(04/30/2017) On Being Too Smart

Today, topics include carnal reason, intellect, and sacred versus secular knowledge.  Salvation is granted by GOD on the basis of our great need, not our “great knowing.”  Many Christian believers scorn formal education, organizational structure, and discipline within the church believing that the new life in Christ must come by honest sentiment and the depth of ones feelings.  These are no different than the theologians who have knowledge about the church, yet, make no commitment, or display spirit content as genuine believers.  Many abstract thinkers have knowledge, even so they are not productive as ministers and those interceding for others.  Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living.  Thus, among mankind, knowledge can vary in its meaning, usefulness, and value in accordance with such factors as its source, the intent and purpose it fulfills as well as its temporal duration (how long it remains accurate) as truth.  A standard for “right knowledge” is seen in the early commandment of GOD:  Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth.  Only by the operations of GOD who is spirit can created beings and living creatures have a continuing and correct consciousness of divinity.  GOD is made knowable, known, and “visible” by unchanging divine law, prophecy, and sacred revelation that interact with deposits of inseparable spirit substances from the makeup of Deity.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  As the children and offspring of GOD, born-again believers are heirs of GOD through Jesus Christ who are granted special knowledge through intimate relationship as adopted sons and daughters of GOD.  With this in view, it should be clear that rebirth and sacred operations are available to all sinners, to those who are humble, and to those who are simple despite their having limited academic education.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (New Zealand)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


Will I go to hell for being too smart?

The bible says in a number of places that God shames the wise and exalts the foolish. Meaning God will bring shame to all the proud intellectuals, but he will bring honor to the humble. All those "crazy" religious people you see shouting hallelujah will be the ones in heaven, all those arrogant scientists & non-Christian philosophers will be the ones in hell. The 'foolish' recognize their dependency on God, whereas the 'wise' are focused on their own minds and the material world, not God. The foolish are innocent like children, the way Jesus said we must be to enter heaven. The wise are morally corrupt because they think they're their own gods so they willfully craft their own false moral code that violates God's law. Of course, these are sarcastic terms, not literal.

My problem is that I'm into philosophy, science, history & high concepts & I draw my understanding of God from an intellectual standpoint, it's not emotional & it doesn't feel like a genuine relationship. I understand that God is not impressed by my intellectualism, so there's no way I can be arrogant about it. However, I become fascinated by my own mind & often forget to give God credit. And focusing always on the mind seems to take away from the spirit, so I don't feel a true connection to God.

How can I balance the logic of biblical theology & apologetics into an actual relationship to God? Is mysticism involved at all, or is it all pagan?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  The secret things belong unto the LORD our God:  but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.  (Deuteronomy 29:  29,King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Operations of Christian Faith (04/28/2017); Becoming A Full Person (02/12/2017); Abstractions, Atheism and I.Q. (08/18/2016); A Learned Council of Elders? (05/10/2016); The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); To Study the Book of Judges (09/09/2015); Able to Become Gods? (01/11/2014); Why Christians Pray for Others (01/12/2014)


“Anonymous”, it is not a sin to be industrious and to work hard to achieve our life goals.  Yet, for many, good grades and excellence are the product of competitiveness, false assumptions regarding the nature and process of life, imbalance, insecurity, isolation, exaggerated pride, over-achievement, and self-importance.  In such instances, the label may be used that identifies scholars and thinkers as those who are “too smart for their own good” and  “educated fools.”  Failure to comprehend the basic facts pertaining to life and godliness “goes on your permanent record”, so to speak, and will affect your performance in every arena.

The achievement of maturity as a Christian believer requires a profound shift in ones mindset and approach to true knowledge.  GOD is a spirit, and a sinner must become transformed to continually respond to this truth.  One must master using discernment to correctly recognize and respond to spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that resides within events, oneself, other persons, prophecy, teachings, the Bible, etc.

Finite human tools such as carnal reason, logic, mathematics, science, and “critical thinking” are inadequate for processing sacred knowledge, the subtleties when applying divine law, and the simple yet profound truths of salvation that affirm oneness without sameness among the persons of GOD.  As a result, human intelligence can not be used to eradicate sin; and many of our brightest Ph.D. candidates and doctoral degree holders have been and will continue to be misled.  Consider the following points of instruction that use language from the holy writings:

(1.)  Matthew 16:  26, King James Version (KJV):  26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

(2.)  Jeremiah 9:  23-24, KJV:  23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:  24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth:  for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

(3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Peter 1:  2-11, KJV:  2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  3 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:  4 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.  5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;  6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;  7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  8 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.  9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.  10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:  for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/28/2017) Operations of Christian Faith

Today, focus is on the operations and possibilities of faith imparted from divinity.  Mature Christian faith acknowledges ongoing divine processes for the universe through the lifestyle and daily routines of believers, and prompts their expression of certainty for sacred expectations (hope), promises from divinity, prophecy, and revealed eternal purposes.  The fighter at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “Yummy Elephant Candy” (Level 6 with 17,219 points, a member since November 10, 2010) posted the following:


Christians! does anybody with some mustard seed faith want to help me move a sofa?

faith can move mountains, but idk about furnitures?

religion and spirituality


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, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Faith Just an Excuse? (03/01/2017); Knowing GOD and Sin? (02/03/2017); Salvation By Faith Alone? (01/19/2017); His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); How To Get Faith? (10/10/2016); Simple and Mature Faith (09/05/2016); Use Spirit From GOD? (08/15/2016); Faith and The Cross? (03/30/2016)


“Yummy Elephant Candy,” the operations of faith within the life of Christian believers are for “heavy lifting” on a cosmic scale that will separate created beings and living creatures from sin by placing them in intimate relationship with divinity as children and heirs of GOD.  Sinners are to be “born again” by receiving deposits of inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of Deity.  Included with faith are forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness (being teachable by the Holy Spirit), wisdom, and wrath against sin. 

Those submitting to GOD through Jesus Christ trust that, following the death and burial of their own inborn spirit, they will be resurrected having divine DNA (so to speak), and given opportunity for a life in judgment through repentance.
The revelation of GOD (making divinity knowable, known, and “visible”) to mankind on the earth is advanced and maintained by grace through faith as an expression of divine prerogative and sovereign will.  The person and active presence who is GOD will appear and accomplish sacred acts and eternal purposes, even using divine law, proclamations through messengers and spokespersons (e.g., kings, prophets, apostles), and covenant relationships based on promise.

Just as faith from GOD should make us think about divinity in new ways, such faith should make us regard one another in new ways.  Where the streets in our cities are quiet, it is very much because those having Christ-like faith are exercising compassion, respect, restraint, tolerance, and removing otherwise impossible to ignore obstacles to growth and prosperity.  Genuine Christian faith opposes ethnic arrogance, disbelief, impatience, presumption, exaggerated pride, racism, ungodliness, and violence.  Barriers and walls that would remain insurmountable are effectively eliminated by faith (i.e., made to be as if they do not exist).  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Revelation 21:  7-8, King James Version (KJV):  7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:  which is the second death.

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

(3.)  Romans 10:  13-17, KJV:  13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.  14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?  15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!  16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?  17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.  20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us:  we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.  21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/27/2017) Holy Fire From GOD?

Elijah Calling for Fire From GOD to Defeat the 450 Priests of Baal

Today, fire from GOD, divine judgment, and the Lake of Fire are topics.  In Scripture, fire appears as an emblem of divine authority evoking awe, and a sign of divine righteousness.  Because we are speaking of a tool used by GOD for whom nothing is impossible, Christian believers accept that fire can be made to fall like rain even though mingled with ice and hail.  It is written:  Isaiah 4:  3-6, King James Version (KJV):  3 And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem:  4 When the LORD shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.  5 And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night:  for upon all the glory shall be a defence.  6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “JohnnyBravo” (Level 1 with 106 points, a member since November 16, 2010) posted the following:


Christians: How can Satan burn in the lake of fire when it's clear from this verse that angels don't get hurt from fire?

Daniel 3:25

He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”

This is referencing the story of Shadrach and his 2 brothers.

Satan was once an angel, so why would he suffer in Hell? Wouldn't he view it as a nice trip to the hot springs?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And he sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up, and came and fell on his knees before Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God, I pray thee, let my life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be precious in thy sight.  Behold, there came fire down from heaven, and burnt up the two captains of the former fifties with their fifties:  therefore let my life now be precious in thy sight.  And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him:  be not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king.  And he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast sent messengers to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron, is it not because there is no God in Israel to enquire of his word? therefore thou shalt not come down off that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.  So he died according to the word of the LORD which Elijah had spoken. And Jehoram reigned in his stead in the second year of Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king of Judah; because he had no son.  (2nd Kings 1:  13-17, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Servants To The Body? (01/17/2017); Christ The Solid Rock? (08/07/2016); A Guarantee of Judgment? (04/15/2016); The Fire From GOD? (06/22/2014); Destroying the Resurrected Body? (02/10/2014); For They Shall Be Ashes (02/11/2014); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013)


“JohnnyBravo”, the notion that Satan can not be hurt in fire comes to us as another form of the answer given to Eve, Ye shall not surely die.  In the holy writings, different operations of fire from GOD include (1) anointing, cleansing, purifying fire such as fell on the apostles at Pentecost, (2) fire and flames indicating the active presence who is GOD as was seen by Moses in the burning bush, (3) flame that sanctifies, sets apart, and identifies the portion that belongs to GOD like the pillar of flame that stood between Pharaoh’s army and those fleeing Egypt in the Exodus, and (4) consuming, destroying fire such as that set apart to destroy the Devil and his angels.  Throughout the Scriptures burning and fire repeatedly indicate judgment, correction, prophecy, and wrath against sin.  Despite having been consecrated and ordained as priests, two sons of Aaron were punished for seeking to use ordinary fire from the earth when offering incense to the Most High.  Holy fire (the fire from GOD; fire from the holy altar) is very different in its makeup, process and substance from common fire used on the earth for cooking, light, or heating.  Holy fire separates the carnal, material and social aspects of an offering from the spirit content that is to be transferred to GOD such as awe, devotion, faithfulness, gratitude, humility, love, obedience, reverence and zeal.  Consider again the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Leviticus 10:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.  2 And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.  3 Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.

(2.)  1st Kings 18:  21-24, KJV:  21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him:  but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.  22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.  23 Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:  and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:  24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD:  and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

(3.)  Matthew 25:  40-45, KJV:  40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.  41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:  42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat:  I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:  43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not:  sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.  44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?  45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 

(4.)  Revelation 20:  13-15, KJV:  13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them:  and they were judged every man according to their works.  14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Revelation 20:  9-11, KJV:  9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city:  and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.  10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.  11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/26/2017) Greater Works Than His?

JESUS RAISING JAIRUS’ DAUGHTER

Today, focus is on belief, ministry, sacred events, and signs.  Believers and followers of Jesus accomplish works that are greater than those performed by the Lord on the basis of their displaying works chosen and selected by GOD to fulfill prophecy and eternal purpose, rather than as a matter of introducing sacred practices never seen or thought of before that originate within flesh, and are characterized by newness, sensationalism, and sensuality.  Many Christian believers do not distinguish between the works that focus on carnal, material and social things, and the works that might be spoken of as centering on Spirit.  Even so, all Christians are saved by divine grace through faith, and not by their own works.  Most of the critical operations completed for a sinner’s salvation must be carried out by divinity on their behalf leaving them only such work as acknowledgement and worship; acquiring sacred knowledge; developing discernment; expressing gratitude; regular prayer; sharing fellowship and unselfish service; and study of the holy writings.  With this in view, it might also be correct to say, The most important work to be completed by a believer in Christ is to be in a full personal relationship with divinity that displays the righteousness of GOD rather than the righteousness of mankind, and that permits discernment of the same oneness without sameness that appears among the persons within the GODhead.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Roland Chambers” (Level 2 with 786 points, a member since March 02, 2015) posted the following:


Jesus walked on water and turned water into wine. What greater work can man do then these things?
 


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast.  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  (Ephesians 2:  8-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Proclaiming A New Kingdom? (04/13/2017); Salvation By Faith Alone? (01/19/2017); Belief, Faith and Assumptions (11/24/2016); Diversity and Prophetic Gifts (11/22/2016); Why Are Works Required? (07/18/2016); A Divine Day Off? (02/15/2016); On Doing Good Deeds (02/02/2016) 


“Roland Chambers”, the greater works created beings and living creatures must complete are those directed to GOD (e.g., confession, love, repentance, thanksgiving), and may be “visible” only as Spirit.  Thus, even for many mature Christians the most challenging and difficult work for a believer is submission (to “let go, and let God”).  While the process of GOD to separate Creation from sin does include many sacred events (we say, miracles), the presentation of non-verbal prophetic demonstrations that make “visible” otherwise unseen divine intent, messages and operations of the Spirit, and the provision of “signs” (nature used to authenticate the divine origin, source, and certain fulfillment of prophecy), through the ministry of Jesus Christ sinners are being granted a fresh endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD, and are being transformed to exist as a new creation.  In addition to the works of believing, commitment, exclusive spiritual devotion, recruiting new believers, and unselfish ministry to others, the born again disciples and followers of Christ are to endure suffering and await the Savior’s appearing (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  More significant than exceptions, reversals, and unusual occurrences in accordance with natural law are the continuous appearance of inseparable spirit substance from the Father (we say, divine DNA) deposited in earthen vessels, and displayed through the lifestyle and daily routines among those now the children of GOD.  Included should be seen faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following from the Bible:

(1.)  John 6:  27-35, King James Version (KJV):  27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you:  for him hath God the Father sealed.  28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?  29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.  30 They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?  31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.  32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.  33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.  34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.  35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life:  he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

(2.)  2nd Peter 1:  2-11, KJV:  2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  3 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:  4 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.  5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;  6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;  7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  8 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.  9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.  10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:  for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  1st Peter 4:  12-19, KJV:  12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you:  on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.  15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.  16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.  17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God:  and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?  19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/25/2017) The Nature of Death

…he beheld the city, and wept over it,  Luke 19:  41

Today, Jesus dying on the cross, and the temporal nature of death are considered.  While death has effect and presence, death appears as a condition (i.e., state of being) and mechanical life process that exists without person or self-will.  There is no conflict of flesh against divinity involved in the sacrificial observance where the Lamb of GOD is slain for the sin of the world.  The truth that GOD has always existed, and is without cause and origin requires acceptance that divinity may not be described as a result of specific purposes beyond those of being and existing, or manifesting as active presence.  The flow of carnal reason and finite mind are disrupted by this enigma of GOD.  Similarly, the character and properties for things that are material and social,  including mankind, must be known and spoken of using frameworks of time and space that permit concepts of duration, elimination, and termination.  GOD is not subject to death; death does not die of itself; however, death is subject to GOD, and may only continue through sacred law (the expressed will of GOD) and divine prerogative.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (Philippines)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


How would've God DIED on the cross if he's ETERNAL?

Update:  One dying defeats the purpose of being eternal.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1st Corinthians 15:  50-57, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh? (04/20/2017); Dead While We Live? (02/02/2017); Divine Appearances Using Form? (12/20/2016); Divine Inheritance and Resurrection? (07/06/2016); The Dimensions of Death? (04/24/2016); The Cross a Human Sacrifice? (04/18/2016); GOD Known By Action Not Form? (03/18/2015)


“Anonymous”, life is GOD’s intent, death is GOD’s tool.  The revelation of GOD (i.e., the acts and deeds whereby divinity makes himself knowable, known and visible) includes appearing in carnal form (we say, flesh and blood; Incarnation), becoming an embodiment of sin that can be destroyed on the cross, putting forth cause for new hope, showing the extent of human potential for relationship with Deity as well as providing correct sacred knowledge of the character, nature, and substance of death.  Apart from the operations, processes, and eternal purposes of GOD, Death is not to be regarded as “almighty”, divine, or eternal.  Just as the holy angels are temporal (i.e., endure for a limited time), and exist as neither mortal nor immortal, Death is temporal, is neither mortal nor divine, and is not to be obeyed as though having higher divine authority than the true and living GOD.  As a function of Creation, death is to promote life, and serves as a condition of “sleep” that may be terminated through resurrection.  As a function of Salvation, death promotes new life through rebirth, and serves as a condition of release from sin.  Only as a function of correction that fulfills final Judgment is death a condition of annihilation, elimination or irreversible destruction (we say, the second death).  The operations of death at the cross may be understood as having been in accordance with the authority of natural law.  The operations of death at the tomb where Christ had been laid should be seen as in accordance with the authority of divine grace that oversees such features as being, healing, forgiving, imparting spirit content, resurrection, and translation.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Romans 4:  13-17, King James Version (KJV):  13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.  14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:  15 Because the law worketh wrath:  for where no law is, there is no transgression.  16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,  17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

(2.)  Romans 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

(3.)  Revelation 20:  12-15, KJV:  12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.  13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them:  and they were judged every man according to their works.  14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Isaiah 25:  8-9, KJV:  8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth:  for the LORD hath spoken it.  9 And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us:  this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/24/2017) How Christ Is Known?

 

Today, how Christ is made known through the Holy Spirit and the revelation of divinity by GOD are topics.  The divinity of Jesus Christ may only be known through the operations of faith, holiness, and the other inseparable aspects of imparted Spirit.  One of the  fighters at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


How come Simon told Jesus Christ that you're the son of the living god rather than you're the living god?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.  And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.  And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.  But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.  Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,  And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down:  for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee:  and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.  Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.  Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;  And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.  Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan:  for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.  Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.  (Matthew 4:  1-11, King James, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why An Easter Season? (04/19/2017); Proclaiming A New Kingdom? (04/13/2017); The Way To Know? (04/12/2017); Salvation Takes A Lifetime (04/06/2017); Time and Sacred Events? (03/30/2017); Exalted By The Father? (01/26/2017); The Spirit and Prophecy (01/04/2017); Simple and Mature Faith (09/05/2016)


“Anonymous”, the process of GOD for making divinity knowable, known, and “visible” to created beings and living creatures is a movement of their awareness, self-will and spirit content through multiple levels of acknowledgement, examination, and resolution of inner conflicts.  Obstacles generated and maintained by the flesh must be overcome including carnal appetite, lack of sacred knowledge, exaggerated pride, vanity (i.e., lack of spirit content), and worldliness.  The process of growth, learning, and permanent change experienced by Simon Peter was the very same as that undergone by Jesus himself, and that believers today must also undergo.  Only by operations of the Holy Spirit could the Savior arrive at the understanding of his place as a son of the Highest, an heir to Deity, and the One who must serve as a sacrifice for the atonement of sin.  It was this same experience that led John the Baptist to leave the Temple community though an heir to a High Priest, and that was required before Thomas and others who had lived and worked with Jesus on a daily basis could comprehend that GOD truly was fulfilling his words of promise and prophecy within their own lives.  In every instance, men in flesh could only receive an earnest or “down payment” of the full endowment GOD wanted to bestow.  The ministry of Jesus that “officially” began with a miracle of water being turned into wine did not flourish or come into its fullness of authority and power until Jesus had suffered, died upon the cross, emerged from the grave in resurrection, and ascended up to heaven in the presence of selected eyewitnesses.  Consider again the following from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Corinthians 12:  3, King James Version (KJV):  3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed:  and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

(2.)  Isaiah 63:  16, KJV:  16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not:  thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  12-18, KJV:  12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

(4.)  John 15:  22-27, KJV:  22 If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.  23 He that hateth me hateth my Father also.  24 If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.  25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.  26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:  27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  John 20:  24-29, KJV:  24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.  25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.  26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them:  then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.  27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side:  and be not faithless, but believing.  28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.  29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed:  blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/23/2017) Both Reincarnation and Resurrection?

Today, topics are reincarnation, resurrection, and spiritual confusion.  The solution of Jesus Christ dying on the cross and his resurrection from death addresses a broad range of existential problems that include the recovery of divine Creation from the operations of sin, the justification and glorification of created beings and living creatures as well as the altering of their spirit makeup and substance rather than merely their image and form.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “I identify as a Helicopter” (Level 6 with 15,836 points, a member since December 02, 2014) posted the following:


Why doesn't Christianity believe in reincarnation, but preaches that Jesus will have a "second coming?" Isn't that reincarnation?

Nothing about Christianity makes any sense...

Update:  Or is it a special case that can only be made possible by God Magic?

Update 2:  @Blue Face Anon: If you read and actually understand what the Bible is saying, Jesus is a SPIRIT, not a specific living human, so, given the fact that Jesus (spirit) was first placed into a body, when he died, he (his spirit) went back up to heaven (magical spirit world), and his "Second Coming" would be a REINCARNATION, since his "First Coming" was an INCARNATION. Do you understand now, or is this not sinking in, because you already have preconceived notions about this event?

Update 3:  If you worship the human body that Jesus was placed into, then, that would be IDOLATRY, which is contradictory to your own religion.
So, now that we have established the hypocrisy of Christian teachings, we can see that what you all believe is not correct.

Update 4:  @Blue Face Anon: So, you believe that Jesus is a human, rather than a spirit, and he initially existed in human form? Where in the Bible does it say that?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.  (Romans 5:  17-21, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh? (04/20/2017); Resurrected With The Lord (04/16/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); Divine Appearances Using Form? (12/20/2016); Different Form, Same Relationship? (11/20/2016); The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); Does Believing Make It Happen? (09/18/2012); Fasting “After the Spirit” (09/19/2012)


“I identify as a Helicopter”, you are not a fool, and you are capable of understanding both reincarnation and resurrection.  Operations impossible for humans to perform have been carried out by the Spirit of GOD.  Every sound belief system acknowledges only a specific set of interrelated principles and tenets, and totally rejects other ideas as “contradictory” and “incompatible”.  Mature Christian believers regard the meanings and values shared through the doctrines of resurrection and the ministry of Jesus Christ as very different from those among believers in reincarnation.  The focus for Christians is the character, nature, operation, purposes, and substance of divinity revealed through sacred events, objects put forth by GOD, and the active presence of Deity.  Christians seek a personal relationship with divinity as sons and daughters of GOD.  Thus, teachings are included on adoption, aging, birth, Creation, death, Incarnation, maturation, continuing relationships, resurrection for Judgment as well as the transformation of mankind to exist as an immortal, incorruptible companion of GOD.  By contrast the focus for reincarnation can be understood as the recurring appearance and duration of living creatures described as a cycle and mechanical process.  As an abstract and impersonal routine, reincarnation is not ascribed to a divine person who exercises authority, intention, and will.  Even so, systems teaching reincarnation usually include hierarchy and movement through multiple levels that are “better” or “higher” in quality of being.  Where one attains the highest level, they repeat the cycles of death and life no more.  To the extent, the Creator is denied and rejected, reincarnation will eventually appear to Christians as blasphemy and disbelief; yet, many are drawn to and fascinated by reincarnation as an excellent set of intellectual ideas.  Consider again the following that uses the language of the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 6:  3-9, King James Version (KJV):  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:  6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.  8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:  9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 15:  51-57, KJV:  51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/20/2017) Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh?

Today, focus is on blood, life, resurrection, and imparted divine spirit.  Divinity appeared on the earth using human form as Jesus Christ, however, divinity operated in conformity to natural law and processes to demonstrate human potential for continuous communication, exchange and interaction with Deity.  Included were birth, death, aging, spiritual growth, ministry, enduring oppression, and the realization of divine purposes.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Max” (Level 3 with 2,102 points, a member since July 05, 2014) posted the following:  


Christians: Could the redemption through flesh in Leviticus 17:11 be referring to God s spiritual flesh simply dwelling inside of us?

As Christ has even said, "I am the life and the light. No man cometh through The Father but by me." Since God is indeed life through flesh, couldn t the atonement of our souls through flesh simply mean afflicting our souls with God s presence inside of us?

To put it simpler, why does this spiritual flesh have to become human? Thank you all in advance.

[Leviticus 17:  11, King James Version (KJV):  11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood:  and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls:  for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.]



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  (Romans 5:  17-19, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017); The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); Material Things in Heaven? (11/10/2016); His Children Are Sanctified (10/12/2016); The Remission of Sin? (06/02/2016); Sin Also Made Incarnate? (04/25/2016); Divine Meanings and Values? (03/31/2016)



“Max”, elders and mature Christian believers avoid spiritual confusion when studying the Scriptures by exercising attention to detail, and vigilance.  Despite our efforts to be plain and simple, readers must hold to disciplines for language that is “lively” by virtue of multiple subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value).  There must be discernment (ability to use ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD to recognize and respond to the deposits of spirit substance from divinity residing within events, oneself, other persons, the holy writings, etc.).  Distinctions often blurred and ignored must be applied.  Thus, “blood”, that carries life to all the organs and tissues of the body, itself is not “life”; and “life” as “active presence” is not “existence”—many things exist that are neither active nor alive, including cadavers and dead bodies.  Blood is found within flesh—as are appetite, emotion, mind, recall, and sensation—and is not, itself, spirit substance.  The spirit that gives “life” in birth is not the same as the “imparted, indwelling Spirit” that puts forth the new creation.

As demonstrated through the Incarnation, the substance imparted from GOD (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, word) to establish life within the forms and vessels fashioned by the Creator include faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, person, eternal purpose, will, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Given that Jesus was sanctified (i.e., spiritually nurtured and set apart for exclusive service to GOD) and ordained, as every son of Adam may be, the Savior is to be understood as an ordinary man in flesh through whom the operations of divinity are being made more visible.  Thus, we see the Son of David growing, learning, maturing, and responding to diversity within a carnal, material and social environment, yet, immutable and unchanging regarding fundamental principles, divine purposes, and sacred truths.

Many continue to describe the resurrected body of Christ that ascended from the earth and now exists in the heaven as if it were still carnal and material.  However, the “good news” of salvation speaks to an as yet incomplete transformation of mankind to exist as an immortal and incorruptible companion of divinity.  There are unseen things and substances in the heavens; and we are to accept their actual existence through faith, and without question.  Examples are the Temple in heaven, the white horses that will carry the heavenly army into battle, and the crowns cast forth by the 24 elders.  Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

(1.)  John 3:  4-7, King James Version (KJV):  4 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?  5 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.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(2.)  John 6:  62-63, KJV:  62 What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?  63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:  the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

(3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 15:  20-22, KJV:  20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.  21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.  22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Thessalonians 4:  14-18, KJV:  14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:  and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC