(06/19/2021) The Leper Keeps Sabbath?

John Steel, Jesus heals 10 Lepers

Today, we have a multiple-choice pop quiz! It is written: James 2: 14-18, King James Version (KJV): 14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Select the best answer for the following question from the list below: Why does a leper keep the seventh day Sabbath?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. (Luke 17: 12-19, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why So Many Churches? (10/17/2020); GOD Can Forgive Us (09/13/2020); Divine Protection Against Covid-19? (04/26/2020); Getting Help From Church? (02/09/2020); He Healed Them All (10/20/2019); According To The Pattern (09/27/2018); Sabbath Now and Then? (08/15/2018); Naaman the Leper (12/21/2012)

WHY DOES THE LEPER KEEP THE SABBATH?

• A. Because he is a priest

• B. Because he is a king

• C. Because he is a covenant-keeper

• D. Because he is a leper

• E. Because he is hoping to be healed

• F. Because he is hoping for rest

• G. Because he is hoping to be with family and friends

• H. Because he is willing to obey divine law

• I. Because it is a good/bad habit

• J. To stay alive (like breathing)

• K. Because it is his way of life

• L. Because it is a work of faith

• M. To stave off any further curse (afraid not to)

• N. Because he is a child of GOD

• O. To express gratitude and give thanks

• P. All of the above

• Q. None of the above

Consider again the following that uses language from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible:

1. Exodus 20: 8-11, KJV: 8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11 For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

2. 2^nd Chronicles 26: 16-21, KJV: 16 But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense. 17 And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men: 18 And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the LORD God. 19 Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD, from beside the incense altar. 20 And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD had smitten him. 21 And Uzziah the king was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house, being a leper; for he was cut off from the house of the LORD: and Jotham his son was over the king’s house, judging the people of the land.

3. Isaiah 58: 13-14, KJV: 13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: 14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Isaiah 56: 1-7, KJV: 1 Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. 2 Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. 3 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree. 4 For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant; 5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off. 6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; 7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/20/2021) "100% Gold and Marble"

 

For many Christian believers the most difficult elements of transformation away from relying on secular and worldly knowledge center on practicing godly and sacred operations that require consecrated substance rather than lavish display, money, ownership of possessions, the distribution of property, and accumulating wealth. Just as the character and nature of divinity is made visible to mankind on the earth through Jesus Christ, things are to appear within the church Christ has created that are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the things that appear in heaven. Correctly understood, what created beings and living creatures are to regard as the precious things of the earth have been provided to communicate such features as the abundance, authority, balance, dominion, humility, perfection, and wisdom of divinity. Sacred law delivers sanctions to the living that condemn covetousness, envy, idolatry, lust, possessiveness, exaggerated pride, and selfishness. It is written: James 4: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

Why is the bishop’s church in my diocese 100% gold and marble when he closed down my church for lack of funding?

Hey, so I’ll burn in hell for all eternity for not having a church to go to but at least he can be ensconced in gold and platinum every Sunday.

Updated 1 hour ago:

Actually, I guess it’s a new bishop. The bishop who closed down my church in 2019 was replaced in early 2020. But still

THE GOLDEN ARROW: John 14: 1-3, KJV: 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Device of Inheritance (12/01/2020); On Giving and Tithing (11/05/2020); Why So Many Churches? (10/17/2020); The Inheritance From GOD (08/26/2020); Power To Get Wealth (01/15/2020); The Love Of Money (10/27/2019); Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); A $1,000 Dollar Seed? (11/02/2015); Some Points on Tithing (03/19/2015)

“Anonymous”, aspects of acknowledgment, glorification, praise, sacrifice, submission, and worship are involved. The use of gold, marble, and platinum that we see displayed among the various congregations sharing Christian belief is not intended to establish a base for political conflict and division, exalt hierarchy with worldly social standing and preference based on wealth, or represent the authority and power of any individual on the earth. Believers are to apprehend and discern the material presence of invisible divinity through the properties of consecrated and sanctified devices, tools, and utensils. Included are balance, beauty, completeness, purity, eternal purpose, simplicity, and transcendence projected through the carpeting, cloths, flowers, and other adornments of the altar, communion-ware, the font or baptism pool, the pews, prayer stalls, and other fixtures. The bishop may reside and regularly serve a broad area that includes diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Correctly understood, the “headquarters” church (often a cathedral) is a shared inheritance for the full community that has been increased, maintained, managed, and preserved through the work of many generations. Developing believers often err responding to divine displays as though they are selfish expressions from disbelievers and skeptics rather than unselfish offerings by those in commitment and conviction. While the church endures as a single sacred body by practicing a division of labor and oneness without sameness, it is not unreasonable that every discrete congregation must continue by its own members accepting requirements for accountability, duty, effort, and manifesting Christian maturity. Through the earthly treasures of the church believers are encouraged that the goals of their faith and practice can be achieved within their own life-process as those belonging to GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Exodus 25: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 2 Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering. 3 And this is the offering which ye shall take of them; gold, and silver, and brass, 4 And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, 5 And rams’ skins dyed red, and badgers’ skins, and shittim wood, 6 Oil for the light, spices for anointing oil, and for sweet incense, 7 Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate. 8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. 9 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.

(2.) Exodus 36: 1-6, KJV: 1 Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the Lord put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the Lord had commanded. 2 And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whose heart the Lord had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it: 3 And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, to make it withal. And they brought yet unto him free offerings every morning. 4 And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made; 5 And they spake unto Moses, saying, The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make. 6 And Moses gave commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing. 7 For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, eternal salvation with divinity is not determined by ones giving and financial behavior, their intellectual knowledge, their service, or their personal suffering so much as by their content of divine substance and their continuance under grace.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:00 PM, April 18, 2021 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3b/27/84/3b2784a14f6cb78680023c66ae9314a7.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/01/2020) The Device of Inheritance

 

Inheritance as a sacred device is in view, today, for inheritance speaks to more than the lawful transfer to the living of material goods and wealth from those who are deceased. Properly understood, the inheritance for mankind from divinity includes words of comfort, exhortation, proclamations, promises, prophecies, and sacred practices. On the earth, there may be many heirs who all are to receive a portion of what may be a small estate. Even so, the primary heir is to receive a double portion above others. Where a firstborn child is to be acknowledged as a primary heir, he or she is to serve as the duly appointed agent who will continue and fulfill duties that have not been completed, repair the reputation of the deceased, or maintain the obligations and responsibilities of dynasty. Among Christians, inheritance is not another man-made legal process to manage debt, resolve claims and counter claims among family members, or settle disputes among those claiming authority and succession. Sinners who become “born again” are granted benefits, possibilities, and spirit-substance from the makeup of divinity that establish the very continuity, purposes, and relationships we describe as rebirth, resurrection, and eternal life. It is written: Revelation 5: 9-14, King James Version (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. 11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; 12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Christians! What good is it being God's heirs if God will never die?

"Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ..." -- Romans 8:17

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2: 19-22, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Explaining The Earlier Covenants (11/22/2020); The Inheritance From GOD (08/26/2020); He Commanded Our Fathers (08/09/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020)

“Anonymous”, inheritance as a sacred tool used by divinity is not connected to death, dying, and receiving material goods and wealth from someone who has deceased so much as it is a connection between heaven and earth to establish eternal life. Through Jesus Christ, the operations and substance of inheritance are expressions of sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Inheritance as a sacred device and practice further establishes continuity, duration, grace, and multiple aspects of relationship (e.g., accountability; communication through confession, praise and prayer; forbearance; forgiveness; gratitude; lovingkindness; oneness without sameness; stability). Sinners who become “born again” by turning to GOD must “grow up again” and undergo permanent changes whereby they receive fresh endowments of the life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam from the character and makeup of GOD. As vessels containing divine DNA (so to speak), sinners become offspring of GOD, the children of GOD, and those on the earth who are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ in their lifestyles and daily routines. Included are inseparable features such as commitment, discernment, faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 6: 9-11, King James Version (KJV): 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 45-43, KJV: 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

(3.) Ephesians 5: 1-6, KJV: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

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.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/29/2020) Our Correct Sacred Priorities?

Correctness of members judging the clergy and others within the church, and the priority for clergy preaching the gospel compared to performing “good works” are topics, today. While all believers are to demonstrate and display the love of GOD, all are not called to serve as pulpit preachers. Those who talk about you yet do not speak with you can never correctly know the full extent of what you suffer for Christ, or the specific works he has chosen and fitted you to fulfill. Many within the church mistakenly regard works that are priority among those in the world as somehow vital to redemption and salvation. Such believers focus heavily on the giving of alms, ministering to families, relieving others in their distress and suffering, and devoting oneself to programs for change and social justice. They neglect the preaching of the cross; the needs for rebirth, sanctification, and reconciliation; and the necessity that all members of the church are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ within their own lifestyles and daily routines. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 1: 17-24, King James Version (KJV): 17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. The user in “Yahoo! Answers” Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Sparkles” (Level 1 with 204 points) posted the following:

Should a pastor spend more time helping the homeless on Sunday mornings rather than preaching inside the church?

My dad is a fundamental Baptist pastor, and recently he's been spending his sunday mornings helping the homelesss rather than preaching his sermons. Some members of our church committee have suggested that he should spend more time preaching and let the missionaries take care of the homeless.

Updated 20 mins ago:

My dad believes helping the homeless is more important since he is sharing the gospel with the unsaved, and most homeless people are willing to listen.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. (2^nd Corinthians 11: 23-30, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); 22 Years Spent Preparing (05/20/2020); The Testimony From GOD (10/22/2019); How Can Christians Preach? (09/25/2019); Giving To The Homeless (03/13/2019); The Answer From GOD (05/19/2017)

“Sparkles”, Christian believers are to demand perfection from themselves before demanding perfection from the clergy or other members of the church. Because the workings of divinity are Spirit in process and substance, many in the church can become confounded and deceived by things that are human concerns and that do not express sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. There are those who mean well, yet, they continue to behave as instruments of the flesh (e.g., appetite, sensation (such as hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and emotion/mental operations (e.g., anger, fear, imagination, recall) ). Putting aside the issue of whether you accept that your father has been ordained and is in a peculiar relationship with Jesus Christ as his head, your duty and responsibilities as a member in his flock do not include proclaiming his condemnation, performing judgment, or the posing of questions about his competence. Developing Christian believers must come to acknowledge that salvation is through acts of GOD such as baptism whereby a sinner’s inborn spirit dies, is buried, and is raised from the dead in rebirth and resurrection. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Romans 14: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

(2.) 2^nd Corinthians 10: 12, KJV: 12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

(3.) Luke 16: 10-15, KJV: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. 14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him. 15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Romans 14: 16-23, KJV: 16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. 20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. 21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. 22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. 23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/26/2020) The Inheritance From GOD

Every inheritance entails more than a transfer of goods and wealth. Accountability, acknowledgment, duty, renewal, and respect also should appear.

Today, reply is on mankind’s inheritance from the living GOD, and the duty of those abiding on the earth to perform divine service as chosen agents on behalf of the deceased. In addition to blessing, glory and revelation the inheritance from divinity to those on the earth includes covenant relationships, divine law, praise, prayer, promises, prophecy, rebirth, resurrection life through Jesus Christ, sacred events (miracles), sacraments (practices to sanctify believers), and the holy writings. Mankind is correct to confess and proclaim an inheritance from GOD as the heirs of Adam and the Patriarchs. Yet, many respond as did Jacob the son of Isaac, who connived and schemed to gain the benefits and privileges that were to be given his older brother. Jacob first saw the manifestations of the inheritance from GOD hours following the blessing of Isaac. Until then, despite having obtained the birthright of the firstborn from his brother Esau, Jacob experienced only an inheritance directed by and to the flesh. Jacob acknowledged that the vision of angels ascending and descending a ladder to heaven truly was sent by GOD, and he was able to receive the revelation that Christ is above, and is served by the angels. Even so, for Jacob, GOD continued to be only the GOD of Abraham and the GOD of Isaac, and not yet the GOD of Jacob. Properly understood, the living are to fulfill human potential as well as divine proclamation, promises, and prophecy. As agents of those departed, the living are to carry out such necessary tasks as forgiveness, praise, repentance, sacrifice, and thanksgiving. Where the Holy Spirit is present in the awareness and self-will of created beings and living creatures, inseparable aspects of divinity will appear as a fresh endowment of the same life essence that was imparted from GOD to Adam (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word). The Incarnation of divinity as Jesus Christ has been provided to further the transformation of mankind to exist as immortal and incorruptible. It is written: 1^st Peter 5: 2-4, King James Version (KJV): 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

My father verbally promised money to his church before he passed away, but his written will didn't include any such gift?

The attorney followed the will and his church didn't get any money. Now the church is harassing me demanding I give them money.

Is there ever a sutuation where a written and recorded will can be successfully challenged based on a deathbed verbal promise when the person has dementia and is only occassionally lucid?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. (Luke 12: 13-15, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Forgiveness A Sacred Practice (05/28/2020); The Will Of GOD (03/03/2020); Joseph Received Divine Spirit (01/16/2020); More Required Than Crucifixion? (12/10/2019); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); To Inherit Eternal Life (11/12/2019); Baptized For The Dead? (10/12/2018)

“Anonymous”, the living may not save the dead through apologies, baptism, and good works; yet, the deceased are to be “remembered”, rather than condemned, and the resurrection life of Jesus is to appear by the dead also. For Christian believers, the character, operations, and substance of inheritance are not to center only on public displays of affection; the transfer of material goods and wealth; the recognition and development of connection and relationship on the basis of shared physical skills, talents and traits (e.g., eye, hair or skin color, height, weight, etc.); or the lawfulness of mandates imposed on ones siblings, spouse, and extended family. There also should be an acknowledgment of personal relationship, and otherwise unseen things that include commitment, enlightenment, intent, and purpose. Rightly understood, inheritance pertains to delegation of sacred authority, dominion, judgment, and priesthood. Just as the outcomes of judgment are not by inheritance and the son is not punished for the sins of the father, forgiveness, repentance and grace are provided as gifts from divinity and expressions of divine prerogative. The primary heir is usually granted a double portion of an inheritance so the “unfinished business” of the deceased may be carried out (e.g., among 3 heirs there are 4 portions; among 6 heirs there are 7). The deceased, who may have been corrupt, wicked and vain, is to be presented to the community at large having a new image and a new name from GOD. Where possible, their remaining debts are to be paid; and benefits and privileges are to be provided in their name that heal, nourish and revitalize the community. The proof that we have truly known the deceased is not that we celebrate or indulge the same appetites and weaknesses they embraced through their lifetime. There will be an acknowledgment of who they could have become, and the affirmation of their hearts, their spirit needs, and their unspoken requests for the things in life that they found to be higher and out of reach. Focus is not on their failures and sins; eternal purpose and what they (and we) may yet accomplish through Christ are the agenda. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Isaiah 38: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth. 19 The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known thy truth. 20 The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD.

(2.) John 11: 19-27, KJV: 19 And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. 20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. 21 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. 22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. 23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. 24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

(3.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 11-16, KJV: 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge1axMPsN-g.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/07/2020) Pure Religion And Undefiled

 

Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James 1: 27, King James Version (KJV)

Today, reply is on the nature and process of Christian belief and practice appearing as overly conservative, self-centered, and asocial. Properly discerned and acknowledged, the goals of Christian belief do not include manipulating our family members and neighbors, oppressing and persecuting others, self-promotion, or seeking vainglory for oneself. Believers become sanctified (i.e., set apart for sacred service on the basis of their divine content) through the operations of divinity within their awareness, desire, intent, and self-will (willpower). Christians are those who were sinners that entered into new lives of repentance, rebirth, and the resurrection life provided by divinity in Jesus Christ. Often asking oneself, Am I worthy?, developing and mature Christian believers pursue lives of balance, consistency, and stability that will resemble, reflect, and reveal the character, likeness, and nature of Jesus Christ while also accomplishing the goal of providing unselfish service to others. In addition to contemplation, confession, listening, praise, prayer and prophecy, believers are to provide demonstrations, evangelism, guidance, sacred practice, testimonies, and witness in ongoing judgment. Focusing always on Jesus, his followers are to impart godliness, lovingkindness, wisdom and wrath against sin. It is written: John 6: 63-69, King James Version (KJV): 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. 64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. 65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. The fighter at the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “shoeshopper3” (Level 3 with 1,850 points) posted the following:

Why does Christianity say that Christians are not supposed to do anything but stay at home, work, read the bible, and go to church?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day: And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (Isaiah 58: 5-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Living Your Best Life? (07/05/2020); The Ones Called “Sheep” (05/29/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Demonstrating Dependence on GOD (04/20/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); Displaying A “Christian Personality”? (04/19/2019); Purity For Sacred Truth (12/17/2018)

“shoeshopper3”, among Christian believers preparing to receive Jesus Christ at his appearing to harvest the earth of those belonging to his kingdom the teachings on sanctification and separation from the world continue to be expressed in the lifestyles and daily routines of those acknowledging divinity. As spirit, GOD may exist within the consciousness and will (willpower) of created beings and living creatures. Thus, how Christians think of others and of themselves are influenced by powerful ideas that speak to the presence of GOD in the life. Included are the understanding that Christians receive the life of Jesus Christ within their own makeup through both his baptism and his resurrection. The Christian is the new creation that is to labor on the earth as part of the divine transformation of mankind to exist as immortal and incorruptible. Aspects of the full divine operation are admonition, atonement, forgiveness, rebirth, reconciliation, redemption, repentance, and salvation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Chris Tomlin:

(1.) Proverbs 4: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

(2.) John 17: 13-21, KJV: 13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 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:

(3.) 1^st John 2: 15-16, KJV: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Is He Worthy? (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkRiYsTN7KY.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/29/2020) The Ones Called "Sheep"

Today, reply is on the character and properties among sheep that promote their use by divinity to provide atonement for sin, to further communication and covenant relationship for created beings and living creatures on the earth, and to fulfill revelation to mankind. Sheep often are used to depict and represent an ideal pastoral condition within the church of Jesus Christ. As creatures that stay together in small family groups, yet also are communal for their survival, sheep may be gathered in large groups without conflict, competition, defying authority, rebellion, and violence against one another. Christ who is head of the church is also the lamb of GOD who takes away the sin of the world. Mankind has existence and life within both the Creation and the Creator. The kinship of mankind to divinity first appears and is manifest through divine content, sacred law, mystery, prophecy, spirit process, and other sacred elements that can reside within human consciousness and self-will. Those who become born again are to exist on the earth displaying the image of GOD, and demonstrating divine guidance, sacred knowledge, resurrection life, and their own fresh endowment of inseparable spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. Included are balance, commitment, faith, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The sacrifice provided by divinity on behalf of mankind includes sacred blood and substance for atonement, propitiation, and reconciliation. It is written: Psalms 100: 3, King James Version (KJV): 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. The fighter who uses the ID “Alex” (Level 3 with 1,120 points) in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality posted the following:

Why are "most" religious people such sheep? And if Jesus talks about peace why do these hypocrites feel the need to bash other people?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17: 29-31, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); TWO Kinds of People? (02/21/2020); Do Animals Have “Souls”? (01/19/2020); Fully Communicating Human Potential? (09/30/2019); Divine Spirit Within Animals? (09/05/2019); To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); My Sheep Hear My Voice (11/16/2016)

“Alex”, the ones you call “sheep” exist as those who are in personal relationship with the Creator through obedience, reverence, and trust. The sheep patiently and quietly respond to such elements as authority, grace, sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Because divinity is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible, the process and substance of GOD first were made known to mankind using finite figures and operations that have meaning and value at the level of human consciousness and self-will. Where there has been spiritual growth and maturity, divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) may be discerned through fresh endowments of the life essence imparted at Creation to mankind from the makeup of GOD and that are now available through the ministries of Jesus Christ. Inseparable aspects of what/who we know as GOD are being bestowed on mankind that include balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Such divine operations must appear as atonement, edification, judgment, prophecy, redemption, revelation, salvation, and unselfish service. The transgression of sacred law committed by the first pair (i.e., the fall of Adam) disrupted divine order and continuing existence on multiple levels throughout the universe. In the same way sleep (death) was used to preserve the male when his rib was removed to create the female, divinity has been using the death, the blood of Jesus Christ, and his resurrection from the dead to further fashion the character, nature and quality of mankind. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Ezekiel 34: 11-17, King James Version (KJV): 11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

(2.) Ezekiel 34: 30-31, KJV: 30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD. 31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

(3.) John 10: 7-17, KJV: 7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMd4o8HoH10&list=FLD-fEmPQDdXFIv9qj8rBJVA&index=12&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/28/2020) Forgiveness A Sacred Practice

Today, reply is on forgiveness as a response on behalf of divinity more than a response by sinners to one another in human displays of contrition, humility, and regret for bad conduct. Jesus affirmed “the law and the prophets,” yet, he could not extinguish the sin that gripped the High Priest and elders of Israel, the Sanhedrin court, Pontius Pilate representing the government of Rome and all mankind, or the betrayal by multitudes who gladly had received healing and miracles from his ministry. As a sacred practice, forgiveness does not eliminate sin; even so, forgiveness may operate on the earth within human consciousness and self-will to establish opportunities and possibilities for mankind’s spiritual growth and transformation. Where guilt, shame, uncertainty, and fear of judgment appear with sacred law, forgiveness centers in expressions of divine personhood that include humility, impartiality, longsuffering, lovingkindness, and respect. Forgiveness appears as an act of GOD that encourages continuing exchange, reconciliation, renewed covenant relationship, repentance, and fruitful social interaction. While forgiveness displays active presence and other inseparable aspects of divine spirit, forgiveness does not convey the full authority and power of atonement, redemption, godly restraint, and salvation. Thus, no one openly asked that Jesus forgive them as the heirs of Adam whose cruelty, disbelief, irreverence, and scorn were displayed throughout his arrest, trial and crucifixion. Jesus prayed from the cross that men would be forgiven of their transgression against his Father in heaven, rather than their offense against himself. It is written: 1^st John 1: 5-10, King James Version (KJV): 5 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. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Regwah” (Level 7 with 131,610 points) posted the following:

When you forgive, do you just forgive, or wait until forgiveness is humbly requested?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. (Luke 23: 33-35, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believers Are To Forgive (05/17/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); Now Are Ye Light (09/18/2019); Our Displays of Divinity (06/19/2019); The Workings of Divinity? (01/15/2019)

“Regwah”, both as a duty to GOD and a benefit to others, Christians are to practice forgiveness. Among mature Christians, forgiveness is to make visible the grace of GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. Grace may be understood as undeserved, unmerited favor, and a feature of the full image of GOD provided to mankind. Thus, forgiveness is an expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, sacred law, and the sovereign will of GOD. That we forgive is more than a matter of expressing our own affection, our desires, or our emotions. Divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is manifest and present within all sacred process and spirit substance. Sinners who repent receive a fresh endowment of the life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was granted to Adam in Creation. Inseparable aspects of divinity are imparted to those who become “born again” that includes balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Christian believers are the new creation of Jesus Christ; and his followers are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus in their lifestyle and daily routines. Forgiveness is a first step toward ending conflict, healing, peacemaking, reestablishing trust, resolving dispute, and accomplishing full reconciliation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Matthew 6: 9-15, King James Version (KJV): 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

(2.) Ephesians 4: 31-32, KJV: 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

(3.) Matthew 18: 15-22, KJV: 15 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. 16 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. 17 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. 18 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. 19 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. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. 21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC