(12/21/2020) Recognizing Authentic Christian Believers

 

Both believers and skeptics have been known to approach even those who are long-time Christian believers demanding, “Show me some ID.” Attitudes, social behavior, obeying sacred law, and good works from an individual will change according to events and as expressions of the flesh (e.g., appetite, sensation, emotions/mind). Such measures are unpredictable and unstable, will not be consistent over time, and are not reliable as gauges of sacred content. Displays of spiritual gifts (e.g., healing; prophesying; speaking in tongues) are more to make the divine presence known and visible, and are not intended to point out those who are and ar not believers, or those having favor with GOD against those who do not. Because there must be discernment that comes only by the Spirit of GOD, many who are not themselves Christians find it difficult to correctly recognize and respond to others who are authentic Christian believers. Development, growth, and sacred practices established by the Holy Spirit must appear within the ongoing lifestyle and daily routine of every sinner who turns to Jesus Christ for redemption, lasting change, and salvation. Even so, a sinner who begins as a Christian believer today is to be regarded as a member of the family of GOD, however, they may require twenty or thirty years to become a balanced, consistent, full, and mature disciple and follower of Christ as the one and only Savior, and they will not become immortal and completely perfected until the Second Coming of Jesus. Water baptism is a sacred ceremony shared by mankind to acknowledge that divinity is now performing unseen acts within the body, consciousness, and spirit of a sinner whereby they receive the death, burial, and resurrection of their inborn spirit. A sinner who is reborn is a vessel containing divine DNA, so to speak, and is an offspring of GOD who receives “new life” through continuing operations of the Holy Spirit that impart a fresh endowment of sacred substance from the makeup of GOD. It is written: Romans 6: 3-11, King James Version (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. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Forest Toney” (Level 7 with 80,205 points) posted the following:

I can't find any so called Christian who is obeying all of Jesus' saying , so can you do it?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? (2^nd Corinthians 13: 4-6, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Casting Pearls Before Swine? (12/17/2020); The Device of Inheritance (12/01/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Do We Follow Paul? (10/01/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); The “Perfection” Of Baptism (11/17/2019)

“Forest Toney”, at first, most sinners who embrace Christian belief become misdirected in their search for salvation by focusing on legal codes, finite human institutions, religious traditions, and their own wrong-doing, rather than by being careful to develop a right relationship with divinity through Jesus Christ. Sound knowledge of Christ focuses on his character, his ministry, his practices, his teachings, and the makeup of his Spirit that is to be imparted from the substance of GOD. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are to be received that include balance, commitment, maturity, restraint, and stability. Faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin must appear. Those who become “born again” also must “grow up again” for what we may receive before the actual Second Coming of Christ is only an earnest or “partial payment” of all those on the earth will eventually receive. Every new believer must become transformed to exist as a life companion to divinity who resembles, reflects, and reveals the likeness of Jesus. This occurs through operations of the Holy Spirit that are embedded within ones life-process and daily routing. Included are such elements as discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice of sacred works (e.g., discernment, praise, prayer, repentance), study of the holy writings, and suffering. Discernment is a use of ones own sacred content to identify and respond to the endowments from divinity that reside within events, sacred messages, other persons, prophecies, the Scriptures, etc.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, using language from the Bible: 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 2:05 PM, December 20, 2020 @ https://sd.keepcalms.com/i/saved-by-grace-through-faith-ephesians-28-3.png

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/08/2020) Appeals Directed to Spirit

Today, I share a statement on Spirit as the process and substance for the divine conversion, salvation, and transformation of mankind. It is not that churchmen and clergy attempt to “dumb it down” or understate the lofty discourse and themes from GOD that pertain to the new life-process provided through Jesus Christ. Where there is a lack of vision or a poverty of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of divinity, believers repeatedly rely on such elements as accusing one another, complaining, debate, gossip, name-calling, pointing the finger, and slander. Properly understood, the process of GOD is one where divinity makes appeals to the spirit in mankind, rather than simply to human flesh. The flesh is not just the physical limbs, organs, and tissues that are the material body; and it is the flesh that is subject to the operations of sin. The flesh brings together aspects of human form and mind such as appetites, attitudes, dreams, emotions, habits, intentions, memories, motives, preferences, sensations, and thoughts. It is written: Galatians 5: 19-25, King James Version (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.

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirits Are Subject (10/28/2020); Awe Confused With Fear? (10/12/2020); Our Desires Are Weighed (09/01/2020); Always Connected By Spirit (08/30/2020); Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); The Outcomes Of Judgment (06/28/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020)

Many in the church founded by Jesus Christ continue to use language to speak of divinity that describes GOD as no more than an unseen person who practices and displays the same emotional, psychological, and social needs as other men. For mature Christian believers, the processes of conversion, salvation, and transformation are discerned and recognized through sacred events wherein divinity communicates with mankind and becomes embodied within created beings and living creatures on the earth through spirit process and spirit substance from the heavens. Multiple operations by divinity that include immaterial, intangible, and invisible aspects of finite human existence and life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) are required that become manifest and present through sacred law, judgment, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Believers are to realize that frameworks and structures for sacred knowledge are being provided from GOD that are simple yet profound, and that go beyond appeals to elements of the flesh and mind such as appetite, curiosity, emotion, imagination, intellect, logic, sensation, and superstition. The spirit in mankind must be addressed by the spirit that abides within divinity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Sandi Patty:

(1.) Isaiah 66: 1-4, King James Version (KJV): 1 Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? 2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. 3 He that killeth an ox is as if he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, as if he cut off a dog’s neck; he that offereth an oblation, as if he offered swine’s blood; he that burneth incense, as if he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations. 4 I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 12: 3, 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.

(3.) Revelation 3: 20-21, KJV: 20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) There is a Saviour by Sandi Patty @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9qTQfuiqpg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:25 AM, November 08, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3b/12/25/3b1225e7783c08af27c1a35438a131fe.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/07/2020) Chosen Because Already Committed

A depiction of the Angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she is to be the mother of Jesus

Today, reply is on whether the Virgin Mary was free to refuse carrying out the will of GOD, and could quarrel against the Angel Gabriel who announced to her that she was chosen by divinity to become the mother of Jesus. The visitation she received was in the nature of a sovereign proclamation to publish a royal decision, rather than a request for acceptance and accord, or a secret communication intended to preserve confidentiality and trust. The purpose of the visit to Mary was not the foretelling of future events or an occasion for her to worship an angel so much as the making visible of otherwise invisible and unseen divine purposes. There would be no question and answer sessions; and the young woman would have to develop her understanding through such tools as discovery, gradual growth, edification by the Spirit, study of the holy writings, and suffering. Mary was raised as one dedicated, sanctified, and set apart for divine service. Her lifestyle and daily routines would encourage no defiance, no hesitation to serve, and no rebellion. She was chosen to serve because she was both committed and prepared. It is written: Luke 1: 28-35, King James Version (KJV): 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

What if Mary had said "No thanks" to the angel?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4: 3-7, KJV)

DOUBLE DAGGER: Angels Appearing As Men (04/09/2020); Divinity and Human Reproduction (11/08/2019); The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Mary and Joseph Followed (11/28/2018); Jacob Wrestled With GOD? (09/26/2018); Doctrine, Faith and Mary? (09/01/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016)

“Anonymous”, the Annunciation should be accepted as another important aspect of full gospel truth. Christian believers have found that conjecture and speculation that contradict Bible truth often generates confusion and does not edify or increase their spiritual growth. Mary was chosen to serve as the female vessel for the birth of Jesus because she was sanctified and connected to GOD through her faith. Mary’s responses to angelic visitation flowed from her inner spirit that had been nurtured and prepared to unselfishly serve and exalt Almighty GOD. The divine process and substance of such sacred events center in the message, and not in the appearance or manner of the messenger. The one who receives a divine communication has understanding of the event by exercising discernment. Only through operations by the Holy Spirit are the authority, origin, source, value, and weight of the message established and proclaimed as authentic expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, prophetic revelation, and the sovereign will of GOD. The frameworks of divine law, covenant relationship, redemption and salvation are correctly understood as the context wherein the message must fit, more than the frameworks of politics, secular knowledge or time and space. As servants who also carry out and perform aspects of the divine will that include judgment, angels are privileged to use admonition, sharpness, and warnings even when dealing with those beloved and blessed of GOD. Because matters having eternal consequences and effects are involved, the messenger expects and requires displays and responses of accountability, gravity, maturity, and sobriety. The angels are to tolerate no challenges, impropriety, presumption, or skepticism. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible describing the birth of John the Baptist, and a selection from the music ministry of the Pro Musica Girl’s Choir from Hungary acknowledging the Angelus that was offered as daily prayer by Catholic believers:

(1.) Joshua 5: 13-15, King James Version (KJV): 13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my LORD unto his servant? 15 And the captain of the LORD’s host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.

(2.) Luke 1: 9-20, KJV: 9 According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

(3.) Luke 1: 59-66, KJV: 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

(4.) Luke 1: 67-79, KJV: 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;  70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLN0d5BuUaMYlRM-Z4tim65s&index=4&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:23 PM, September 07, 2020 @ https://billditewig.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/annunciation.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/30/2020) Always Connected By Spirit

Today, focus is on the content and process of the church founded by Jesus Christ that now is to be continuing on the earth as a spiritual body, rather than as a man-made institution fashioned to secure human prosperity and well-being. All Christians are connected wherever they are located within the frameworks of time and space. Because the church has been fashioned to reflect the image of GOD and properties of the Holy Spirit, the church is more than merely a local organization. Those who now become saved also become celestial, eternal, individual, indivisible, international, virtual congregants, and those knowing Christ in the life through multiple denominations. Even so, just as Jesus prophesied, as a Christian believer who acknowledges an eternal connection to divinity through Jesus Christ, my friendship, spiritual gifts, sacred knowledge, my willingness to learn, my willingness to serve, my willingness to share, my willingness to teach, and even my love have been unwelcome among many other believers. Included have been fellow Americans, family, former schoolmates, neighbors, and those in other nations. To me having a commitment to Christ has not meant being a member in a church community that has a rich and respected patriotic, racial, or social history. Belonging to a local congregation, and becoming prominent through my financial donations or serving in many important and needed roles has not been meaningful for me. The spiritual transformation sinners are to seek from GOD requires repentance and permanent change of ones consciousness and self-will that result by workings of divinity. Despite speaking of law and social justice, often issues of our flesh and protests within the community where the church is placed (i.e. the world) such as BLACK LIVES MATTER (BLM) can be distractions and sources for error and spiritual confusion. The challenge of Christ to me has been to operate as the Savior does within the divine fullness (i.e., the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). While yet on the earth, I am to display the consecrated spirit of oneness without sameness that is inseparable from the other aspects of divine makeup that are imparted to mankind as the breath of life. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. In the holy writings, that one spirit is also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, a spirit of judgment and burning, and the Spirit of Truth. It is written: Mark 6: 3-5: King James Version (KJV): 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.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 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. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (1^st John 1: 5-8, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: He Commanded Our Fathers (08/09/2020); Pure Religion And Undefiled (08/07/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Uniting In The Struggle (06/17/2020); White People Becoming Atheists? (10/03/2019); Catholic and Protestant Bibles? (10/11/2018); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017)

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, I responded to a clergyman who had written on the Internet that he is a “white Christian.” Using the technology that allows us to travel the globe in moments, I replied to him that such thinking placed a gulf between us: there are neither white nor black Christians, only “Christian Christians”. Many of the same persons who will agree that they have been created by one GOD also will argue their independence and separation from every other person created by GOD. Thus, I am impressed to say that commitment to share and work as a follower of Jesus Christ requires the practice of discernment to correctly acknowledge and respond to others who are authentic members of the Savior’s church and kingdom of GOD, rather than apostates, deceivers, heretics, slanderers, or counterfeit and unclean spirits. Even among the clergy, there now are many wolves in sheep-clothing. Believers are to recognize one another by the operations of the Holy Spirit, even where there are differences in age, ethnicity, formal education, gender, language, nationality, political affiliation, race, the practice of ceremonies, rituals, and sacraments as well as the possession of property and wealth. The Holy Spirit who is manifest in local COGIC (Church of God in Christ) congregations of Detroit (Michigan, America) is the same that must appear in cathedral worship at Protestant Canterbury (UK) and Catholic Sagrada Familia (Barcelona, Spain). Surely, every believer having a fresh endowment of the Spirit from GOD through Jesus Christ should find welcome within the gatherings for guidance, instruction, praise, and thanksgiving held among others naming Christ as their head. Most obstacles to godly communication can be reduced and removed through humility, meekness, and genuine reverence. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Acapeldridge:

(1.) Ephesians 4: 4-7, King James Version (KJV): 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

(2.) Romans 8: 35-39, KJV: 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.

(3.) Revelation 5: 9-10, KJV: 9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzVaX3wwUyE.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:48 PM, August 30, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/2c/13/1a/2c131a0735ec9f833f15280b8b9e92c4.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/28/2020) The Outcomes Of Judgment

Today, reply is on the practice of judgment among Christian believers and acknowledging the already revealed outcomes of divine judgment. Forgiveness is a gift of grace, not an outcome of judgment. Final judgment by divinity results in either eternal life or the second death. Even so, the work of Creation is guided and fulfilled through judgment, and the word of GOD continually operates as a tool for assessments and valuations. Christians are to receive the resurrection life bestowed upon Jesus Christ, and are to conduct themselves as those in the final stages of divine judgment. Properly understood, the benefits and privileges of judgment include admonition, correction, guidance in decision-making, the resolution of conflict, and the settlement of disputes by applying the conditions and sanctions declared within the law. Such judgment is not a sudden, unforeseen condemnation where the meaning and value for ones accountability, authority, merit, and presence are cut off and permanently denied. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 11: 31-32, King James Version (KJV): 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

God commands us to not judge others. Only God is the Judge. Christians, how will God punish you for being so judgemental towards atheists?

Updated 1 hour ago: I am a Christian.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4: 12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Law And The Prophets (06/10/2020); Forgiveness A Sacred Practice (05/28/2020); Judge Not The Appearance (01/12/2020); The Perfection Of Divinity (09/17/2019); Atheists And The Word? (09/11/2018); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Scriptures and Judging Others (03/12/2014); Faith Given By GOD (03/13/2014)

“Anonymous”, many of the outcomes, principals, and processes for divine judgment have already been made known to mankind and established through the revelation of Jesus Christ. While Christian believers are commanded to avoid practicing judgment against one another and those outside of the body, it remains that day-to-day fellowship and walking with Christ entails making fruitful choices, practicing discernment, responding to fixed and unchanging sacred standards, and acknowledging the final judgments against sin that have already been proclaimed and published by divinity. The tribunals of GOD are to display divine justification, and are not intended to give opportunity for those appearing to offer explanations, or justify themselves. As an aspect of eternal purpose proclaimed through the law and the prophets, judgment is not a one-time event; and judgment speaks to righteousness by the law through both its letter and its spirit. Therefore, judgment addresses transgression of divine law; also judgment examines whether operations of imparted spirit substance that have resided within created beings and living creatures have correctly resembled, reflected, and revealed the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Without being clairvoyant or enabled to read other people’s thoughts, and without being able to foretell the future, Christians are to recognize the patterns that others willingly display that express their heartfelt convictions, and expose their likely choices (ABCDEFG, xyz is coming). Judgment of the righteous dead and those alive on the earth who belong to Christ will be completed before they are perfected in the first resurrection. The Great White Throne judgment requires that a second resurrection must occur for the wicked dead and those that were not harvested in the first resurrection. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Isaiah 57: 15, King James Version (KJV): 15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

(2.) 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.

(3.) 2^nd Corinthians 6: 14-18, KJV: 14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

(4.) Malachi 3: 16-18, KJV: 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G8dZTWwvmU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:40 AM, June 28, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssaswmY0ngv60lws3UshdX_X9r8PSmfdB4Gh7iu2vHHeAcgHjKbtVNJvvuJbbs_fzthbfqR-LYuEeMoz2NFgbhcjXvfK7EIXR9AdKKpdciATdD22M7X2bE7hgRYeklLVE005FGJVDQgTx/s1600/lake-of-fire.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/07/2020) Chances To Determine Outcomes

Today, reply is on sin as an artifact and outcome of decision-making before action, and mercy as an artifact of accountability and guilt in judgment. It is written: Exodus 33: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. 19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. 20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

When god offered three penalties to David, where’s the free will if punishment was inevitable? Also, where was god’s mercy?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped. (Exodus 34: 6-8, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); “GOD, I Thank Thee...” (03/16/2020); Mankind A Divine Instrument (02/16/2020); Eternal Judgment With Mercy (11/19/2019); Blame and Punishment Removed? (12/22/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019)

“Anonymous”, in the plan of GOD, by decision-making mankind may determine the outcomes of their own behavior before they take action; and penalties and punishment are not the primary focus for Christian thinkers. Answers shared among mature Christian believers as revelation from divinity include points of consideration you may never have heard or seen before. The following is a sample from the full system of Christian faith:

1. As created beings and living creatures put forth by divinity, the living are to operate as independent from the Maker, and as having completeness and integrity. Mankind is to display discrete and separate self-will (i.e., willpower), emotion/mind, personhood, and responsiveness to divinity. Just as there are no finite and man-made consciousness, existence, or life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word), there is no finite and man-made “free will.”

2. David voluntarily was in a relationship with divinity that was defined and secured through divine law, eternal purpose, sacred promises, sovereign proclamations, and prophecy. As a condition of covenant, David willingly accepted judgment from divinity. GOD revealed himself to Moses as immortal, incorruptible, and invisible; yet, a God who operates through law, judgment, and inseparable aspects of divine fullness imparted from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin).

3. There are multiple points for exercise of self-will respecting divine law: Know the law, obey the law; err or transgress the law, repent; know the law, abide in the law where “to abide” is to incorporate the law within your lifestyle and daily routine. In the same way seeing ones own opportunities and possibilities for correct spiritual action and decision-making requires the practice of discernment, mature Christians practice discernment to acknowledge the presence, process, guidance, and gifts provided by divinity for judgment.

4. Properly understood, mercy is an artifact of judgment: Along with impartiality, mercy is provided to ensure balance and to lessen the harshness of condemnation for those who are found accountable and guilty following a complete examination of relevant truth. Forgiveness does not fulfill all the requirements for judgment and justice. Just as there can be no finding of “Not guilty!” “Case dismissed!” or “Time served!” without the formal tribunal of judgment, without judgment there is no mercy.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of Steve Amerson (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owkc0PZWigc.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:40 PM, June 07, 2020 @ https://workingwomenoffaith.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/mercies-new-every-morning.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/05/2020) Elephant In The Room?

Today, focus is on “the elephant in the room,” the critical issues, opportunities, and problems that are ignored, neglected and suppressed as if they do not exist at a time when public outcries are being made. The failure of problem-solving efforts to respond to the elephant in the room increases stumbling blocks that include rush-to-judgment behavior, exaggerated pride, emotional imbalance, self-promotion, silence where there should be dialogue, stubbornness, and “I’m right when I’m wrong, because...”. Rather than evading accountability, dodging duty, and selective blindness, there must be commitment to continuing practical efforts that will build lasting solutions. Healthy change will come when the people of our country realize that, right now, there are increased possibilities for benefit and good. All must see with new eyes and truly godly vision when up against the recurring issues and ungodly problems of racism in America, police violence, the goals and outcomes for protest events, and the fruit (take-away) that should come by leadership from those in the streets as well as from elected officials. Where the honest intent of everyone involved is to improve the quality of life, and share the benefits and privileges of working and keeping our homes within the U.S., the first response to arrest confrontations and similar outrages should be in providing and recording a public statement of agreement that encourages attitudes and expressions that support the lawful and thoughtful process that must be used to achieve justice while increasing understanding. A form that peaceful protest might assume that would give voice to the community at large and allow citizens to go on record would be a kind of petition or pledge to carefully investigate and pursue full disclosure of questionable, criminal and unlawful acts by public servants. Our law does not condone condemnation and punishment before the hearing of evidence and trial: those who administer the law also must minister discipline, self-control, and restraint. Consider again John 18: 19-24, King James Version (KJV): 19 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. 20 Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. 21 Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said. 22 And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so? 23 Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? 24 Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22: 35-40, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); White People Becoming Atheists? (10/03/2019); Catholic and Protestant Bibles? (10/11/2018); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); No Less GOD’s Creation (12/01/2016); Diversity and Divine Purpose (08/28/2016); Can Christians Be Racists? (07/25/2016); The Provision Against Racists? (01/19/2016)

While we are yet in a season of divine grace, Christian believers are to speak up and call attention to the elephant in the room, even where “the room” may be the pulpit, the Internet, the prayer chamber, the throne room, or the consecrated Sanctuary. Where earthly challenges, difficulties, and formidable obstacles are not to be downplayed or overlooked, neither are simple and godly solutions to be despised, refused, and underestimated:

(1.) There is a need for a process that will not employ violence where public expressions of protest may be openly presented, recorded, and made accessible for public exchange and response. More than simply making statements of anger, fear, frustration, and other feelings, all will be welcome to offer useful conclusions and specific recommendations that can be further researched and serve as the beginning of action plans, goals for growth, and targets for development.

(2.) Late one night, the President of the United States of America chose to walk over to a nearby church in his home neighborhood. It could not be assumed that the President would be safe to walk within his own familiar area. There were no believers on look-out to see the presidential party approaching. No one was there charged to watch and pray or to greet the President at his coming. There was no one immediately available to serve as a crisis counselor, a comforter, a prayer partner, or an emergency spiritual adviser. Even so, those “looking for an occasion” and hiding to attack came out to condemn the President for lacking and not applying the sacred knowledge found in the Bible, and they have yet to provide an authentic standard for the use of the Scriptures by those in our Nation’s public offices and worship congregations.

(3.) Where Christ prayed, Father forgive them, they know not what they do, many have come forward to criticize the President (who, like a drowning man, can be seen clutching at straws). Those who acknowledge his need and that of those around him will be making efforts (in private as well as public displays) to comfort, edify, and reinforce the faith and resolve of those in the Oval Office.

(4.) There is a need for a process where, when a police officer feels that his or her actions have initiated a pattern of arrest confrontation, (ABCDEFG, we know XYZ is coming) they should be free to negotiate a handshake agreement with the suspect that will avoid escalation of conflict and disagreement. There can be an offer to share assistance by telephone contact with an attorney, police officials, a member of the city council, or even, an emergency conference call with the Mayor. Someone trusted by all must clarify for them the rights of the many involved parties, the lawful process, and their questions on what they are to do next.

(5.) An Archbishop of the Anglican Church (UK) with whom I have been sharing prayer and contemplation published the following tweet on June 2, 2020 that continues to advance subtlety and error as harmless and unintended (i.e., as therefore innocent and acceptable): @JustinWelby Jun 2 I pray that those of us who are white Christians repent of our own prejudices, and do the urgent work of becoming better allies to our brothers and sisters of colour.

9:11 AM · Jun 2, 2020·Twitter for iPhone My response was: @JustinWelby The battle is for the mind; and this is the gulf between us: There are no white Christians; there are no black Christians; there are only developing and mature Christians. Saying this another way, Ephesians 4: 4-6 (KJV): 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of John Michael and Terry Talbot (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4TP81Uy72Q.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:12 PM, June 04, 2020 @ https://bassamsalem.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/elephant-in-the-room.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/02/2020) The Nearness Of Kingdom

A depiction of a seraph (angel; ministering spirit) to represent the celestial character of the Kingdom of GOD.

Today, reply is on how man-made tools, human frameworks, and materials used in the holy writings should not be relied on to know the presence of divinity, or correctly describe the kingdom of GOD. When it comes to heaven, the church founded by Jesus Christ, and the kingdom of GOD, many are in spiritual confusion, for they have no realistic idea what they are to expect from GOD, or hope for in final judgment. All are cautioned that, temporal elements such as attitudes, behavior, conduct, imagination, opinion and presumption are expressions of the flesh, while character, intent, and eternal purpose are aspects of life essence, unchanging divine image and sacred spirit content along with godly process and substance. All should expect to see things new and strange; all will have to discover, learn, and grow. It is written: Ezekiel 1: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I was among the captives by the river of Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God. 2 In the fifth day of the month, which was the fifth year of king Jehoiachin’s captivity, 3 The word of the LORD came expressly unto Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the river Chebar; and the hand of the LORD was there upon him. 4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the midst of the fire. 5 Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man. 6 And every one had four faces, and every one had four wings. 7 And their feet were straight feet; and the sole of their feet was like the sole of a calf’s foot: and they sparkled like the colour of burnished brass. 8 And they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides; and they four had their faces and their wings. 9 Their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one straight forward. 10 As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 06 with 19,040 points) posted the following:

Does the bible say anything about being far from the kingdom of God and being near God's kingdom?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 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. 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. 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. 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. (1^st Corinthians 2: 6-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Angels Appearing As Men (04/09/2020); Will Jesus Come Soon? (01/09/2020); The Sovereignty Of GOD (11/24/2019); “Sneak Previews” Of Heaven (09/16/2019); Divine Dominion Over Nature (02/04/2019); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); Lower Than The Angels? (09/12/2017); Divinity Appears Using Form (07/26/2017)

“Breakthrough”, the kingdom of GOD is a condition and quality of ones spirit content. Spirit (we also say, divine breath; utterance; word) is the process and substance of the active presence whom we call “divine fullness” (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Even so, in the holy writings many descriptions for heaven and the kingdom of GOD are found that use devices and figures existing in the material and natural world to describe a discrete place set apart (sanctified) as the center and seat of the divine presence. In addition to parables, prophecy, revelation, and eyewitness testimonies, proclamations, promises and visions are recorded that provide created beings and living creatures with sacred knowledge pertaining to the process and realm of divine fullness. Christian believers who become born again receive a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity that includes balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As offspring of GOD, believers are to mature on the earth relying on this anointing, and are not to depend on the finite tools and frameworks of the flesh relied on by others (e.g., emotion, intellect, logic, carnal reason, science, secular knowledge, time and space). Many have insisted that the dominion of divine kingdom may come only by sacred law (Torah), rather than through priests and prophets who manifest indwelling substance from the Creator (e.g., comfort, exhortation, a spirit of burning and judgment, the spirit of truth), or through kings, rulers, and a Messiah who fulfills the eternal purpose and the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Damita and Deitrick Haddon:

(1.) Isaiah 57: 15-16, King James Version (KJV): 15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. 16 For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always wroth: for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made.

(2.) Mark 12: 28-34, KJV: 28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. 32 And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: 33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

(3.) Luke 17: 20-24, KJV: 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 22 And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. 23 And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them. 24 For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1u_5mG-ibk.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:50 PM, June 01, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/91/2f/7f/912f7f186b5bd03b297fe87d38b4bd13.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC