(06/20/2019) Why Jesus Comes Back

Today, reply is on why politics, errors among Christian believers, and issues of American government are not the reasons Jesus Christ will return to the earth. The promises of GOD and published prophecy will not be erased, and will not remain unfulfilled. The kingdom of GOD is a monarchy having a single, ruler as sovereign over all. Those who belong to Jesus Christ through operations of sacred truth and Spirit acknowledge that influence and process within the kingdom of GOD are very different than that for America, and the many other modern nation states. The makeup and operations of divinity are such that even present day followers of Jesus may be certain of commanded expectations (we say, hope), divine law, outcomes in tribunals of judgment, sacred proclamations, promises, prophesies, eternal purpose, revelation, and the inseparable aspects of Spirit now residing within mankind imparted from the GODhead. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 4: 17-18, King James Version (KJV): 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Duck” (Level 7 with 45,233 points, a member since July 28, 2010) posted the following:

Does Jesus need to come back to set His followers right, so they'll stop supporting people like Trump?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 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. 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. 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. (Revelation 21: 1-5, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); Recognizing The End Times (04/16/2019); His Words About Returning (12/02/2018); Preparing For The Rapture (11/09/2018); A Short Time Left (10/30/2018); Proper Training For Belief? (01/10/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); Installing The New President (01/20/2017); Storms to Punish America? (09/08/2017)

“Duck”, developing and mature Christian believers are encouraged to maintain godly lifestyles and daily routines that will be acceptable to Jesus Christ whenever he might return to harvest the earth (we say, Advent; the Rapture; the soon coming; the Second Coming). No exact day or hour of his coming has been provided; however, it has already been proclaimed and recorded within the holy writings that Jesus definitely will return to receive to himself all those past and present (i.e., from the time of Adam to modern times), who belong to GOD through the ministries of Jesus on the earth, and from the heaven. The familiar crises and tragic events that appear among nations (e.g., financial collapse; global warming; weather emergencies; nuclear warfare) can neither delay, nor trigger the sacred events that are to fulfill divine prerogative, final judgment, sacred promise, prophesy, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. In this sense, the future for Christians is already set; and believers who are the new creation of Jesus Christ should entertain no fears because of democracy as a form of government; the continuing conflicts of political theory, ethical behavior, and party power that exist among American elected officials; or even the admonitions and warnings concerning End Time themes such as the appearance of false prophets, Satan, and the Antichrist. Consider the following assurances that use language from the Bible:

1. Daniel 7: 13-14, King James Version (KJV): 13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

2. 1^st John 4: 1-6, 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.

3. Revelation 14: 14-16, KJV: 14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.

4. Revelation 20: 9-15, KJV: 9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. 10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:03 PM, June 19, 2019 @ https://www.messagemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/sickle-and-grain.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(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

(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

(05/11/2017) Incarnate, GOD May Die

Today, points on the importance of divine truth and Christian conversation are shared.  As never before, Christian believers are to practice and maintain restraint and spiritual self-discipline to respond to challenges and confrontations from those who want to openly deny Christ, and boldly express malice toward the Savior.  Even within our assemblies, congregations, and communities of faith, there are such persons increasingly desperate for comfort, sacred knowledge, and saving truth.  Without making angry responses, cutting remarks, and counter attack, mature believers will carefully share the same truth they themselves acknowledge as sent forth from GOD.  Only thereby will the Son of GOD come into understanding as a sacrifice and a required aspect of atonement and remission for sin on the basis of supernal perfection, eternal purpose, and unseen sacred operations, rather than because of his form or substance as flesh and blood.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Michael Vicks Dog” (Level 6 with 11,649 points, a member since June 06, 2016) posted the following:


If god is Jesus, and they are both immortal, how the hell was Jesus pretending to die a sacrifice? Was it because there was a little booboo?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.  But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.  This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.  For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.  But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.  And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.  (James 3:  13-18, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Nature of Death (04/25/2017); Hope That Is True (02/20/2017); On Really Seeing Angels (10/09/2016); True and Living GOD (08/03/2016); Guided By Divine Truth (06/20/2016); On Transmitting Sacred Truth (05/06/2016); The Holy Spirit and Unity? (08/13/2015)


“Michael Vicks Dog”, the haughtiness and lack of respect in the way you have worded your statement indicates you are not willing to respond to instruction from the Holy Spirit, therefore, this reply is being posted less for you, and more on behalf of those readers who want an honest response that would meet the standards set for Christian believers:

The imperatives dictated by the existence of divinity (we also say, law, divine order, preconditions) are simple, yet, profound.  The operations for duration as immortal, incorruptible, and invisible are different in many ways from those critical to appearing in flesh (we say, incarnation).  When Deity appears using human form, divinity must operate acknowledging frameworks of time and space, natural law, recurring cycles, and ongoing relationship that demand communication, exchange and interaction.  While GOD must operate using distance and separation to assert authority, preeminence and sovereignty, there are multiple indications of divine acceptance and favor.  Included are atonement, correction, forbearance, forgiveness, healing, longsuffering, lovingkindness, grace, mercy, sacred events (we say, miracles), promise, prophecy, and sanctification.

In the system of Christian belief, divinity is the primary origin and source for all the assumptions, principles, precepts, propositions and essential purposes that supply meaning and value.  Both “actuality” and “possibility” are essential to the necessary fullness of truth pertaining to divinity, and to the godliness that may be displayed by created beings and living creatures.  Saying this another way:  The continuum of truth embraces the word originally breathed from GOD as having completed and fulfilled the eternal purposes whereunto it has been sent as well as the word continuing to have active presence within the various spheres of life, and to be now in process for future harvest and resolution (we say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  The persons of the GODhead (Father, Son, the Holy Spirit) are not the sources of disbelief and doubt that oppose Christianity.  Consider again the following using language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Corinthians 2:  11-14, King James Version (KJV):  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.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 12:  3-5, KJV:  3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed:  and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.  4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.  5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.  6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

(3.)  1st John 2:  21-23, KJV:  21 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.  22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.  23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father:  [but] he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.

(4.)  2nd John 1:  7, KJV:  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.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, 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.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/30/2015) Martyrdom and Tribulation?

Scripture points on the danger in confessing Jesus Christ during the end times are considered, today.  What we call persecution, suffering and tribulation are more correctly understood as the continuing condition that describes life for all followers of Jesus Christ.  In the same way, conditions pre-exist before the birth of every child that appear as the fixed framework, limit and mold for their development and growth, the sacred process that believers must complete for eternal life includes what we call the “trial by fire” in the end times.  The judgment of GOD that focuses upon good works accomplished during a person’s lifetime occurs after the second death that destroys the wicked, and is only for those who have been made immortal and incorruptible at the Second Coming of Jesus to harvest the earth.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (the usual profile information not shared) posted the following:


Christians: if you get killed for confessing Jesus will you go to heaven?

Like if an antichrist decides to imprison and kill Christians,will the dead Christian automatically go to heaven just for dying for Jesus


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For other foundation can no man lay than that that is laid, which is in Christ Jesus.  Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;  Every man’s work shall be made manifest:  for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every an man’s work of what sort it is.  If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss:  but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.  (1st Corinthians 3:  11-15, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  That GOD Is Faithful? (08/31/2015); The Endtime and Fear? (01/14/2015); Denying Oneself (05/17/2014); From Such Turn Away (05/18/2014); To Live As a Sacrifice (03/08/2014); A Perfected Body (03/09/2014); Death Has Been Transformed (05/09/2013); Loving the Enemy? (05/10/2013); (Struggling? (05/11/2013); (Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


“Anonymous”, completing our mortality, enduring suffering or surviving tribulation are not enough to establish the necessary relationship to divinity that will continue as eternal life.  The believer must become reborn having the Spirit of Christ, and become perfected (we also say, made ripe for harvest at the coming of the Lord) through operations of the Holy Spirit.  Thus, salvation for mankind comes only by the operations of GOD through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit (we say, by grace, through faith).  A believer’s obedience to divine law, prayer life, sacred knowledge from study of the Bible, spiritual observances, sacred practices, and charitable works have value as expressions that crystallize and make visible to others the new life a believer has begun through divine rebirth, and sanctification that may take all the remaining years of their life upon the earth.  The work to endure performed by those in the flock of the Lord entails accomplishing commitment, dutifulness, faithfulness, hearing his voice, loyal love, and steadfastness.  Here are a few points to consider from the holy writings:

(1.)  John 17:  19-23, King James Version (KJV):  19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

(2.)  Matthew 24:  11-14, KJV:  11 And many false prophets shall arise and deceive many.  12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.  13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.  14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

(3.)  Mark 13:  9-13, KJV:  9 But take heed to yourselves:  for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten:  and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them.  10 And the gospel must first be published among all nations.  11 But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought before hand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate:  but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye:  for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.  12  Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.  13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake:  but he that shall endure, the same shall be saved.

(4.)  Matthew 5:  10-12, KJV:  10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake:  for their’s is the kingdom of heaven.  11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.  12 Rejoice and be exceeding glad:  for great is your reward in heaven:  for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Revelation 14:  12-16, KJV:  12 Here is the patience of the saints:  here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.  13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth:  Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.  14 And I looked and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.  15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap:  for the time of  is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.  16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/14/2015) Those Having the True Secrets?

Today, some points are shared on divine order within the household of faith, and why sacred knowledge would be withheld from non-clergy.  Even now, in many parts of the world, the church endures life and death persecution.  Secrecy may be necessary for survival, and is not for accomplishing criminal behavior and malicious works.  Members must be careful how they affiliate themselves to those outside the fellowship; and must be alert and prayerful as they exchange and interact with others.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Catherine Tanya Geer” (Level 2 with 299 points, a member since November 14, 2014) posted the following:


Do you think Ministers and Rabbi's have the true religious secrets and CHOOSE not to reveal them?

Would it be due to fear or selfishness?


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


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  To Drink Holy Blood? (02/16/2015); On Saying the Truth? (12/18/2014); What is Truth? (12/19/2014); Harden Not Your Hearts? (09/08/2014); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); A Pillar and Ground? (04/13/2014); Palm Sunday (04/14/2014); A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013); Faith, Language and “Mystery” (04/11/2013); Why "Mysterious" (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012)


“Catherine Tanya Geer”, here are a few points shared among Christian believers to maintain correct order within the church.  Many are called, few are chosen.  The cautions made against false prophets also applies to counterfeit believers.  The sacred community prospers by holding to peculiar disciplines, practices and principles that have been tried and tested over centuries:

(1.)  Matthew 7:  6, KJV:  6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

(2.)  1st John 4:  1-3, KJV:  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.

(3.)  James 1:  16-17, KJV:  16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.  17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

(4.)  Matthew 7:  13-17, KJV:  13 Enter ye in at the strait gate:  for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.  15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?  17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

(5.)  1st Timothy 5:  18-20, KJV:  18 For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.  19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.  20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

(6.)  1st Peter 4:  9-11, KJV:  9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.  10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.  11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth:  that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

As usual, there is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.)  Because they serve as spokespersons for divinity, clergy all are held to strict accountability.  Consider again:  Matthew 12:  36-37, KJV:  36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.  37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/25/2014) The Gift of Meekness

Divine gifts for a mature human understanding of divinity are the topic, today, specifically meekness.  A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Halbhh” (Level 4 with 4,706 points, a member since January 24, 2012) posted the following:


Help I don't understand metaphors or allegories at all, and I have a big urge to satire Bible stories?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the LORD come upon you, before the day of the LORD’s anger come upon you.  Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness:  it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’s anger.  For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation:  they shall drive out Ashdod at the noon day, and Ekron shall be rooted up.  (Zephaniah 2:  2-4, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); How To Love GOD? (03/24/2013); A Second Adam? (03/25/2013); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013); The Meek Will Inherit (10/16/2012)


“Halbhh”, it does require that you have maturity and self-mastery, because the first commitment you must make is that of agreeing to learn.  Here are a few points to consider that have been helpful to many Christian believers:

(1.)  In baptism (death of ones inborn spirit along with spirit rebirth from substance imparted by GOD), believers are “born again,” and must “grow up” again, encountering growing pains and the same life challenges as all others upon the earth.  In the same way you probably began speaking to your parents without knowing “mama” or “dada”, and had to develop understanding over time, believers all must begin to apprehend the things from GOD little by little.

(2.)  Sacred knowledge from the holy writings are only one source for being built up and increased by divinity.  There also should be fellowship with committed and experienced  believers, and ongoing sacred practice (i.e., observing peculiar disciplines such as confession, giving, prayer) and unselfish service.

(3.)  Where mockers and scoffers operate in ignorance (a condition of finite intelligence, or the lack of right knowledge and information), they are to be pitied, encouraged and ministered to, for such persons are yet teachable.  However, where bitterness and a spirit of antichrist prevail, direct operations of the Holy Spirit must occur, for the unbeliever may already be fixed and sealed in divine condemnation.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Many believers are excited about receiving divine gifts such as healing, or speaking in tongues, and may overlook specifically petitioning and praying for meekness.  Meekness is the ability to learn from and respond to operations and promptings by the indwelling spirit from GOD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/13/2014) Light Is Come Into the World

Today, more is presented on realizing and responding to the reality of sin, wickedness, and salvation by belief in Jesus Christ.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Why Believe? (11/12/2014)


Romans 3:  3, KJV—For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?


John 5:  44, KJV—How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?


Isaiah 47:  10-11, KJV—For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness:  thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me.  11 Therefore shall evil come upon thee; thou shalt not know from whence it riseth:  and mischief shall fall upon thee; thou shalt not be able to put it off:  and desolation shall come upon thee suddenly, which thou shalt not know.


Proverbs 4:  14-19, KJV—Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.  15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.  16 For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.  17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.  18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.  19 The way of the wicked is as darkness:  they know not at what they stumble.


Matthew 7:  13-14, KJV—Enter ye in at the strait gate:  for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.


Romans 8:  1-9, KJV—There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.


John 1:  11-13, KJV—He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.


John 3:  17-19, KJV—For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.  18 He that believeth on him is not condemned:  but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.


1st John 1:  5-10, KJV—This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:  7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.  8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.


1st John 4:  1-3, KJV—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.


1st Peter 1:  18-23, KJV—Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.  22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:  23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.


Romans 8:  31-39, KJV—What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?  33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.  34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.  35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.  37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.  38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,  39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC