(03/15/2020) Salvation Is Not Predetermined

Today, reply is on divine predetermination (many say, destiny; fate), and whether the individuals who will be saved at the end of the world were chosen and named before, or during Creation. Salvation is decided among and for the living. Conditions and frameworks for the salvation of all mankind have been provided for the descendants of Adam, however, there are many factors that decide and determine who on the earth will be saved. In addition to how they have been influenced by sacred law, human affairs, chance, and the operations of sin that generate points for change, choice and decision, men will be examined for how they have displayed the image of GOD, and whether they resembled, reflected, and revealed the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Divinely provided opportunities and possibilities exist that men are encouraged to acknowledge, embody, fulfill, and practice, yet, are not coerced or violently forced to obey. Attitudes, behavior, conduct, service, suffering, thoughts, and works recorded in the books of life are being used as indicators and identifiers for each individual. The focus of divine judgment will be their invisible, unchanging spirit content. Those who will be privileged to exist as immortal life companions of divinity secure their standing with GOD by the way they carry out their lives on the earth as mortals, as the new creation, and as those in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is written: Matthew 7: 18-23 , King James Version (KJV): 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Blue Ridge” (Level 2 with 660 points) posted the following:

God Knows Who Is Saved?

Before the creation of time, God already knew who is going to heaven or not. So, what is the point of repentance?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great. (Luke 6: 44-49, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Was Divine Power Squandered? (01/14/2020); Ones Spirit Must Grow? (09/29/2019); Repentance Must Happen Now (06/07/2019); King Solomon and Predestination? (11/14/2018); Neither “All-knowing” Nor “Omniscient” (11/07/2017); To Forgive is Divine? (04/06/2016); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012); Opportunity to Repent (11/02/2012)

“Blue Ridge”, in the same way an elementary school principal knows, without having yet seen them, the age and grade for every child who will be in their care before the first day of school, and understands that not all the children will do well without special attention, GOD knew at Creation the possibilities for mankind without making the outcome of their efforts preset (we say, determined). Conditions, mechanical process, natural law, and diverse operations were established to continue the universe through divine order. Many apply “predetermination” (fate; destiny) as an idea to explain human life events, rather than individual achievement on the basis of ones knowledge, character, commitment, skill, talent, etc.

Divinity is spirit in form, process, and substance; and we are correct to say, divinity is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. Even so, GOD exercises prerogative, purpose, and sovereign will. The inseparable aspects of GOD include balance, faith, holiness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. While many sinners and developing Christian believers are willing to describe GOD using commonsense and popular ideas that label the Creator as all-knowing, omniscient, and omnipresent, mature Christians heavily rely on the information that comes through the holy writings. Divine fullness (we also say, Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) may exist within consciousness and self-will (willpower). The Bible records the appearance of divinity on the earth using thousands of events, within thousands of human lives, over the course of thousands of years. In addition to sacred law, covenant relationships, divine proclamations, promises, prophecies, eternal purpose, testimonies, and recorded witness, otherwise unknown truth regarding divinity has been shared through Incarnation (i.e., appearing in human flesh), through revelation, and through the imparting of spirit matter from the makeup of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Malachi 3: 13-18, King James Version (KJV): 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

(2.) 2^nd Timothy 2: 19, KJV: 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

(3.) 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVM8eD-4pag.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:55 PM, March 14, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/25/be/3f/25be3f48e3733a62a64210d2c8f6e59d.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/14/2018) King Solomon and Predestination?

The splendor of Solomon portrayed by Edward Poynter (1890) The Visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon (see reference below)

Today, reply is on the figure of King Solomon, and divine process as continuous and unfolding, yet, fixed and unchanging. Mankind exists on the earth as humanity’s sphere of life, and also must respond to mechanical and natural law. The idea of predestination introduces spiritual confusion by using language that denies sacred law, eternal purpose and divine order are the primary origin for human events, while mankind’s expression of self-will is the primary determinant for the carnal, material, and social aspects of ones life experience. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality, who uses the ID “Stonehaven” (Level 1 with 1 points, a member since March 21, 2018) posted the following:

Solomon was predestined to be a Great King or not?

As Solomon was one of the Great Kings of the Old Testament it would seem to suggest that his career was predestined by the Creator.

Since we know that all of the Major and Minor prophets of the Old Testament have been predestined in some way: Isaiah 46:10.

The mere fact that Solomon was born at all is predestined by the Creator.

Which begs the question: Did God have anything to do with King David’s adultery with Bathsheba and the death of her husband Uriah the Hittite in the specific context of “God creating evil” in Isaiah 45:7?

Had David not committed adultery nor killed Uriah, Solomon would never had been born at all; but we seem to think that the latter was predestined to do great things.

So, was God behind David’s adultery and the death of Uriah in the specific context of Isaiah 45:7?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. (2^nd Corinthians 4: 6-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Descendent of David? (03/18/2018); Neither “All-knowing” Nor “Omniscient” (11/07/2017); The Bible on “Soulmates”? (03/12/2017); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); Solomon Punished For Sins Of David? (08/28/2015); Errors of King Solomon? (06/13/2013); Salvation for Atheists? (06/14/2013); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013); The Priesthood of Kings (10/17/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012)

“Stonehaven”, here are some points intended for Christian believers that you may find useful; our focus is to be on the greatness of GOD, rather than on any carnal, material, or social element:

1. Within the revelation of Jesus Christ, Solomon appears as a figure or type (the Son of David) who is to display and embody the greatness of divinity (we may say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit).

2. Sacred gifts to mankind were to become visible through Israel in covenant relationship and through an inheritance of dynasty provided to King David, that included faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, priesthood, prophecy, and sacred wisdom.

3. The prophetic demonstration wherein Solomon was married to 700 wives and was joined to 300 concubines speaks to the condition of Israel as married to her maker who is GOD. Viewed as a political or secular fact from the life of Solomon, his marriages appear only as abuse, exaggeration and spiritual confusion from a man in the flesh expressing sexual desire, lust, and passion.

4. The character, makeup, and process of GOD revealed to Moses was that of Lawgiver and the GOD of judgment, who does not punish the children for the sins of the parents, yet, challenges the offspring by continuing the conditions and consequences of parental transgressions for as much as 160 years (the 4^th generation). The offenses of King David included failing to command his household in the matters of Tamar and Absalom as well as the infidelity demonstrated when the King commanded that a census be taken.

5. By the workings of human events and finite self-will, rather than eternal purpose, there would be division; and Israel would become two kingdoms: the two tribes, Judah and Benjamin (the Southern Kingdom) and the ten tribes (Israel, Samaria; the Northern Kingdom). Israel existed as a united kingdom only during the reigns of King David and his heir, King Solomon. (Solomon was anointed and crowned king while David was still alive; and Israel briefly had both father and son as ruler at the same time.)

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) Solomon understood his anointing from GOD to be no less that that bestowed upon David. In addition to being authorized as builder of a permanent house for GOD (a palace; a temple), he himself would be judge, king, priest, and prophet. Even so, David’s offenses were coupled with King Solomon’s indulgence of idolatry by his foreign wives, and the arrogance expressed by Solomon’s lawful heir to the throne, Rehoboam. The ten tribes would elect as their king Jeroboam the son of Nebat, the enemy Solomon had forced out and who returned from Egypt at Solomon’s death. It was Jeroboam who then introduced worship of the golden calf in two separate places.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

Edward Poynter (1890) The Visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon downloaded 10:00 AM, 11-13-2018 from the Wikimedia Commons Internet site @ https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/43/%27The_Visit_of_the_Queen_of_Sheba_to_King_Solomon%27%2C_oil_on_canvas_painting_by_Edward_Poynter%2C_1890%2C_Art_Gallery_of_New_South_Wales.jpg/1280px-%27The_Visit_of_the_Queen_of_Sheba_to_King_Solomon%27%2C_oil_on_canvas_painting_by_Edward_Poynter%2C_1890%2C_Art_Gallery_of_New_South_Wales.jpg

(11/07/2017) Neither "All-knowing" Nor "Omniscient"

Today, the makeup and nature of divine knowledge are considered.  Many aspects of angelic and human makeup were designed to be independent and separate from divinity, and in that sense, they do not carry out and obey sacred law.  Also, there are multiple elements and features that are not intended to communicate, exchange and interact with Deity within ongoing relationships that are intimate, organic, or personal.  Those who parrot the language that GOD is “all-knowing” or “omniscient” may be doing so because they deny revelation from GOD, acknowledge no relationship to the Holy, and are convinced that the Most High is more concerned about the world and the flesh than anything else.  They seem to want to make certain that GOD knows their sinful thoughts and wickedness so they may blame GOD for it, escape divine justice, and question the righteousness of his judgments against themselves.  Mature Christians are more ready to understand that the knowledge of GOD goes beyond the objects and operations that appear within the frameworks of time and space, or the life experiences of angelic and human duration.  The heart, mind, and will of GOD also embrace, embody, and focus upon things that are entirely spirit in their character and makeup as well as eternal and perfect.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is presented) posted the following:


God is omniscient and knows everything he knows before we're born if we're going to heaven or hell so how can anyone claim we have free will?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  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.  For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  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.  (Romans 8:  1-9, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Creator is Different (10/31/2017); Idolatry -- Exalting Human Devices? (09/21/2017); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); GOD Knowing the Price? (06/15/2016); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013)

“Anonymous”, because created beings and living creatures must come to know their own spheres of life (e.g., the earth, the ocean, the universe) using finite tools such as emotion, intellect, logic, carnal reason, and sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) they are always more ready to describe divinity as being a life form like themselves.  GOD is being made known and revealed as a spirit who is the origin of consciousness, existence, and life.  At this time, Christian believers should avoid calling GOD “all-knowing” or “omniscient”, for this implies that the mind of GOD contains and is focused only on secular knowledge, human affairs, the world, and the things of flesh.  To engage divinity in relationships that will be continuous, personal, and enduring, the living must be endowed with spirit content from the makeup of GOD as well as sacred knowledge.  Included are inseparable aspects of divine fullness such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, “oneness without sameness,” wisdom, and wrath against sin.

The carnal mind is enmity against GOD (i.e., has not been designed to respond to the spirit content and active presence who is the Most High).  In the same way, there now are machines that do the same work you would expect from a human, yet, they are still only machines, the inborn spirit within human beings allows the living to perform many tasks obeying divine law, yet, they still can not consistently and correctly identify, resist, and eliminate sin.  They are like the new automobiles that will apply the brakes, lock the doors, and even park the vehicle when supplied with correct data processed by artificial intelligence and on-board computers.  As mechanical devices that require detailed programming, these machines can perform a few simple things very well, and they do not discover, learn, or themselves create and reproduce.  Therefore, we say they lack human flexibility and person that would allow responses to unplanned for changes.

There is no “free will” that may ignore natural and sacred law; however, there are rebellion and self-will that are separate from the sovereign will of GOD.  When you say, ABCDEFG, and I say, XYZ is coming, I am not reading your mind so much as discerning and reacting to a fixed pattern.  The “foreknowledge” of Deity concerning human accomplishments can be compared to that of a father who, on the day his child is born, rushes out and buys a football, or baseball.  He intends to guide, instruct, and share a peculiar inheritance with his own child.  He may have a dream and a hope that his son will someday be a champion athlete.  His dad may even coach him daily, all through his “growing up years;” and when his son reaches age for high school or college athletics, his son may choose basketball, or chemistry and other sciences, instead.

Consider again Ephesians 1:  2-11, King James Version (KJV):  2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.  3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:  4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:  5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,  6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.  7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;  8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;  9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:  10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:  11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/12/2017) The Bible on "Soulmates"?

Today, language regarding romantic love, life companionship, and spiritual maturity are topics.  Unity through Jesus Christ is that of one faith, one Lord, One baptism, one GOD and Father of all.  Even so, many desire and feel a consuming need for life companionship and abiding love.  Relationships as “soulmates” are believed one of the highest and purest forms of love because they are not subject to the laws of time and space, and are thought to maintain their strength despite emotional, physical and temporal hardships or separation.  As with marriage, a connection and bond as soulmates is not intended by GOD to disrupt or replace the permanence of family, yet, often is felt to be stronger and more fulfilling than that between parents and their child, or among birth brothers and sisters.  Some confuse the idea of “soul” with those of “character”,  “determination or inner might,” “personality”, “self-will” and “will power.”  The expression “soulmates” is used repeatedly to describe intimate relationships of mutual acceptance, approval, full commitment, respect, and trust that are intended to continue indefinitely (i.e., for ever; without break-up or interruption; without end).  Often the idea of being soulmates is linked with concerns about attraction, “chemistry”, “love at first sight,” and “magnetism” at the start of relationships; fate; inescapable events; divine predestination; suspension of ones own accountability for occurrences and their consequences as well as yielding to a mystifying attraction.  Yet, it is only by the active presence and workings of divinity that the living achieve or experience lasting and stable relationships, or even what may be a one-time sacred event (we also say, miracle), revealing oneness without sameness.  The holy writings describe how “living souls” have been created and placed upon the earth to exist and experience operations of divine transformation (e.g., growth, rebirth, judgment, perfection, revelation) to serve as “soul mates” and life companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “?” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since February 21, 2017) posted the following:

What does the bible say about soulmates?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.  The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son:  the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.  But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.  All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him:  in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.  Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD:  and not that he should return from his ways, and live?  But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned:  in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.  (Ezekiel 18:  19-24, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); Thoughts on Sexual Relationships (03/07/2017); The Relationships With GOD? (11/30/2016); Diversity and Prophetic Gifts (11/22/2016); Family Likeness and Traits? (11/08/2016); The Cross Condemns Fornication (05/20/2016); What To Say To A Friend? (03/29/2015)

“?”, correctly understood, “soulmates” are thought to be more than mere partners who share casual sex and a “one night affair.”  Fascinated and stirred by language in the Bible, creative and imaginative musicians, and other artists often have developed and shared very memorable non-biblical and secular presentations that carry great weight within modern culture.  Many understand the “soul” as the inner material of humanity that makes us who and what we truly are in relationships with others.  The idea of “soul” found in the Book of Genesis, describes “Adam” as a living entity produced by the union of a divinely fashioned form and breath (we also say, life essence; spirit; the spark of life; word) from GOD.  Unlike David, who was “knit” to the son of King Saul in a spirit-bond of friendship (we also say charity, love), the male Adam received the female as an aspect of his own flesh and person.  For mature Christian believers who are grounded in sacred knowledge recorded as Scripture, it is the image of GOD that makes us who and what we are in relationships.  Only GOD is eternal (not the angels); and there is no immortal soul or soul that exists without the active presence of divine Spirit.  The state of the dead as described in the Bible does not include having intellect, mind, or spirit; and the dead “praise not God.”  Poets have long used the idea of “soul” to describe enduring, seemingly timeless, and unforgettable episodes in human experience that include intense emotional, psychological, and social experiences.  Examples include sexual initiation, “puppy love,” courtship, marriage, the birth of ones first child, the death of ones own parents, the lingering of sorrow and “the blues.”  The Bible provides simple, yet profound, instruction on marriage and sexual joining without using the specific language of “souls” being permanently bound together that may only be released and separated through divinity.  Even so, serious warnings appear against “fornication” (i.e., defilement, domination, or weakening of ones inborn spirit, and coming under the control of absent, unseen spirits through sexual joining with a partner who is physically present).  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Genesis 2:  7-8, King James Version (KJV):  7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.  8 And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed.

(2.)  1st Samuel 18:  1-3, KJV:  1 And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.  2 And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father’s house.  3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.

(3.)  Luke 10:  25-28, KJV:  25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?  26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?  27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.  28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right:  this do, and thou shalt live.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Malachi 2:  13-15, KJV:  13 And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.  14 Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously:  yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.  15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/28/2016) Divine Knowing, Finite Will?

Today, focus is upon the confusion and familiar errors associated with “free will”, divine knowing, and “predestination”.   While there are “freedom”, “latitude when applying the law”, “liberty”, and self-will within the living that may be understood as provided from GOD, there is no such thing as “free will” that makes a person exempt from divine judgment, or releases the living from having to respond to conditions for existence, the fulfillment of sacred promises, and the accomplishment of prophecy in place from before the foundation of the world.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

Are free will and omniscience a contradiction?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.  And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:  Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.  (1st Peter 1:  13-21, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); Knowing? (05/24/2015); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); Doing GOD’s Plan? (02/20/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014); No Free Will? (10/19/2010); Speaking of GOD (10/20/2010)

“Anonymous”, lacking correct sacred knowledge, many of us have confusions about divine authority and “free will” (i.e., that there is no accountability or duty to answer and serve GOD; there should be no limits upon self-will in created beings and living creatures).  The issue is not one of contradiction; it is many and includes betrayal, defiance, disobedience, and rebellion.  Sinners must go beyond the idea that divinity “reads your mind,” “programs you like a computer,” and “knows all your private thoughts and secrets.”  Mature Christians will agree both that self-will within finite created beings and living creatures appears as a product from divine consciousness and sovereign will, and that self-will has been provided to the living so they may carryout and fulfill eternal purposes that have been established as basic to their own lives.  Sacred (rather than secular) knowledge is comprised of information, principles, and expressions of divine will such as law, miracles and sacramental events, proclamations and utterances by spirit beings as well as promise, prophecy, revelation, and relationships that have their origin and value through GOD.

The process of “knowing” that exists among mankind as a requirement to participate in the world is carnal, mental, and social, and relies upon such limited tools as appetite, emotion, imagination, logic, philosophy, science, and technology.  By contrast, awareness and “knowing” for divinity may be spoken of as a kaleidoscopic spirit process wherein inseparable content from the makeup of GOD are ceaselessly positioned, joined, patterned, and reconfigured.  As a movement of spirit substance, divine knowing is active, detailed, diffuse, organic, quickened and unspecified, yet, must be acknowledged as immutable, incorruptible, and unchanging.  Existing as a “godhead” (summation of all divine person and power) that displays oneness without sameness, Deity is incarnate as well as at once selfless and continually self-engaged.  Thus, we speak of divine knowing as categorical, comprehensive and unbounded even when appearing in communication, exchange, focus, interaction, and judgment.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/27/2016) Products of The Cross?

Points are shared on evolution, salvation, and believers as products of the cross.  The attitudes, behavior and thoughts within mankind that result from the operations of sin are not justified by the blood of the cross.  Only rebirth, permanent change, sanctification, and walking in the Spirit are atoned for and justified.  Thereby the disciples and followers of Christ are made to exist as “a new creation.”  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “R&S007” (Level 6 with 18,970 points, a member since June 28, 2010) posted the following:

Are religious people the most fit products of evolution ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:  Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.  (1st Timothy 6:  20-21, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); The Cross was Premature? (04/07/2016); Not Through Human Will? (01/29/2016); The Scale of Salvation? (12/13/2015); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015); By More Than Believing (12/04/2015); An Eternal Plan and Process (07/05/2015); Believers and Evolution? (02/02/2015)

“R&S007”, through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood, correction, and truth from the cross are flowing to here and now, because sin can not be eliminated, removed or even resisted relying upon finite human tools of intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, science, and technology.  Mature Christian believers count themselves to be products of the cross (i.e., a spiritual process entailing, atonement, life, death, rebirth, judgment, forgiveness, mercy, resurrection, and eternity), rather than outcomes of “evolution”, a set of human ideas to describe the mechanical and natural processes recognizable as the order established by divinity through Creation.  By Jesus Christ appearing as divinity incarnate (we say, in flesh and bone), specific tools are provided for the transformation of created beings and living creatures to serve Deity as immortal, incorruptible life companions.  In addition to sacred knowledge, there must be sanctification, sacred practice, and the in-filling of believers with inseparable aspects of the spirit content that are the makeup of divinity (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, love, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin).  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  John 3:  6-7, King James Version (KJV):  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(2.)  John 4:  23-24, KJV:  23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth:  for the Father seeketh such to worship him.  24 God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(3.)  Romans 8:  28-31, KJV:  28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.  30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called:  and whom he called, them he also justified:  and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually taken in.  (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

(04/06/2016) To Forgive is Divine?

Today, points are shared on divine accountability, human error, forgiveness, and the cross.  For those acknowledging the sacrifice of Jesus Christ upon the cross to provide atonement for their sin, forgiveness comes into view as a sacred operation performed only by GOD, and by those serving Deity as agents and spokespersons.  In forgiveness, forbearance, grace and divine prerogative are made visible, and revealed as permanent aspects of the divine makeup.  Forgiveness may not diminish or increase ones spirit content such as faith, holiness, and wisdom, however, forgiveness alters the fundamental nature and perfection of the Creation by its impact upon final judgment that acknowledges the presence of spirit matter, assigns value to all that exists (e.g., events, influences, objects, processes, things seen and unseen), and applies divine law to resolve conflicts and settle disputes.  Accord, balance, eternal glory, quality, and totality of the whole Creation are to be determined, and permanently set.  As an act of pardoning among carnal beings and living creatures, forgiveness often becomes a further expression of condemnation, error, lust, pride, self-promotion, sentiment, and slander.  Readers are encouraged to consider the following Scriptures, and the presentation below:

Mark 2:  7, King James Version (KJV):  7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?

1st Kings 8:  46-50, KJV:  46 If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near;  47 Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness;  48 And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul, in the land of their enemies, which led them away captive, and pray unto thee toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, the city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name:  49 Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven thy dwelling place, and maintain their cause,  50 And forgive thy people that have sinned against thee, and all their transgressions wherein they have transgressed against thee, and give them compassion before them who carried them captive, that they may have compassion on them:

Ecclesiastes 7:  20, KJV:  20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

Acts 17:  30-31, KJV:  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.

Colossians 1:  12-15, KJV:  12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

2nd Corinthians 4:  15-18, KJV:  15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.  16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.  17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;  18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen:  for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Sid” (Level 1 with 99 points, a member since November 08, 2009) posted the following:

 

Wht is the meaning of the proverb 'to err is human, to forgive is divine?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.  (Matthew 22:  29, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Forgiveness and The Cross (04/04/2016); The Choice of Knowledge? (10/28/2015); Pointing Out Error? (10/07/2015); Justified Through Christ? (08/26/2015); To Err is Human? (07/24/2015); The God Concept? (02/13/2015); By Inspiration of GOD (10/27/2013)

 

“Sid”, the adage declaring “to err is human” speaks to the character, nature and substance of created beings and living creatures as compared to that of divinity.  This old saying is often used by those arguing that GOD is not righteous to eternally condemn, punish, or express wrath against sin and transgression of divine law.  Humans being error prone, fallible, and imperfect are seen as natural, normal, and even endearing aspects of human makeup.  Given that GOD could, yet does not, make miraculous interventions to prevent and save us when we are about to make a mistake, Deity is held to be the one that should be blamed and scorned as being at fault.  After all, they argue, divinity has imposed many of our associations and life conditions that result in error (i.e., success and failure are predetermined).  Sin is pervasive and unavoidable; and must appear as destiny, fate, karma, and bad luck.  With this in view, forgiveness is a form of sacred merchandise that may be bargained for, bought and sold, demanded as entitlement, and called for as a divine debt owed to those Deity has abused and victimized.  Failing to comprehend the operations of divine order that maintain existence and the universe, such pray for, and request forgiveness as a form of acceptance, approval, and “unconditional love” wherein GOD is to yield authority, or grant permission allowing error to continue without censure or challenge.  Those at fault, then, need make no confession or changes in attitude, self-management, and practice.  Transgressors should endure no suffering, and there even need be no pangs of conscience, remorse, or repentance.  Yet, for Christian believers, sorrow for sin is critical to humanity becoming “perfected” by GOD, and fully apprehending the blessing from Christ dying upon the cross as a sacrifice for our sin.  Forgiveness appears as divinity becoming manifest (active, present, visible) to permanently change and transform mankind.  Consider again how this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 6:  3-7, King James Version (KJV):  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:  6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

(2.)  1st John 1:  8-10, KJV:  8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

(3.)  2nd Corinthians 7:  9-11, KJV:  9 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance:  for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.  10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of:  but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.  20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us:  we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.  21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/11/2014) Dating and Worship?

Today, points are shared on courtship and dating within church settings, smoking and tobacco use, and worship among minors and youth.  Also, there is more on freedom of foul speech.  A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Paul” (Level 1 with 24 points, a member since September 05, 2014) posted the following:


A weird situation at open air youth worship? 

Last weekend me and my girlfriend attended an open air youth worship service. We stood towards the back and she lit a cigarette a little way into the service. She asked the two or three young people standing next to us if they minded her smoking and they were OK about it. They were probably 12-15 year olds maybe? - one good thing was they had excellent singing voices.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Freedom of Foul Speech (09/10/2014)—(5.)  In order to introduce change, cleansing, healing, hope and a new quality of life, Jesus Christ addressed many of the life experiences and struggles for mankind that generate and continue bitterness, despair, fear, pain, and wretchedness.  Included are sexual appetite, divorce, duty, fornication, indebtedness, marriage, parenting, prostitution, and same sex relationships.  Believers understand that their choices for their own verbal behavior, and what they say out of their mouths, should agree with and show others their willingness to acknowledge the presence of Christ in their lives.  Being mature and having authority over himself, Jesus may have dealt with many who used cursing and swearing on a daily basis (e.g., the Scriptures report that Peter denied Jesus with foul language before he received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, who anointed him to preach that day).  However, there is no indication that Jesus allowed the infirmity and weakness of other men to contaminate or corrupt his ministry to mankind, his prayers, or his usual day-to-day behavior and speech.  In respect to Jesus, believers all follow the rule that ones speech is offered in sacrifice to GOD, and should be “seasoned with salt” (i.e., healing intent, humility, innocence, respect, purity).  See again Leviticus 2:  13, Mark 9:  50, Matthew 5:  10-11, Matthew 18:  5-7, 1st Corinthians 10:  23 and Colossians 4:  5-6, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.  Let your women keep silence in the churches:  for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.  And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home:  for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.  What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?  If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.  But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.  Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.  Let all things be done decently and in order.  (1st Corinthians 14:  33-40, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  When Children Embrace Church? (08/18/2014); Condemned by the Church? (08/19/2014); Why the Gospel for Our Children (05/13/2014); Changing Times and Laws? (05/14/2014); Resisting Sin (12/21/2013); When People Covet (12/22/2013); Weed and Godly Wisdom (09/15/2013); The Limit to Believing? (09/16/2013); Issues for Children’s Church (04/06/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012)


“Paul”, here are a few points important to Christian believers that may help you fit in more correctly and not feel weird again when you next are with those who gather to worship Christ as redeemer and savior:

(1.)  Dating is an aspect of courtship wherein two persons develop, and examine themselves and one another through a relationship that may result in marriage.  They may share in various social settings that allow quiet exchange, laughter, expression of their goals, hopes and visions of the future, displaying their present commitments as well as promoting aspects of their deepest beliefs.  Correctly understood, a date to share religious experiences, and introduce ones companions to their own faith community is also an invitation that they continue in Christ.  Even where the dating or friendship eventually may be broken off, the relationship with Christ can be eternal.

(2.)  Your friend’s use of tobacco was unfortunate, because smoking is a behavior that to many signifies boldness, defiance, lack of self-control and self-discipline, lack of sound knowledge regarding health, nastiness, pride, rebellion, and selfishness.  (There is a danger from second-hand smoke:  where you can not keep the smoke from your own lungs, you can not keep it from defiling and soiling others either.)

(3.)  It is not wrong to attend church when you have questions that may only be answered there.  Many attend services in the same spirit as Moses, who only turned aside for the burning bush from curiosity, not because he wanted a prayer or worship break.  Only those who are sincerely seeking instruction and sacred knowledge will experience the spiritual benefit and growth provided by GOD through the Holy Spirit.  They will have prepared themselves to display peculiar attitudes and behavior such as cooperation, courtesy, giving, humility, respect and self-denial.

As we observe another anniversary of an attack upon America by those pursuing a faith that exalts death and destruction for the unsuspecting, there is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  The situation you described was not simple.  Even in a crowd, where one may be anonymous and unknown, mature and young adults will be held accountable, and are expected to set an example for minors and teens.  Asking their permission is inappropriate, for often children are unaware of dangers involved with adult behavior.  Bullied, immature, intimidated, and unprepared, children can not always effectively rebuke the behavior of those who should know better.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC