(08/31/2017) Existence, Mortality and GOD?

Today, reply is made on death, the substance of divinity, and Hurricane Harvey.  All divine order proceeds from the existence of divinity.  Continuous and uninterrupted divine order are in place as the context and setting for various objects and events.  Multiple regularities have been described and are identified by mankind as occurring on the basis of natural laws and processes within frameworks of time and space.  Sacred events (we say, miracles), intercession, and the use of divine power are not intended to put an end to, or replace natural law.  Divinity operates with restraint and in accordance with sacred law and standards for spirit substance, rather than the finite standards that emerge from natural law and processes, or those generated by human care and emotion.  Thus, the compassion of GOD in response to human needs and suffering is not the same as the mercy of GOD that can appear during judgment.  Having different meanings, power, and purpose, divine compassion is akin to human emotions and feelings, and like our own, ought not arbitrarily and willfully alter or interrupt human events.  By contrast, mercy pertains to divine events, and is applied when determining outcomes of divine assessments.  Using language from the holy writings, then, the saving of the physical body is called “deliverance” while the saving of the spirit is called “salvation”.  The two may occur at the same time, yet, will continue to be on very different levels.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Pixel” (Level 4 with 3,004 points, a member since June 29, 2016) posted the following:


If Jesus is so great why did he not save the people who died in Houston?

These people died the most horrific death while watching their grandchildren share their tragic and unfortunate fate.

Meanwhile Jesus Christ who loves us all, who watches over us in our time of need, who has all power in the universe, did nothing to prevent the tragedy.

Not a single thing.

Now I'm not trying to insult anyone here, I want to be blunt and point out that this is legitimate observation if you're a believer or not.

Update:  https://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/hurric...


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.  And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?  I tell you, Nay:  but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.  Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?  I tell you, Nay:  but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.  (Luke 13:  1-5, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Endurance, Humility and Obedience? (06/04/2017); Shot While in Church? (06/18/2015); Asleep Through the Holocaust? (07/14/2014); Faith for Facing Tragedy? (06/04/2013); Words Spoken By GOD? (06/05/2013); Unless You Repent (03/05/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013)


“Pixel”, many who ask your question, or others like it are angry, confused, and hurt such that, when they are given the same answer that provides comfort and encouragement from GOD to those who are believers, they are unable to connect and understand.  This is usually because their purpose in posing the question has been to accuse GOD of cruelty, belittle, disrespect, and insult believers, or demonstrate what they suppose is their own knowledge and superiority.  All that must be put aside, and a thoughtful, adult consideration of mature Christian belief must be taken up.  Consider the following points:

(1.)  Where the “greatness of GOD” could be measured alone in how many babies born, how many college graduates, per capita income (that some call prosperity), or how many successful surgeries there have been, the spirit substance, power, and sovereignty that resides within GOD would not be clearly recognized and properly acknowledged.

(2.)  The relationship of the created to the Creator is that of dependency.  Through the revelations to make divinity knowable, known, and “visible” to created beings and living creatures, mankind have been freely given instruction regarding the origins of mortality as a continuing condition for human existence and life.  Sin that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and all divine order must come into view.  All things that exist do not have life; and many of the processes for life are mechanical and repetitive (e.g., aging, birth, learning, recovery from sickness).  Even so, acknowledging the natural laws and standards that allow life to continue, the living do have some measure of control to determine the extent of their own mortal lives.

(3.)  The true people of GOD, do not complain that they have been challenged by a great storm, that they have lost belongings and property, or that they have lost loved ones now that they knew could otherwise be taken away at any moment.  Believers trust the love of GOD is no less in times of hurt, loss and trouble.  GOD continues as the Supreme Being, and is no less worthy of gratitude, obedience, and respect.  Their understanding includes:  Romans 8:  5-9, King James Version (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 examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Christians accept that through the provisions of GOD they can rebuild, recover, and go on to higher heights.  They realize, it is the loss of eternal life, and the final separation from GOD by the second death that is nonnegotiable and irreversible.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/30/2017) "Occupy Till I Come"

Today, thoughts are shared on current events and the end of the world.  Applying the time prophecies of 70 years written in Jeremiah 25:  11-33, King James Version, (KJV) to modern Israel (1948) and acknowledging a modern Babylon, some have calculated 2018 for the end of the world.  Yet, the word of the Lord from Jeremiah was to abide in Babylon and not to seek shelter from Egypt (chapter 42).  Ministries that ignore the warnings against attempting to calculate the coming of Christ on the basis of prophesy risk becoming discredited, and their followers dealt faith-shattering blows and disappointment.  As the caretakers and keepers of the earth, the people of GOD through Jesus Christ have been commanded to “occupy” until the Savior returns.  For Christians, then, “to occupy” means maintain, buildup, and nourish the aspects of Spirit that appear among you; set apart for GOD and sanctify the earth; and be fruitful as you tarry and wait for the return of our Risen Lord.  Christians are to be the active presence, a living vessel containing divine law, and an embodiment of the GODhead in the same way the Son of the Highest has been an Incarnation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “chad” (Level 1 with 31 points, a member since July 25, 2017) posted the following:


Why do people even care about what trump does in office when the world ends in 2018?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  Sanctify them through thy truth:  thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  (John 17:  14-23, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Politics and The Kingdom? (05/31/2017); Sanctify Yourselves for Tomorrow (05/07/2017); A Species of Animal? (01/31/2017); GOD’s Peculiar People (12/11/2016); His Children Are Sanctified (10/12/2016); Of Such Is The Kingdom (09/01/2015); Jesus As America’s President? (05/20/2015); Faith not Politics? (12/02/2014); Ye Are Not In The Flesh (12/03/2014)


“chad”, here are some thoughts I can share:  People care because accountability is always an aspect of genuine love, maturity, and understanding.  Many Christian believers are trusting that our instructions from Jesus for this hour center on preparing ourselves for his Advent (we say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming), rather than daily fixing on and responding to activism and protest, death and despair, current events, political conflicts, secular knowledge, or emotional, psychological, sexual and social issues.  Such features from the flesh and the world will continue to be aspects of finite human experience that serve as hurdles and obstacles to sacred practice and spiritual growth.  They also are to serve as the necessary challenges, prods, and “growing pains” whereby those who are “born again” are energized to “grow up again.”

Christians are to acknowledge and proclaim the revealed purposes of GOD are the putting forth of existence, life, and the fullness of divine substance.  Believers are anointed, endowed, and supplied with every resource for maintaining divine order that should appear within earth, heaven, the universe, and all Creation.  Developing believers must discover revealed knowledge from GOD, and routinely display deposits of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Included here are the inseparable features of faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

For those in covenant and personal relationships with GOD, there will be no “end of the world,” or total destruction of mankind.  Yet, there will be judgment; there will be resurrection of the dead; there will be transformation whereby mankind will be made an immortal companion to divinity; and there will be the elimination of sin and the final destruction of the wicked (we say, the second death).  In the same way only GOD is now immortal and incorruptible, only GOD knows the exact day and hour appointed for the end of things as we now know them.  Because they have not been given an authoritative word from GOD on the schedule of final events, believers are to discipline their bodies and minds to live responsibly as part of the world, yet, as if the Lord will come before you can compete the reading of this response.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 8:  5-9, King James Version (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.

(2.)  Revelation 2:  10-11, KJV:  10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer:  behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:  be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.  11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.) 2nd Peter 3:  8-14, KJV:  8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.  11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,  12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?  13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.  14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/29/2017) Bible Borders and Walls

Today, reply is shared on the use of border walls in the Scriptures.  The acknowledgment of fixed boundaries and the identification of locations on the earth as specially blessed of GOD are in keeping with the principles and demands for divine order.  For many centuries, those who were the keepers of divine mystery in the earth wandered as nomads.  While they left behind no permanent housing they often left a “footprint” of sacred altars and life-saving wells of water.  Multiple structures were already in place for those who entered the Promised Land with Joshua.  Perhaps the most important function of walls for Israel was that they served as landmarks, and made visible their inheritance as a people chosen of GOD.  In addition to being used as barriers to control the movement and traffic of foreigners and strangers, walls were defensive weapons used against siege warfare, and an enhancement to beautify cities and provide the appearance of strength and prosperity.  The description of the New Jerusalem that appears in Scripture as the Bride of Christ and the Holy City provides details of its twelve foundations, its single wall, and its twelve gates.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “LovelyGiraffe” (Level 7 with 36,599 points, a member since April 24, 2008) posted the following:


Biblically Speaking, does God ordain Border Walls ?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.  And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,  Having the glory of God:  and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;  And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:  On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.  And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.  And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.  And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth:  and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.  (Revelation 21:  9-16, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Faithless Israel, Unfaithful Judah? (08/18/2017); The Earth Made New (11/13/2013); Hierarchy (11/14/2013); Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013); The Root of Jesse (01/03/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013)


“LovelyGiraffe”, the borders, countries, and land promised to Abraham that would become the inheritance of those in covenant with Moses are described in the Book of Joshua, chapters 13-20.  The holy writings describe many massive building projects that include the Tower of Babel, the monuments of Egypt, the ark of Noah, and the Temple at Jerusalem.  Speaking to the building of border walls in particular, consider the following points that use the language of the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Chronicles 14:  2-8, King James Version (KJV):  2 And Asa did that which was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God:  3 For he took away the altars of the strange gods, and the high places, and brake down the images, and cut down the groves:  4 And commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to do the law and the commandment.  5 Also he took away out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the images:  and the kingdom was quiet before him.  6 And he built fenced cities in Judah:  for the land had rest, and he had no war in those years; because the LORD had given him rest.  7 Therefore he said unto Judah, Let us build these cities, and make about them walls, and towers, gates, and bars, while the land is yet before us; because we have sought the LORD our God, we have sought him, and he hath given us rest on every side. So they built and prospered.  8 And Asa had an army of men that bare targets and spears, out of Judah three hundred thousand; and out of Benjamin, that bare shields and drew bows, two hundred and fourscore thousand:  all these were mighty men of valour.

(2.)  Nehemiah 1:  1-4, KJV:  1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace,  2 That Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem.  3 And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach:  the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire.  4 And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,

(3.)  Nehemiah 4:  16-18, KJV:  16 And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers were behind all the house of Judah.  17 They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon.  18 For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Proverbs 25:  28, KJV:  28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(08/28/2017) The Servitude of Angels

Today, points are shared on the fall of Lucifer and his followers.  Access, approval, and intimacy within relationships contribute to the formulation of continuing desires, expectations, and demands.  Exaggerated pride is often accompanied by covetousness, inordinate desire, and a false sense of authority and ownership.  The word from GOD establishes the existence and movements of divinity (we say, active presence), and is to effect and fulfill divine operations that even may be unseen and unknowable to the living.  Those who alter, contradict, oppose, and refuse to perform according to the divine word will be in violation of sacred law (i.e., the express will of GOD).  Neither the kingdom of heaven nor the kingdom of GOD upon the earth are a democracy having no divine ruler to whom self-will within created beings and living creatures must be accountable.  To exist eternally within either of those two spheres of life demands there be accord with GOD.  Those among the heavenly host were the first to become slaves to sin that was undetectable, yet, wickedly called forth conspiracy, deception, secrecy, and silence.  The tiny spark conveyed to mankind by the serpent upon the earth has threatened to become a conflagration of unholy fire that will eventually consume all Creation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Mortal Seeker” (Level 4 with 2,621 points, a member since April 14, 2012) posted the following:


Might Satan have rebelled because he was trying to free the angels from God's slavery?

But he lost, and winners write the history books, so his fight for freedom got described as a prideful act of disobedience. Just like any failed slave revolt in pre-civil war America might have been.

Update:  Think about how Pharaoh would have written the account of the Exodus if the Egyptians had triumphed.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?  And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.  And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.  But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever:  a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.  Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.  And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:  They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;  And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed:  but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.  But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?  Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?  (Hebrews 1:  5-14, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Names of the Adversary? (03/19/2017); Destruction of the Adversary? (01/06/2017); About Lucifer in Scripture (02/18/2016); The Need For Divine Rule? (08/27/2015); Satan Should Stand Trial? (02/16/2014); The Right Place to Get Knowledge? (02/17/2014); The Power of Death? (10/01/2013); Divine Love Revealed? (10/02/2013)


“Mortal Seeker”, the actions of Satan reported in the Bible must be assessed or judged in the light of full truth.  The holy writings are intended to provide a disclosure of divine acts and events that should make divinity knowable, known, memorable, and “visible” to all created beings and living creatures.  While there continue to be hidden and unreported mysteries, the things that are revealed operate as do divine law and final judgment by presenting the character, nature, and substance of GOD.  This is more completely and perfectly achieved by a focus on GOD appearing in the earth as Jesus Christ, and the multiple works by the GODhead to recover mankind from the operations of sin on the earth.

The full record of Scripture speaks to the founding of heaven and earth.  Men are to understand the existence of angels, mankind, and all Creation is the expression of divine processes, eternal purposes, and sovereign will.  Angels were fashioned to be servants who are neither mortal nor immortal, yet, are privileged to appear in the divine presence, and to endure on the basis of faith, grace, and divine prerogative.  Thus, their duration, quality, usefulness, and value are generated and maintained almost entirely through their voluntary service to divinity.  By contrast, men were fashioned to exist indefinitely as companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity.  When their character, consciousness, and self-will were dominated by sin through the influence of an angel using a disguise as a serpent, mankind became mortal, subject to death, and appointed to final judgment. 

Sin opposes the continuing existence of divine law, GOD as the Law Giver, and all divine order throughout the universe.   Sin is not created by GOD, is no spirit or material creation, yet, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living.  The operations of sin foster nonexistence and spiritual confusion through subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in focus, meaning, and value).  Along with error, misdirection, and presumption great damage is brought against every sacred work.  Thus, because of his self-promotion as a god over the people of Egypt—who all sold their own belongings and themselves as slaves to Pharaoh during a period of famine on the earth—the monarch who ruled a one-world empire upon the earth is described as a figure, or type representing Lucifer/Satan/the serpent, who had identified himself as a god while on the earth by saying to the woman:  Ye shall not surely die.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, the process of full divine revelation demands that the justice of GOD appear framed by such elements as balance, completeness, forbearance, forgiveness, impartiality, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Where sin results in the corruption of Lucifer’s beauty so that he appears as a dragon over the course of time, the integrity of GOD in exchange and relationship shines more and more brightly as genuine, immutable glory.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/27/2017) Multiply, Replenish and Rule

Today, some thoughts are shared on the original divine commission to mankind, human reproduction, and evolution.  The first pair were to populate, maintain, and overspread the earth.  Through them the earth would continue to be held accountable to GOD.  Adam was formed from substance out of the earth, and was given life by substance out of GOD.  The new creation through  Jesus Christ, the church, has been formed from his blood, body and spirit, and through the Holy Spirit establishes mankind on the earth as a habitation of GOD.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Omar” (Level 1 with 199 points, a member since February 01, 2014) posted the following:


God said multiply... how reproduction can fit in evolution theory? without reproduction there will be no evolution, no natural selection.?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;  That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:  But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.  For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;  And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.  For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.  Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;  In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:  In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.  (Ephesians 2:  10-22, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Adam, Family and Law (07/05/2017); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); The Glory of GOD? (06/23/2015); The Male, the Female, and GOD (02/09/2014); Destroying the Resurrected Body? (02/10/2014); Saved in Childbearing? (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012)


“Omar”, where the earth must be acknowledged as the creation of GOD, the world as a system of interrelated meanings, practices, and values that allow communication, exchange and survival of the living has been the creation of mankind.  Many mature Christian believers avoid and forgo discussions of evolution and the teachings of natural science because they usually deny the most fundamental fact required for sacred knowledge—GOD is a spirit who must be known through revelation, discovery, and ongoing personal relationship.  Where Adam was told to “multiply” he was given more than simply a command and a direction to engage in a mechanical process of reproduction.  He could not of himself repeat what GOD had done—neither his falling asleep, nor the removing of a rib—to grant him a life companion.  Substance from the makeup of divinity (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, utterance, word) is imparted, and with it mankind is established having authority, direction, and purpose.  In the flawed human terms of science that are finite, carnal, material, and social, the first pair are merely told to populate the earth with their own kind competing and operating as one of the animals.  From the aspect of a Christian, the pair are an appearance (i.e., incarnation) of divinity, and are to manifest the active presence within heaven throughout the earth.  This is as much to be performed as a matter of caretaking and service as it is a matter of dominion and rule.  The plan of GOD for the earth was in no way intended to alter or interfere with the plan of GOD for heaven.  Despite the language of “natural selection” and “survival” that has come from the world, mankind continues as the emblem of divine ownership of the earth.  Consider again the following that use language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 2:  18-23, King James Version (KJV):  18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.  19 And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them:  and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.  20 And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.  21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept:  and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;  22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.  23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh:  she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

(2.)  Acts 17:  24-31, KJV:  24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;  25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;  26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:  28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.  29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.  30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:  31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Psalms 115:  14-18, KJV:  14 The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.  15 Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.  16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s:  but the earth hath he given to the children of men.  17 The dead praise not the LORD, neither any that go down into silence.  18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/25/2017) Opinions and Thought Crimes?

Today, the separation of the Creator from the Jews is discussed as more than the outcome of differences among arbitrary beliefs, viewpoints, and personal opinions.  The Bible record of covenant relationship with mankind details thousands of events within thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.  Divinity unequivocally has shown us the oneness without sameness that would allow mankind to exist eternally as a companion to our Maker is cut off and disallowed by corruption, disobedience, transgression, and sin.  Created beings and living creatures can not attain to eternal life by relying on their own awareness, skills, and willpower.  The operations of sin through consciousness and self-will within the living may appear to be natural, normal and ordinary, yet, sin is always contrary to the character and makeup of GOD.  The alternatives and possibilities from GOD in mankind quickly become degraded, infirm, and incapable of continuing within the sacred presence.  Therefore the flesh has been condemned of GOD, and not the law of GOD.  Salvation through Jesus Christ, the Second Adam, provides for the eternal existence of the law by preserving those who obey, respect and manifest the righteousness of the law.  The faithful are his portion along with a remnant from all that have lived.  The saved will be acknowledged as joint-heirs with the Lord and those who continue to bear the image of GOD.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Christians, are all the religious Jews including Rabbi's who perished in the holocaust in hell because they rejected Jesus?

It's really hard for me to believe that, as a Christian.

I mean.... punished for thought crime.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.  And if by grace, then is it no more of works:  otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace:  otherwise work is no more work.  What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.  (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.  (Romans 11:  5-8, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Savior of “All”? (08/22/2017); The Place of Torment? (08/21/2017); The Operations of Sin (07/25/2017); The Cross and Judaism? (05/27/2016); The Remnant? (10/12/2015); Judged For Acts and Thoughts? (08/14/2014); Humility Needed for Salvation? (08/15/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014) 


“Anonymous”, being cast into hell has to do with not containing aspects of the divine character and makeup imparted to created beings and living creatures.  Thus, salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ goes beyond the finite human elements of carnal reason, imagination, intellect, logic, secular knowledge and personal opinions.  The issues of eternal existence, life, death and accountability are upon a different plane from the routines that make up our material and social realms, yet, are accessible to all.

Given that what we discover, and the impressions from our explorations prompted through self-will often are more lasting, the divine process for developing Christian believers encourages discovery of revealed truth through fellowship with committed believers, continual acknowledgment of sacred discipline and practices (e.g., confession, forgiveness, prayer, repentance) along with regular study of the holy writings.  A sinner must experience memorable growth and learning as part of the new creation from GOD through Jesus Christ.  They must submit to permanent change ordered and paced in accordance with exchanges and interactions that occur among the aspects of their own spirit content imparted from the makeup of Deity.  Included are faith, holiness, hope, joy, incorruption, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Neither the law given to the Jews as a chosen people of GOD, death as a penalty of the law, nor obedience to the demands of their covenant law were effective in completely removing sin from the earth.  Corruption and defilement resulting from the operations of sin can not be eliminated simply on the basis of divine gifts and endowments to the living, and are requiring divine acts of intervention, judgment, mercy, and final resolution by the fullness of GOD in accord.  Animals, angels, and men are substantive, and not merely images and thoughts within the mind of a Supreme Being.  Thus, the provisions through Jesus Christ, who is the head of the church have been flesh and blood, Spirit, and Word.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Romans 3:  23, King James Version (KJV):  23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

(2.)  Romans 5:  12-15, KJV:  12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:  13 (For until the law sin was in the world:  but sin is not imputed when there is no law.  14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.  15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  3-9, KJV:  3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  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

(08/24/2017) Confession Is Not Testimony

Today, points are shared to clarify differences among public confession, personal testimony, and proper devotion to GOD.  In the same way confession to GOD during prayer that should be private and personal does not replace repentance, public confession of wrongdoing does not supply the same benefit as testimony to reveal the work of Christ in ones life.  Reverend William Aitcheson, a Catholic priest in nearby Arlington, Virginia, who has been serving in the church for many decades, published an article in one of the diocese newspapers apologizing that he once was a leader within the Ku Klux Klan (KKK).  Many all across America have been enraged and incensed by recent events that have called forth expressions of bigotry, hate, prejudice, racism, and violence, and that resulted in a young woman’s death (Heather Heyer, Charlottesville, VA).  Others have been cast down, made to feel shame, and are suffering great humiliation.  Prominent among the institutions and organizations involved have been the KKK, Neo-Nazis, and White Supremacist groups that exist in the United States under lawful provisions for “free speech.”  Those who repent, and turn to Christ to become his new creation may only demand and expect to see change in their own lives, and that mostly within their own conduct, commitment, consciousness, and sense of purpose.  Many others involved will not have developed and grown as much.  Thus, making public proclamation of sins from the past is not of itself a genuine act of repentance; and in the case of the priest, his confession has called forth accusations, placing blame, condemnation, and demands for payment, rather than the manifestation of the Holy Spirit within the church, and the heartfelt displays of humility, mature understanding, and godly love he hoped would appear his fellow believers. 


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?  For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground:  he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.  He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief:  and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.  Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows:  yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.  But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities:  the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.  All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.  He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth:  he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.  He was taken from prison and from judgment:  and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living:  for the transgression of my people was he stricken.  And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.  Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief:  when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.  He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied:  by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.  Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death:  and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.  (Isaiah 53:  1-12, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What Can Canvas Show? (07/10/2017); Prophecy Over Personal Testimony? (06/29/2017); Recounting Past Sins? (03/04/2015); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Escape from Racism (10/24/2012); Christians Who Ignore GOD’s Laws (10/25/2012)


Confession pertains to judgment and salvation.  In accordance with the Scriptures, three forms of confession may appear:  (1) a confession of need), (2) a confession of transgression/wrongdoing, and (3) a confession of conviction and faith.  Given the operations of pride are little different than sin, public confession may corrupt a congregation of believers, for such confession may mask bragging, deceit, divisiveness, self-promotion, showing off, and vainglory.  While testimony may be shared to build up and edify the body of believers, confession is an aspect of judgment, and is more correctly directed only to GOD who is judge.  Confession is not to be made to those who are foolish and unwise regarding the things of judgment.  To truly benefit all concerned, it is often more necessary that the discipline, maturity and strength of silence be practiced in place of confession; and it is in silence that ones trust in GOD shines forth most brightly.  In the same way peaceful protest and counter demonstrations are resulting in destructive confrontations, the sharing of confessions focused on sins of the past are now promoting a great upheaval among Americans.  It is foolish and unwise to seek “justice” against those from earlier periods of history on the basis of the social standards and cultural values of the present day.  There are those demanding rejection of the early pioneers and those who contributed to the development of our Nation and its greatness.  Included have been George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and even, Christopher Columbus.  Just as the operations of mercy appear primarily during judgment, forbearance, forgiveness and reconciliation are to appear during confession.  Consider the following:

(1.)  Confession as a sacred practice and in the course of formal ministry is not on the same level as gossip.  This is specially so during practices and sacraments focused on healing as in James 5:  13-16, King James Version (KJV):  13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.  14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:  15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.  16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

(2.)  Confession may be demanded within the law, yet, confession will not answer all the requirements and sanctions of the law that also address correction, full disclosure, financial liability, and punishment.  Loss and damage from transgression becomes more completely crystallized in the light of confession.  Thus, the enormity of the sin of Achan at Jericho in taking the “accursed thing” (a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight) is staggering, for it resulted in despair throughout the camp, Israel’s first defeat, and the death of 39 men at Ai (see Joshua 7, KJV).  Judgment is not complete until the findings and sentence of the law have been carried out.

(3.)  The principles and rules of confidentiality that bind a confessor and prohibit his discussing and revealing what has been exchanged in ministry also binds the person who makes a confession.  Disbelievers, ones parents, ones spouse, ones children have no authority to rank and rate the quality, sincerity, and value of your prayers, or whatever else may occur within other aspects of our own intimate relationship with GOD.

(4.)  Correctly understood, the admission of wrongdoing is also the admission of guilt, yet, is distinct from the acceptance and acknowledgment of accountability.  Many are willing to admit wrongdoing and express sorrow for their errors, however, they also must be willing to accept accountability for “cleaning up the mess,” healing, making compensation, correction, and restitution. 

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  It is an error to think that public confession featuring the details of wrongdoing is of any benefit to the body.  “All have sinned and come short” is sufficient to identify the need for grace without there being an exhaustive detailing of mistakes and transgressions.  The duty for clergy is not to offer others or themselves upon an altar of condemnation, spiritual confusion, and personal sacrifice; rather, it is to offer Jesus Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/23/2017) Christ Descending and Ascending?

Edwin Longsden Long, ANNO DOMINI (1883)

Today, focus is on Jesus Christ appearing as an evangelist, a fugitive, and a nomad on the earth.  While still an infant, Jesus fled to Egypt.  Having no place to assemble the large crowds that would come to him, and repeating the pattern for establishing covenant with GOD used earlier with those who left Egypt following Moses, Jesus assembled and “wandered” with those who would come to him in large open areas.  Thus, he preached and shared his discourses on beaches, hillsides, in the plains, and on the shore.  His believers and followers are to like wells that supply his living water.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Canada)” using the ID “Yummy Elephant Candy” (Level 6 with 19,302 points, a member since November 10, 2010) posted the following:


Did jesus own a home or was he a professional vagrant?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;  One Lord, one faith, one baptism,  One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.  But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.  Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.  Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?  He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)  And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;  For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:  Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:  That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;  But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:  (Ephesians 4:  4-15, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Generation That Wandered (06/14/2017); Why Was Lot Spared? (12/20/2015); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014); Divine Law for Mankind? (07/29/2014); A Common Heritage? (07/13/2014); Asleep Through the Holocaust? (07/14/2014); Circumcision and Promise? (07/16/2013); The Bible and Stupid People (07/17/2013); What is Worship? (10/18/2010)


“Yummy Elephant Candy”, the full demands of sacred ministry often include the sacrifice of traditional family and home life, property, and social standing.  Among mature Christian believers multiple streams of truth are shared to explain events from the ministry of Jesus Christ on the earth.  Included are his demonstration of divine dominion and ownership of the earth; his role as heir to Adam, the Patriarchs, and all anointed upon the earth; his intimate ongoing relationship as Son of the Highest; his service as a circuit judge, evangelist, and itinerant preacher; the requirement that a pilgrimage and on-site assessment be made upon the earth before ascendance to the throne of judgment; a duty to complete, correct, and fulfill the promises, prophecies, and sufferings for earlier lives as well as the tasks of continually manifesting divine presence among the living.  For divinity, movement is directed and purposeful; there is no chaos, flux, and randomness.  In the same way we see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob building altars and digging wells wherever they sojourned, we should be able to discern an outpouring of benefits from Christ who is High Priest, Redeemer and Savior.  Just as the angels serve on Jacob’s Ladder, the Savior descends appearing as fugitive, outcast, and humble servant even as he ascends to higher and higher thrones of judgment, mercy, and glory.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Hebrews 1:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:  4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

(2.)  Luke 4:  38-44, KJV:  38 And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon’s house. And Simon’s wife’s mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her.  39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her:  and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.  40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.  41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak:  for they knew that he was Christ.  42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place:  and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them.  43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also:  for therefore am I sent.  44 And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Luke 9:  57-62, KJV:  57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.  58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.  59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.  60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead:  but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.  61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.  62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/22/2017) The Savior of "All"?

Today, focus is on the proper reading of verses in the Bible that can be read as stating all mankind will be saved.  All have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD.  Following the sin of Adam, GOD began to put forth a broad range of divine provisions to extend eternal life and salvation to mankind.  While many of these involved actors, agencies, and endowments that would not be bestowed upon, or have direct contact with every living individual, they nonetheless were to supply a benefit to everyone who would live on the earth.  Included were adoption of the Spirit, anointing, atonement, baptism, election, Incarnation, prophecy, resurrection from the dead, spokespersons (e.g., priests, judges, kings, apostles), and the body of Christ, the church.  At their creation, the operations of GOD established the integrity of created beings and living creatures by not dominating their awareness and self-will.  Among men, the living are allowed to gradually change, grow, and learn by discovery, risk-taking, and trial-and-error.  Therefore, the full process of salvation is collaborative, corrective, interactive, intimate, progressive, and voluntary.  Through Jesus Christ, forgiveness, reconciliation, mercy, rebirth, and repentance are now available to all.  Even so, because of defiance, ignorance and exaggerated pride, many stubbornly continue iniquity, and remain on the path to perdition and the second death.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using ID “Jon Pike” (Level 6 with 13,049 points, a member since May 31, 2016) posted the following:


Does 1 Timothy 4:10 mean all people are saved whether they believe in the Lord or not?

"We struggle and work hard, because we have placed our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all and especially of those who believe." (1 Tim. 4:10)

My question is the meaning of "...Savior of all and especially of those who believe."


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  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.  For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  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.  (Romans 8:  1-9, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Convinced/Convicted? (05/16/2017); The Title of “Savior” (01/27/2017); His Children Are Sanctified (10/12/2016); The Bible and Salvation (09/14/2016); An Habitation of GOD (07/24/2016); Be Ye Therefore Perfect (07/22/2016); Adulterating Scripture? (10/06/2015); All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014); Not Told in Advance? (10/11/2014)


“Jon Pike”, the language of the Bible is best understood when we acknowledge the context and setting for what is written.  What confuses and surprises those who lack sacred knowledge imparted by the Scriptures is that the setting for the terms used within a text is not only the specific verse (line or phrase) and passage (paragraph) where it is found.  The setting also is within the entire group of verses and passages that appear throughout the entire collection of sacred books (i.e., Genesis to Revelation).  The difficulty of the pattern appearing in 1st Timothy for the use of the adjective “all” also appears with the phrases “all men” and “all Israel.”  In some instances “all” will mean everybody or everyone.  In other instances, “all” is to be applied only on condition (i.e., in accordance with previously mentioned events, operations, etc.).  Thus, a remnant and representative portion fulfills the prophecies for all  Israel; and “all” may mean “people from every class, and at all levels” or “all mankind.”  Mature believers trust that they have made the correct application when the balance, consistency, order, and stability in their ongoing sacred knowledge and practice are affirmed, edified, and reinforced.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  1st Timothy 2:  3-5, King James Version (KJV):  3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;  4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.  5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

(2.)  Mark 1:  35-37, KJV:  35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.  36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him.  37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee.

(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.

(4.)  Mark 13:  12-13 KJV:  12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.  13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake:  but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

(5.)  John 12:  31-32, KJV:  31 Now is the judgment of this world:  now shall the prince of this world be cast out.  32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

(6.)  Romans 5:  17-19, 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.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.)  2nd Thessalonians 3:  1-3, KJV:  3 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:  2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men:  for all men have not faith.  3 But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/21/2017) The Place of Torment?

A Depiction of the “Harrowing of Hell”

Today, a reply is shared on Christ having gone to the place of torment after dying on the cross.  Relying upon the tools important for life in the flesh, even Christian believers may not completely and correctly apprehend the state of the dead, and the many divine operations that occur focused on and that thereby involve the dead.  The intellect and the mind must employ the frameworks of time and space.  However, this may introduce flawed concepts and notions of “a material place” that has boundaries, partitions, and walls to contain disembodied spirit matter once deposited within the created from the makeup of divinity to their  existence and life.  Where we argue an “abyss”, a “bottomless pit,” “limbo” or “purgatory” we often appeal to extra-biblical sources that may further introduce inconsistency and what appear as departures from the Gospel.  It is not an error to focus upon a “more sure word of prophecy,” rather than upon extrapolations from doctrine, orthodoxy, or tradition.  By focusing on the higher issues of Advent and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, many of the questions concerning punishment, salvation, hell, and the dead are superseded, and put to rest.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Why did Jesus go to Hell when he died? Did he do something bad?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.  And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,  And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled:  and after that he must be loosed a little season.  And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them:  and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.  But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.  Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection:  on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.  And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,  And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog, and Magog, to gather them together to battle:  the number of whom is as the sand of the sea.  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.  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.  (Revelation 20:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Forgiveness, Grace and Merit (06/22/2017); Hell and The Cross? (04/10/2016); Is Hitler Now in Hell? (07/02/2015); The Harrowing of Hell? (02/10/2015); How To Accept Bible Truth? (04/17/2013); About Preaching the Gospel (04/18/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013)


“Anonymous”, some of the most difficult teaching from the holy writings are those points that speak to the death of Jesus on the cross, and what the Savior then accomplished that is often called “the harrowing of hell.”  The divine process for imparting sacred knowledge, here, is one that employs contemplation, discernment, discovery, and growth.  Even so, believers are not to rely upon the finite tools of intellect, secular knowledge, logic, and carnal reason.  Here are some points to help developing Christian believers avoid spiritual confusion:

(1.)  Revelation of divinity to created beings and living creatures began with their creation, and has continued ever since.

(2.)  The Incarnation (i.e., divinity appearing on the earth using the form of a man) required that Jesus respond to multiple streams of authority and law.  As well as parental, civil, and other social standards, the Son of GOD had to respond to the natural law and operations for life upon the earth that included completing mortality; the laws for covenant relationship with divinity; the demands of promise and prophecy; and the unseen, yet, active divine laws of eternal existence.

(3.)  Hell as the grave and a repository for the dead is distinct from hell as the place of torment.  We accept that Jesus was buried, and went to the grave.  However, the Savior did not undergo the usual corruption, decay and rot of death.  Representations of this appear throughout the Bible that may only be correctly recognized and responded to by using ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD to discern the spirit that is present within such features as events, other persons, prophecy, and the holy writings.  An example is seen in the separation by a pillar of fire (judgment) during the night between Moses and the pursuing army of Pharaoh.  Another is in the parable of the rich man in torment, and the beggar in the bosom of Abraham.

(4.)  Where the place of torment is spoken of as a realm or region where the dead have awareness and self-will for eternity, believers are to be very cautious.  Again, the serpent’s lie to Eve comes into view:  Ye shall not surely die.  Acknowledgement and embrace of the serpent’s truth also requires embracing the Lake of Fire, and the annihilation of the wicked in the second death.  Because all will be judged according to the record of their own deeds out of the book of life, final judgment will have no accuser.  Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire before the resurrection and final tribunal of the wicked.

(5.)  The understanding that Jesus Christ appeared to Adam and the other Patriarch’s, those from the time of the Judges, and those from the times of Covenant through Moses is understood in two ways:  First, that Jesus appeared using angelic and other material forms to be knowable, known, and capable of affiliation and exchange with mankind (Before Abraham was I AM.).  Secondly, Jesus visited the place of rest and safekeeping for those who died in hope of eventual restoration to GOD and salvation.  Here, the separation of spirit from flesh at death is accounted as a parting of the divine and eternal substance imparted to the living from the person of GOD away from the carnal, instable elements from the earth that were established by the Holy Spirit (from dust thou art, unto dust thou shalt return).

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (6.)  Believers are to be judicious, and to carefully consider the agreement and consistency among their own beliefs.  What sinners and developing believers have been given as the Gospel of Jesus Christ is sufficiently challenging that mature believers tend to forgo questionable studies on death and hell.  As with considering exorcism and encounters with Satan such as that experienced by Jesus following his baptism, many become “puffed up,” from exaggerated pride, others become “swallowed up” by conjecture, speculation, errors regarding the occult, and superstition.  Avoiding commitment to whatever generates ungodly conflict and division, the sacred doctrines and practices acknowledged and shared within ones congregation are usually a safe path that has been approved by GOD.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC