(04/30/2019) Jesus In This Environment?

Today, reply is on Christian ministry, believers persevering by knowing “the end from the beginning,” and how disciples of Jesus must continue in ongoing sanctification. A little one who can recite their ABCs is able to tell you what comes after E-F-G. By knowing the full pattern, they may accurately say, H-I-J-K, or X-Y-Z is coming without practicing clairvoyance, or being able to read and write yet. Similarly, those choosing to follow Jesus Christ are not granted authority and power to read another person’s mind, foretell future events, or control all life conditions, consequences, and outcomes so much as they are supplied with discernment and sacred knowledge that allows them to realize the godliness of spirit within events, other persons, sacred writings, themselves, etc. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

What would my life be like if I believed in Jesus in this environment?

A good amount of my relatives are anti-Bible and dislike creationists. Many are pro-abortion, pro-gay marriage, and liberal. One of my aunts makes fun of the Bible and can't stand it when the name Jesus is mentioned.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (Romans 8: 3-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ministry Is Through Relationship (03/05/2019); Will You Lose Family? (01/20/2019); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Be Not Unequally Yoked (04/16/2018); Recognizing True Christian Prophets (02/26/2018); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Neither “All-knowing” Nor “Omniscient” (11/07/2017); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015); Knowing? (05/24/2015)

“Anonymous”, among Christians, believers are to impart and share inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, patience, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The environment you describe is the same that Jesus explained would be in effect when instructing his apostles regarding ministry to those who would seek to be his followers. Those who minister are privilege to know “the end from the beginning.” As did Moses, those who minister Christ also must endure negative responses (e.g., challenges, defiance, disbelief, frustration, injustice, opposition, and persecution) from family, employers, neighbors, and others to whom they are sent. Also, among Christians, there is a continuous process of cleansing and separation (we say, “sanctification”) that establishes increasing distance between sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ and those who continue as disbelievers. The sinner must experience the death, burial, and resurrection of their own inborn spirit. Once “born again” and having a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD, the sinner is a developing believer who must “grow up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we also say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). As offspring of GOD, the new creation of Jesus Christ, and vessels of divine substance, believers will be comforted, edified, and exhorted to meet life challenges on the earth. In addition to commitment, discernment that is an operation of the Spirit, doctrine, and sacred knowledge, Christians will be set apart from those in other systems of belief by their sacred practices and eternal purpose that include discovery, gradual growth, prayer, praise, the endurance of suffering, and unselfish service. Their transformation to exist as companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity will be completed “in the twinkling of an eye” as they leave the earth to meet Jesus in the air. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 10: 24-25, KJV: 24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?

2. Mark 6: 1-6, KJV: 1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. 2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. 4 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. 5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Hebrews 12: 3-8, KJV: 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. 5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:32 PM, April 30, 2019 @ https://purepurposebook.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/setapart.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/29/2019) The Saved Are Numberless

A depiction of the sealed 144,000

Today, reply is on the number of those who will be saved by grace and taken up into heaven. The holy writings do not proclaim a total or specific number of sinners forgiven, of those who are the remnant from the Covenant of Moses, of those who are reconciled to GOD through Jesus Christ, of those who repent of their sins, or of those translated and otherwise taken up (e.g., Enoch, Moses, Elijah). In the same way the saved are not numbered, a number for those who lose their inheritance and welcome into the kingdom is not recorded. Even so, there are passages that developing and mature Christians are encouraged to consider prayerfully. For example, Jesus also used the following to warn those of the 12 tribes in permanent covenant as Jews who were not responding to the call of GOD delivered by his ministry. It is written: Matthew 22: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, 2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, 3 And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. 4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. 5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: 6 And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. 7 But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 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. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Truth is within you” (Level 7 with 36,919 points, a member since January 28, 2007) posted the following:

What did Jesus say about heaven and hell? What do you think this means?

Lord, will only a few people be saved? —Luke 13:23

But remember, some who are now last will be first. And some who think they are first will be last. —Luke 13:30

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. 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. For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22: 11-14, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); “I Never Knew You” (03/23/2018); Mankind's Priesthood in Heaven (02/16/2018); An Irreplaceable Nation State? (12/05/2016); Where Will Believers Go? (10/26/2016); A Perfected Body (03/09/2014); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013)

“Truth is within you”, consider the following that uses language from the vision of John in addition to the Gospel:

1. John 10: 14-17, KJV: 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

2. Revelation 1: 1-2, King James Version (KJV): 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Revelation 7: 1-10, KJV: 1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3 Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 5 Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. 6 Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nephthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. 7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. 8 Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand. 9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; 10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:28 PM, April 28, 2019 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aZ6FL_DKR20/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/28/2019) Accounts To Reveal Divinity

Today, reply is on recognizing the spiritual themes provided by the ministry of Jesus Christ that appear within most Bible accounts. Always uppermost are such content as sinners receiving rebirth whereby they will exist as children of GOD and joint heirs with Jesus Christ; the Incarnation of divinity; the permanent change and transformation of mankind to be life companions of immortal, incorruptible divinity; believers displaying the character, nature and substance of Jesus (we say, Christ-likeness); final judgment; the resurrection of Jesus following his death on the cross; and eternal life. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Why did Jesus tell Judas not to give money to poor people?

Mary took a litre of costly perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and dried them with her hair; the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.

Then Judas the Iscariot, one of his disciples, and the one who would betray him, said, "Why was this oil not sold for three hundred days' wages and given to the poor?"

Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me." John 12:5

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. (Romans 15: 4, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Is With Us (03/15/2019); Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); Not A Financial Transaction (01/28/2018); The Answer From GOD (05/19/2017); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); Warnings Against Forgetting GOD? (02/16/2017); Anointed, Consecrated and Installed (08/04/2016); The Practice of Forgiveness (07/03/2016); Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014)

“Anonymous”, there are multiple streams of sacred knowledge and eternal purpose that flow together in the single account of Jesus Christ being anointed by a woman while the Savior was a guest in the home of a Pharisee. The thinking of a developing believer must go beyond the elements that are carnal, material, and social. Insisting that the demands of covenant law be exalted, many of the Pharisees became expert advocates of “the law and the prophets” without acknowledging the Spirit of Prophecy (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Truth). The people were encouraged to be indifferent to the events, promises, and requirements recorded as prophecy. His coming death on the cross through crucifixion was increasingly a recurring theme of Jesus’ private discourse with his apostles; however, Christ continued to be constrained in how much he could say by the process of revelation that required discovery, gradual growth, and perception through operations by the Spirit. Acting to display love, and obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit, the woman correctly acknowledged Jesus to be Messiah and the One Sent from GOD to fulfill the Scriptures describing his death as the Lamb of Sacrifice. The primary goal and objective of Christ appearing was not a deliverance of Israel from Roman culture, government, and politics like that provided to separate the 12 tribes from Egypt; nor was the Anointed One to usher in a new “golden age” wherein Israel would receive prosperity, riches and wealth. In the same way mortality and death are aspects of the life process for mankind, poverty is to continue as a challenge and condition that calls forth gratitude, humility, lovingkindness, respect to GOD, and unselfish service. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 16: 13-17, 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.

2. Luke 6: 30-38, KJV: 30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. 31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. 32 For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. 33 And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. 34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Luke 7: 44-50, KJV: 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:40 PM, April 27, 2019 @ http://keithburnettministries.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/alabaster-box.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/26/2019) The Penalty of Death?

A depiction of the Great White Throne Judgment (see image reference below)

Today, reply is on the listing of sins in the Bible that carry a death penalty, the final annihilation of sinners, and the elimination of sin accomplished as the second death. Death is now an aspect of the life process for men on the earth, and occurs as a condition of mortality. The second death is a divine response to permanently remove sin and sinners from the Creation of GOD. In accordance with sacred law observed among the Jews, Jesus Christ was accused and condemned of blasphemy by the High Priest of the Temple and the Sanhedrin court; Jesus was to be punished by those from the community who would gather to execute a penalty of stoning. Jesus violated no Roman law, yet, to preserve the integrity of Roman rule, the Governor, Pontius Pilate, insisted that the duty and privilege of imposing a death penalty belonged only to the secular Roman government, and the death of Jesus would have to be in the form of crucifixion. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

In the Bible, which offenses does it say shall be punished with death?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (Revelation 20: 4-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Solutions From GOD (04/03/2019); The Elimination of Death? (05/13/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Temporal and Eternal Judgment (02/15/2017); Making and Keeping Justice? (05/25/2017); Reflections on Existence (12/19/2016); The Death Penalty? (10/08/2015); The Death Penalty for Sins? (11/30/2014); A Dispensation To Benefit (12/01/2014)

“Anonymous”, the holy writings do not present a list of all the sins (transgressions of divine law) whereby offenders incur a death penalty so much as it establishes consciousness of the many principles believers are to acknowledge for continuing in relationship with divinity. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ often are surprised to find that completing their mortality by aging, becoming mature, and dying will continue as a life condition for mankind governed by patterns and sequences ruled by natural law, and includes having to acknowledge carnal, material, and social consequences to their own life choices and decisions. As part of their transformation from developing to mature Christians they will take on the sacred knowledge that enables believers to avoid the final penalty for sin proclaimed through final judgment and carried out by other sacred events that is called the second death. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

2. Galatians 5: 19-25, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Revelation 20: 11-15, KJV:  11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:52 PM, April 25, 2019 @ https://mustbebornagain.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/the-great-white-throne-judgement.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/25/2019) The Enemy Of Humanity?

Today, reply is on whether GOD is an enemy to mankind because divinity also administers sacred law, admonitions, correction, punishment, warnings, and descriptions of the future events, outcomes, and results of human choices and decisions that oppose the will of divine fullness. The eternal purpose of GOD proclaimed through his holy name is existence and life (we say, I AM); and it is by continuing in relationship with the active presence who is GOD the Creator that mankind is to have permanent direction, duration, and value. There are attentions and chastisements from GOD to reveal his character, nature, and substance. Created beings and living creatures apprehend their own identity and integrity of being where they receive fresh endowments of spirit matter from the makeup of divinity. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, and wisdom. It is written: Hebrews 12: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “STEVAN” (Level 1 with 25 points, a member since February 12, 2016) posted the following:

When is God planning to destroy the human race for a second time with fire. Surely he is the enemy of humanity with these constant threats?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (2^nd Corinthians 5: 7-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); His Enemies A Footstool (04/29/2018); Our Fitness To Continue? (12/24/2017); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016); By Law and Relationships (04/05/2016); An Attack on Creation? (12/08/2012); The Focus of Judgment? (12/09/2012)

“STEVAN”, because divinity is invisible, unseen spirit, GOD uses many carnal, material, social, and spiritual tools that are graphic and memorable to impress the hearts and minds of the living. Included are admonitions, cautions, death, and prophetic demonstrations. GOD is not a malicious destroyer who has set out to harass and heap scorn upon the created beings and living creatures within his universe. The eternal and unchanging purpose demonstrated and revealed by divinity is that there be existence and life. At some point in their becoming “born again” and “growing up again” to display genuine maturity, repenting sinners who become developing Christian believers acknowledge that they themselves also have received guidance and instruction from divinity whereby they clearly realize the excellence of sacred knowledge over secular knowledge, the higher value of sacred events (miracles) and sacred practices (sacraments) as well as the true integrity and righteousness of GOD. A child whose father repeats a warning about leaving their basketball, the bicycle, the football, or the skateboard in the drive way, might complain to their peers and playmates that their own father is threatening to junk all their stuff! Sadly, it may turn out that mom is the one who finally crushes their belongings, and must go through the expense and humiliation of accounting for an error with the auto insurance adjuster. Yes, where we seek to continue in a right relationship with divinity, there are issues of obedience, privilege, respect, and understanding. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

2. Ezekiel 18: 26-32, KJV: 26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. 28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal? 30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. 31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? 32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.

3. Luke 12: 32, KJV: 32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

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.

Image downloaded 12:07 PM, April 25, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/236x/31/9f/46/319f46b13539ea90ffe96da5357bf01b.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/24/2019) Moses Was Not Divine

A depiction of Moses allowed to view, yet, not set foot on the land promised to Abraham (see image reference below)

Today, reply is on the humanity of Moses, and his error that resulted in the prophet not being allowed to enter the Promised Land. Moses did not part the Red Sea; that was an act of GOD performed to make visible divine prerogative, eternal purpose, grace, and the sovereign will of GOD. As a prophet and spokesperson sent from GOD, Moses and the tables of stone were to serve as divinely appointed emblems (like a police officer’s badge), credible witnesses to the active presence who is divinity, and enduring tools to discern the workings of GOD’s authority and dominion. Mankind’s anger, bitterness, and rage against one another along with the unwillingness to forgive or be in reconciliation are not the same as divine wrath against sin; and it is not correct that men express the wrath of GOD against sin during human tribunals for judgment. The divine process of assigning value, determining continuity and duration, and providing correction within ongoing relationships demands attention to detail, balance, completeness, impartiality, mercy, and righteousness. The two stone tablets whereon the finger of GOD had recorded the covenant law for Israel were destroyed by Moses to declare the unworthiness of Jacob and the mixed multitude to receive divine gifts as well as to punish Israel, yet, was no more than a another human act of temper, violence, and self-will. It is written: Romans 10: 2-4, King James Version (KJV): 2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

If Moses could part the Red Sea, why couldn't he make the stone tablets without breaking the first set?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. (John 1: 17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Divinity of Peter? (01/21/2019); Lost For 40 Years? (09/17/2018); Judgment Against The Canaanites (08/01/2018); What Would Moses Say? (10/27/2017); The Generation That Wandered (06/14/2017); Divine Law Expresses Love (05/10/2017); The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014)

“Anonymous”, because GOD is an immortal, incorruptible, invisible spirit, the Creator has used many different carnal, material and social devices that can be recognized and understood by created beings and living creatures to make divinity knowable, accessible, and approachable. In addition to spirit beings and divine process (e.g., angels, prophetic dreams, visions), GOD has used specially selected and prepared human agents and operations. Included have been Adam, the Patriarchs, judges, kings, priests, and prophets as well as birth, family, government, and inheritance.

Moses was selected to serve as a visible, human spokesperson for unseen divinity. The personhood of Moses was not divine or perfected; however, his character and nature were pliable and responsive to divine fullness (the holy writings say, Moses was meek and teachable above all the men on the earth). Moses received important benefits and instruction that would fit him for leadership of the sons of Jacob while growing up within the household of Pharaoh; however there, Moses also was continually exposed to the arrogance, idolatry, exaggerated pride, and spiritual confusion that dominated the then-known-world through Egypt. During the time of famine, the Egyptian people sold their livestock, their land, and even themselves to Pharaoh. When they became the “private property” of Pharaoh, they also lost all possibility of their own family inheritances.

The authentic humanity of Moses is seen in his responses to the opposition he was shown by those who left Egypt at his urging. His authority and integrity were repeatedly challenged. Moses failed to maintain humility and self-restraint on more than one occasion. When Moses intervened between an Egyptian and a Hebrew in a dispute, the outcome was after the example of Cain, who killed his brother Abel. When commanded to call forth water from a rock, Moses lost his temper, and expressed his anger and disgust with the people. Although he had served GOD for 40 years living among the Hebrews as a nomad, Moses (and more than ½ million others numbered as the army of Israel) would be denied the privilege of setting foot within the land of Canaan. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Numbers 12: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman. 2 And they said, Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the LORD heard it. 3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.) 4 And the LORD spake suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out. 5 And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth. 6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream. 7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. 8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

9 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed.

2. Numbers 14: 26-31, KJV: 26 And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying, 27 How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against me. 28 Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: 29 Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward which have murmured against me. 30 Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. 31 But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised.

3. Numbers 20: 7-12, KJV: 7 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

8 Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

9 And Moses took the rod from before the Lord, as he commanded him. 10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. 12 And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.

4. Deuteronomy 32: 48-52, KJV: 48 And the LORD spake unto Moses that selfsame day, saying, 49 Get thee up into this mountain Abarim, unto mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab, that is over against Jericho; and behold the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel for a possession: 50 And die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people; as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and was gathered unto his people: 51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of MeribahKadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel. 52 Yet thou shalt see the land before thee; but thou shalt not go thither unto the land which I give the children of Israel.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. James 1: 19-21, KJV: 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:48 AM, April 24, 2019 @ https://www.bible-history.com/biblestudy/arkofthecovenant/moses-on-mtnebo-640.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/23/2019) The Name "Resurrection Sunday"

Today, reply is on the use of “Resurrection Sunday” and similar labels to replace “Easter”. Many feel the use of “Easter” is a comfortable tradition; however, the church of Jesus Christ also is to acknowledge admonitions, guidance and principles that speak against indulging custom, fashion and novelty such as the following: Matthew 15: 8-10, King James Version (KJV): 8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

Christians, do you think we should change Eater name to Resurrection day?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. (Daniel 12: 1-3, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: “I Am The Resurrection” (03/25/2018); Why An Easter Season? (04/19/2017); Chocolate Bunnies! Easter Eggs! (04/18/2017); Resurrected With The Lord (04/16/2017); The Cross and Resurrection Sunday? (03/16/2016); The Resurrection of Jesus Acknowledged? (04/03/2015); Resurrection from the Dead? (04/23/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); Are Holidays Bad? (11/16/2013); Denying GOD by Eating Shrimp? (11/17/2013)

“Anonymous”, many developing Christians are now using the label “Resurrection Sunday” when speaking of the observances and worship activities related to the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, his being raised from the dead, and other sacred events that include his ascension into heaven. Mature Christian believers often continue the use of “Easter” in the understanding that focus must be on the spirit substance from the makeup of divinity residing within events, within oneself and others, within ones practices, and within ones utterances. All believers are cautioned to be vigilant against the spiritual confusion that sometimes arises by discussion of the first and second resurrection for the final judgments of mankind, and of becoming joined to divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) by the resurrection of Jesus (we say, the new life; the new creation). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Acts 12: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. 5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

2. 2^nd Corinthians 3: 4-6, KJV: 4 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; 6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

3. Acts 24: 14-16, KJV: 14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: 15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

4. 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.

5. Philippians 3: 7-14, KJV: 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. 12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. Revelation 20: 4-6, KJV: 4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:06 AM, April 23, 2019 @ https://twitter.com/johnmrutter

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/22/2019) Divine Purposes Are Unchanging

Today, reply is on why congregations among Christian churches might consider making changes to their policies on same-sex marriage. The understanding that the church must address the concerns and needs of the community of faith as their servant, rather than the people be a servant to the church is taken to be a major principle taught by Jesus Christ. The church is to listen and respond, where legislators and the courts are deaf and inactive. It is written: Matthew 20: 25-28, King James Version (KJV): 25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Also, John 15: 12-13, KJV: 12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. To lay down ones life for a friend is not so much to die as to be a living sacrifice who yields ones own desire, opinion and self-will to provide benefit, and unselfishly carry out the will of another. In a word, we say, “to love” where love is displayed through accountability, balance, commitment, gratitude, respect and truth. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

Why are Methodists debating same-sex marriage? That should be a no brainier?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. (1^st Corinthians 14: 33, King James Version (KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Reasoning Together With GOD?(03/11/2019); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); That GOD Is Immutable (05/04/2017); Thoughts on Sexual Relationships (03/07/2017); The Cross Condemns Fornication (05/20/2016); Answered by The Cross? (03/14/2016); Bad GOD, Good GOD? (01/03/2016); The Male, the Female, and GOD (02/09/2014); Destroying the Resurrected Body? (02/10/2014)

“Anonymous”, among those who now account themselves to be followers of Jesus Christ there are many differences in levels of commitment, knowledge, maturity, respect, and zeal. There is confusion of human appetite, desire, emotion, and sensation as the origin for ones actions and choices, rather than divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Seeking to address the full person and their various needs, the church often operates as an institution having multiple goals and practices that go beyond promoting rebirth, salvation, and spiritual growth, and that expresses greater concern for things having a character and nature that is carnal, material, political, psychological, and social. Efforts to suppress superstition, and demystify practice and worship have led to eliminating many ceremonies and formal standards (e.g., dress codes; speaking within the sanctuary; weekend grocery shopping); and many congregations no longer promote the truth that GOD is a spirit. The process and purpose wherein the male and female should populate the entire earth through the flesh in obedience to the spirit is no longer thought the only response men and women should pursue (e.g., there are donating sperm; surrogate services; the freezing, storage and thawing of ones own eggs for later in vitro fertilization (IVF) ). The makeup and substance of mankind once imparted to Adam from GOD is neither clearly displayed, nor correctly discerned to be the same indwelling endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word). Through the ministry of Jesus Christ, sinners who return to GOD in repentance are to receive fresh deposits of the inseparable aspects of divine fullness that include faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

The human process we acknowledge as natural, normal, and ordinary tends to install as values within the church elements such as ceremony, habit, human rights, and tradition in place of strict discipline, sacred doctrine, and godliness. As a result, errors may be found such as (1) GOD no longer pursues the purposes declared through Creation; (2) there can be no direct communication, exchange and interaction between GOD and human beings; (3) mankind will use education and science to escape the condition that resulted from the fall of Adam and Eve; (4) the Bible and ancient holy writings are no longer valid, because divine truth is ever-changing, expanding, and progressing; (5) GOD wants mankind to have freedom and to enjoy whatsoever they may desire; and (6) GOD wants the children of men to control and possess the earth, not merely manage and supervise the earth. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Numbers 23: 19, King James Version (KJV): 19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

2. Isaiah 55: 10-11, KJV: 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

3. Isaiah 45: 17-19, KJV: 17 But Israel shall be saved in the LORD with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. 18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else. 19 I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the LORD speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Hebrews 13: 8, KJV: 8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:56 AM, April 21, 2019 @ https://williamoconnor.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/confusion.png

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC