(04/11/2018) On Selecting Scripture Verses

Today, reply is on divine love, the use of popular and preferred scripture verses, and the wrath of GOD against sin.  The Bible is a collection of writings that fit together providing a full revelation of divinity.  The Gospel that proclaims the appearance of Deity using flesh and blood as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation) is only one aspect of the full Bible presentation of sacred knowledge.  The death of Jesus on the cross is inseparable from his divine conception, his lowly birth, his ministry in the earth, his dying on the cross, his glorious resurrection and ascension into heaven, and his return to harvest those who are his from the earth (we say, Advent, his appearing, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  While the holy writings truly are a godly tool, and a weapon that may rebuke and repel the enemies of sinners who choose to repent and follow Christ, the Scriptures are intended for ministry, priesthood, and the administration of righteous government by divinely anointed kings.  Scripture should not be used for such common activity as competition, conflict, and quarrels among believers; deception, fraud, and scams; self-promotion; and showing off.  Rightly understood, the word from GOD only is to be shared by his heirs, his offspring, and his prophet or spokesperson(s).  The word of GOD is to make present and reveal the heart and mind of GOD, not that of his messengers and servants.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Christian sinner” (Level 7 with 206,851 points, a member since November 28, 2006) posted the following:


Why is this verse not used more than John 3:16?

'John 3
36
"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them."
They are both good verses. Verse 36 seems to use a more defined 'what if I don't'.
Update: yesmar,
What are you aware of concerning what people think God's wrath is what would cause them to miss something important? I'm trying to think about it and I come up with nothing.
Update 2: Ryan,
It is God's vengeance. Not mine. He does it, and claims to have it.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;  But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.  But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.  For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.  For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.  (2nd Corinthians 4:  1-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jesus Paid It All (04/04/2018); The Word of GOD (09/05/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); The Two-edged Sword (01/09/2017); A “Good” Verse? (05/09/2014); What GOD Demands (05/10/2014); According to This Word (09/20/2013); His Burden Is Light? (09/21/2013)


“Christian sinner”, many developing Christians respect “John 3:  16” as a summary of the full gospel and revelation of GOD incarnate as Jesus Christ where mature Christians have focused on end time events and prophecy, final judgment and the Advent (we say, his appearing; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming) as a special focus of the Good News.  While “John 3:  16” declares salvation and the possibility of companionship with immortal, incorruptible divinity through the Son of GOD, the love of GOD is proclaimed and revealed as primary within the divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father the Son, the Holy Spirit) and as necessary for relationships with Deity as divine law; judgment; personhood; the imparted, indwelling spirit; wisdom; and wrath against sin.

The righteous demands and obligations of divine law may not be dismissed, ignored, or promoted as ancient relics that no longer have meaning and value.  Simply put, the character, makeup and substance of created beings and living creatures require multiple levels of communication, exchange, and interaction whereby invisible, unseen authority and sovereign person becomes knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.  Divinity appears in flesh and blood as Jesus Christ permitting the living to engage the Creator through intimate, ongoing relations (e.g., praise, prayer, service, worship).  GOD is no longer to be regarded as an abstraction, an academic construct, or an intellectual notion.  Even so, the GOD who appears through Jesus must be acknowledged as a god of judgment, a god who must honor his own words of proclamation, promise and prophecy as well as a god who has made permanent provisions for mortal men to receive eternal life through divine grace.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Timothy 3:  16-17, King James Version (KJV):  16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

(2.)  John 6:  63, 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.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/14/2016) GOD Appearing As Word

Today, points are shared on the holy writings as a manifestation of divinity.  For many mature Christian believers the Bible has been experienced as more than simply another book.  The Holy Scriptures have been an incarnation (material form) used by Deity to appear in the earth.  Consider again the following from Scripture, and the points shared below:  John 1:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  2 The same was in the beginning with God.  3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  Also, John 6:  63, 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.  Romans 16:  25-27, KJV:  25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,  26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:  27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.  Genesis Pongho, who participates with me in THE BIBLE STUDY GROUP (a Public Group on Facebook presently having 22,604 members), invited discussion by posting the following:


Hello Ankongnda Valery,do you know that that very scriptures we read is the word of God and those who studied it did not understand when that word became flesh?The Bible will forever remain scripture to us ok?But the tell you that the person who spoke to the Romans did not quote any scripture but by the power of the spirit of his age.We are not the first to make such a debate ok?Many in the old also debated and when the creator came to them,they did not understand heavenly movement on earth because they thought they could have life in studying the scriptures.listen to what the word that became flesh told them in John 5:39-40, so know you that if you want to fight this truth with the knowledge you must have acquired from reading the scriptures and other books,it will only kill you because you will not see that alcohol is for the flesh and that very kingdom you talk of does not have anything to do with the flesh you drink alcohol.The truth is the alcohol you take,only go to satisfy your flesh and has nothing to do with your soul ok?So there is a spiritual alcohol for your soul.So which one should we take as Christians,that of the flesh or that of the soul?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  (Colossians 2:  8-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A GOD Without Form? (12/27/2015); Justified for Attacking The Bible? (06/28/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015); Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015); The Love of GOD (03/03/2013); Our Need for a Son (03/04/2013)


Be encouraged!  Your point on the Spirit nature of Scripture is very well taken.  There are many ways of stating the same truth just as we might address the same fellow as Dr. Johnson, Joseph, or Joey displaying different levels of formality and relationship.  The Bible allows us to discern, recognize, and understand things done and spoken in Spirit.  Where we insist upon the form or “letter” (i.e., precise repetition of statements that may appear) using intellect, logic, philosophy and science, we become narrow in focus, miss the divine intent, and operate having spiritual confusion.  See again John (Yochanon) 5:  39-44 in three different presentations:

King James Version (KJV):  39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.  40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.   41 I receive not honour from men.  42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.   43 I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not:  if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.   44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?

New International Version (NIV):  39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,  40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life.  41 “I do not accept glory from human beings,  42 but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts.  43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.  44 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB):  39 You search the Kitvei Hakodesh because you think in them you have Chayyei Olam. And those are the ones giving solemn edut about me.  40 And you do not want to come to me that you may have Chayyim.  41 I do not accept kavod (glory) from Bnei Adam.  42 But I have had da’as of you, that the ahavas Hashem (the love of G-d) you do not have in yourselves.  43 I have come b’Shem Avi and you do not accept me. If another comes in his own name, him you will accept.  44 How are you able to have emunah, when you receive kavod from one another, and the kavod from the only Elohim HaEchad you do not seek?

There are many other points that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, While the Bible may be received as an abiding appearance of divinity, the Bible itself is not to be revered, respected as an idol, or worshiped as a god.  The task of focusing upon spirit content may become clearer for Christian believers when different versions and translations of Scripture appear.  The challenge is not to promote a single, correct presentation having fixed meaning and value for all, for the believer is not to judge right and wrong so much as receive what has weight as appropriate and useful during their temporal process of growth and learning.

1st Corinthians 13:  8-12, KJV:  8 Charity never faileth:  but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.  9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.  10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:  but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

The inseparable Spirit substances that make up the Scriptures (e.g., faith, holiness, promise, prophecy, truth) exchange and interact among themselves forming new patterns for discovery and growth.  This permits us to say, the Scriptures are alive, dynamic, and organic continually balancing and re-balancing as full truth and increasingly clearer sacred vision.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  We are having encounter with majesty and glory.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/04/2016) From Cover to Cover?

Reading the Bible from “cover to cover” is the topic, today.  For many, the Scriptures are merely an artifact from ancient times, an old, old book, and an historical relic.  They must begin to “see with new eyes” and recognize that the Scriptures are a record of deeds performed by GOD, and words spoken from divinity to benefit all created beings and living creatures.  Included are sacred law, proclamations, promises, and prophecies that deposit the divine nature within mankind.  Consider the following verses from the Bible:

James 1:  21-25, King James Version (KJV):  1 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.  22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.  23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:  24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.  25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

Titus 2:  11-13, KJV:  11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;  13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

2nd Timothy 3:  15-17, KJV:  15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Romans 10:  13-17, KJV:  13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.  14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?  15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!  16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?  17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Chris C” (Level 2 with 636 points, a member since June 13, 2006) posted the following:


Which books of the Bible are best skipped when reading the Bible cover to cover?

When we do Bible study we restrict ourselves to certain books of the Bible. I was considering reading the Bible cover to cover but have been told that it is better to skip a few books, as they may be unhelpful. Which ones do you think are best avoided and can you say why?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:   All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.  And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.  And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.  Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.  Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.  (Deuteronomy 8:  1-5, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Bad GOD, Good GOD? (01/03/2016); By Faith, Not By Interpretation? (12/31/2015); In Times of Progress? (12/21/2015); Sacred Events Were Dismissed? (11/05/2015); A Correct Church? (10/05/2015); To Study the Book of Judges (09/09/2015); The Apocryphal Books? (08/07/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015); Points on Bible Study (06/28/2014)


“Chris C”, I recommend you read the entire Bible at least once; however, that will serve as only a first step in your acquiring full sacred knowledge.  You may then do as many others who read and re-read the Scriptures, even exploring multiple language versions and translations.  Many Christian believers are asking “How much knowledge from the Bible do we need to be saved?” and some even ask, “Do we need the Bible at all…?”  The ancient holy writings are available to us as a fixed, and unchanging resource that can be used to bear out the continuing operations of divinity in our own lives, today.  Believers are to trust that the Scriptures have been provided by Deity as a sacred device for revelation (i.e., making divinity known, present, and visible).  Spirit content from the makeup of GOD is to be imparted to the believer.  Included are awe (we say, fear of the Lord), faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Many want to approach the Scriptures using their skills and tools for gathering secular knowledge.  They center their growth and learning upon finite elements such as human history, intellect, logic, philosophy, science, and technology.  As yet, none of those things have been sufficient to overcome and remove sin as a condition for life among created beings and living creatures.  The holy writings do provide information important for communication, exchange and interaction within the community of faith; however, we are not saved on the basis of how many books we have read, how many verses we may quote.

All in positions of leadership and trust should have a complete and comprehensive knowledge of the things from GOD for the benefit of mankind.  Included are parents, teachers, and elected government officials.  Those who will lead and share within the church are specially correct to seek a full and thorough experience of the word.  In addition to discussion and study of the Bible, they also should embrace baptism, confession, contemplation, praise, prayer, repentance, and worship.

Believers are correct to sing, “Just as I am, without one plea….”  At best, what we can know of GOD while we are still upon the earth is limited, and merely a small piece from a huge universe.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/26/2015) The Meaning not the Object

The use of the cross, crucifix and other objects for inspiration and in worship are considered, today.  Given the temporal character and nature of life experience upon the earth, even believers in Christ must be repeatedly encouraged, re-exposed to, and reminded of the things pointing to their salvation.  Believers also experience being drawn away into competing activity and doctrine; forgetting; lapses and sudden shifts of their attention and focus as well as detachment and separation that result from lack of contact, and being absent from the active presence of divinity.  Correctly received, the use of memorials (e.g., the rainbow, a rest and Sabbath that follows Creation, or even a day remembering shared struggle and those who die unselfishly in defense of their nation) does not exalt or “venerate” (we say, honor as sacred) conflict, death, flesh, and warfare.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “L’nya” (Level 3 with 1,452 points, a member since August 25, 2010) posted the following:


Would you venerate a weapon used to kill one of your loved ones?

Would Jehovah God want the means his Son Jesus was killed venerated?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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.  For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.  For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.  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?  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.  For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:  But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;  But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.  Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.  For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:  But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;  (1st Corinthians 1:  17-27, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Not Images Used in Worship? (09/14/2014); Death is a Divine Tool (09/15/2014); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); On Religious Items (08/29/2012); On Cults (08/30/2012)


“L’nya”, you seem to be disturbed by the continuing use of the cross.  For Christians, in the same way it is acceptable to use representations and symbols such as language and words to communicate our inner feelings and thoughts, it is correct to use emblems, images and physical objects such as a prayer shawl, bread and wine.  Only where one wrongly attributes divinity to material and physical objects without acknowledging the spirit content, meaning and purpose from Christ (for events, messages, other persons, etc.) do such errors as heresy, idol worship, occultism, and superstition appear.  Here are some points to consider that have been useful for correction and guidance among Christian believers:

(1.)  Romans 8:  5-9, King James Version (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.

(2.)  John 3:  18-20, KJV:  18 He that believeth on him is not condemned:  but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.  20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 8:  4-6, KJV:  4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.  5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)  6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 7:  29-31, KJV:  29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short:  it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;  30 And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not;  31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it:  for the fashion of this world passeth away.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually taken into account.  (For example, (5.)  Luke 22:  19-20, KJV:  19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you:  this do in remembrance of me.  20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/19/2015) Divinity Has Person?

Points are shared, today, on the character, nature and qualities whereby divinity is acknowledged within relationship.  To the carnal mind, it is correct to say that every real dog must have the single essence, quality or substance shared by every canine that actually makes it a dog. While we can give it no precise description, we generally agree our pooches all must have dog-ness; cats must have cat-ness; humans must have humanity. Using that mindset, divinity, godliness and spirit can not reside within those living upon the earth. Where Christians say that GOD appears or manifests displaying recognizable person, believers are not ascribing human characteristics and qualities to Deity such as aloofness, antagonism, competitiveness, dispassion, ego, empathy, hostility, individuality, and self-centeredness. Divinity exists having person by operating within covenants and other relationships that generate the broad range of life experience. Included are acceptance, approval, comfort, communication, disapproval, discovery, exchange, forgiveness, guidance, interaction, rule, trust, and warning. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (standard information not available) attacked posting the following:


Since when is all of God "persons". God the Father and the Holy Ghost were never "persons", so why do you say God is 3 "persons" in one?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:  Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.  (Hebrews 1:  1-4, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Purpose? (01/08/2015); GOD and The Framework of Time (09/20/2014); About Knowing the Name of GOD (09/21/2014); Aspects of Divinity? (06/15/2014); Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Let Us Make Mankind? (06/10/2014); GOD and Adultery? (06/11/2014); Personality? (04/27/2014); Anointed? (04/28/2014)


“Anonymous”, apparently the GOD you know and serve operates only as an abstraction, a mechanism, and does not respond to you in a revelation that is interactive and organic.  Here are a few points and insights shared among Christian believers:

(1.)  What created beings and living creatures may call person and personness when speaking of Deity are the multiple personal attributes, regular patterns and qualities describing divine action through continuous contact and intercourse that has direction, focus, inclusion, and purpose upon a cosmic scale.

(2.)  GOD is a spirit, who must exist within the consciousness of the living as a measure of defining substance, rather than merely as emotion, intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, secular history, or science.  Intimate relationship with Deity is developed and maintained through utterance that includes admonition, confession, praise, prayer, proclamation, promise, and prophecy.

(3.)  Where GOD resides within the living there are continual exchange and interaction of inseparable divine content such as faith, holiness, hope, joy, love, purity, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Only thereby may GOD be worshiped in spirit and in truth.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Divinity is known through such features and processes as birth, death, deliverance, doctrine, impressions, incarnation, judgment, law, precepts, principles, rebirth, sanctification, and sovereignty.  In the same way the physical characteristics of an animal are not enough to establish its identity as a dog (e.g., they bark, have four legs, a tail, two ears—like seals, like cats, may have missing limbs), so that a coarse standard is applied saying there must be a quality of “dog-ness”, apart from the provisions through Jesus Christ, mankind uses rough standards to speak of godliness, holiness, perfection, and spirituality.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/21/2014) Those Who Hear GOD

Today, some points are shared on why only Christians can hear GOD.  A “Yahoo! Answers Philippines” writer using the ID “Daniel” (Level 4 with 3,338 points, a member since April 07, 2013) posted the following first asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


How come only christians can hear god?

Either christians or people that are having a hard time in life are the only ones that seem to have 'revelations' or are the only ones to be born again.. why is this??


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:  because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God:  and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them:  because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.  They are of the world:  therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  We are of God:  he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us.  Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.  (1st John 4:  4-6, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Relating to GOD? (11/05/2013); Does Satan Know? (11/06/2013); Those Who Have Never Heard? (06/07/2013); If You Are Sent…? (06/08/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013); Why A “Spokesperson”? (01/14/2013); No Contradictions? (01/15/2013)


“Daniel”, here are a few points that have been helpful among Christian believers:

(1.)  These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.  And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:  And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.  (1st John 1:  5, KJV)

(2.)  Using the language of the Bible, mature Christian believers trust that GOD does not “respect persons.”  This means that GOD does not give preference or “play favorites” in the sacred operations of judgment and revelation.  GOD is fair and impartial, ruling and sharing only on the basis of sacred law and truth, and GOD is never influenced by a person’s social distinctions such as caste, reputation, prestige, property, rank, status, or wealth.

(3.)  Through Jesus Christ, believers may come into an intimate, personal relationship with GOD, and are no longer merely “objects” and “things” that have been created.  While GOD appears to respond to differences among persons on the basis of their specific needs, the differences actually result by their participation in relationship with, or distance from GOD.

(4.)  In addition to new information and knowledge about sacred events, history, divine operations, and eternal purposes, believers are given special spirit content from GOD (we say, divine DNA), and this makes them “new persons.”  They continue to experience life challenges like everyone else upon the earth, however, they practice disciplines and “sacraments” whereby they maintain a constant awareness of GOD.

There is far more to be said, properly shared, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (5.) naughty behavior and bad conduct are not the actual focus of divine judgment.  Human deeds will be examined to identify the divine substance they express and generate.  It is not about what you do, then, so much as what you contain.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.  (Romans 10:  17, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/27/2013) By Inspiration of GOD

That correct knowledge of GOD and Christ must be gained by careful study of the holy writings is considered, today, as I again seek to encourage spiritual insight and understanding by using the Scriptures on Scripture format.

SOME THOUGHTS ON

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 

17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.  (2nd Timothy 3:  16-17, KJV) 


Deuteronomy 4:  2 (KJV)  2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.


Mark 12:  24 (KJV)  24 And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?


John 7:  37-43 (KJV)  37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.  38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.  39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive:  for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)  40 Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.  41 Others said, This is the Christ.  But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?  42 Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?  43 So there was a division among the people because of him.


Luke 24:  13-27 (KJV)  13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.  14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.  15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.  16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.  17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?  18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?  19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:  20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.  21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel:  and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.  22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;  23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.  24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said:  but him they saw not.  25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:  26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?  27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.


John 20:  19-31 (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.  30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:  31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.


2nd Corinthians 5:  7 (KJV)  7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)


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


2 Peter 1:  19-21 (KJV)  19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:  20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man:  but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.


Revelation 22:  18-20 (KJV)  18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:  19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.  20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly.  Amen.  Even so, come, Lord Jesus.


There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood.  Again, I welcome readers to share as a comment a few of the Scriptures you feel should be added to those already being displayed, here.  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/01/2013) Sacred Writings Profaned?

In recognition that the advertising policies here no longer complement the daily study of holy writings and the expression of faith through spiritual contemplation, the present title with banner will be replaced:

 

“THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD
A daily sacred writings blog hosted by WordPress.com”

And will now be shown as:

 

“THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD
A daily Internet advertising site hosted by WordPress.com”  

(08/01/2013)

(04/30/2013) Scripture at Funerals?

      The practice of reading Scriptures at funerals is the topic, today. Also, there is more on the miraculous births of Jesus and John the Baptist. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Declan” (Level 1 with 94 points, a member since February 17, 2013) posted the following:


Why are bible verses read at funerals?


THE BATTLE AXE: Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013)—(6.)  Lacking the Holy Spirit and a right knowledge of the process of GOD, many mistakenly believe that the Scriptures are filled with contradictions and errors, because they see the same sacred events and miracles recorded more than once, yet, they are not reported exactly the same way.  Depending upon human intelligence, logic, or reason, and seeking to understand without spiritual discernment, the profound and subtle increases effected by GOD cannot be detected.  See 1st Corinthians 2: 9-14, KJV. (7.)  The work of John was to announce the fulfillment of divine promises and prophesies recorded in the Scriptures. The work of Jesus was to actually carryout, institute, and perform sacred events, and divine operations upon the earth that pertained to worship and the divine Sanctuary in heaven.  Included in the Savior’s work were atonement, forgiveness, incarnation, proclamation, purification, rebirth, reconciliation, and resurrection.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. (Luke 9: 57-61, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Quoting Scripture to GOD? (04/24/2013); Illusion? (04/25/2013); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013); What to Take Literally (03/11/2013); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013); The Prophets (02/24/2012); Binder 3: A Commitment To The Scriptures (09/30/2011); Inspiration? (03/05/2011); Blasphemy? (03/06/2011); Bible Boring? (09/29/2010)


      Declan, here are some points understood to be important among many mature Christian believers about the reading of Scriptures:

(1.) For many, burial of the dead is a mechanical and practical process having more to do with sanitation than salvation. (It is necessary to remove the dead and their decay to block the spread of disease and sickness.) The reading of Scriptures is not needed to “take out the garbage” or to “remove the trash.” For those who acknowledge the authority and sovereignty of GOD over life, death and eternity, readings from Scripture are used to acknowledge and show respect to the exalted position of GOD as Creator and Maker of mankind, as Judge over the quick and the dead, and as the One who establishes eternal life through the resurrection of the dead.

(2.) Scriptures are read to invoke (i.e., invite, welcome) the presence of GOD; and to petition (make request) for divine resources. In addition to pleas for acceptance of the dead into the divine presence, the needs of the surviving loved ones are addressed including comfort, direction, guidance, healing, strength (emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual), and reaffirmation of their own condition as saved believers. See Romans 15: 4 and 2nd Corinthians 1: 3-9 King James Version.

(3.) Scriptures are read to reestablish awareness of divine truths held among believers that are powerfully contradicted and opposed by bereavement, separation, and loss of loved ones. Included are praises, prayers, proclamations, promises, prophesies, and thanksgivings. Men are easily convinced that death is real, because multiple devices of the flesh dominate human awareness. Appetite, sensation, and mental functions such as desire, recall and thought, are all engaged. By contrast, apprehension of eternal life comes only when awareness is directed by the Spirit of GOD, and things otherwise invisible and unknowable must come into ones experience.
    
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) GOD is a spirit. The holy writings convey and transfer divinity as spirit content in the form of words (i.e., breath, utterance). Included are aspects of the divine makeup such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering (endurance), love, patience, wisdom, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/28/2013) Destroyed in Noah’s Flood?

      The destruction wrought on earth through Noah’s flood is today’s topic. Also, there is more on repentance before resurrection. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Clorox” (Level 1 with 102 points, a member since April 25, 2013) posted the following:


What happened to plants when Noah’s Ark was floating above the Flood?

Did they drown and how did they get reborn, like trees and things?


THE BATTLE AXE: Repentance Must Come Before Resurrection (04/27/2013)—(7.) The focus of final judgment is not placing blame and finding fault; and neither is the focus punishment or the recovery of sinners. Judgment is the further revelation of GOD whereby the full extent of divine righteousness is made known and visible as unchanging and eternal truth. (8.) Every one appears before GOD in judgment already sealed. In addition to the mark of the beast that many will receive as the result of their own human choices, men also become sealed through persistent anger, covetousness, envy, fear, lust, pride and violence. Once fixed in their spirit content, created beings and living creatures can no longer receive the repentance from their sins that must come by operation of the imparted, indwelling spirit of Christ. The regular processes of carnal living continue (e.g., aging, decay, growing older); however, possibilities for spiritual life such as baptism, rebirth, regeneration and sanctification are completely cut off. The major sealing events include apostasy (i.e., backsliding, falling away), blasphemy of the Holy Ghost, denying forgiveness to others, rejecting the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and physical death. Only those immortal, incorruptible, and having the seal of GOD will be allowed to enter or abide within the New Jerusalem.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. (Revelation 4: 1-4, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Noah, A Second Adam (03/25/2013); GOD Hiding in Plain Sight (03/26/2013); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013); The “Lake of Mercy” (11/03/2012); New Covenant? (01/08/2011); Annulled? (01/09/2011); Lion of Judah (01/10/2011)

    
     Clorox, here are some ideas that mature Christian believers have found useful when considering the flood of Noah:

(1.) The judgment of GOD against sin upon the earth was to be demonstrated by the destruction of all containing the “breath of life.” Purging the earth from sin, and removing all sin within the earth requires multiple sacred operations such as the use of death, burial or return to the earth, absolution, re-birth, and resurrection. The ark constructed by Noah was intended as a storage chest, not a boat or sea-going vessel, and was to preserve and protect the remnant of created beings and living creatures from the earth as the vessels of sacred law, divine spirit, and holy word.

(2.) The mixing of waters (e.g., fresh, rain, running, salt and standing) rendered them foul, poisonous, polluted, and no longer capable of sustaining life. Fish and even such water plants as kelp and seaweed were overwhelmed in the flood.

(3.) The power and rush of the flood waters snapped tree trunks as twigs, tore trees up from the ground with their roots, and dashed them together. Once the ground was ripped open, the soil was loosed and torn in great chunks. Also, boulders and rocks were hurled like darts and missiles.

(4.) When Noah and his family finally left the ark, the world they saw was a world in ruin (much like what modern TV news reports show for the survivors of cyclones, earthquakes and tsunami). In addition to the confusion of crevices, rocks, and trees, cadavers and carcasses of the dead were all about.
    
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) In view of the darkness and horror they were confronted by, Noah and his family were not discouraged or disheartened. They had been prepared by GOD. The hard work of building the ark had continued for some 120 years. The daily chores of tending animals had included removing their waste. They responded to the assignment of cleaning and rebuilding the earth with faith, hope and joy. More than this, the Invisible GOD gave Noah a sign whereby his active presence could be known and recognized, and one that would rejoice and uplift the hearts of all living: the rainbow.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/29/2012) Purchased With Blood?

     Redemption and the Holy Spirit are topics, today.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Alex” (Level 2 with 460 points, a member since October 19, 2012) posted the following:

Christians, why does the Bible say God 'bought' the church with his own 'blood'?
Acts 20:28 tells us, “Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”
Who bought the church—the church of God—with His own blood?

THE BATTLE AXE:  The Dove (12/28/2012)—The standard of the dove signifying peace is lifted up for the kingdom of heaven in contrast to the ensign of the Roman eagle, a bird of prey, that signals conquest, destruction and war.  Like John the Baptist, mature Christian believers proclaim the kingdom, and are endowed with the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, and the Spirit of Prophecy).  As one continually nourished by holy offerings, sacrifices and tithes, and who continued upon holy ground until carried to serve as a herald and witness in the wilderness, the Prophet John acknowledged the consecration of Jesus as High Priest, his anointing as king (Messiah), public recognition of his claim as heir to Adam, Abraham, and David (the Son of man) as well as divine confirmation that Jesus is the Son of GOD.  The appearance of the dove as the voice sounded from heaven was in the nature of jubilation, proclamation, revelation, and testimony in judgment.  All the spirit-persons of the GODhead are present in the scene; and each affirms the authority and fullness of the others.  These things were exposed to the Prophet allowing him to identify Jesus as “the Lamb of GOD” to those who had been prepared to become the first followers of Christ.  (See John 5:  33-38, John 1:  29-37 and 1st John 5:  6-12, KJV.)

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And it shall be, when Jehovah shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanite, as he sware unto thee and to thy fathers, and shall give it thee,  that thou shalt set apart unto Jehovah all that openeth the womb, and every firstling which thou hast that cometh of a beast; the males shall be Jehovah’s.  And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break its neck:  and all the first-born of man among thy sons shalt thou redeem.  And it shall be, when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand Jehovah brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:  and it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that Jehovah slew all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both the first-born of man, and the first-born of beast:  therefore I sacrifice to Jehovah all that openeth the womb, being males; but all the first-born of my sons I redeem.  (Exodus 13:  11-15, American Standard Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Price of Humanity? (12/13/2012); Remembering the Holocaust (12/14/2012); More Than Salvation (11/27/2012); The Slave to Law and Sin Made Free (11/16/2012); Lawful Divorce (11/17/2012); Divine Self-Sacrifice? (09/30/2012); Jesus Our “Advocate” (08/16/2012); Girdle 14:  Reasonable Service (11/29/2011); Why Sacrifice? (10/13/2010); Appetite (10/14/2010)

     More than merely saving believers in judgment from their sentence of damnation, the birth, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ establishes eternal life through redemption.   Redemption is the provision of divine covenant that allows things dedicated, offered in prayer, and promised to GOD (e.g., oneself, ones firstborn, donkeys, goats, sheep, oxen) to be recovered from the altar of GOD.  All living things delivered to the altar (a holy table that serves as a point where heaven and earth are joined) must be sanctified, sacrificed, and salted (i.e., washed, set apart, slain, and transferred to GOD through holy fire that accomplishes cleansing, judgment and lifting).  The redeemed are recovered from the altar to continue in service as living sacrifices.  Those that cannot be used in sacred service and worship, that would defile and profane the altar when offered, and where no redemption price has been paid (say a mule), the neck is broken, and it is destroyed.

     That Jesus Christ may bestow eternal life to those that are his by their “saving purchase” is a fulfillment of divine law, promise, and prophecy, and constitutes lawful redemption.  The provision of redemption again displays the law as righteous, and in agreement with the mercy found in judgment.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, less mature Christian believers tend to oversimplify the truths of redemption and salvation, ignore them altogether, or lump them together as though one is no greater than another.  It remains, the devotion, gratitude, obedience, thoroughness and zeal of believers will vary according to their right knowledge and understanding.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/25/2012) Without The Noise of Battle

      Various appearances of divine person, judgment, law and sanctification are topics; however, only a BATTLE AXE and a GOLDEN ARROW are presented, today. Be blessed as you, your family, friends and other loved ones claim and receive the hope, joy and salvation from GOD through Jesus Christ.

      Merry Christmas, 2012!



THE BATTLE AXE: About the Star? (12/24/2012)—In the full declaration of sacred truth regarding the birth of Jesus, many mature believers also understand the star that appeared in the East, moved steadily westward, and finally beamed from above the inn at Bethlehem was not an angelic being (the angels are called “stars” in Revelation 1: 20 and 12: 3-5, KJV). This visible feature of the night sky was an appearance of divine person, as was the guardian to the tree of life (Genesis 3: 24, KJV) who stood with flaming sword, the cherubim bowing in obeisance before the holy ark and seat of justice (Exodus 25: 22 and Numbers 7: 89, KJV), and the pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13: 20-22, KJV) that hovered above the tribes of Jacob in their wandering. The star of the shepherds and wise men pertains to the continuing revelation of GOD to all Creation and mankind, and specially serves to further prepare all for the advent and appearance of Christ in full supernal glory (Ezekiel 43: 2, Matthew 24: 25-31 and Luke 9: 26, KJV).



THE GOLDEN ARROW: For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9: 5-7, KJV)



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/20/2012) GOD in Schools?

      Public schools as a divine tool for religious instruction, and more on the return of Christ to heaven are topics, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” Top Contributor using the ID “Olga”, (a member since November 14, 2012, Level 3 with 1,749 points) posted the following:



Christians: How can we get God back in schools where He belongs? +Pastor John Hagee...?

of the Cornerstone Church said this on the church's Facebook page which is extremely inspirational:

"Hope for tomorrow begins with rational decisions today that guarantee a new direction for our nation. We have run God out of our schools, our lives, many of our churches
and God’s blessing has been lifted from our nation. I invite you to come this Sunday morning to hear the answer from God’s Word about “Hope for Tomorrow.” I’ll see you at Cornerstone Church Sunday morning; bring your Bibles and note-taking materials. Bring a heart that is ready to hear from heaven. God knows we’ve heard from everybody else long enough." - Pastor John Hagee

Join us at 8:30 & 11am! See you in Church!



THE BATTLE AXE: The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)—The lifting up of Jesus while he was yet in the flesh was witnessed by a group of men who had been carefully chosen and prepared through daily living, study, and laboring in ministry with Jesus. Without having first been built up through encounters and tests, the display of glory, holiness and power would have overwhelmed the carnal minds, emotions, and imaginations of the apostles. Instead of confidence and conviction, confusion and unbelief would have been the most likely result. Inarguable evidence that Jesus was truly sent from Almighty GOD to fulfill sacred covenants and promises had already been supplied by the events of Christ crucified, buried, and revived from death. The ascension appears as an irrefutable sign from heaven confirming the yet unfilled promise of a Comforter and further gifts to come from GOD. More than this, the apostles’ experience of his ascension sealed the truth that Jesus would return in glory.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4: 1-7, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Slaughter of Innocents? (12/15/2012); Unexceptional Beginnings? (11/22/2012); Believing Everything? (11/23/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Parental Duty? (10/08/2012); Why No Answer? (08/25/2012); To Be or Not To Be (08/26/2012); The Young Less Religious (08/18/2012); Why Jesus Prayed (08/19/2012); Trouble for the Good (01/15/2012); Chain of Command (01/16/2012)



      Public schools are correctly understood as mechanisms to discipline, educate, and train members of a community, particularly minor children, however, public schools are not designed to fulfill the sacred purpose of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Public schools respond to mandates determined by civil law, shared resources, and social consensus. The order, process and structure of public schools are not rooted in divine law, and the various truths essential to right relationship with GOD as Creator. Having said this, public schools are “elements of the world,” not the kingdom of GOD.

      In addition to issues that emerge from varying levels of faith, obedience, and trust, challenges for religious instruction through the public forum represented by schools include enforcement of dissent, demands for inclusion by those professing disbelief, imbalance that may be addressed only through interdependence, and nonnegotiable demands for sound belief essential in establishing unity. Academic settings permit only abstract and narrative descriptions of spiritual documents and events. Peculiar figures may be identified as thought leaders and objects of worship. Questionable summaries of belief systems may be studied. The bottom line is that, public education does not truly allow spirit content to be conveyed, experienced, and internalized.

      The church and the home are the “god-given” devices for religious instruction that will both emerge from and demonstrate divine presence in recognizable power. This is specially true now that our schools are no longer merely centers for the 3-R’s (reading, ’ritin’ and ’rithmetic). The schools are business centers involving millions of dollars in contracts for books, building supplies, electronics, food services, and repairs. The schools are independent social systems (like a small town within a town), and now include issues of absence of parental involvement, alcohol and drug use, inappropriate sexual activity, police presence and violence. Emotionally charged issues make it that students must take to the schools a knowledge of GOD that will preserve the schools, and increasingly do not take a knowledge from the schools that will preserve the church and home.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the issue of arming teachers with guns to protect students is now driven by fear and panic. In an emergency, access to a weapon worn as a sidearm and openly displayed will be very different than for weapons kept under lock and key for safety. Such options as the use of mace (stronger than pepper spray) or Tasers are not being highlighted in the present discussions. Doctrine and teaching accounted as nonviolence, and “turning the other cheek” may not be dismissed without violating the Gospel.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/06/2012) “Soul” Food?

      The value of reading Scripture to nourish ones soul is a focus, today, along with more on the various names given Lucifer. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Faiz” (Level 1 with 99 points, a member since December 5, 2012) posted the following:


How the reading is the food of soul?


THE BATTLE AXE: The Adversary? (12/05/2012)—In the same way sin was first identified through Lucifer, complaints by created beings and living creatures of being bullied, denied “free-will,” and victimized by law and judgment also originated through the angelic being and his followers. The Scriptures document a principle that, upon profound change in ones sacred function, spirit content, or worship relationship they are to be known by a new name. Examples are Elohim, El Shaddai, and Jehovah; Abram and Abraham; Jacob and Israel; Lucifer and Satan; and the promise for those who overcome of a new name within a white stone (Revelation 2: 17, KJV). In Scripture, Abaddon is a different being from Lucifer; and is identified as king of the angels who were imprisoned in the “bottomless pit” after their transgression (Revelation 2: 9 and 11: 7, KJV). It is this abyss that men mistakenly describe as the place of torment (hell) beneath the surface of the earth. It is Sheol, the grave, that is more correctly understood as the bottomless pit for mankind; and the actual place of burning where unclean spirits are destroyed is called the lake of fire. Lucifer and the others lost their first estate; yet, their arguments, challenges, grievances and protests against GOD may be heard and recognized daily among men. While Lucifer has no authority to impart spirit matter to the living (or to the dead), he nevertheless has allure and influence that are mistakenly taken to be divine power. The revelation of GOD through covering cherubim has been superseded by the revelation of GOD incarnate, and the seating of Jesus in human flesh as risen Lord.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. (Deuteronomy 8: 1-3, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Golden Ticket? (11/30/2012); And This Was Good News (12/01/2012); A Text for Lives Today (11/25/2012); Pornography from the Bible (11/26/2012); Bibles in Hotel Rooms? (03/30/2012); Some To Rule? (03/31/2012); Support For The Bible (03/11/2012); Binder 6: The Plan Of This Work (10/03/2011); Binder 4: Getting To Know The Scriptures (10/01/2011); Binder 3: A Commitment To The Scriptures (09/30/2011)


      It is the faith (i.e., confidence, conviction, trust) of many mature believers that the holy writings are directed to ones inner spirit, and operate through spiritual dimensions as well as the mental, physical and social realities of life. As such, the Scriptures convey spirit matter that resides within divine person. Included are such features as forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

      Because some insist the Scriptures are merely products of human creativity and imagination that should only be regarded as history, literature, mythology or poetry, there continues to be a longstanding tradition of confusion, disbelief, opposition and skepticism. However, those who carefully read, assume the attitudes expressed, and practice the instruction from the Scriptures always achieve godliness and spiritual maturity.

      While we use language that speaks of “the soul” being “nourished” as if eating and drinking (operations of flesh) are intended, a sacred process whereby spirit matter is concentrated, directed, and displayed is really the true focus. Man became a “living soul” when GOD breathed into a figure made from dust of the ground (Genesis 2: 7, KJV). The breath of life from GOD that makes humankind possible is also called speech, utterance, and the Word.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, growth and learning by experience are unique features of humankind. Angels, the sacred beasts of heaven, and many other created beings and living creatures are complete and “finished” in their knowledge. That is, at their creation, they were endowed with all the information and understanding to function correctly in the course of their service and worship. They were not granted knowledge of events and issues pertaining to sin, repentance, and salvation; yet, sin first appeared among them, before being detected in the earth. Those of the heavenly host are not understood as having souls. Nonetheless, their make-up and substance is also being transformed by the ministry of Jesus to mankind. More than simply reading and academic study, the process of GOD is shown to be one of hearing, praise, seeing, service, testimony and witness.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC