us a sign, give us a sign!). Celebrity, controversy, fame, notoriety, and popularity are actually their goals; and the fruits of their labors are usually division, error, schism, and spiritual confusion. Outsiders will see only a shadow from the intimacy and spiritual power of a Christian life that is correctly personal and private.
(2.) Many are feeling and groping about because they are blind from misapplying and misusing the light provided by the holy writings. Their goals are to control and master the light, rather than reflect and shine forth as lights. Such persons are spiritually dead and unproductive, for they fix their gaze, and stare into light, ever learning and never coming into the knowledge of the truth. Light intended to allow change, choice and growth should also destroy doubt, ignorance, and lack of accountability.
(3.) For mature Christian believers, “light” is easily understood as a set of divinely given laws, precepts, and principles that determine the duration, quality, and spirit content of created beings and living creatures along with their communication, exchange and interactions within and because of relationship to divinity.
(4.) There is a superabundance of light. Covenant, law, the Gospel, and the Revelation of Jesus Christ are all spoken of as “light”. Believers may vary in the extent of experience and the fullness of instruction they have received regarding the things of prophecy and salvation (no one knows it all, so to speak); yet, all are accountable for the measure of light they have been exposed to, now comprehend, and should practice. All are to operate in accordance with their own knowledge of divinity, and the light will anchor their understanding to acknowledge Jesus Christ at his appearing.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Believers use the language of “light” because light is a condition that allows directed motion. Changes in the amount and intensity of light support our frameworks of time and space as well as our sense of opportunity and possibility. The imparted Spirit from GOD (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) is emanated as light and utterance (we say, word).) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Friday, January 16, 2015
(01/16/2015) Is It OK to Punch?
Public statements from clergy, nonviolence, and necessary respect for religious beliefs are topics, today. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “V” (Level 1 with 186 points, a member since June 08, 2011) posted the following:
Why did the Pope recently say it's ok to punch someone if they insulted your mother? I thought we had to turn the other cheek??? Bit puzzled.?
This is in relation to the recent tragedies in Paris
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5: 13-23, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Right Place to Get Knowledge? (02/17/2014); Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); On Marketing Church, and Speaking by Occasion (09/26/2013); On Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); My Sheep Hear My Voice (03/08/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Mockers in the Last Days (11/14/2012)
“V”, it should go without saying that to get respect, you must show respect. Yet, as you can see in many life situations today, there are many who don’t understand and practice that rule. Here are a few points all Christians believers must take into account when considering the attitudes, behavior and statements from clergy:
(1.) Believers must use “discernment” (the ability to use their own spirit content from the makeup of divinity as a standard to recognize and respond to spirit content in actions, events, objects, other persons, speech, etc.) at all times. Clergy, who serve as apostles, prophets and spokespersons for GOD, must operate through carnal, material and social situations, yet will remain individuals and finite beings. In addition to fixed ceremonies, prayers and rituals, divine law, sacred doctrine, holy proclamations and promises, clergy may make comments that are “common sense” acknowledgments of the human condition made spontaneously, unrehearsed, and “off the cuff.” At no time are remarks made to deny, dispute, or overturn the teachings of Jesus Christ.
(2.) The standard from GOD for truth that clergy must maintain is the same as that for lay believers. Similarly, the standards for interpersonal behavior and self-discipline as demonstrated among the clergy are the same for all other believers. What all are to speak is intended to continue communication and fruitful interaction (we say, growth, learning, peace, prosperity).
(3.) Today, when clergy are presented by broadcast and print media, unspoken and unwritten policies are being applied that serve as “editorial bias.” The clip or sound bite chosen may not include necessary background material that should exist as the foundation for further knowledge and understanding. The higher goals of objective journalism are replaced by the motives of befriending, engaging and entertaining audiences of hearers, readers and viewers. Impartiality falls to increasing ones circulation, subscription rate, and income. Controversy, negative criticism, and sensationalism become the focus; irreverence, malice, rejection, slander and suspicion—even murder—become the outcome.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The origins of anger and violence for created beings and living creatures are aspects of their flesh (e.g., appetite, sensations, and emotional/mental functions). Because the operations of sin can dominate awareness and self-will as presumption, pride and self-promotion, believers are provided with fresh endowments of spirit content whereby they discern, recognize and resist sin. By continuing study of the holy writings, fellowship with other born again believers, unselfish service, and regular practice of sacraments, believers are divinely equipped to correctly receive and understand the gifts and ministries from divinity that are being delivered through the instrument of clergy.) 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 Pope recently say it's ok to punch someone if they insulted your mother? I thought we had to turn the other cheek??? Bit puzzled.?
This is in relation to the recent tragedies in Paris
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5: 13-23, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Right Place to Get Knowledge? (02/17/2014); Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); On Marketing Church, and Speaking by Occasion (09/26/2013); On Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); My Sheep Hear My Voice (03/08/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Mockers in the Last Days (11/14/2012)
“V”, it should go without saying that to get respect, you must show respect. Yet, as you can see in many life situations today, there are many who don’t understand and practice that rule. Here are a few points all Christians believers must take into account when considering the attitudes, behavior and statements from clergy:
(1.) Believers must use “discernment” (the ability to use their own spirit content from the makeup of divinity as a standard to recognize and respond to spirit content in actions, events, objects, other persons, speech, etc.) at all times. Clergy, who serve as apostles, prophets and spokespersons for GOD, must operate through carnal, material and social situations, yet will remain individuals and finite beings. In addition to fixed ceremonies, prayers and rituals, divine law, sacred doctrine, holy proclamations and promises, clergy may make comments that are “common sense” acknowledgments of the human condition made spontaneously, unrehearsed, and “off the cuff.” At no time are remarks made to deny, dispute, or overturn the teachings of Jesus Christ.
(2.) The standard from GOD for truth that clergy must maintain is the same as that for lay believers. Similarly, the standards for interpersonal behavior and self-discipline as demonstrated among the clergy are the same for all other believers. What all are to speak is intended to continue communication and fruitful interaction (we say, growth, learning, peace, prosperity).
(3.) Today, when clergy are presented by broadcast and print media, unspoken and unwritten policies are being applied that serve as “editorial bias.” The clip or sound bite chosen may not include necessary background material that should exist as the foundation for further knowledge and understanding. The higher goals of objective journalism are replaced by the motives of befriending, engaging and entertaining audiences of hearers, readers and viewers. Impartiality falls to increasing ones circulation, subscription rate, and income. Controversy, negative criticism, and sensationalism become the focus; irreverence, malice, rejection, slander and suspicion—even murder—become the outcome.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The origins of anger and violence for created beings and living creatures are aspects of their flesh (e.g., appetite, sensations, and emotional/mental functions). Because the operations of sin can dominate awareness and self-will as presumption, pride and self-promotion, believers are provided with fresh endowments of spirit content whereby they discern, recognize and resist sin. By continuing study of the holy writings, fellowship with other born again believers, unselfish service, and regular practice of sacraments, believers are divinely equipped to correctly receive and understand the gifts and ministries from divinity that are being delivered through the instrument of clergy.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)