(02/01/2021) The Place of History

Historians and poets are called to serve no less than griots, prophets, those who can reveal, the unseen levels of truth surrounding events and lives. Because the accountability, process and substance they bring to market are priceless, seeking their wares requires deep humility, respect, and wisdom provided by the universe. The following original poem is offered in exchange during Black History Month 2021 and is titled, The Place of History. It is written: Ecclesiastes 7: 9-12, King James Version (KJV): 9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. 10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this. 11 Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. 12 For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Acts 17: 23-31, King James Version (KJV): 23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. 24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 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. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 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.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: So Help Me GOD! (01/22/2021); The “History” Of Christ (10/08/2019); Black History Month, 2019 (02/24/2019); Arrayed In Sacred Favor (02/25/2018); Bloody Sunday -- Black History (02/14/2018); Black History -- Johannesburg Gold (02/05/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); The American Covenant? (03/03/2015)

THE PLACE OF HISTORY

A Poem for Black History Month, February 2021

Talking History can not be cheap-talk and talking smack.

There are some who say the place of History

must be the mind, and not the heart. For the

heart is turned too easily by keys of feeling,

passion, archtypal hopes, and fantasies, the wisps

of legend and dream, all ancient power

magic, death, and lies. The mind engages knowing

as a firmament and platform to continue sacred order

and imparted consciousness. What is uttered

breathed as spirit, poured forth as word

the sound of many waters finds focus firm

direction, through desire, strength by action

with presence and fulfilment, and must explain itself

when historians and poets are no longer there to defend.

America cannot be the primary place for our History

for our trek has been like that of the Hottentots

who rose from the South of Continent exploring north to

east, east to south, and sowing Amazulu seed

and returned the way they came till times of Diaspora.

Ours has been a truth declared by drum,

right-knowing, and shared by foot, by tongue

by brighter minds, by stars that lead to freedom

by sorrow songs and chants of victory.

This place where Senates dripping shame

bitch-slap the Nation day-by-day

announce the verdict of impeachment trials

two months before any evidence is heard or the

Judge has banged the gavel to begin

can be no home of righteousness, where sin

called by its proper name is “sin”.

Should Black Americans endorse as truth

I’m right when I’m wrong, because...​?

I’m Republican, I’m elected, I am wealthy, I am white.

The claim we’ve made is not to be dismissed,

ignored or perverted because some clearly have lost

their way, and more than ever stand in need of what

we have to say.

History does not dictate our purpose; we often err and may become misguided. Without our contribution there is no USA.

Our History is written into the life of every nation on the earth

speaking, yes, about our ancestors as well of

future daughters and our sons. Those claiming part

in this universe must acknowledge inseparable facts of

life. A single Creator, with no Big Bang or

expanding time and space void of genuine purpose.

We have pitied those in confusion whose maturity is not yet

come, yet we will not let their chaos reign. Black History continues

and the Chronicles of heaven must contain us until

all eternal purpose has been done.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Ecclesiastes 3: 14-17. King James Version (KJV): 14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. 15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past. 16 And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there. 17 I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:32 PM, January 31, 2021 @ https://talkingdrumsblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/african-diaspora_slave-trade.gif

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2021. All rights reserved.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/22/2021) So Help Me GOD!

 

The United States of America continues as a unified nation through the operations of faith appearing as commitment, integrity, and promise.  The following poem, America Is An Agreement, is shared in remembrance of Reverend, Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr., to express gratitude that America’s Constitution and process of government have been elevated and reinforced through checks and balances, and for our reflection on the Inauguration of our 46th President, Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr.  Nonviolence is not to be associated with cowardice, ignorance, fear, exaggerated pride, or racial inequality so much as with discipline, duty, godliness, maturity, mercy, respect, and self-control. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 10: 3-5, King James Version (KJV): 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 1st Samuel 17: 44-46, King James Version (KJV): 44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Made The World (12/19/2020); Always Connected By Spirit (08/30/2020); The Visibility of GOD (01/20/2020); The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); Sword Of The Spirit (11/20/2019); Patriotic Songs To Worship? (11/10/2019); Spiritual Combat Against Sin (10/11/2019); Arrayed In Sacred Favor (02/25/2018)

Image downloaded 9:45 PM, January 21, 2021 @ https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2020/06/02/tennessee-national-guard-troops-lay-down-riot-shields-at-protesters-request/

AMERICA IS AN AGREEMENT

A poem for Citizen King Day, January 17, 2021

America is an agreement among people high and low

To share, to trust, to show respect, to build, to learn, to grow

To live as diverse cities, counties, territories, minds

Free people in a covenant that seals, demands, and binds

True sons of the 3-Branch Nation stand guard in the some-day State

Nonviolent demonstrators who display what makes us great

The Executive Branch the Judicial, the only active voice

The House without the Senate endorsed the People’s choice

The Capitol shrine of freedom had no war force posted there

It’s gates were open welcoming all those who would declare

This land a home of Liberty through Justice and through Law

Protected by democracy, humility, and awe

A winter chill confronts us now beneath the righteous dome

It’s winter in America, yet, this is our one home

We are still to strive for honor giving life to higher vision

Manifesting our integrity expressed in shared decision

No single man or woman rules despising common cause

Or overturns the mandate because they seek applause

For blind-justice will be roused in truth and armed to press the fight

A battleground appearing in the Citadel of Light

Our process must be one to focus what we will become

And not a game of placing blame to scourge the deaf and dumb

The conduct of a President should not incite complaint

Their balance fosters equity, forbearance, and restraint

Our errors need correction, and with every vote we cast

We come near the day where all may say, “USA is free at last, at last

Thank GOD Almighty, we are free at last.

We agree to be free, at last.”

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2021. All rights reserved.

(03/17/2020) "Because You Are Believers"

Today, reply is on the church of Jesus Christ being the successor to Israel as the “chosen nation” of GOD that appears within divine prophecy and revelation. While the holy writings describe the rise and fall of material nations on the earth such that specific cultures and states are identifiable to students of secular history, politics, and world events, for Christian believers, the focus is properly that of participating within a spiritual body whose members will exist on the earth throughout eternity. It is written: Romans 8: 5-9, New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition) [NWT]: 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh,+ but those who live according to the spirit, on the things of the spirit.+ 6 For setting the mind on the flesh means death,+ but setting the mind on the spirit means life and peace;+ 7 because setting the mind on the flesh means enmity with God,+ for it is not in subjection to the law of God, nor, in fact, can it be. 8 So those who are in harmony with the flesh cannot please God. 9 However, you are in harmony, not with the flesh, but with the spirit,+ if God’s spirit truly dwells in you. But if anyone does not have Christ’s spirit, this person does not belong to him. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “TeeM” (Level 7 with 9,141 points) posted the following:

Who is the nation that replaced the nation of Israel as God's chosen people?

(Matthew 21:43) “43 This is why I say to you, the Kingdom of God will be taken from you and be given to a nation producing its fruits. . .”

(1 Peter 2:7-10) “7 It is to you, therefore, that he is precious, because you are believers; but to those not believing, “the stone that the builders rejected, this has become the chief cornerstone” 8 and “a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They are stumbling because they are disobedient to the word. To this very end they were appointed. 9 But you are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession, that you should declare abroad the excellencies” of the One who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 For you were once not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not been shown mercy, but now you have received mercy.”

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But I say, Keep walking by spirit+ and you will carry out no fleshly desire at all.+ For the flesh is against the spirit in its desire, and the spirit against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you do not do the very things you want to do.+ Furthermore, if you are being led by spirit, you are not under law. Now the works of the flesh are plainly seen, and they are sexual immorality,*+ uncleanness, brazen conduct,*+ idolatry, spiritism,*+ hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, dissensions, divisions, sects, envy, drunkenness,+ wild parties,* and things like these.+ I am forewarning you about these things, the same way I already warned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit God’s Kingdom.+ On the other hand, the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience,* kindness, goodness,+ faith, mildness, self-control.+ Against such things there is no law. Moreover, those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed to the stake the flesh together with its passions and desires.+ If we are living by spirit, let us also go on walking orderly by spirit.+ (Galatians 5: 16-25, NWT)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); TWO Kinds of People? (02/21/2020); Disciples and “Little Christs” (11/05/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); The First “Chosen” People (05/03/2018); Cultural, Political, Spiritual Growth? (07/10/2016); Divine Inheritance and Resurrection? (07/06/2016); Thoughts On The Kingdom? (11/18/2015)

“TeeM”, many mature Christian believers acknowledge the “holy nation” spoken of in the Scriptures is not a kingdom or sovereign state identified by geopolitical boundaries and land measurements, rather it is the church, the new creation of the Son of GOD. Through Jesus Christ, the present day operations of divinity among mankind may be understood as in a season of grace and reconciliation that is spirit in process and substance. Mankind is not being challenged with mysteries and questions that require years of academic instruction and secular research. Rather, humanity has been granted a revelation whereby otherwise invisible and unknown aspects of divinity are made accessible, alive, approachable, and indwelling. Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, mankind now may receive a fresh endowment of the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam at Creation from the makeup of GOD. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are imparted that include balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As vessels of divine DNA (so to speak), believers are to exist and mature on the earth as the children and heirs of GOD until the appearing of Jesus Christ to harvest the earth. Consider again the following that uses language from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition) [NWT]:

(1.) John 18: 33-37, NWT: 33 So Pilate entered the governor’s residence again and called Jesus and said to him: “Are you the King of the Jews?”+ 34 Jesus answered: “Are you asking this of your own originality, or did others tell you about me?” 35 Pilate replied: “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What did you do?” 36 Jesus answered:+ “My Kingdom is no part of this world.+ If my Kingdom were part of this world, my attendants would have fought that I should not be handed over to the Jews.+ But as it is, my Kingdom is not from this source.” 37 So Pilate said to him: “Well, then, are you a king?” Jesus answered: “You yourself are saying that I am a king.+ For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth.+ Everyone who is on the side of the truth listens to my voice.”+

(2.) Romans 10: 1-4, NWT: 10 Brothers, the goodwill of my heart and my supplication to God for them are indeed for their salvation.+ 2 For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God,+ but not according to accurate knowledge. 3 For because of not knowing the righteousness of God+ but seeking to establish their own,+ they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God.+ 4 For Christ is the end of the Law,+ so that everyone exercising faith may have righteousness.+

(3.) Ephesians 2: 18-22, NWT: 18 because through him we, both peoples, have free access to the Father by one spirit. 19 So you are no longer strangers and foreigners,+ but you are fellow citizens+ of the holy ones and are members of the household of God,+ 20 and you have been built up on the foundation of the apostles and prophets,+ while Christ Jesus himself is the foundation cornerstone.+ 21 In union with him the whole building, being harmoniously joined together,+ is growing into a holy temple for Jehovah.* + 22 In union with him you too are being built up together into a place for God to inhabit by spirit.+

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) John 18: 33-37, KJV: 33 Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews? 34 Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me? 35 Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done? 36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. 37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Citations from the NWT Translation of the Bible were downloaded 11:56 AM to 1:15 PM, March 16, 2020 from the Watchtower Online Library site @ https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/b/r1/lp-e/nwtsty/40/21#study=discover&v=40:21:43. New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition). Copyright © 2020 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/08/2019) The "History" Of Christ

A reed shaken in the wind?

Today, reply is on the acknowledgment of John the Baptist and the lack of investigation and reporting on Jesus Christ in the work of Josephus and other recorders of History. History is a man-made practice, and a device within the World system for meaning and survival. The church founded by Jesus Christ continues to rely on the recorded eyewitness accounts provided as immutable and unchanging testimony offered and acknowledged by divinity as truth in the ongoing tribunals of sacred judgment. It is written: John 5: 33-39, King James Version (KJV): 33 Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. 34 But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. 35 He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. 36 But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. 37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. 38 And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. 39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum who uses the ID “Trilobiteme” (Level 4 with 3,081 points, a member since September 29, 2011) posted the following:

Why do historians except the mention of John the Baptist but not Jesus Christ in Josephus Annqituties of the Jews?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. (John 3: 11-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Increase of Christ? (12/07/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); The Best Starting Point? (09/13/2016); On Transmitting Sacred Truth (05/06/2016); Sacred Events Were Dismissed? (11/05/2015); He Must Increase? (04/01/2015); The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); “Authorized Personnel Only”? (03/13/2013)

“Trilobiteme”, among Christian believers, the appearance of both John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, who were filled with the Holy Spirit long before their birth, make visible (manifest) operations and spirit substance from the makeup of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). The coming of John and Jesus are spoken of within the holy writings using the prophetic figures of Elijah the Tishbite, the lamb of GOD, and the Messiah. That divinity would show themselves on the earth using the form of human flesh (we say, the Christ; the Incarnation) is a sacred event (we also say, miracle), known and correctly valued primarily as sacred knowledge, revelation, and consciousness provided through fresh endowments of spirit matter imparted from GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin). As a discipline among the fields of Social Science, the focus and process of History remains human affairs, events in the material and social world, secular knowledge, and carnal reason. The focus and tools for history include dates, influences, locations, prominent actors, and thought leaders. Events may be described as recurring, and therefore, predictable cycles, patterns, and sequences that may be manipulated, and described in detail using a form that compares to narrative that has an opening (we also say, a beginning or start), multiple episodes, and a finish (a close; an end). Properly carried out, when historians provide their treatment of a subject, they suppress bias, conjecture, folklore, imagination, prejudice, and speculation. There may be the use of mathematical and statistical calculations for the accuracy, likelihood, and probability of their conclusion, or of occurrences; there may be the use of artifacts, government chronicles, and other documentation to authenticate and serve as evidence (testimony; witness) to the actuality of events as described; and there may be reviews and critical statements to clarify the method and process for the data gathering and presentation. Concerning John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, consider the following from the Bible that includes writings by Luke, a historian and gospel writer (yet, not one of the 12 apostles):

1. Genesis 22: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. 7 And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? 8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

2. John 1: 6-8, KJV: 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

3. John 1: 29-37, KJV: 29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. 30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. 31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. 32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. 33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. 34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. 35 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; 36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! 37 And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.

4. Luke 3: 1-6, KJV: 1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Luke 7: 19-29, KJV: 19 And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? 20 When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? 21 And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. 22 Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. 23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. 24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts. 26 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John.)

Image downloaded 11:50 AM, October 08, 2019 @ https://lightondarkwater.typepad.com/.a/6a01310f4a6c79970c0240a4699dc4200c-popup

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/02/2019) Two Frameworks For Dominion?

Today, reply responds to a presentation made by Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the Security Council of the United Nations, April 29, 2019, on the “divine deed” of the Jewish people to the land of Israel. The benefits and privileges of divine inheritance must be apprehended through sacred process and spiritual discernment, rather than cultural, legal, geopolitical, and social frameworks. In accordance with national economies and financial procedures, deeds and documents that record purchases and transfers of real property (land) and chattel (material goods) are acknowledged and registered by governments for purposes of allotments and taxation. Deeds also pertain to debts and agreements for payment (we say, transaction fees, loans, mortgages). Abraham’s purchase of a field at Machpelah for a possession and a burying place occurred before an assembly within an open forum at Mamre, and was therefore in such a framework of public witness, procedures, and standards. Abraham’s receipt of the land of Canaan was by inheritance and through a framework of promises made to Adam and Eve whereby the seed of the woman eventually would prevail. Those insisting that the lawful framework for buying and selling must be maintained when considering the status of modern Israel, rather than that for faith and continued interaction with divinity, also are obliged to observe all the other commands, principles, and sanctions that are aspects of the same law. Similarly, those standing on the foundation of ongoing relationship with divinity must acknowledge the full range of promises, prophecies, spirit process, and spirit substance. There should be no switching between frameworks. Maturity is only displayed through accountability, commitment, consistency, integrity and stability. Thus, we are reminded: James 2: 10-11, King James Version (KJV): 10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. 11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Israel belongs to the Jews -- given by God?

Israel's Ambassador Takes Out Bible at UN to Prove Jewish People's Claim to Israel

Emily Jones (May 1, 2019)

"The Qur'an itself accepts the divine deed of the Jewish people to the land of Israel." -Danny Danon, Israel's US Ambassador

(New York, NY) — [CBN News] Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon used the Bible to defend the Jewish people's claim to the land of Israel during a special session at the United Nations Security Council on Monday. (Image: Screengrab-AP/via CBN News)

Danon was tasked with the job of proving the case for Jews' connection to the Holy Land during the session. He outlined four reasons, "the Bible, history, international law, and the pursuit of international peace and security."

In a dramatic moment, Danon opened the Bible and read aloud God's covenant with Abraham from Genesis 17: "And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout the generations for an everlasting covenant. And I will give to you and your descendants after you all the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession and I will be their God."

Danon then raised up the Bible, turned to attendees and said, "This is the deed to our land."

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.  But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. (James 2: 19-24, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Abraham In Divine Judgment (03/10/2019); Sacred Characters, Not Fictional (12/12/2018); Judgment Against The Canaanites (08/01/2018); The First “Chosen” People (05/03/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); A Circumcision of Hearts (01/22/2018); Meek Abram (10/17/2010); What is Worship? (10/18/2010)

“Anonymous”, Abraham was the “Friend of God” where Moses was a covenant partner. Here are some points from the Bible that developing Christian believers are careful to examine when seeking to correctly understand mankind’s dominion over the earth, relationship to divinity through divine utterance (e.g., proclamation; promise; prophecy), and the authority of sacred records. It was not a secular system, or geopolitical economy wherein the transactions between GOD and Abraham occurred. While there were exchanges that compare to issuing promissory notes, the lawful transfer of goods and property through inheritance, and conduct to acknowledge covenant relationship (e.g., circumcision) and mutual obligation, all was anchored in operations of divinity to impart spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that included faith, hope, joy, knowledge, trust, and vision. The establishment and fulfillment of the early covenants are also on record as historical events; yet, there are many subtle points that are often overlooked. It is written:

1. Genesis 18: 18-19, King James Version (KJV): 18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

2. Genesis 15: 18, KJV: 18 In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:

3. Acts 7: 1-8, KJV: 1 Then said the high priest, Are these things so? 2 And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, 3 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee. 4 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. 5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. 6 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. 7 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.

4. Romans 4: 13-15, KJV: 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Galatians 3: 16-18, KJV: 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:57 AM, May 02, 2019 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GYJT71i9nGI/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/18/2019) The Authenticity of Relics

Matthew 27: 35, King James Version (KJV): 35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots. (See image reference below.)

Today, reply is on how relics are determined to be authentic. The imparted gifts (we say, divine seed; the Holy Ghost; spirit substance from the makeup of divine fullness) have been given as the incontestable evidence and witness that endorse the things received by men on the earth that have GOD as their origin and source. Those who sacrifice all to strive for the high prize of GOD are not likely to value relics overmuch. Within the church, relics are not to be used as a conclusive evidence and witness in judgment, or proof that sacred events have occurred, and are actual. Even so, the most important sacred relics have been useful by activating and confirming faith throughout the body of Christ. Included have been clergy, developing Christian believers, evangelical believers, monastics, pilgrims, prophets, stewards, and those who suffer. In many ways, relics are like visions, and are not to be analyzed or questioned. Relics continue to be spoken of as objects that are more relevant to carnal, material, and social living than to acquiring godliness and spirit content. References to relics often appear in fictional accounts, folklore, or legends (e.g., the Holy Grail, the cup filled with wine used as the emblem of his blood when Jesus introduced the Lord’s Supper), and are seldom documented and traced in the writings of academic historians. Given the most well-known relics are identified within the Scriptures, those who acknowledge the diverse holy relics generally agree that their preservation has been accomplished through the grace of divinity in the same way that manuscripts of the holy writings have been discovered, preserved, and passed on. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Gone Galt” (Level 3 with 1,657 points, a member since December 04, 2006) posted the following:

What is the authenticity of the Crown of Thorns and other relics saved from Notre Dame fire?

Update: PS -- Yahoo, this is a religious question. Stop changing the category.

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Keeping Of Relics (04/17/2019); Self-Will And Christian Integrity (06/11/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Divine Priesthood on Earth (01/31/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); Relying on Sacred “Evidence” (11/20/2017); Draped Upon The Cross? (02/22/2016); Holy Garments? (09/24/2015)

"Gone Galt", among Christian believers, the operations of faith imparted from the makeup of divinity and the demonstrated presence of revealed eternal purposes of GOD are to determine the authenticity, holiness, integrity, and enduring value for events, man-made objects, oneself, other persons, prophecy, holy writings, etc. Christians are not counseled by GOD to be skeptical or unbelieving, nonetheless, believers are encouraged to stay alert, prepared, and vigilant. Christians are to use their own spirit content from GOD to recognize and respond to spirit content wherever else it appears. Many Christian believers were not aware that there are sacred relics being displayed and maintained as a duty, an inheritance, and a privilege of the church founded by Jesus Christ. Others have long known there are ancient objects and anointed relics being held as treasures by the church, however, they account the significance and value of these items to be no greater than that of ordinary communion ware (e.g., the platen, the monstrance, the chalice). In the effort to avoid false prophecy, academic history, “secular knowledge,” superstition, vanity (emptiness; lack of sacred substance), and worldliness, there are even those who dismiss the idea that relics have any value at all in the modern era. With this in view, numberless believers have been surprised and startled at the recent news that there were relics endangered by the fire that blazed for hours at Notre Dame Cathedral (April 15, 2019, Paris, France). The accord among believers who will meet the Lord at his coming must respond to such principles and understanding as those proclaimed within the Bible. Consider again the following:

1. Psalms 115: 1-8, King James Version (KJV): 1 Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake. 2 Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now their God? 3 But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. 5 They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: 6 They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: 7 They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat. 8 They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them.

2. 1^st John 2: 15-17, 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. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. John 20: 19-29, KJV:  19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:49 PM, April 17, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/top10relicsofjesuschristpt-i-150928141552-lva1-app6891/95/top-10-relics-of-jesus-christ-pt-1-2-638.jpg?cb=1443449850

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/24/2019) Black History Month, 2019

Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Historian

Today, some thoughts are shared for Black History Month, 2019. As evidenced by the removal of Civil War statues, and the changing of names for public office buildings, schools and major thoroughfares, many forward-looking American communities and institutions are now in a full transition to acknowledge the War Between the States and its influence on the expression of public issues to have its greatest value as heritage and history, rather than, as before, being necessary as a vital element for mutual acceptance, solidarity, and survival while rising from the ruin of war. All Americans are being challenged to correctly grasp the true benefit, nature, and substance both of heritage, and that of genuine history. Because the minds and hearts of Christians dwell on lofty sacred themes of eternal spirit and immortality, many seem to dismiss the importance of simple earthly elements that describe the human predicament such as kinship, duty, time, and place. Even so, a physician acting as a chronicler and historian contributed two books of the Bible (the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts). The holy writings plainly establish that there are intangibles and unseen things that also must come into view because they further determine the human condition and ongoing events. Included are such features as desire, faith, hope, motivation, and willpower. Even as scholars, where we will repeatedly focus on such elements as discrimination, injustice, oppression, prejudice and racism, or upon the multiple difficulties, failures, and hardships that describe human experience, there is great danger that we may become caught up within the cycles of cynicism, despair, disappointment, and skepticism. There must be tried focus and tested order that will shield the emotional, mental, and psychological aspects of those who seek to document and preserve a lasting record to benefit future generations. Just as genuine faith will be discerned through works of righteousness, quality research will be distinguished and recognized as excellent on the basis of its robustness and rigor. There are many presentations and television documentary films, now, that are being regarded as “historical” because their intent is to expose the background of great events, of social movements, and of the sacrifices made by the great men remembered as leaders and participants. Unfortunately, the true character and substance for such productions often is that of celebrating secular knowledge, commercial advertising and selling, fostering nostalgia and sentiment, the promotion of popular culture, and the re-affirmation of questionable customs, themes, and traditions. The true goals, method, and substance of Black History are those of an academic field, a Liberal Arts curriculum, and an authentic Social Science. Thus, there are demands for clarity, exactness, objectivity, precision, and validity that may not be ignored, and are not to be forgotten. The same way educators and parents are now encouraging STEM, we also must be careful to encourage the scientific practice of History.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9: 6-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Battleaxe on War (11/13/2018); Arrayed In Sacred Favor (02/25/2018); Bloody Sunday -- Black History (02/14/2018); George Washington Owned Slaves (08/17/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); The Best Starting Point? (09/13/2016); The Accounts of Giants (05/24/2016); Academic Language? (12/10/2015)

RIGOR

[Black History Month, 2019]

Because History is a science

and its method is not shaped to say

I love you

or to lionize a fashion

culture pop, legend, myth, and lore

precise expressions

focused tools

are taken up

the measurable dimensions of

mankind

through artifacts

and documents

rather than emotions

issues, feelings

there is

the disciplined search

for cause

effect

and regularity

hypothesis and theory

probe for law

case study is not satisfied

with anecdote

broadcast news report

and even oral tradition

must meet standards

that will sate the tests of time

a harvest from this field

requires seed

finite with limits

not always for forecasting and prediction

the study has its worth because

the trust is that the truth

will set you free

the study has its worth

because of rigor.

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2019. All rights reserved.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC