(01/31/2019) Recognizing Holy and Unholy

Today, reply is on discernment of the spirit content within oneself and others that is imparted from the makeup of GOD. Sinners who are born-again will become developing Christian believers, and will receive and display a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the divine fullness. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Through sacred process and operations of the imparted Spirit, developing Christians are to become increasingly Christlike. All within the body of Christ will gradually gain the sacred knowledge, maturity, spiritual truth, and the many skills and tools that equip believers for self-sacrifice, unselfish service, and suffering as the offspring of GOD, as joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and as the new creation. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Christians, how do you know if someone have Holy spirit or unholy spirit?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. (1^st John 3: 1-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Christians Are Following Jesus (01/24/2019); You Will Receive Power? (12/28/2018); The Discernment of Godliness (07/13/2018); When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018); Purity For Sacred Truth (12/17/2018); Divine Holiness and Sanctity (12/25/2017); Holiness (07/01/2015) 

“Anonymous”, here is some of the same guidance provided to developing Christian believers of the early church that uses language from the Bible where the Holy Spirit is also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Spirit of Truth:

1. 1^st John 4: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

2. 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.

3. 1^st John 3: 18-24, KJV: 18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. 24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Malachi 3: 13-18, KJV: 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

Zipline - Impact in Rwanda

(01/30/2019) Beautiful Upon The Mountains

Today, reply is on discernment, Incarnation, and the availability of descriptions for the physical appearance of Jesus Christ. Fully apprehending, realizing, and “seeing” Jesus will acknowledge both his carnal aspect (his flesh) and his divine aspect (his spirit). Features established within Jesus by the Holy Spirit (e.g., genuine anointing to prophesy, glory, righteousness, godly servitude) must be recognized and responded to by the application of ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD. Thus, it is written: 1^st Corinthians 2: 7-14, King James Version (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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Michael” (Level 1 with 9 points, a member since August 04, 2015) posted the following:

Was Jesus ever described as handsome/beautiful or just extremely charismatic?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. (1^st Corinthians 12: 3, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Seeing The Father (12/04/2018); GOD Has Come Down (10/09/2018); These Three Are One (10/03/2018); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Appearing Above In Flesh? (09/16/2018); The Relationship As Servant (06/03/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); GOD Known By Action Not Form? (03/18/2015)

“Michael”, many Christian believers agree that the physical appearance of Jesus Christ can not be correctly described because greater focus must be upon his revelation and appearing from the Godhead (we also say, divinity; the divine fullness; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). While many painters and artists have depicted Jesus with a glow, a halo, or a nimbus above his head, the holy writings describe Jesus as being average, nondescript, and not standing out in a crowd. Jesus displayed authentic humanity through his birth, gradual growth, preaching ministry, and death. Such traits as his eye and hair color, his nose, brow, other facial features and elements of human form were intended so that he might blend in with those to whom he was sent. That one of his apostles, who had lived with him on a daily basis for the three and one half year of his ministry on the earth, would be recruited to betray him by approaching and kissing Jesus during the darkness before daylight is a further aspect of the mysteries of divine Incarnation.

Developing Christians are encouraged to practice discernment wherein their own spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD is used as the standard to examine, recognize, and respond to the spirit substance within events, lessons, other persons, prophecy, etc. Jesus Christ is to be seen, today, in the Christ-likeness and eternal purpose that appears among his born-again disciples, followers and joint-heirs who now also exist as the offspring of GOD and vessels of divine substance. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Isaiah 52: 7-10, King James Version (KJV): 7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! 8 Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion. 9 Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. 10 The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.

2. Isaiah 53: 2-5, KJV: 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

3. Luke 24: 13-21, KJV: 13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. 17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? 18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? 19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. John 20: 19-29, KJV: 19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/29/2019) Peace Or A Sword?

Today, reply is on divine government, peace, and warfare. Careful study of the holy writings shows that Jesus Christ comes to abide on the earth among mankind to establish holy law, rather than holy war. Just as the authority, privilege and rights for governments, nations, and sovereign states always exceed those of every individual or affiliation within its domain, divinity is at liberty to administer existence and life on the earth and throughout the universe. Even so, Jesus must fulfill a judgment of mankind that appears in prophecy through the symbols of burning and holy fire. It is written: Isaiah 9: 5-7, King James Version (KJV): 5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. 6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (Level 3 with 1,222 points, a member since January 07, 2019) posted the following:

According to the Bible is Jesus coming back to bring peace or a sword?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: So these things shall be for a statute of judgment unto you throughout your generations in all your dwellings. Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die. Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death. (Numbers 35: 29-31, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Satisfying Creation and Law (01/22/2019); Divine Forgiveness and Justice (01/01/2019) Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); Righteousness Exalts A Nation (07/04/2017); Politics and The Kingdom? (05/31/2017); Temporal and Eternal Judgment (02/15/2017); Sharing The Correct Message (01/30/2017); The Divine Peace Process? (09/27/2016)

“Anonymous”, here are some points that include verses from the Bible that are to be prayerfully considered among Christian believers:

1. Both the laurel leaf, a symbol of peace and victory, and the sword are symbols of government authority, might, power and rule. The rod of iron that may appear is divine law that does not bend nor break.

2. Lasting peace is the fruit and outcome of judgment, rather than warfare. In divine judgment, the otherwise hidden and unseen eternal purpose, spirit substance and consecrated value are acknowledged and determined for created beings and living creatures, events, expressions of self-will, life experiences, possibilities, etc. Also, sacred law and sovereign will are used as the primary standards to resolve conflict and settle disputes.

3. Righteous warfare is a tool used by government(s) to accomplish goals that include law enforcement and civil order; fulfillment of contracts, covenants and pledges that may include inheritance, marriage, and trade agreements; prosperity (i.e., comfort; commonwealth; security); the maintenance of boundaries that define the precise dimensions of their territory for exercise of control and ownership (i.e., domain and jurisdiction); and the disposition of resources that include mineral deposits, woodlands, and open space.

4. Isaiah 11: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: 4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

5. Romans 13: 1-4, KJV: 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

6. Revelation 19: 11-16, KJV: 11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 7. Revelation 21: 3-7, KJV:  3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/28/2019) The Revelation of Mercy

A reminder of the Priest, the Levite, their Neighbor and the Good Samaritan

Today, reply is on grace, love, and divine mercy that operate with righteousness as a restraint to divine wrath against sin during final judgment. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Why didn't God smite Cain for killing Abel?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. (2^nd Corinthians 1: 2-4, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Satisfying Creation and Law (01/22/2019); Judgment Perfects Divine Revelation (12/18/2018); The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018); GOD's Will Be Done (04/27/2018); Being A Good Samaritan (02/18/2018); In Spirit and Truth? (10/02/2017); Punishment To Show Love? (11/29/2015); Cain and Genealogy? (11/27/2015)

“Anonymous”, in the same way, GOD did not smite the parents of Abel and Cain, divinity did not smite their offspring. Throughout the holy writings, the Creator who Christian believers worship has revealed and shown himself also to be a GOD who determines quality, substance, and value for all that exists (we say, renders judgment deciding the duration and eternal life imparted to created beings and living creatures). In addition to forgiveness, impartiality and righteousness that ensure balance against the condemnation and harshness that may appear through correction and punishment, mercy is to be understood as one of the most important aspects of divine substance that will appear and soften judgment. The divine sentence against transgression (we say, sin) was pronounced to be death long before disobedience appeared. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, and promotes destruction along with the conditions of chaos, confusion, destruction and uninterrupted streaming that were in place before the establishment of heaven and earth (we say, preexistence). Both Adam and the devil using the form of a serpent (yet, like the holy angels, continuing as neither mortal nor immortal) became subject to the sanctions within the divine law. Despite mankind’s fall, the Creation as an expression of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD has not altered nor changed. Divinity employs atonement, correction, generational curses, mercy, rebirth, and a host of other devices to ensure that sin does not make death permanent for those who genuinely repent, and who receive fresh endowments of spirit substance from the exalted character and makeup of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 3: 13-19, King James Version (KJV): 13 And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 14 And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: 15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. 16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. 17 And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; 18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; 19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

2. Genesis 4: 9-15, KJV: 9 And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?  10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground. 11 And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand; 12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth. 13 And Cain said unto the LORD, My punishment is greater than I can bear. 14 Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, that every one that findeth me shall slay me. 15 And the Lord said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.

3. Hosea 6: 1-7, KJV: 1 Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. 2 After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight. 3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth. 4 O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. 5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. 6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. 7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Ezekiel 18: 19-23, 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?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/24/2019) Christians Are Following Jesus

Today, reply is on whether those who follow Jesus Christ also are commanded within the Bible to worship him as God. In addition to divine law that is the expressed will of GOD, the followers of Jesus will carry out, conform to, embody and obey divine principles, proclamations, and prophecy; sacred doctrine; the imperatives of faith; and promptings by the imparted, indwelling Spirit. Christ is exalted and shown reverence throughout the Scriptures using various descriptive names and titles (e.g., seed of the woman; Immanuel; Messiah; the son of man; Alpha and Omega). While the full revelation of GOD does center specifically in the incarnation of divine substance as Jesus Christ, the eternal purpose of his ministry on the earth is not to be thought of as self-promotion. Created beings and living creatures are to be aware of, discover, and even experience the divinity of Jesus from the time of his conception and being announced by an angel to the woman through whom he was born to the time of his appearing for the harvest (the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Faez” (Level 1 with 101 points, a member since September 10, 2018) posted the following:

Jesus said not to worship Him, in Revelation 22:9, Mark 7:7, Mathew 15:9. Then why are Christians not following Jesus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. (Psalms 50: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: We Have To Believe? (01/06/2019); Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); By Reading The Bible? (11/18/2018); New Commandments From Christ? (06/05/2018); Avoiding Confusion About Antichrist (11/08/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Martyrdom and Tribulation? (09/30/2015)

“Faez”, what it means “to follow Jesus” goes beyond literal obedience to his spoken commands that are recorded in the Bible. His disciples are to appear as incarnations and members of his body; they are to display the image of GOD, and continually manifest Christ-likeness. Those who are mature members of the church that Jesus Christ has created will fulfill sacred duties and divine possibilities provided through a new relationship wherein created beings and living creatures are to permanently exist as companions to divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Sinners are to receive rebirth and exist as the new creation by containing fresh endowments of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the character, makeup and nature of GOD. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, sacred knowledge, wisdom, and wrath against sin. In the same way no one has to beg for what those who love them willingly want to offer and share, divinity does not have to command, demand, and require praise, reverence or worship from those who willingly follow and serve. Such things appear as expressions of gratitude, joy, respect, and reverence. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

1. John 7: 16-18, King James Version (KJV): 16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

2. 2^nd John 6-7, KJV: 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

3. 2^nd John 9-11, KJV: 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

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

(01/23/2019) Life Exists Before Birth

'Foetuses exposed to garlic in the womb are more likely to prefer garlic in later life.' Photograph: Steve Allen Travel Photography/Alamy (see reference below)

Today, topics include conception, prophecy, the stages of human development, and the divine new creation. For the collection of embryonic cells that will exist as the foundation for a living child, there are many spirit elements and unseen features that are put in place long before the moments of birth. The child becomes a focus for concern, desire, relationship, and self-expression for both parents long before emerging as a new life. Other features and patterns consistent with human life appear including appetite; awareness and self-will; the affection, permanent bond, love, and mutual consciousness of one another between mother and child; inheritance; instinct; personhood; life possibilities such as future accomplishments, hopes (expectations); ability to recognize and respond to signals from the mother for entering the birth canal and leaving the womb as well as participation in patterns of ethnic and cultural expression. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile was shared) posted the following:

Is a fetus alive? Is a fetus a life?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. (Luke 2: 21, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sacred Ministry or Parenting? (05/10/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Circumcision of Infant Boys (12/11/2017); Baptism and “the just” (10/05/2017); Choice, Duty, and Obligation? (11/17/2016); Of Such Is The Kingdom (09/01/2015); Babies Given A Second Life? (01/25/2015); About “The Just” (10/29/2014); Antidotes to the Poisons (10/30/2014); Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014)

Anonymous, new babies are joined to continuing streams of life and truth that have preexistence; thus, you may be willing to agree to the following: Developing Christian believers are challenged to acknowledge that life exists within a child and its mother long before the event of the child’s birth. The child is first conceived and appears as tissue being multiplied and reproduced that later presents as a separate organism attached by the umbilical cord to the walls of the mother’s womb. Because stages of growth for a child are described using academic, medical, and scientific language to preserve an attitude of objectivity, new babies tend to be spoken of first as though they are no more than the content of a test tube, a bacterium, a parasite, a specimen or a virus. Despite the detection of a regular heartbeat for the new child, many continue to hold that so long as the child receives food and oxygen from the maternal host through the cord, the child may not be accounted as having been born, as having human integrity, or as having life as an individual.

For mature Christians, divinity is the origin for all existence and life. Included are the character, makeup and traits the living display; potential for animal, human, and divine expression; eternal purpose; and the array of possibilities that exist for created beings and living creatures. In the same way divinity has responded to and made use of the carnal traits and patterns of social inheritance that exist among men, GOD also uses the living as instruments and vessels having fresh endowments of inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, lovingkindness, personhood, oneness without sameness, wisdom, wrath against sin). Rather than rely on finite tools of intelligence, logic, carnal reason and secular knowledge, all believers are encouraged to consider such unchanging truth and instruction as the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 25: 21-26, King James Version (KJV): 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. 24 And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb. 25 And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau. 26 And after that came his brother out, and his hand took hold on Esau’s heel; and his name was called Jacob: and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them.

2. Hebrews 11: 8-16, KJV: 8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

3. Jeremiah 1: 4-10, KJV: 4 Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. 6 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. 7 But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. 9 Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. 10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

4. Psalms 131: 1-3, KJV: 1 LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. 2 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. 3 Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 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.

Fleming, Amy. How a child’s food preferences begin in the womb. The Guardian (US Edition) Tue 8 Apr 2014 06.20 EDT @https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/wordofmouth/2014/apr/08/child-food-preferences-womb-pregnancy-foetus-taste-flavours. Image downloaded January 22, 2019, 11:54 AM; Photograph: Steve Allen Travel Photography/Alamy @ https://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2014/4/8/1396950889603/Human-foetus-014.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/22/2019) Satisfying Creation and Law

Today, reply is on the crucifixion of Jesus, satisfying the demands of sacred law, and why divinity must answer the operations of sin by using death. Salvation for mankind requires that the makeup and substance of the living be restored to their original condition of godliness. Divine works must be accomplished along with multiple sacred events that may only be completed by divinity. Included are atonement, divine judgment, rebirth, resurrection from the dead, and the harvesting of the earth at the Advent (the Rapture; the Second Coming) of Jesus Christ. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Swagmaster” (Level 2 with 439 points, a member since October 27, 2018) posted the following:

How did Jesus' death heal the relationship between humans and God? This seems contradictory.?

In the ten commandments, it says 'Do not kill' but killing Jesus made God happy of us? Also, I don't think that, if I was murdered, I would be too pleased with that. Am I missing something or am I just plain confused?

Update: Thank you for the answers. I definitely missed quite a bit. 😅

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. 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. All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 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? 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. (Ezekiel 18: 20-24, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Punishment After Death? (11/23/2018); Jesus Paid It All (04/04/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); GOD Indwells Divine Law (07/14/2017); The Administration Of Death (07/11/2017); On Law and Sin (06/07/2017)

“Swagmaster”, the demands of divine law must be satisfied at the same time that conditions for continued existence and life must be established. The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of sacred law, of the Creator who is Lawgiver, and of divine order throughout the universe. Sin defiles, profanes and warps sacred substance within the living. Sin promotes restoration of preexistence (i.e., the condition of chaos, confusion, and multiple streams in motion having no source or direction) that was in place before heaven and earth were fashioned. Sin is no ordinary carnal or material thing that can be destroyed, eliminated, or separated from reality by using force or violence. Sin attacks the many unseen things that are needed as aspects of structure and substance for the support of life within mankind. Included are awareness, duration, reproduction, self-will, and the frameworks of time and space.

As a result of sin, mankind now fulfills a condition of mortality (we also say, sleep) that may be reversed by GOD through resurrection. The penalty of death for sin was proclaimed before Adam and Eve showed that their original endowment of life essence from the makeup of GOD (we also say, breath; spirit; word) and self-will would no longer respond to the sovereign will of GOD expressed as law. Defiance, rebellion and transgression against the will of GOD may be limited and ended by removing consciousness from the carnal form (we say, the body; the flesh) that allows focus and desire in response to finite ideas and objects. In addition to mortality, mankind is subject to annihilation (we say, the second death). Saying all this another way: To stop the eternal existence of sin the spirit matter from divinity, that may be destroyed only by using divine fire, must be changed and renewed within a person before they die (complete mortality); and they must display a genuine return to GOD through their attitude, behavior, conduct and lifestyle.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, there are multiple names for the divine provision to satisfy the law and save mankind that were made possible by the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, and his death on the cross. Included are “becoming born again,” being a new creation, “rebirth”, “reconciliation”, “resurrection from the dead,” “sanctification” and “transformation”. Only through the blood, body, and sacred works of Jesus Christ can the spirit substance within created beings and living creatures who are sinners be reconfigured and realigned with GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/21/2019) The Divinity of Peter?

Today, the reply describes the Apostle Simon Peter as a servant of Jesus Christ who performed miracles through the Holy Spirit, yet, was not himself divine. Jesus is recorded as admonishing and warning Peter to be vigilant and walk in faith focused by the Holy Spirit, rather than be centered in things from the Deceiver, or from his own flesh. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Princess” (Level 3 with 1,461 points, a member since November 06, 2018) posted the following:

According to the Bible (thanks, @Cool Dude!) PETER can raise people from the dead. Is Peter divine?

Acts 9:36-42

36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me. (1st Luke 22: 28-34, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: When Christians Attend Funerals (05/27/2018); The Household Of Cornelius (05/17/2018); A “Successor” To Jesus? (02/22/2018); The Water, The Fire (10/10/2017); The Great Commission Obeyed? (01/12/2016); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15/2014); Hierarchy (11/14/2013); The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013)

“Princess”, mature Christian believers do not regard Peter as having been an aspect of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). Along with eleven other disciples, Peter was chosen to serve as an apostle of Jesus Christ. All of the apostles received an endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity (we say, the imparted, indwelling Spirit) that included faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. In addition to serving as heralds and spokespersons sent ahead to gather and prepare the congregations who would hear and receive Jesus as an itinerant preacher, the apostles were authorized as agents of the incarnate ministry of Christ who were to perform exorcism, healing, raising the dead, and other sacred events (we say, miracles). Raising the dead on the earth (we also say, restoring the dead to life; reviving the dead) is not the same as resurrection that enables the spirit separated from the body of a deceased person to exist again in flesh so they may appear in judgment as living in the presence of GOD).

Peter and his brother Andrew both had standing as covenant partners and heirs of GOD through their inheritance from the promises to Abraham, Moses, and David. Thus, in accordance with the “law and the prophets” they first received Jesus Christ as a prophet. However, like Jacob, Peter had to endure correction, being humbled by GOD, gradual growth, and the outworking of divine prophecy before he would realize the true substance of his inheritance, and himself to be in a lasting relationship with divinity. On the day of Pentecost, Peter received additional spiritual gifts through the falling of the Holy Spirit that included greater faith, government, insight, meekness, personhood, oneness without sameness, and zeal. Peter and the other apostles became divine instruments ordained with the holy angels to give eyewitness testimony through the judgment of GOD that Jesus Christ was baptized, was transfigured, and is alive following his crucifixion and burial; certify the genuine appearance and falling of (sudden in-filling by) the Holy Spirit; confirm and impart the Holy Spirit by “laying on of hands;” and serve the Risen Lord as bishops and elders of the early church.

Despite that, through operations of the Holy Spirit, Peter was the first to demonstrate indwelling faith as the rock foundation for the church of Jesus, and to correctly proclaim Jesus as Christ and the Son of GOD, Peter is on record as having been seriously censured and rebuked by Jesus. At their parting, in a scene that compares to Moses and Jacob delivering their final words and blessings for Israel, Jesus prophesied regarding both Peter and John. Consider again the following:

1. Matthew 16: 13-23, King James Version (KJV): 13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. 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.

2. John 21: 12-19, KJV: 12 Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. 13 Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise. 14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead. 15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. 19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.

3. 2^nd Peter 1: 16-21, KJV: 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 2^nd Corinthians 4: 6-7, KJV: 6 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. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC