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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/06/2015) Enduring As A Believer?

Today, prophecy (i.e., comfort, edification, exhortation) is shared for those who may feel they are losing as they fight the “good fight of faith.”  Christian believers all begin not having a full knowledge of the process of GOD.  Many once leaned upon expectations that come from child-like ideas, multiple common sense notions, and their “gut instincts” (e.g., that GOD has divine power; knows all, sees all; can control all your enemies; can not be hurt or killed; has supremacy; and has wealth).  Following baptism (death of ones inborn spirit; rebirth having divine DNA, so to speak), the “born again” disciples of Jesus must learn, grow, and mature.  Only by effort and hard work does one successfully apply their new values, answer to fellowship with experienced believers, continue sacred practices, and maintain study of the holy writings.  The believer must become firm as a member within a body and setting that supports their new development before they actually experience the most fulfilling relationship with Christ.  Consider the following from the Bible, and the presentation that appears below:  Hebrews 6:  10-11, King James Version (KJV):  10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.  11 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:  Also, 1st Corinthians 15:  58, KJV:  58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.  James 1:  12, KJV:  12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation:  for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.  James 5:  11, KJV:  11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.  Prisca Kohtem who participates with me in THE BIBLE STUDY GROUP (a Public Group on Facebook presently having 21,453 members), invited response by sharing a personal appeal that included the following on December 3, 2015 at 4:  33 pm:


please brethren i need your assistance, i do help people in difficult moments giving moral and spiritual supports even with scriptures. but when i found myself in similar siruations, hardly will i applied those advices i gave to others. please this is really eating me up. God bless you as you help me out of this. thank you all!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.  When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.  But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;  Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.  He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.  But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.  (Matthew 13:  18-23, KJV)


DOUBLE DAGGER:  Continuously Tested (12/31/2013); Chosen To Serve As Prophets  (01/01/2014); Of Sure Hope and Certainty (09/05/2013); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


Prisca Kohtem, be encouraged!  Most of us become disappointed, frustrated, and upset by the process of GOD.  Your predicament of enduring as a believer is spoken of in The Book of Job.  The process of GOD for us is one of growth, longsuffering, patience, and waiting.  Where we desire physical action and material gifts, we often are granted counsel, instruction, or truth, instead.  Believers are being permanently changed through gradual operations by the Spirit.  The only way to get patience is to wait for it; the only way to gain trust is to give it.  Saying this another way:  Those born again must mature again.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  2nd Corinthians 4:  6-11, King James Version (KJV):  6 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.  7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.  8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;  10 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.  11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

(2.)  Job 3:  23-26, KJV:  23 Why is light given to a man whose way is hid, and whom God hath hedged in?  24 For my sighing cometh before I eat, and my roarings are poured out like the waters.  25 For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me.  26 I was not in safety, neither had I rest, neither was I quiet; yet trouble came. 

(3.)  Job 4:  3-8, KJV:  3 Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands.  4 Thy words have upholden him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the feeble knees.  5 But now it is come upon thee, and thou faintest; it toucheth thee, and thou art troubled.  6 Is not this thy fear, thy confidence, thy hope, and the uprightness of thy ways?  7 Remember, I pray thee, who ever perished, being innocent? or where were the righteous cut off?  8 Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same. 

The solution granted to Job is found in (4.)  Job 42:  10-13, KJV:  10 And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends:  also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.  11 Then came there unto him all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and comforted him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him:  every man also gave him a piece of money, and every one an earring of gold.  12 So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses.  13 He had also seven sons and three daughters.          

There are many other verses that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and spiritually received as a divine word of comfort from the Father.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 5:  8-11, KJV:  8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.  10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.  11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/15/2015) Many Are Called…

Scripture points are shared, today, on recognizing false and true Christian believers.  Many of the differences among Christians result from arbitrary and individual characteristics such as their chronological age, cultural origin, education, and ethnicity.  Believers share sin as the common obstacle to being in correct relationship with GOD; and through the ministry of Jesus Christ, all receive the same cleansing, rebirth, duty and opportunities for sacred service.  Even so, believers continue to vary on the basis of their spiritual gifts, their fruitfulness and productivity as well as their discernment and receptiveness to the things imparted from divinity.  Consider again the following from the Bible, and the points appearing below:  1st John 4:  1-6, King James Version (KJV):  1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:  because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God.  3 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 it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  4 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.  5 They are of the world:  therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  6 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.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Peter” (Level 1 with 56 points, a member since March 30, 2014) posted the following:


Christians here say that Christians who do bad things are not "real" Christians. In this way they "excuse" Christianity of *ALL* fault?

They say these people are not following Christianity and are therefore not "real" Christians. Therefore using "their" logic, it follows that to be a real Christian one has to be *PERFECT*. Or ....... are these Christians who judge other Christians like this, NOT following the word of God?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.  When anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart.  This is he which received seed by the way side.  But he that received seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;  Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while:  for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.  He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.   But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it;  which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.  (Matthew 13:  18-23, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Diversity and the Church? (07/22/2015); Different Strokes, For Different Folks? (06/22/2015); Scandal and Sin Among Believers? (06/05/2015); Many Forms of Christianity? (04/30/2015); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014); Discernment (06/18/2014); Why Jesus Used Parables (11/03/2013); Denying Baptism to Others (11/04/2013)


“Peter”, as an household of faith and a kingdom populated by those who serve divinity, Christianity is characterized by diversity.  While all believers experience baptism (death of ones inborn spirit; rebirth having spirit matter from the makeup of GOD), and are spoken of as “born again”, all must also “grow up” again.  Believers must meet life challenges, here, upon the earth; and are at different stages of growth and maturity.  They may vary in sacred knowledge, intimacy of relationship to GOD through praise and prayer as well as comprehension and strength developed through unselfish service.  Each person making commitment to Christ will continue to develop comprehension and doctrinal unity until the appearing of Christ.  Here are a few of the counsels and  instructions from the Bible that may help those outside the body to more easily recognize the harmony, sanctity and unity of process and purpose among Christian believers:

(1.)   Matthew 7:  13-17, King James Version (KJV):  13 Enter ye in at the strait gate:  for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.  15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  16 Ye shall know them by their fruits.  Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?  17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

(2.)  Romans 8:  6-9, KJV:  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.

(3.)  1st Timothy 4:  1-2, KJV:  1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;  2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy:  having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

(4.)  Galatians 2:  16, KJV:  16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law:  for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

(5.)  Ephesians 2:  8, KJV:  8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.  9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

(6.)  Hebrews 12:  28, KJV:  28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.)  Matthew 22:  9-14, KJV:  9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.  10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good:  and the wedding was furnished with guests.  11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:  12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?  And he was speechless.  13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  14 For many are called, but few are chosen.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/05/2015) Scandal and Sin Among Believers?

Points are shared on why Christian believers are not commenting on the problems of fornication and sexual sin as depicted by a popular family known through a current “reality television” program.  Mature believers recognize the same elements encountered by the Apostle Paul and spoken of by the Savior (see 1st Corinthians 5:  1-13, King James Version (KJV) and Luke 13:  1-5, KJV).  A fighter at “Yahoo! New Zealand” using the ID “Stephen” (Level 7 with 35,768 points, a member since March 28, 2006) posted the following:


Why has there been no discussion of the current scandal concerning the Duggar family in this section of Y.A.?

There are many people who write into this section of Y.A. denigrating LGBTQ people. Lately the scorn has been heaped up Caitlyn Jenner. But here we have a apparently Christian religious family who are in the midst of a sexual scandal. Their heterosexual eldest son has molested several young girls including a couple of his sisters and what did the elder Duggars do? NOTHING. In fact they are still trying to protect him and claiming the abuse was negligible. Two things come from this: 1. this pedophile (like the vast majority) is heterosexual, and 2. this is a supposedly Christian family. How about some of you good Christians take this up for discussion. And those of you who equate homosexuality with pedophilia, why aren't you commenting?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent:  for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.  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.  For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of:  but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  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.  Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.  (2nd Corinthians 7:  8-12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Addressed by the Spirit, Not the Letter? (03/31/2015); Masturbation and Religion? (02/01/2015); The Male, the Female, and GOD (02/09/2014); A Second Adam? (03/25/2013); GOD Hiding in Plain Sight (03/26/2013); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012)


“Stephen” the themes for Christian conversation center upon grace, salvation, and the gifts from an eternal GOD rather than the many infirmities and weaknesses existing among the living, who are social and temporal beings.  Here are a few of the many points Christian believers maintain as their focus rather than the details of crime, gossip, error, rumors, scandal, sickness and sin:

(1.)  Human sexuality was provided as a divine mechanism for continuing life, and is mistakenly labeled as “original sin.”  So to speak, the sacred tool has been made to be a device for animal and selfish pleasure through the operations of sin.  More important than condemning others, or complaining against and rebuking sin is the work of comfort, edification and encouraging repentance through forgiveness.

(2.)  Sin is an influence that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the eternal Law Giver, and the divine order establishing and maintaining the entire universe.  Sin is no living entity; no concrete and material object; and no spirit emanated from Deity.  Sin has no measurable dimensions, yet, has direction, effect, and presence.  

(3.)  Because sin may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures, sin is routinely experienced as if a natural and ordinary feature of ones correct makeup.  Sin is not recognized as contrary to all existence, and an abomination to divinity.  Therefore, multiple ongoing sacred operations are being carried out to expose and reveal (not every individual event or all the sordid details, yet) the essence of what may be described as “sin”.  Included are admonition (we say, warning), atonement, baptism, correction, covenant, forgiveness, Incarnation, divine judgment, rebirth, and sanctification.

(4.)  As a class, Christians are those spiritually removed and shielded (we say, born again) from the overwhelming range of sins displayed through appetite, attitudes, behavior, and conduct.  Even so, many of us are still in a subtle process (i.e., barely visible; having hidden shifts in meaning and value) carried out by GOD for the living to be released from habits and lifestyles that once centered in fornication, lust, and the absence of will power for godly living.  Believers must be gradually and permanently changed (we say, grow again, mature, become perfected) through operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD.  All Christians begin as sinners, who must receive the same spirit content that resides within Jesus Christ.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually taken into account.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 4:  16-18, KJV:  16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.  17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God:  and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?)  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

(04/02/2015) Human, Yet Not Selfish?

The human condition following the Advent (the Second Coming) of Christ is in view, today.  The living must endure change, growth, learning and transformation to become permanently perfected.  Correctly understood, all things that now exist as possibilities for expression of the animal, human or divine nature residing within mankind can only be finite and flawed.  Included are affection, beauty, family, intellect, logic, marriage, peace, praise, prayer, romantic love, science, sexuality, trust, truth-speaking, worship, and our visions of the future that merely reproduce life on the earth upon Mars, or some other planet.  In addition to the first and second resurrection for the completion of divine judgment, the Revelation from GOD given to Jesus Christ that is being shared among those accepting the Lord as their savior, also provides a description of life in heaven and the earth made new.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Cool Man” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since April 01, 2015) posted the following:


In Heaven We Can't be Selfish and we put God Before Ourselves in Heaven Right?

Because Being Selfish is a Mortal Thing


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry:  behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed:  Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit.  And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen:  for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:  That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes.  For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth:  and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.  But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create:  for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.  And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people:  and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying.  There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days:  for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed.  And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.  They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat:  for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.  They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.  And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.  The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock:  and dust shall be the serpent’s meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.  (Isaiah 65:  13-25, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What Is Life? (02/06/2015); The Idea of Perfection? (01/20/2015); Able to Become Gods? (01/11/2014); The Storm-battered City? (03/29/2014); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013); Commandments in the Light of Christ? (10/12/2013); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013)


“Cool Man”, here are a few points in line with what Christian believers have been encouraged to maintain as their sacred hope (i.e., expectation):

(1.)  The Creation that includes mankind upon the earth and the angels of heaven will have become perfected and transformed following the judgment against all sin completed by what is called “the second death.”  Presently, only the three persons appearing as the GODhead (we say, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) are immortal.  Jesus Christ will return to the earth receiving as its harvest those who are mature (we say, prepared, ready, ripe).  As they are lifted up into the air to be with the Lord, his believers and followers will be permanently made immortal and incorruptible.

(2.)  Through water and fire baptism, those who accept Jesus Christ as their savior are “born again” through operations carried out by the Holy Spirit that complete the death of their inborn spirit, and bestows rebirth.  Those born again receive the same divine content that resided in Christ.  Included are inseparable aspects of Deity such as faith, forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Even so, born again believers must continue to “grow again” and “mature again” while living upon the earth.  They must meet the same life challenges that will complete their mortality as all others.

(3.)  Believers are to maintain a life style that centers in expression of sacred process, divine truth, and eternal purpose.  While in the earth, all will be imperfect, yet, their covenant for salvation through Jesus Christ will be secure and unchanging.  We say, where any believer errs or sins, there are provisions through Christ who is our Advocate.  Included are atonement, confession, praise, prayer, repentance, and sanctification.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  For example, (4.)  Humans will live in heaven only for a while.  They will assist in the work of preparing judgment for the wicked, cleansing and purifying the Temple and other areas soiled by sin, serving as witnesses to the righteousness of judgment against sin, and completing the judgment of their works for reward.   The earth cleansed and renewed is to be the place for the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, that is now being prepared in heaven.  The City always will be the center for life and worship, and the people are to overspread the earth.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/02/2014) Divine not Demonic Process?

Points are shared, today, commenting upon conflict among believers that results through claims of guidance by angels.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “…..” (Level 2 with 467 points, a member since December 31, 2009) posted the following:


If Jesus talked about the spirit world so much, then why do Christians today call it the devil's work instead? 

Update : I think I have to specify: Whenever someone says they talk to a guiding angel from Heaven, why would a church-goer spill such violent hateful statements against that person, when Jesus said to seek out the spirit world of Heaven (as in 1Hebrews 1:1-14)?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.  If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth:  that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you:  on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.  But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.  Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.  (1st Peter 4:  10-16, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Miracles and Visitations? (03/03/2014); All Lying Forbidden? (03/04/2014); Adversary or Servant? (11/21/2013); How To Renew The Mind (11/22/2013); A Visit from an Angel? (10/20/2013); The Head Not The Tail? (10/21/2013); A Need to Know? (09/04/2013); Of Sure Hope and Certainty (09/05/2013)


“…..”, where your question is intended to gain legitimate responses shared among Christian believers, and is not just to serve as a complaint or observation, here are a few points important for growth within the body:

(1.)  GOD is a spirit who has generated and put forth all created beings and living creatures, the conditions for their duration, and the spheres of life wherein they may exist (e.g., earth, heaven, the universe).  In response to the need among the living for correct information about the active presence, makeup, operations, and substance of divinity (we say, revelation), multiple sacred devices have been employed such as natural events (we say, calamity, catastrophe, plagues), angelic visitations, human spokespersons (we say, prophets), and incarnation (instances where divinity appears having form and flesh).

(2.)  Through the ministry of Jesus Christ, believers are to internalize aspects of the full spirit content that describes divinity.  As vessels of divine matter, believers are to contain such inseparable elements as faith, forgiveness, holiness, divine law, sacred knowledge, promises, prophecy, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Thus, believers embrace the holy writings as a standard to correctly discern and recognize sacred matter, for the Scriptures document covenants and operations of GOD using thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.

(3.)  From the time of Adam, those in relationship with GOD both in heaven and in the earth must be alert to counterfeits and deceptions regarding divine intent and the sovereign purposes of GOD.  The operations of sin were first realized among the holy angels, and now appear throughout the earth.  Sin opposes the continued existence of limits and restrictions that derive from sacred law (e.g., condemnation by judgment, prohibition (thou shalt not) and punishment by loss of privilege).  More than this, sin opposes the continued existence of the Law Giver, of true worship, and of the divine order throughout the universe founded upon principles of godly law.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  All believers also must live within the confines of a secular world where defilement, hardship, profanity and sin are ever present.  Experiencing the new life provided through Jesus Christ is only accomplished by those who maintain discipline and focus through such features as cleansing, meekness, obedience, prayer, sacred practice (we say, sacraments), and unselfish service.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/20/2014) Principles of Correct Belief?

Today, principles of correct belief are in view with more points on being judged about sexual activity by the body of believers, ones church or local congregation.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Condemned by the Church? (08/19/2014)—(4.)  Christian believers must reject many premises and unspoken points of truth established at birth that are widely held as carnal thoughts, popular culture, and social consciousness.  For example, it is common to hold that, where GOD has something to say to me, no human may speak for GOD.  GOD must speak for himself.  Such a belief also denies that GOD has authority to appoint or send angels, agents, congregations, covenant people, pastors, or any other representatives as his spokesperson (we say, prophet).  No document, record or holy writings may convey the heart and mind of GOD.  Only his physical appearance and audible voice are acceptable.  More than this, GOD may not appear incarnate (in flesh or human form), for then, he can not be acknowledged as having divine person and power as GOD.  For those who are born again, the content and operations of the flesh and mind are being gradually changed and transformed to constantly maintain genuine spiritual focus.  Created beings and living creatures do not otherwise escape the inborn mechanics of appetite, self, and sensation that continually make the false declarations:  Life is only good when I can get what I want; I can’t live without what I desire; where we can’t have our way we should refuse to obey the command to live; I’ll die if I can’t have my way.

(5.)  For many, observing a principle that GOD is One—an amount or quantity, rather than an immeasurable aspect or quality of existence (we say, spirit)—denies that GOD may at once appear, or be expressed through multiple forms, functions, and person.  Insisting that only a single Supreme Being may be in ones life as an expression of sovereign truth also results in the rejection of admonition, chastisement, comfort, and divine love that are generated and proclaimed by the imparted Spirit of GOD residing within those who are his Creation, his offspring, and his servants.  Curiously, many of those insisting that GOD is One, reject a second principle that also must be upheld:  Nothing shall be impossible for GOD.

(6.)  Because we call it “being saved” and “salvation” many fail to recognize the Gospel calls mankind into a divine process of correction.  As with many aspects of rebirth, eternal life and divinity, the frameworks of time and space must be suspended to embrace the divine victory over sin.  For even though the sinner is destroyed by death, the consequences of their deeds continue indefinitely.  Believers are not to deny or forget their own experience of errors and problems that blocked their access to GOD before coming to Christ.  All are to develop discernment, the ability to identify the spirit content within such focuses as events, messages, motives, objects, other persons, the holy writings, and themselves.   Discernment makes it possible to clearly identify ones own disobedience, doubt, short comings, spiritual needs, and sin; and then correctly apply sacred knowledge for cleansing and permanent change.

(7.)  Clergy, parents, those charged to make critical evaluations or reviews, and all other authority figures will be attacked when they are incorrectly seen to be despots, “false gods,” and manipulators.  The covenant agreement between Christ and a believer that is established through the Savior’s blood and body is a contract for intercession and mediation in judgment that does not immediately eliminate, or remove all sin and temptation.  Also, believers are not relieved of accountability, obligation to GOD, duty, or responsibility within the covenant relationship.  In this sense, salvation is conditional and requires acceptance, communication (e.g., praise, prayer, promise, prophecy), cooperation, discipline, fulfillment of terms, and trust.  Conflict, defiance, doubt, rebellion, and suspicion appear within a church body until believers become balanced, mature and stable through the Holy Spirit. 

(8.)  While public prohibitions of early, pre-marital and same gender sexual experiences are becoming relaxed and suspended on the basis of inclusiveness, political franchise, popular culture, and campaigns by social media among secular communities, the standard within the church community must remain fixed as the expression of sacred law, divine order and eternal purpose.  Almighty GOD is correctly described as loving, responsive, and understanding, yet, he is also immutable and unchanging.  There must be repentance—not necessarily guilt or shame—and the redirecting of ones will regarding things held to be “natural”, normal, and of unquestioned value.  Under the spells of appetite and sensation many young people “innocently” become entrapped within defilement and uncleanness that weaken their bond to GOD.  The unexpected spiritual outcomes from fornication can only be reversed through purification provided from GOD.  Sexual behavior may be thought of as always being dangerous, for the consequences—even with the same couple (a man and his wife) who have had no other partners since sharing loss of virginity on their wedding night, in the same location, under the same circumstances—may vary greatly from one episode to the next (e.g., dissatisfaction, failure to climax, unwanted pregnancy, STDs).  In general, sex is an animal aspect that can not be controlled, or made predictable simply using finite intellect, logic, reason, and science.  While the joining of spirits through sexual activity can be a sacred device to build, heal, and strengthen individuals, through lust, pride and violence sex also becomes an instrument that spreads confusion, cuts off ones divine possibilities, weakens, and destroys.  Sacred knowledge and fellowship within the body of Christ will ever oppose ignorance of divine law regarding sexuality as well as the correct processes for marriage and commitment to ones life companions (e.g., offspring, parents, spouse).


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints?  Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?  Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?  If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.  I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?  But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.  Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?  Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.  Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived:  neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,  Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.  And such were some of you:  but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.  (1st Corinthians 6:  1-11, KJV)


There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, consider again Isaiah 44:  6-8, Matthew 15:  5-20, Mark 12:  18-34, 1st Corinthians 6:  15-20, 2nd Corinthians 12:  20-21, 1st Peter 4:  14-16 and 1st John 5:  3-20, KJV.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/17/2014) Focus of Believers?

Ignoring events from sacred and secular history are topics, today, along with what must be the necessary focus for Christian believers.  Also, there is more on Jesus as son of Man and Son of GOD.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Jack” (Level 1 with 6 points, a member since March 30, 2014) posted the following:


Should religious believers ignore the thousands of "bad" things in the history of Christianity and Islam?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014)—(4.)  Jesus was miraculously conceived and begotten of GOD through operations of the Holy Spirit.  However, the Savior was born under continuing operations of natural and sacred law that used the same carnal, mechanical, sexual and social processes established for all mankind.  To fulfill the divine word already proclaimed, promised, and prophesied, Jesus must appear, born from the womb of a woman, and be lawfully qualified as an heir to Adam—that is, must come in the condition and status the pair had before becoming altered by sin.  In the beginning, the first pair were like the holy angels, who are neither immortal nor mortal, and who endure as an expression of grace and divine prerogative.  Corruption and mortality became aspects of the human condition by Adam disobeying the word from GOD, and the pair violating divine trust.  Jesus had to be born sinless and without corruption, yet, would have to endure as mortal, capable both of resisting and yielding to the influence of sin, and vulnerable to death.  (5.)  The life of Jesus was to complete and fulfill tasks that should have been accomplished through Adam, and respond to conditions and terms from multiple covenants between GOD and mankind.  The Holy One was to strengthen the bonds between GOD and mankind, and further demonstrate and reveal divine purposes that could only be accomplished by GOD.  As a genuine offspring both from Adam and from divinity, Jesus would have to be certified and witnessed as having reached the age of accountability (we say, endorsed as having come of age), and continuously display both the perfection of mankind and the perfection of GOD.  The title granted Jesus as the Second Adam identifies the Crucified One as more than simply another patriarch sent to populate the earth using the natural tools for reproduction.  Using spirit means, Jesus creates a people redeemed and sanctified who are fit to dwell in heaven, and upon the earth made new.  As heir to the priesthood that had been granted Adam upon the earth as well as the priesthood established within the Temple of heaven, Jesus is acknowledged as High Priest and as Son of the Highest.  See Isaiah 24:  4-6, Luke 1:  26-35, 2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, Galatians 4:  1-7, Hebrews 1:  1-4, Hebrews 2:  5-18 and  Hebrews 5:  5-10, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.  And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.  Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.  No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.  And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.  The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.  Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.  Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:  Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.  Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.  (2nd Timothy 2:  1-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); Sin Causes Death? (02/04/2014); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013); Non-existent Debt? (03/07/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013); Unto Caesar...? (11/09/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012)


“Jack”, most thoughtful Christian believers choose to focus upon things from the Spirit (e.g., forbearance, forgiveness, hope, and praise), rather than things from the flesh (e.g., appetite, competition, desire, and sensation).  Here are a few points to consider that are necessary for mature Christian belief:

(1.)  Through baptism (death of ones inborn nature, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), believers acquire the same spirit content from Almighty GOD that was in Jesus Christ.  Included are inseparable (where you find one, all appear) aspects of divinity such as faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, meekness (willingness to receive instruction), righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(2.)  Once reborn, believers must become balanced, perfected (we say, complete, mature), ripe for harvest (ready to be gathered from the earth), and stable.  Born again, believers must “grow up” again by facing carnal, material and social life challenges (we may say, growing pains) endured by all within the earth realm.

(3.)  As they are growing, every Christian must develop discernment, the ability to use their own spirit content to correctly recognize and respond to divinity and the spirit content within events, messages, objects, other persons, and relationships.  This is accomplished by disciplined focus of ones feelings and thoughts upon such activities as giving (we may say, offering, sacrifice), meditation, observance of sacred practices (we say, sacraments), private prayer, study of the holy writings, unselfish service to others, and group worship.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  For example, (4.)  Christians do not deny or ignore secular truth so much as they maintain a peculiar balance and proportion for secular things.  Ones beliefs and focus alone do not change their environment; there also must be action.  As much as possible, Christian believers are to act and operate maintaining their focus upon things eternal and invisible revealed by the appearance of GOD in flesh as Jesus Christ.  Finite human tools such as history, intellect, logic, mathematics, politics, and science are incapable of establishing the necessary spiritual power for mankind to eliminate corruption, death, and sin.  Because awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures may be dominated by sin, the entire world system (i.e., the finite devices created by mankind for communication, exchange and survival) has become an idol and a tool of sin that correctly serves neither divinity, nor humanity.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;  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.  (2nd Corinthians 4:  17-18, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC