(09/30/2018) Believers Must Receive Gifts

Today, reply is on the provisions of GOD for new life within the body of Christ, and for serving as the spokesperson of Christ. Because the church is to apprehend the reality of GOD through Spirit, such elements as acceptance, faith, grace, divine process, promises, and trust are primary more than intellect, logic, and carnal reason. The apostle Paul shares this sensitive point in the following: 2^nd Corinthians 12: 7-10, King James Version (KJV): 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. All in the church will not be prophets; and every illness and sickness in the church will not be removed immediately, before the Advent of Christ. Yet, where one member has received a revelation or vision, it is accounted present for all. Where one has received healing, the presence of healing is accounted present for all. Where one has the ability to prophesy, prophecy is accounted present for all. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 13 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:

Is it true that you have to have a "Spiritual gift" to be a Christian (I Corinthians 12:7-10; 13)?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4: 12-16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Given Us From Heaven? (09/25/2018); First, Become Born Again (09/21/2018); Why Spirit Displays Personhood (06/06/2018); Diversity Within The Body (04/13/2018); Leadings of the Spirit (11/05/2017); Believers Are To Love (12/07/2016); Family Likeness and Traits? (11/08/2016)

“GRANNY NORINE”, all Christians must receive and make use of various spiritual gifts imparted from divinity by the Holy Spirit. Developing and mature believers are called to exist in a new relationship with divinity, with one another, and with the world at large as the offspring of GOD through spiritual rebirth, and as those on earth who serve as apostles, priests, prophets, and kings within the kingdom of GOD. In the same way, every believer does not receive the same education, skills, and talents, all do not receive the same anointing, gifts, testimonies, and witness. Yet, because they are present through others within the full body―including those recorded within Scripture―the believer may correctly say, I now have them also. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 12: 3-7, King James Version (KJV): 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 12: 13-21, KJV: 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

(3.) Romans 15: 1-7, KJV: 1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. 3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. 5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

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

(09/28/2018) Mysteries Of The Kingdom?

Today, reply is on how the ministry of Jesus Christ is a divine tool to continue the profound consciousness of GOD required for existence and life within created beings and living creatures on the earth. Jesus would provide prophetic demonstrations and instruction that would describe and clarify mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, and a body of sacred knowledge pertaining to godliness. The fighter in the Religion and Spirituality public forum at “Yahoo Answers” who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE ” (Level 1 with 60 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:

What did Jesus mean "...It is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.." (Matt 13:11)?

Update: How do we get to "know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven?"

Update 2: THE LOVE OF GOD: I love you all so much it breaks my heart to see how MANY have been taught the wrong doctrine. I CRY!

THE GOLDEN ARROW: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. (Revelation 1: 18-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Did The Prophets Know? (05/23/2018); A Descendent of David? (03/18/2018); Proclaiming A New Kingdom? (04/13/2017); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017); First Seeking the Kingdom (03/03/2017); The Lion of Judah (01/22/2017); Thoughts On The Kingdom? (11/18/2015)

“GRANNY NORINE ” the seven parables of the kingdom are not so much a matter of dealing with unanswered questions as a matter of fitting together and understanding what we already have been privileged to see and hear from GOD. Having explanations, intellectual knowledge, and information are only one part of correctly apprehending divinity. The Incarnation of all divinity (i.e., the GODhead) as the person of Jesus Christ has been used as a divine tool to further make known and approachable the sacred character, makeup, and substance of Deity. The first pair (Adam) dismissed and transgressed sacred law that made known the dominion, personhood, divine prerogative, and sovereign will of GOD. While GOD would continue with eternal purposes unchanged, mankind became subject to the consequences of their disobedience that included loss of spirit content required to have uninterrupted consciousness of GOD; mortality (death); and the experiences of time and space made vulnerable through further operations of sin.

GOD continued to communicate with humanity, however, mankind became increasingly contrary. The things from GOD to ensure the duration and survival of the earth were treated as abstract, diffuse, and disconnected. Included were commandments, covenants, proclamations, promises, and prophecy that shared a range of divine meanings, principles, standards, and values to prepare the living to exist as immortal, incorruptible companions to GOD. The full plan of GOD remained hidden and unseen because the finite and temporal process of man heavily focuses on appetite, emotion/mind, sensation, and self-will. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

(2.) Revelation 10: 5-7, KJV: 5 And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, 6 And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: 7 But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

(3.) Luke 17: 20-21, KJV: 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

(4.) Ephesians 3: 8-12, KJV: 8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; 9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, 11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

(5.) 1^st John 5: 9-13, KJV: 9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) Romans 8: 20-23, KJV:  20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/27/2018) According To The Pattern

Today, reply is on apprehending divinity who is spirit in character and substance. The finite tools used by created beings and living creatures that shape their awareness include appetite, sensation, emotion, and mind. Divine tools are to be employed that include awe (correct acknowledgment of the awesomeness of GOD), discernment, discovery, duty, fellowship, gratitude, meekness, obedience, unselfish service, and suffering. The fighter in the Religion and Spirituality public forum at “Yahoo Answers” who uses the ID “Steven” (Level 1 with 143 points, a member since July 10, 2018) posted the following:

Have the four seraphim ever seen the LORD God Almighty?

Isaiah 6 1-4

1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another:

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty;

the whole earth is full of his glory.”

4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. (1^st Timothy 6: 12-16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Opposing The Divine Will (03/30/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); On Really Seeing Angels (10/09/2016); About Lucifer in Scripture (02/18/2016); Holiness (07/01/2015); Getting It Right About Angels (05/10/2015); The God Concept? (02/13/2015)

“Steven”, what I have received as a Christian believer is that the holy angels know divinity by faith, not by sight. When the angelic host assembles before the throne of GOD (we also say, the judgment seat; the Mercy Seat) as depicted by the two cherubim atop the Ark of the Covenant, the view of divine effulgence is blocked, and made to appear as though “through a glass darkly.” Many on the earth mistakenly believe that the holy angels exist as all-knowing, immortal, independent beings who continually gaze upon the beauty of GOD night and day. Yet, all created beings and living creatures are to apprehend the divine fullness (we say, the GODhead) not on the basis of his image, rather, on the basis of the nature, propensities, properties, and eternal purposes of GOD. Our own existence having life affirms the existence of our Creator; and we are correct to ascribe authority, awe, dominion, glory, honor, lovingkindness, majesty, righteousness, and wisdom to GOD. More than seeing with the eye, the living must rely on such elements as the active presence of breath and spirit that they have received from the makeup of the Creator; obedience to divine law; sacrifice and unselfish service to GOD; the operations of faith; sacred revelation; and sovereign decree. The immortal, incorruptible, unchanging personhood of GOD must be realized as continuing to be invisible and without material form, even though the Father continues to be embodied as the Son of GOD in Jesus Christ. Consider again how the following speaks to the same process of GOD appearing within both heaven and earth:

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

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 2: 7-14, KJV: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

(3.) 1^st Kings 6: 26-28, KJV: 26 The height of the one cherub was ten cubits, and so was it of the other cherub. 27 And he set the cherubims within the inner house: and they stretched forth the wings of the cherubims, so that the wing of the one touched the one wall, and the wing of the other cherub touched the other wall; and their wings touched one another in the midst of the house. 28 And he overlaid the cherubims with gold.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Hebrews 8: 1-6, KJV: 1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; 2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. 3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. 4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: 5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. 6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/26/2018) Jacob Wrestled With GOD?

Edward Knippers, Jacob and the Angel (1990)

Today, reply is on the Bible account of Jacob wrestling with an angel. The image above was downloaded from the Auckland Theology and Religious Studies blog (December 3, 2015 ) Edward Knippers ― Advent offering 3: Angelic Muscles and Masculinities by Caroline Blyth at https://aucklandtheology.wordpress.com/category/edward-knippers/). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Genius” (Level 1 with 8 points, a member since August 13, 2018) posted the following:

Hey believers remember that story in bible where god was in a wrestling match?

I would have given god 3 stunners, 3 rock bottoms, 3 tombstones, 3 pedigrees, 3 atiude adjustments, 3 spears and the sharpshooter

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. (1^st Corinthians 15: 32-33, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Eating and Drinking Christ?(07/03/2017); Inheritance Must Become Commitment (05/15/2017); Church Attendance and Inheritance (09/11/2016); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016); An Eternal Inheritance? (06/26/2016); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014)

“Genius”, in responding to the account of Jacob wrestling with an angel, many mature Christian believers would prayerfully consider the following:

The calling to divine service, sanctification, and separation of Jacob to serve as “the second Adam” began even before Esau, his twin brother, threatened to kill Jacob, and forced Jacob to leave the home of their parents, Isaac and Rebekah. Rebekah had been barren before GOD allowed her to bear the tw0; and while they were still struggling against one another within her womb, GOD indicated that one would prevail, and be used to further reveal divine grace. The Patriarch Isaac was the heir to the priesthood of Abraham. While his sons were both aware that the blessing Isaac would pronounce upon his primary heir would provide a double portion to the one he had chosen (i.e., 2 sons, 3 portions; 12 sons, 13 portions). Prior to the operations by GOD, neither of the twins correctly understood that Isaac’s blessing would be a divine proclamation, and sacred prophecy.

Because our Creator is also a God of judgment, Jacob wrestling with the angel may be thought of as a judgment scene. Divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; “the active presence;” the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) appeared and was manifest to Jacob embodied and using the form of an angel. Later, divinity would appear among mankind using flesh and human form (we say, Incarnation) as Jesus Christ. The Savior displayed authentic humanity through birth, gradual growth, ministry, suffering, completing mortality on the cross, and demonstrating the resurrection from the dead that pertains to appearing in the tribunals of judgment. The struggle of Jacob that night, alone in his travels, also portrayed the life of Abraham as a nomad, the testing of Jesus Christ in the wilderness by Satan, and the struggle of Jesus in prayer at Gethsemane.

Like those who become born again through baptism and the operations of the Holy Spirit, Jacob was blessed, received an inheritance, then, had to undergo gradual change and growth before he could acknowledge that the GOD of Abraham and Isaac was also the GOD of Jacob. The following points use language from the Bible:

(1.) Genesis 25: 20-23, King James Version (KJV): 20 And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian of Padanaram, the sister to Laban the Syrian. 21 And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife, because she was barren: and the LORD was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22 And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD. 23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.

(2.) Genesis 27: 38-45, KJV: 38 And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. 39 And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above; 40 And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck. 41 And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob. 42 And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill thee. 43 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice; arise, flee thou to Laban my brother to Haran; 44 And tarry with him a few days, until thy brother’s fury turn away; 45 Until thy brother’s anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be deprived also of you both in one day?

(3.) Romans 9: 10-18, KJV: 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 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. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. 17 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. 18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.

(4.) Hebrews 10: 30-31, KJV: 30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Genesis 6: 3, KJV: 3 And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/25/2018) Given Us From Heaven?

Today, reply is on the origin of divine grace, rebirth and salvation as sacred gifts that become available from GOD through the ministry of Jesus Christ. The fighter in the public forum at “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Christian sinner” (Level 7 with 212,433 points, a member since November 28, 2006) posted the following:

What did John the Baptist mean when he said this? Did John mean e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g? How do you see it?

John 3

27 To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven."

Update: If John was right and he meant everything is received from heaven, then are atheists not given something very important? Like an ability to trust in Christ? Are the atheists who never trust in Christ incapable of trusting Christ because God didn't give them the ability?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4: 11-12, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: John Anointed To Prophesy (05/21/2018); The Origin And Source (04/26/2018); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); He Must Increase? (04/01/2015); The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013)

“Christian sinner”, be encouraged. Although John the Baptist served in priesthood at the Temple in Jerusalem, under the influence of the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) that he received before his birth, John established a ministry preaching repentance, performing baptism, and proclaiming the kingdom of GOD would soon appear. The many sacred gifts granted to mankind from the divine fullness (we say, the GODhead) allow those living on the earth to be in a lawful, ongoing, personal relationship with divinity. Included are atonement for sin; covenant law; grace; divine inheritance; joining to the oneness without sameness that is shared among the divine fullness (we say, the Godhead); and the privilege of serving as anointed kings, ministers, and prophets on the earth. These, and many other blessings are possible only through actual operations of the active presence we know and speak of as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Developing Christian believers are to acknowledge that the makeup and operation of human consciousness and self-will were imparted to mankind from Creation as life essence (we say, breath; spirit; the word of GOD). Because the operations of sin dominated human awareness and willpower within Adam (the male and female), the living now must receive a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD (we say, A sinner must be “born again” having the Spirit imparted from GOD, and grow up again (i.e., mature) while living on the earth. By being filled as vessels of divinity, sinners are transformed, and through discovery, gradual growth, learning and service they acquire the “ability” to receive, recognize, retain, and become fruitful using the things from GOD to address his eternal purposes.

Through Jesus Christ, sinners who repent, and contain his personhood and Spirit exist as the new creation, the sons and daughters of GOD, and joint-heirs with Christ. While men on the earth may share with one another the benefits of divine ministry from Jesus as the Risen Lord and High Priest of heaven, none may bestow the divine gifts of glory, holiness, honor, purity, redemption, salvation, and eternal life as though these are the products of human imagination, intellect, and self-will. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) John 3: 25-30, King James Version (KJV): 25 Then there arose a question between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purifying. 26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. 27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. 28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. 29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

(2.) Deuteronomy 13: 1-11, KJV: 1 If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, 2 And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; 3 Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. 4 Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him. 5 And that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams, shall be put to death; because he hath spoken to turn you away from the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed you out of the house of bondage, to thrust thee out of the way which the LORD thy God commanded thee to walk in. So shalt thou put the evil away from the midst of thee. 6 If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers; 7 Namely, of the gods of the people which are round about you, nigh unto thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; 8 Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him: 9 But thou shalt surely kill him; thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people. 10 And thou shalt stone him with stones, that he die; because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. 11 And all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you.

(3.) John 1: 11-17, KJV: 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. 16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Hebrews 5: 1-10, KJV: 1 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: 2 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. 3 And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. 4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 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. 6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 7 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; 8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/24/2018) Ye That Work Iniquity

Today, reply describes divine love, and the response divinity must make to those who deny Jesus Christ. The operations of GOD provide for mankind to become joined to divinity as the new creation of Jesus Christ. Those who acknowledge Jesus as High Priest, redeemer, and savior are to receive atonement and spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that include faith, holiness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

If Jesus loves everyone, then why will He say 'Depart from me...'?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:  21-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); Whoso Keepeth His Word (03/09/2018); To Define “Godly Love” (08/20/2017); Who Deserves Divine Love? (06/23/2017); Divine and Unconditional Love (09/18/2016); The GOD Who Loves? (10/02/2016); Known by GOD? (10/16/2010)

“Anonymous”, among Christian believers, the expression and operation of divine love have to be accepted and recognized as coming from a GOD who is the origin of all existence and life, yet is also a GOD of judgment who provides divine law, sacred standards, eternal purpose and values for the continuance of the universe. To love as a mature partner within a relationship with divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) requires more than to simply show affection, respond to earthly desires, or center upon satisfying one another’s needs. Accountability, commitment, and discharging duty should appear along with obedience (putting aside ones self-will to carryout the will of another), and maintaining the genuineness and integrity of ones own personhood.

Mankind is being freely given every benefit, opportunity, and privilege required to live as companions to a GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and righteous. Included are atonement for sin; endowments of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, impartiality and mercy in judgment, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin); forbearance; forgiveness; redemption; and salvation. To “walk in the Lord” is to conform to the example and image Jesus Christ has demonstrated for all the sons and daughters of GOD in heaven and on earth. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Amos 3:  3, King James Version (KJV):  3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

(2.) Deuteronomy 28:  8-10, KJV:  8 The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.  9 The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

(3.) Matthew 22:  8-14, KJV:  8 Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.  9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.  10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.  11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:  12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.  13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  14 For many are called, but few are chosen.

(4.) Luke 13:  24-30, KJV:  24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.  25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:  26 Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.  27 But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.  28 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.  29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.  30 And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.

(5.) 2^nd Timothy 2: 15-19, KJV:  15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.  17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;  18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.  19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

(6.)  2^nd Corinthians 6: 14-17, KJV:  14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?  16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) Luke 12:  8-9, KJV:  8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:  9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/23/2018) Christian Beliefs Are Forward-looking

Today, reply is on the character and process of the Scriptures as forward-looking. Salvation often requires a clear and complete break with the past (we say, “burning our bridges behind us,” and “new wine into new bottles.”). We should recall Israel’s lament looking back (Numbers 11: 4-6, King James Version (KJV): 4 And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat? 5 We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick: 6 But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes.); and Jesus taught, “Remember Lot’s wife.” (Luke 17: 32, KJV) Christians are to face the future without fear, and continue to acknowledge the Old and New Testament Scriptures because both provide many immutable and unchanging truths. Followers of the Lord are wise to consider that, in the same way it is an error to long for and set our hearts on present circumstances and carnal things, it is an error to examine present events seeking signs and portents from GOD that will foretell the future. For those who will stand before GOD in judgment as disciples of Jesus Christ, their past condition as sinners and transgressors that was written within the Book of Life will be covered by the blood of atonement, and their condemnation is cast into “the sea of forgetfulness” through sacred practices such as rebirth, faith, forgiveness, and hope (the expectation of divine fulfillment for things promised and prophesied). The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since February 16, 2016) posted the following:

What does the Bible say about missing the past?

I really miss the 90’s and early 2000’s those were the good days, but I heard somewhere that God says don’t look back but keep looking forward, so I was wondering is it a sin?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time. (Nahum 1: 9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: “The End Is Near” (03/14/2018); On Facing The Future (01/17/2018); Time and Sacred Events? (03/30/2017); Sin Must Be Personal (04/29/2016); A Dry Thirsty Land (05/01/2016); Sin Turned To Goals (05/02/2016); They Shall Not Be Mentioned (05/03/2016); Remembering Lot’s Wife (11/04/2014); Sinless Until Advent? (11/05/2014)

“Anonymous”, be encouraged! Christian believers are to look to the past for admonition, correction, guidance and warnings; even so, their consciousness is to be forward-looking and focused on the Advent of Jesus Christ (we say, his appearing; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming). The revelation of divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) is given to make the Creator knowable, known, accessible, and approachable to all created beings and living creatures. In place of mysteries, puzzles, riddles and secular knowledge sinners who turn to GOD are provided with comfort and edification through gifts that include divine law, sovereign proclamations, covenant promises, prophecy, sacred knowledge, a structured lifestyle, and multiple opportunities for service and sharing within a community of believers. Sinners must become “born again” through baptism, become joined to GOD through the Holy Spirit, and “grow up again” as “developing believers.” Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Deuteronomy 32: 1-7, King James Version (KJV): 1 Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. 2 My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: 3 Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. 4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. 5 They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation. 6 Do ye thus requite the LORD, O foolish people and unwise? is not he thy father that hath bought thee? hath he not made thee, and established thee? 7 Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee.

(2.) Ecclesiastes 7: 9-11, KJV: 9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. 10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this. 11 Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun.

(3.) Ezra 3: 10-13, KJV: 10 And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, they set the priests in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the LORD, after the ordinance of David king of Israel. 11 And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12 But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: 13 So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.

(4.) James 4: 13-17, KJV: 13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

(5.) Matthew 16: 1-4, KJV: 1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) 1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/21/2018) First, Become Born Again

Today, reply is on water baptism, rebirth, salvation, and sanctification (we say, becoming Christ-like). A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

Can I still get saved?

I admit that I am a sinner and need Jesus

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2^nd Peter 1: 2-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); Repentance Among Christian Believers (07/06/2018); Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); Conversation In The World (04/03/2018); Choosing to be Reborn (01/29/2018); There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); All Have Come Short (10/11/2017)

“Anonymous”, be encouraged! Along with sinners realizing and publicly turning away from their errors, habits, mistakes and sins that are obstacles to being in full relationship with divinity, those who become followers of Jesus Christ must be willing to undergo permanent changes in their life that will be brought about by the operations of the Holy Spirit. Water baptism gives a picture of how a sinner must experience the death, burial, and rebirth of their inborn spirit (we also say, breath; life essence; word) from the Creator. The living must receive a new makeup and a nature different from what we inherit as the offspring of Adam and Eve. Included are inseparable aspects from the makeup of GOD that include faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

The Scriptures teach that all have sinned and come short of the mark set by GOD. With this in view, there are only two kinds of people in the world: repentant and unrepentant sinners. Repenting sinners become “developing believers” and serve as vessels of divine spirit. When we are “born again”, we must gradually grow and go on to mature (i.e., endure “growing pains;” “grow up again;” become ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming) while continuing our lives on the earth. The Holy Spirit imparts gifts and provides sacred substance that makes it possible for the living to correctly recognize and respond to the active presence who is GOD. With the help of the Spirit believers are able to live in accordance with divine law, participate in sacred events, and properly acknowledge the proclamations, prophecies, and various teachings of the Bible. Consider again the following:

(1.) John 3: 5-7, King James Version (KJV): 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(2.) John 13: 34-35, KJV: 34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

(3.) Romans 6: 3-6 KJV: 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

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