(04/30/2018) Possibilities Through "Active Presence"

Today, mankind’s accountability for sin, sovereign grace and divine prerogative as well as definitions for “evil” and “temptation” are topics.  In the same way the word “law” appears in the holy writings with many different meanings and uses, the word “evil” has more than a single application.  Where GOD speaks of evil as a divine creation the consequences of judgment and wrath against sin should come into understanding along with the expression of divine disfavor.  Thus, divinity being the cause of disaster, calamity, catastrophe, and upheaval are spoken of more than GOD being the origin of sin, wickedness, and wrongdoing.  The living are to behold the image of GOD, and conform themselves to operations of covenant relationships, divine law, eternal purpose, and sacred will.  Regular communication, exchange, and interaction with divinity should display such features as acceptance, gratitude, humility, obedience, respect, restraint, trust, and truth.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers (UK & Ireland)” forum who uses the ID “?” (Level 2 with 780 points, a member since March 01, 2018) posted the following:


 
If god made evil (Isaiah 45:7) and made it very alluring, then how is it mankind's fault for wanting it?



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.  For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.  So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.  For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.  Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.  Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?  Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?  Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?  What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:  And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,  Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?  (Romans 9:  14-24, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  His Enemies A Footstool (04/29/2018); Why Does GOD “Repent”? (04/06/2018); Adam’s Imperfection and Sin? (08/10/2017); Divine Accountability for Sin? (10/05/2016); Evil Is Not Sin and Wickedness? (12/09/2014); Divine Goodness? (12/10/2014); Evil is not Sin? (09/22/2013); Moses Killed? (09/23/2013)



“?”, a divine declaration is made to those in covenant relationship with GOD in Isaiah 45:  7, King James Version, KJV [I form the light, and create darkness:  I make peace, and create evil:  I the LORD do all these things.] that should not be taken out of its context.  This truth is to further the sacred revelation of divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) ).  The “evil” that is spoken of is not sin, temptation, transgression of divine law, and wickedness.  Rather, divine authority is proclaimed over possibilities for catastrophe, disaster, and upheaval; the overturning of mechanical and natural laws; and the administration of what appear to created beings and living creatures as conundrums, opposing forces, and paradoxes.

GOD is to be known as the source and origin of all that exists, and that appears as the ordered Creation and universe.  GOD is the divine ruler and sovereign over all, yet, may not be apprehended by created beings and living creatures without displaying as active presence, and through directed revelation.  Mankind is accountable to divinity on the basis of having endowments of spirit content from the makeup of GOD that establish such features as consciousness, existence, life, and self-will (willpower).  Inseparable aspects of Deity are imparted to indwell all created beings and living creatures.  Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Therefore, the living are joined to divinity, and are to share the oneness and sameness that appears within the GODhead.

Divine judgment acknowledges the damage wrought to Creation by the operations of sin.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe.  Sin promotes return to the conditions of chaos, flux, streaming, and spiritual confusion that existed before the founding of heaven and earth as fixed platforms within the expanse.  “Temptation” that is challenge, hardship, and trial are used by GOD to complete and finish preparation of the living that is distinct from enticing and seducing men away from mature accountability, sacred duty, and covenant responsibility.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)   Isaiah 45:  5-10, King James Version (KJV):  5 I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me:  I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:  6 That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else.  7 I form the light, and create darkness:  I make peace, and create evil:  I the LORD do all these things.  8 Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness:  let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together; I the LORD have created it.  9 Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?  10 Woe unto him that saith unto his father, What begettest thou? or to the woman, What hast thou brought forth?

(2.)  Job 12:  12-16, KJV:  12 With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.  13 With him is wisdom and strength, he hath counsel and understanding.  14 Behold, he breaketh down, and it cannot be built again:  he shutteth up a man, and there can be no opening.  15 Behold, he withholdeth the waters, and they dry up:  also he sendeth them out, and they overturn the earth.  16 With him is strength and wisdom:  the deceived and the deceiver are his.

(3.)  James 1:  12-14, KJV:  12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation:  for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.  13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:  for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:  14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.  15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin:  and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.  16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.  17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Corinthians 1:  18-29, KJV:  18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.  19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.  20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?  21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.  22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:  23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;  24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.  25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.  26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:  27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;  28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:  29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/29/2018) His Enemies A Footstool

Today, reply is on recognizing the fulfillment of Bible prophecies.  Just as the intent and meaning of prophecy is apprehended through faith, the fulfillment of prophecy must be apprehended through faith.  The aspects of divine revelation for mankind may all be understood as the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD as active presence and as utterance (word).  Included are divine commandments and law; sacred doctrine; guidance; instruction; praise; promise; prophecy; rebirth; and wisdom.  Together, the many prophecies contained in the holy writings are particularly important, for they also describe covenants and interactions among the persons of divine fullness (we say, within the GODhead; among the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) that are depicted and mirrored within the covenants with mankind on the earth.  Following completion of various works to establish the new creation, the Son of the Highest, who now is seated on the throne of grace, will be seated on the throne of glory; and Christ will be acknowledged for his works establishing the perfection of all things by the Father, the Holy Spirit, and all created beings and living creatures.  One of the fighters within the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:



"Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet"? Prophecy?
Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool of your feet is supposed to be prophecy in Psalm. But all i see in the NT Jesus was stripped naked And tortured to death.

How is that?



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.  And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?  Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin:  but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.  (John 9:  39-41, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD’s Will Be Done (04/27/2018); The Child Of Prophecy (04/15/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); The Coming(s) of Christ (03/11/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); From Glory to Glory (11/14/2017); Waiting On The Lord? (06/16/2017); Fulfilling Divine Law? (07/14/2015)



“Anonymous”, among Christian believers, continuous study of the holy writings reveal that the operation and process of prophecy are not mind-reading, nor predicting future events so much as the declaration of divine law, sacred principles, eternal purposes, unchanging proclamations and promises from divinity, and demonstrations that serve as non-verbal displays for admonition, cautions, and reminders.  As a feature in sacred communication that expresses the authority, heart, mind, and sovereign will of GOD, prophecy is no less required among believers than covenant relationship for mankind, the imparting to sinners who are born again inseparable aspects of the divine makeup, and the continued existence of divine order throughout the universe. 

Invisible, unseen divinity who is spirit must be apprehended by created beings and living creatures in the terms of various actions by spirit substance, for GOD is a spirit who makes himself knowable, known, accessible, and approachable using things he has put forth that are carnal, material, social, and visible, yet, that respond to imperatives of divine will.  The frameworks of secular knowledge, time, and space relied on by the living on the earth do not serve as defining limits for prophecy.  Nor is it necessary to introduce prophecy with a catch phrase such as, “I promise,” or “it will come to pass.”  Prophecy must be “discerned” (i.e., spirit substance from divinity must be used as a standard to identify the sacred content of events, oneself, other persons, the holy writings, etc.) and complemented by sacred knowledge. 

The ministry of Jesus on the earth has fulfilled many of the promises recorded in the Scriptures, however, the divine work by Christ is not concluded.  In addition to completing as High Priest the ministry of atonement and cleansing the Sanctuary in heaven, the Savior will complete judgment of those who will be ripe for harvest at his Second Coming, finish building the holy city (New Jerusalem) as well as prepare and complete tribunals for the wicked and their elimination (the second death).  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Numbers 11:  24-30, King James Version (KJV):  24 And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle.  25 And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders:  and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.  26 But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad:  and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle:  and they prophesied in the camp.  27 And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.  28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them.  29 And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’s people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!  30 And Moses gat him into the camp, he and the elders of Israel.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 14:  1-6, KJV:  1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.  2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God:  for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.  3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.  4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.  5 I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied:  for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.  6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  1st Peter 1:  3-16, KJV:  3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,  4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,  5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:  7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:  8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:  9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.  10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:  11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.  12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.  13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/27/2018) GOD's Will Be Done

Today, reply is on Jesus Christ as a one-of-a-kind provision for mankind and the total elimination of sin that is the second death.  For divinity to complete and fulfill all of the determinations expressing eternal purpose and sovereign will the obstacles presented through the operations of sin all must be removed in such a way they may never appear again.  Included are covetousness, defiance, disbelief, fear, idolatry, ignorance, irreverence, rebelliousness, presumption, pride, skepticism, stubbornness, and ungratefulness.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Joseph Stalin” (Level 1 with 102 points, a member since April 23, 2018) posted the following:



Can Christians Explain why Jesus is like this?

''if you don't believe in me you will go to hell”



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  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.  (Revelation 21:  7-8, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Opposing The Divine Will (03/30/2018); Satan’s Challenge to Divinity (03/27/2018); An Act of GOD? (12/20/2017); Determining What Is Sin (06/15/2017); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); Finite Will, Self-will and Sin? (06/01/2015)



“Joseph Stalin”, Christ is speaking to mankind in terms of divine imperatives, consecrated mercy, and the sovereign will of GOD not merely human ego, intellect, pride, and violence.  In the same way men and women on the earth need guidance, instruction and clear warnings to maintain hygiene and health for their physical body (e.g., counsel on diet, foods, and nutrition), humans also need preparation and structure for continuing intimate relationships, emotional and psychological stability, confidence, and the health of their mind.  Our survival as independent and living persons also requires a correct acknowledgement of conditions, operations, and purposes established by our unseen, yet knowable, Creator that determine the possibilities for our existence, fulfillment, quality, and value.

There are pre-existing conditions and limitations for everyone of us born in the flesh that either continue our duration, or result in our death.  Included are patterns and regularities described as appetite; elimination of poisons and waste that may collect within the body; sensation (e.g., hearing, tasting, touching); emotion/mind; the need to replenish and replace our resources that become depleted and exhausted; and the operations of sin.  Sin is no ordinary object that we might hold in our hand, or put into our pocket; yet, sin opposes the existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the entire universe.  Sin has not been created by divinity, and is vain (i.e., lacks spirit substance from the makeup of GOD).  Even so, the operations of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (we also say, willpower) in created beings and living creatures. 

Human potential, and what may be displayed as the character and nature of mankind includes (1) expression of personhood driven by an animal nature, a human nature, a divine nature, or a mix and simultaneous appearance of all three; (2) personhood that is immature and underdeveloped; and (3) personhood restricted to secular knowledge and lacking sacred knowledge.  Without the one-of-a-kind provisions from GOD that include divinity appearing in the form of a man (we say, Incarnation; Jesus Christ; the Son of GOD), the living fail to realize that sin is contrary to the highest expression of humanity, promotes non-existence, and is self-destructive.  Through Jesus Christ, divinity has demonstrated sovereign authority to restore life (we say, raise the dead; resurrection); has revealed mercy in judgment as an eternal purpose; and has shown that the elimination of sin requires annihilation, the second death.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ezekiel 18:  4, King James Version (KJV):  4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine:  the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

(2.)  Luke 19:  10, KJV:  10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

(3.)  Ezekiel 18:  19-24, KJV:  19 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.  20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son:  the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.  21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.  22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him:  in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.  23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD:  and not that he should return from his ways, and live?  24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned:  in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  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

(04/26/2018) The Origin And Source

Today, following a brief period of jury service, reply is made on describing GOD using time and space, the primary human frameworks for ordering and preserving information.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “?” (Level 1 with 48 points, a member since August 17, 2016) posted the following:



When is God?
I keep hearing about God like when/what/who is it like is it a gadget or something? I'm so confused can someone please tell me?



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.  (Malachi 3:  6, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Be Not Unequally Yoked (04/16/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); “New Creation” and Life (01/01/2018); Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); Reasons for Our Existence? (11/01/2017); The Creator is Different (10/31/2017); What Would Moses Say? (10/27/2017); Accepting Christ, Accepting Change (10/20/2017); That GOD Is Immutable (05/04/2017); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017)  


“?”, GOD is now, and ever shall be.  Where the frameworks of time and space are used for describing finite human experience of the Creator who is the origin and source for all that presently exists, has ever existed, and ever will be, how we speak of divinity often fails to acknowledge that GOD is spirit in character, makeup, and substance.  Divine fullness (we also say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) must be understood as all-encompassing, eternal, and unchanging.  The inseparable aspects of divinity include authority, dominion, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, purpose, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Consciousness and life within created beings and living creatures may be described as movement, and a continuous alignment and realignment of focus on objects that are part of ones own distinct form (self-awareness), as well as exchange and interaction with objects in, and the surrounding context and setting itself.  Multiple elements challenge, nourish, and support duration and stability (i.e., balance and completeness along with uninterrupted and continuous streaming of data and information from the emotions, the mind (e.g., imagination, recall, thought), the senses, and the imparted spirit content from the makeup of Deity (we say, the environment; the inner being; and the sphere(s) of life).

Christians rely on the revelation from GOD appearing in human form as Jesus Christ that was provided to establish a new creation by allowing the living to receive fresh deposits of divine spirit.  New levels of benefit, communication, privilege, and personal relationship now appear as shared by divinity with the living.  Included are forgiveness, grace, mercy in judgment, priesthood, salvation, and eternal life.  Mankind is to appreciate (regard; value) divine existence as omnipotent (unlimited; capable of carrying out, performing, and making actual or present numberless possibilities and eternal purposes).  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 1:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.  2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.  3 And God said, Let there be light:  and there was light.

(2.)  John 1:  1-3, KJV:  1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  2 The same was in the beginning with God.  3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

(3.)  Hebrews 1:  9-12, KJV:  9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.  10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:  11 They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;  12 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Hebrews 7:  19-28, KJV:  19 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.  20 And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:  21 (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)  22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.  23 And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death:  24 But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.  25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.  26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;  27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s:  for this he did once, when he offered up himself.  28 For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/16/2018) Be Not Unequally Yoked

 
Today, topics include discipline, divine order, judging others, sacred rule, and sanctification within the church.  A little poison does not kill only a spot on a person’s tongue, or in their stomach; the life of the entire body becomes at risk.  The church of Jesus Christ is a very sensitive and sophisticated sacred body.  Sinners are to receive and respond to divine spirit substances that encourage permanent changes in their character, makeup, and personhood that will allow them to function as the new creation through Jesus Christ.  Once born again, developing believers must remain vigilant against threats that arise within their own local congregation as well as those that come from outside the body through diverse agents and institutions.  The dangers are not so much having to repel personal attacks, emotional conflicts, quarrels and physical violence as the damage by errors in sacred doctrine and practice along with spiritual confusion.  All have sinned and are in a sacred process of discovery, gradual growth, regeneration, and renewal that places members on different levels of duty, knowledge, opportunity, maturity, readiness, skill, and understanding.  Occasionally, rededication and revival must be encouraged for selected members by separation to eliminate worldly distractions (we say, shunning).  Thereby, their heartfelt works of cleansing, fasting, learning, meditation, and prayer may go to new levels of concentration and self-will directed by GOD.  One of the many fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who use the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


How does God feel about shunning and why do you think it is right or wrong?

Update: Jay-- thank you for comment that shows the love of Jesus.
As for first comment it is sad and please do not disrespect the faith of others and if you choose to live a life without faith then mostly sadness is what many get who doubt.

Update 2: There are many reasons some shun and would like to hear some more answers please.
Update 3: There are some family members I would like to dedicate this question to and wonder if they even know what Godly love is?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent:  for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.  Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance:  for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.  For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of:  but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.  Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.  (2nd Corinthians 7:  8-12, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Diversity Within The Body (04/13/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Must GOD Hate Sinners? (09/01/2016); Judgment Focused On Content? (08/30/2016); Oneness, Not Equality or Rank? 07/16/2015); How To Renew The Mind (11/22/2013); Repentance Must Come Before Resurrection (04/27/2013); Destroyed in Noah’s Flood? (04/28/2013)
 

“Anonymous”, the church founded by Jesus Christ as the new creation serves a GOD who is Creator, Deliverer, Redeemer, Savior, a GOD of Love, and a GOD of Judgment.  The process of divine tribunal has already begun for those who are a habitation of GOD through the Spirit, and will continue to the Advent (we say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Many developing believers are being examined and sealed at this very hour.  In my understanding as a Christian, shunning comes into view not as an act of GOD; it is a collective act by the church as a full body to admonish, censure, and reprimand (yet not disgrace, dishonor, excommunicate, or punish) those members who are not upholding their duties, their pledges, and their obligations as part of the full assembly.  When children in the home neglect the chores they have been assigned by their parents, action must be taken to correct their understanding of why the task is necessary, and its importance and value to the household as well as how to correctly and more quickly complete the task along with whatever cleanup it may involve.  The sacred and prophetic works that come into view are edification and exhortation.  There should be communication that includes correction, demonstration, instruction, and “walk-through”.  While there is a focus on behavior modification and change, the primary goal for all members of the body is spiritual growth that is gradual, and that occurs in the most lasting way through discovery, fellowship, and sacred practice.

The church exists as a divinely provided mechanism to guide sinners to becoming Christ-like.  Yet, many request membership within the church as a means to self-development, self-expression, and self-promotion (some say, freedom; expressing free-will) that expands or extends aspects of their own inborn character and nature, not the endowments and gifts imparted at baptism and rebirth from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, purity, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin).

Both for the church to exist and for the church to “bear fruit” as a planting of GOD, the multiple differences and variations that appear among believers must become manifest as oneness without sameness.  Saying this another way, in addition to showing respect and speaking the truth throughout the body and at every level, there must be demonstrating accountability, listening, performing assigned duty, sacrifice, and unselfish service.  Shunning may appear within congregations as an acknowledgement of apostolic authority and counsel recorded within the Scriptures.  With that in view, shunning is not to be dismissed as merely arbitrary, hurtful, secular, and social.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Timothy 3:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,  3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof:  from such turn away.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 5:  1-13, KJV:  1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife.  2 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.  3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,  4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,  5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.  6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?  7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:  8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.  9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:  10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.  11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.  12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?  13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

(3.)  Matthew 18:  15-20, KJV:  15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone:  if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.  16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.  17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church:  but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.  18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven:  and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.  19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.  20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 22:  10-17, KJV:  10 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book:  for the time is at hand.  11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still:  and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still:  and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still:  and he that is holy, let him be holy still.  12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.  13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.  14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.  15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.  16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.  17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/15/2018) The Child Of Prophecy

The image depicts the hand of Jesus restraining the hand of Peter.

Today, reply is on the acknowledgement of covenant and law by Jesus Christ, and his surrender to the mob sent to arrest him at Gethsemane.  Jesus was among those within the Garden as an Incarnation of divinity to fulfill the promises and prophesies of GOD, a priest, a prophet, a rabbi, and the “ram caught in the thicket.”  Rather than resist the arrest, fight against the force that was dispatched, or take flight, Jesus acknowledged that his role was to submit as a lamb that would be placed on the altar of sacrifice.  When Peter attacked using a sword, Jesus rebuked him, and healed the servant of the High Priest whose ear Peter had cut off.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “?” (Level 6 with 14,244 points, a member since April 16, 2017) posted the following:


If someone told Jesus what was going to happen to him, and gave him a gun, would he have tried to escape?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:  Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.  And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.  And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.  So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.  As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.  Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;  Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;  And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;  Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.  (Hebrews 5:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); His Suffering At Gethsemane (03/12/2018); Jesus Demonstrated Perfected Humanity (10/29/2017); The Cross was Premature? (04/07/2016); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013); Separated and Sealed? (03/29/2013)


“?”, Christian believers are to understand Jesus correctly knew that he himself was a child of prophecy, and that he was anointed and ordained to complete the events of his life that included his death, burial, and resurrection from the dead.  Through the holy writings, through the events surrounding his birth (e.g., the slaughter of the innocents by King Herod; the Temple prophets Anna and Simeon), through the challenge made by Satan following his water baptism (turn this stone into bread), through the confirmations he received through prayer, and through many other sacred events that served as signs, he was strengthened to continue his ministry on the earth as one having authentic humanity, as one sent from GOD, and as one who would suffer the same fate as many others who served as divine prophets and spokespersons.

The revelation of GOD granted to Moses was that the Creator and Deliverer is also a GOD of Judgment.  Moses was allowed to see his glory, and Jesus Christ came as the image of GOD to further display the forgiveness, the mercy, the obedience, the reconciliation, the righteousness, and the surrender that pertain to divine judgment.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 23:  29-39, King James Version (KJV):  29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,  30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.  31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.  32 Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.  33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?  34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes:  and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:  35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.  36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.  37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!  38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.  39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

(2.)  John 18:  3- 13, KJV:  3 Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.  4 Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?  5 They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.  6 As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.  7 Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth.  8 Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he:  if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:  9 That the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.  10 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.  11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath:  the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?  12 Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,  13 And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.

(3.)  Matthew 16:  21-28, KJV:  21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.  22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord:  this shall not be unto thee.  23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me:  for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.  24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.  25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it:  and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.  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?  27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.  28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 26:  52-54, KJV:  52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place:  for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.  53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?  54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/13/2018) Diversity Within The Body

Today, a reply on diversity within the church is shared.  As a living entity that displays aspects from its social (the flesh) and spirit origins, diversity for the church appears through multiple characteristics, individual differences, and physical traits as well as aspects of divine content, makeup, and spirit substance.  Just as sacred knowledge, prophetic gifts, and skills for preaching and other aspects of pastoral ministry are not the same throughout the body, aspects of maturity (e.g., accountability, balance, commitment, completeness, faithfulness, resilience, stability, stamina) will vary from member to member.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,614 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:



Are Christians supposed to avoid materialism and self-indulgent spending?

Sometimes I fantasize about riding first class to china and going on vacations and eating fancy restaurant foods and drinking lattes and going on trips to other countries.

At the same time I also want to live an ascetic lifestyle so that I can feel closer to God and to spend my whole life saving other people's lives

I guess according to Jesus you can't do both



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  (1st Peter 5:  2-4, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Gift(s) From GOD (04/08/2018); Not A Financial Transaction (01/28/2018); Abundance, Plenty and Harvest! (11/23/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Diversity and Prophetic Gifts (11/22/2016); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015); The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013); We Are Still Sinning? (11/30/2013)



“Breakthrough”, while GOD has provided wealth to many whom he exalted as examples and leaders for mankind upon the earth (e.g., Abraham, Job, King David, King Solomon), their material goods and property continued to belong to divinity; and what they possessed, including their lives, were “on loan”, so to speak.  Resources in the earth must be turned to the sacred works and eternal purpose of GOD; even so, riches are fleeting and temporal.  More than this, the  demand that there be “new life,” rebirth, and regeneration due to the operations of sin, are answered by the new creation through Jesus Christ, the church.  As the body where Christ is the head, the church displays oneness without sameness, yet, there is great diversity among her members.  All do not have the same life experiences, and are not on the same level of maturity.  Believers differ emotionally, financially, intellectually, psychologically.   Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ecclesiastes 2:  24, King James Version (KJV):  24 There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour.  This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.

(2.)  Ecclesiastes 3:  9-14, KJV:  9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?  10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.  11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time:  also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.  12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.  13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.  14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever:  nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it:  and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.

(3.)  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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Timothy 6:  17-21, KJV:  17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;  18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;  19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.  20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:  21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/12/2018) Sacred Operations By GOD

The painting depicts GOD as a burning bush declaring his name and responding to the unspoken request by Moses that he “show his glory.”

Today, reply describes the sacred operations of GOD as being empty and void of fleshly and temporal elements such as alchemy and pseudo-science; devotion to the occult; idolatry; imagination; magic, sorcery, and witchcraft as well as superstition.  As lawful and necessary elements for the revelation of divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; The Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), expressions of sacred prerogative and sovereign will, divinity also may  provide and share sacred events (we say, miracles), marvels, eternal purpose, signs (i.e., spirit-filled events to authenticate the divine origin for promises, prophecy, etc.), and wonders.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:



Where in the Bible does God grant someones wish?

They asked God for something and God gave it to them.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.  Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying,  I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.  And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying,  Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears:  behold, I will heal thee:  on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD.  And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.  And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered.  And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day?  And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do the thing that he hath spoken:  shall the shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back ten degrees?  And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees:  nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees.  And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD:  and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz.  (2nd Kings 20:  1-11, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Hope That Is True (02/20/2017); Beyond Anything We Imagine? (11/13/2015); About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); About Deluding Yourself? (09/23/2014); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15/2014); Magical Resurrection? (03/20/2013); Eat His Body, Drink His Blood (03/21/2013)


“Anonymous”, the operations of divinity are not directed to fantasy, magic, and the granting of wishes.  Even so, the processes of divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) do respond to sacred communication (e.g., confession, prayer, repentance), exchange, and ongoing relationships with created beings and living creatures in terms of addressing their needs and survival (e.g., food; shelter; water; meaningful work, activity, and rest); affirming promise; fulfilling prophecy; performing sacred events (we say, miracles), providing requested signs, and discharging the sanctions (rewards and punishments) declared as aspects of divine law.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Exodus 33:  16-23, King James Version (KJV):  16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.  17 And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken:  for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.  18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.  19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.  20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face:  for there shall no man see me, and live.  21 And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:  22 And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:  23 And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.

(2.)  1st Chronicles 21:  15-17, 15 KJV:  15 And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and as he was destroying, the LORD beheld, and he repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.  16 And David lifted up his eyes, and saw the angel of the LORD stand between the earth and the heaven, having a drawn sword in his hand stretched out over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders of Israel, who were clothed in sackcloth, fell upon their faces.  17 And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father’s house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued.

(3.)  John 5:  1-11, KJV:  1 After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.  2 Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.  3 In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water.  4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.  5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.  6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?  7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool:  but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.  8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.  9 And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked:  and on the same day was the sabbath.  10 The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day:  it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.  11 He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Peter 2:  21-25, KJV:  21 For even hereunto were ye called:  because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:  22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:  23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:  24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness:  by whose stripes ye were healed.  25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/11/2018) On Selecting Scripture Verses

Today, reply is on divine love, the use of popular and preferred scripture verses, and the wrath of GOD against sin.  The Bible is a collection of writings that fit together providing a full revelation of divinity.  The Gospel that proclaims the appearance of Deity using flesh and blood as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation) is only one aspect of the full Bible presentation of sacred knowledge.  The death of Jesus on the cross is inseparable from his divine conception, his lowly birth, his ministry in the earth, his dying on the cross, his glorious resurrection and ascension into heaven, and his return to harvest those who are his from the earth (we say, Advent, his appearing, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  While the holy writings truly are a godly tool, and a weapon that may rebuke and repel the enemies of sinners who choose to repent and follow Christ, the Scriptures are intended for ministry, priesthood, and the administration of righteous government by divinely anointed kings.  Scripture should not be used for such common activity as competition, conflict, and quarrels among believers; deception, fraud, and scams; self-promotion; and showing off.  Rightly understood, the word from GOD only is to be shared by his heirs, his offspring, and his prophet or spokesperson(s).  The word of GOD is to make present and reveal the heart and mind of GOD, not that of his messengers and servants.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Christian sinner” (Level 7 with 206,851 points, a member since November 28, 2006) posted the following:


Why is this verse not used more than John 3:16?

'John 3
36
"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them."
They are both good verses. Verse 36 seems to use a more defined 'what if I don't'.
Update: yesmar,
What are you aware of concerning what people think God's wrath is what would cause them to miss something important? I'm trying to think about it and I come up with nothing.
Update 2: Ryan,
It is God's vengeance. Not mine. He does it, and claims to have it.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;  But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.  But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.  For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.  For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.  (2nd Corinthians 4:  1-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jesus Paid It All (04/04/2018); The Word of GOD (09/05/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); The Two-edged Sword (01/09/2017); A “Good” Verse? (05/09/2014); What GOD Demands (05/10/2014); According to This Word (09/20/2013); His Burden Is Light? (09/21/2013)


“Christian sinner”, many developing Christians respect “John 3:  16” as a summary of the full gospel and revelation of GOD incarnate as Jesus Christ where mature Christians have focused on end time events and prophecy, final judgment and the Advent (we say, his appearing; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming) as a special focus of the Good News.  While “John 3:  16” declares salvation and the possibility of companionship with immortal, incorruptible divinity through the Son of GOD, the love of GOD is proclaimed and revealed as primary within the divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father the Son, the Holy Spirit) and as necessary for relationships with Deity as divine law; judgment; personhood; the imparted, indwelling spirit; wisdom; and wrath against sin.

The righteous demands and obligations of divine law may not be dismissed, ignored, or promoted as ancient relics that no longer have meaning and value.  Simply put, the character, makeup and substance of created beings and living creatures require multiple levels of communication, exchange, and interaction whereby invisible, unseen authority and sovereign person becomes knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.  Divinity appears in flesh and blood as Jesus Christ permitting the living to engage the Creator through intimate, ongoing relations (e.g., praise, prayer, service, worship).  GOD is no longer to be regarded as an abstraction, an academic construct, or an intellectual notion.  Even so, the GOD who appears through Jesus must be acknowledged as a god of judgment, a god who must honor his own words of proclamation, promise and prophecy as well as a god who has made permanent provisions for mortal men to receive eternal life through divine grace.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Timothy 3:  16-17, King James Version (KJV):  16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

(2.)  John 6:  63, KJV:  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.)  Hebrews 4: 12, KJV:  12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  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