(12/11/2020) Both Existence and Life

 

Operations of GOD that establish rebirth, continuing relationship between divinity and mankind, and the resurrection to life from death are in view, today, along with divinity as the only origin for existence and life within mankind. In addition to life on the earth that results from animal behavior and sexuality life also appears through the operations of consecrated spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. The life essence shared in sexual reproduction became altered responding to human transgression of sacred law and is not the same endowment of Spirit as that provided to the first male and female in their Creation. In the same way Adam as a living soul was created through divine process and sacred substance rather than finite, human sexual activity and reproduction, Jesus Christ came to the earth as an offspring of GOD through acts of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Incarnation is a divine use of human form and life-process that goes forward using substance imparted from the divine fullness. Men must endure a condition of mortality while on the earth, yet, mankind may receive inseparable aspects of Spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD through rebirth (death, burial, and resurrection of ones inborn spirit) that is different from the return to life (resurrection) that occurs so the dead may complete divine judgment. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Mark” (Level 1 with139 points) posted the following:

Was adam the son of God according to the bible luke 3:38?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. (1^st Corinthians 15: 39-46, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Device of Inheritance (12/01/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); When Does Resurrection Occur? (10/25/2020); “What if” and “Maybe” (10/20/2020); Why Are Sinners “saved?” (10/11/2020); Chosen Because Already Committed (09/07/2020)

“Mark”, many mature Christian believers acknowledge Adam as an offspring and child of GOD on the basis of the holy writings that appear in Genesis. Without using the finite human process of sexual reproduction, the process and substance of mankind has been one of divinity imparting spirit matter into a material form fashioned by GOD. Operations of spirit from the makeup and personhood of divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) were required for man to become a “living soul.” In Christian belief, to this very hour, the only origins for both existence and life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word) continue to be GOD. Adam was first made to be a single, stand-alone, male entity; GOD altered the male figure by removing one of his ribs to fashion the female, and the pair were regarded by divinity as one unit. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Genesis 2: 4-8, King James Version (KJV): 4 These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5 And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground. 6 But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. 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.) Genesis 2: 15-18, KJV: 15 And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. 18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

(3.) Genesis 2: 21-25, KJV: 21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. 25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Job 12: 7-10, KJV: 7 But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: 8 Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. 9 Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the LORD hath wrought this? 10 In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:55 AM, December 11, 2020 https://cadillacchurchofchrist.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/God-breath-spirit-of-God.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/24/2020) Divine Process and Substance

Today, reply is on life as an inseparable aspect of the full process and substance of divinity. Life has not so much been created and then placed within mankind as imparted and shared with mankind using forms such as anointing, utterance, and word. Where there is life as a divine endowment from GOD there also are such elements as balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It is written: John 1: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “The One” (Level 4 with 2,946 points) posted the following:

Did life just happen out of chance from a chemical reaction or was life created by a diety?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1: 10-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Resurrection Of Christ (04/16/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); The Impartiality of GOD (03/18/2019); The Answer Jesus Shared (10/28/2018); Time and Chance Happen... (02/27/2018); Coincidence or Answered Prayer? (11/15/2017)

“The One”, as an aspect of eternal, immortal, incorruptible and invisible GOD, life is only imparted to the living, and is itself not something created. Mature Christians are encouraged to consider that multiple features in our human experience have been imparted to mankind through deposits and endowments of spirit matter from the makeup of GOD. Included are inseparable aspects of humanity that include breath, existence, life, personhood, and spirit. Chemical and mechanical process for material things are regulated through form, fixed sequences, and operations of natural law while exchange, interaction, and progressions of spirit substance are determined and directed through sacred law. Chance appears as the discrete possibilities created by the movement of finite influences and fixed objects; and chance is not an expression of divine prerogative, sacred law, covenant promise, prophecy, eternal purpose, or the sovereign will of GOD. Similarly, the operations of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) in the living; and impulses or thrusts to sin themselves do not derive from any divine material. Just as sin does not display or proclaim the divine will, sin does not conform to human logic or carnal reason. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine order, sacred law, the universe, and all divine fullness. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Deitrick Haddon:

(1.) Isaiah 55: 6-13, King James Version (KJV): 6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

(2.) Galatians 5: 19-24, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

(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=h2YfMZ4_JQI.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:50 AM, June 24, 2020 @ https://biblepic.com/53/30546.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/15/2019) Understanding Existence and Life

The image depicts Jesus acknowledging the existence of a dead body, and providing life to the dead son of a widow as he was entering the city of Nain.

Today, reply is on the difference between “existence” and “life”. Where our focus is sacred knowledge, a full discussion of existence and life will include such topics as death, dying, mortality, and eternal life as well as the origin of mankind with the multiple objects located within time and space. It is written: John 1: 1-4, King James Version (KJV): 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. A new fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “Radette” (Level 1 with 85 points, a member since October 14, 2019) posted the following:

Explain existing and living?Is there diference betwen the 2?If you are to chose between the 2 what category do you fall in existing living?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 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: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. (Colossians 1: 12-20, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Purpose Of Worship (10//10/2019); Spirits Of The Dead (08/14/2019); GOD Is The Creator? (07/04/2019); From Spirit Not Mud (02/26/2019); Life Exists Before Birth (01/23/2019); Why Punishment After Death? (11/23/2018); “I Am The Resurrection” (03/25/2018)

“Radette”, for many mature Christian believers, life may be described as a process and operations that are mechanical, natural, and spiritual. The differences between existence and life are seen proclaimed through the account of mankind’s creation. The form and material vessel that would serve as a physical body for Adam were conceived and fashioned within the heart and mind of divinity (i.e., first existed within GOD), and made to appear within frameworks, spheres of life, and multiple structures provided for flesh (e.g., consciousness, purpose, time & space, the earth). Adam was not yet alive, however, neither was he dead. He was first a “shell” to contain life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) that would be imparted from the makeup and substance of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Creator; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). Once the figure formed from the dust of the earth received the breath of life, Adam became a “living soul.” At that time, there were no “dead souls”, nor was there dying or mortality. Now, we know lifeless bodies may exist (we say, cadavers; corpses; the dead). Death was introduced as “sleep” in the creation of a mate for Adam that entailed removing one of his ribs. Also, death and mortality were established as limiting conditions for human existence through proclamation (we say, sanctions) within divine law (the expressed will of GOD). There are created beings and living creatures who are neither mortal as mankind, nor immortal. Only divinity is immortal and incorruptible—the duration and lifetime for angels, mankind, sacred beasts, or the elders appearing in heaven continue by operations of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. All things that exist do not contain life displayed as the ability/capacity for appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, cravings for sexual contact), for communication, for self-directed motion, for sensation (i.e., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), or for operations of emotion/mind (e.g. anger, depression, fear, imagination, recall, sorrow). When speaking of the quality of human experience, some contrast “living” (where a person vigorously pursues their own interests with attitudes and behavior that are creative, exciting, and satisfying) against merely “existing” (where one endures boredom, interpersonal conflicts, and life struggles using conduct and routines that are cyclic, frustrating and repetitive). Others speak of life as having spirit content from GOD (we say, anointing; fellowship with divinity; an unction), and to exist is to be filled with spiritual confusion, doubt and uncertainty (i.e., to display the operations of death, sin and wickedness; to continually express bitterness and complaining; to live relying on patterns that are unfruitful and vain (i.e., lacking sacred substance). Without ongoing relationship with divinity, ones life is void (empty); however, with divinity in the life there will be abundance and plenty, yet, there also will be judgment. All Christians are to acknowledge that the operations of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will within the living; and sinners must become built-up and strengthened with the will of GOD. Where one becomes “born again” by receiving a fresh endowment of spirit content from GOD, they must “grow-up again,” and become mature/ripe for harvest by Jesus at his appearing (Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the presentation from the music ministry of Pastor Marvin Winans:

(1.) Ephesians 2: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

(2.) Jeremiah 4: 22-28, KJV: 22 For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. 23 I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light. 24 I beheld the mountains, and, lo, they trembled, and all the hills moved lightly. 25 I beheld, and, lo, there was no man, and all the birds of the heavens were fled. 26 I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the LORD, and by his fierce anger. 27 For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end. 28 For this shall the earth mourn, and the heavens above be black; because I have spoken it, I have purposed it, and will not repent, neither will I turn back from it.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEdPHHVZNJg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:31 PM, October 15, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/01/9a/63/019a6387c0a7a9e65c5dd048affcb929.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/14/2019) Meaning of "Father, forgive"

Today, the reply considers possible meanings for the words Jesus Christ spoke from the cross, and other ways he could have pleaded that mankind might receive atonement, forgiveness, sacred knowledge, and salvation. Because the divine process of speech and utterance is actually one of breath and spirit joining created beings and living creatures to the immortal, invisible Creator, readers of the Bible apprehending imparted substance from the makeup of divinity should always come into view. Throughout the holy writings, praises, prayers and statements appear that are simple, yet, they are profound, for they are appearances of the active presence who is GOD. While a discrete message or request may be identified, the operation of Spirit is broad and diffuse. A single word may convey multiple meanings, and serve as the seed for multiple effects and inseparable understandings. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

According to Christians, Jesus says "forgive them father, for they know not what they do"?

So how could Christians claim that atheists, or people of other faiths, will be punished under Christian law, when the sacrificed one included those who didn't know they were in the wrong??

THE GOLDEN ARROW: It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (John 6: 63, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Not By Bread Only (02/22/2019); Faith Throughout the Scriptures? (01/04/2019); The Mystery of GODhead (10/21/2018); On Selecting Scripture Verses (04/11/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); Holy Writings and Spirit? (12/16/2016); Books Having Sacred Knowledge? (10/25/2016); Divine Meanings and Values? (03/31/2016)

“Anonymous”, among mature Christian believers the meaning of “Father forgive them” is not the same as “father approve them,” “Father, cancel the sacred process of judgment against them that is essential to divine existence,” or “Father, make no feeling or thinking response to the behavior of imperfect creatures.” Other plain words that convey the same direction, focus, and intent include:

1. “Father, endow them with sacred knowledge along with their secular knowledge, and grant them better tools having the authority and power of divine content, rather than such finite tools as intellect, logic, philosophy, science, technology and human willpower.

2. Father I ask that you will continue this peculiar revelation of divine fullness (we also say, Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) whereby invisible, unseen spirit is made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.

3. Father, in spite of error, sin and wickedness among the living, please continue to fulfill and perform the immutable, unchanging covenants, events and divine order that has been proclaimed, promised and prophesied for the benefit of all created beings and living creatures.

4. Father, rather than display our full wrath against sin, let us be in accord and impart to mankind inseparable aspects of our own character, makeup and substance such as faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, and wisdom.”

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. “Father, in the same way we have made a perpetual covenant for Adam, Abraham and Moses that continues through divine prerogative, eternal purpose, sacred law and the sovereign will of GOD, rather than relying upon the finite deeds and works of mankind, let us establish a new testament in my blood to accomplish atonement, mercy in judgment, rebirth, redemption and the genuine salvation that will end mortality, and provide eternal life.”) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/18/2018) Weapons Of Our Warfare?

Today, reply is on the sword of GOD.  Divine tools for Christian ministry are provided to accomplish eternal life, spiritual growth, salvation, and peace with GOD.  Even so, graphic images and language that pertain to combat, military service, and warfare are used throughout the holy writings to convey prophetic admonition, the awesomeness and terror of GOD, warnings, and divine wrath against sin.  Also, the acumen and keenness of discernment that are brought by Deity to judgment should come into view.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:



What is the sword of God according to the Bible?



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  The LORD of hosts hath sworn by himself, saying, Surely I will fill thee with men, as with caterpillers; and they shall lift up a shout against thee.  He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heaven by his understanding.  When he uttereth his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens; and he causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth:  he maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures.  Every man is brutish by his knowledge; every founder is confounded by the graven image:  for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.  They are vanity, the work of errors:  in the time of their visitation they shall perish.  The portion of Jacob is not like them; for he is the former of all things:  and Israel is the rod of his inheritance:  the LORD of hosts is his name.  Thou art my battle axe and weapons of war:  for with thee will I break in pieces the nations, and with thee will I destroy kingdoms;  And with thee will I break in pieces the horse and his rider; and with thee will I break in pieces the chariot and his rider;  With thee also will I break in pieces man and woman; and with thee will I break in pieces old and young; and with thee will I break in pieces the young man and the maid;  I will also break in pieces with thee the shepherd and his flock; and with thee will I break in pieces the husbandman and his yoke of oxen; and with thee will I break in pieces captains and rulers.  And I will render unto Babylon and to all the inhabitants of Chaldea all their evil that they have done in Zion in your sight, saith the LORD.  (Jeremiah 51:  14-24, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Points On Spiritual Warfare (03/19/2018); Judgment, Peace and Warfare? (03/26/2017); The Two-edged Sword (01/09/2017); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); The Greatest Weapon? (12/17/2015); Prince of Peace? (07/18/2014); War and Peace? (07/17/2014); A Discerner of the Thoughts and Intents (10/28/2013)



“Anonymous”, using language from the Bible, the sword of GOD also is called the rod (standard), the breath (sentence in judgment; word), and the two-edged sword.  Consider the following:

1.  Isaiah 11:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth:  with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

2.  Jeremiah 50:  24-26, KJV:  24 I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware:  thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against the LORD.  25 The LORD hath opened his armoury, and hath brought forth the weapons of his indignation: for this is the work of the Lord GOD of hosts in the land of the Chaldeans.  26 Come against her from the utmost border, open her storehouses:  cast her up as heaps, and destroy her utterly:  let nothing of her be left.

3.  2nd Corinthians 10:  3-5, KJV:  3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 5. Revelation 1:  15-18,  KJV:  15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.  16 And he had in his right hand seven stars:  and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword:  and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.  17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:  18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/15/2017) The Thought of Dying

THE LAST BREATH

Today, reply is made on fear and thoughts of dying among Christians.  Being vulnerable as alive, carnal, and mortal, Christian believers also may experience misgivings, mixed feelings, and uncertainty when considering their own death.  However, as the offspring of GOD, and joint-heirs with the Lord, we have been told what to hope (expect).  We are not to rely upon emotions, personal opinions and secular knowledge.  We are to hold to proclamations, promises, and prophecies from GOD.  Where there seems to be missing information, and details we might want do not appear, we are to understand they are neither necessary nor useful for our salvation.  What we have been given is sufficient.  A fighter using the ID “Billy” at “Yahoo! Answers” (Level 1 with 39 points, a member since August 10, 2017) posted the following:


Does the thought of dying scare you? lets just say it's absolute nothingness. no emotion feelings just pure nothing. does it comfort you?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  “For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God.  I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.  The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.  I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”  (Galatians 2:  19-21, New International Version, NIV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016); Alway Delivered To Death? (11/06/2015); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014); On Death and Pain (05/08/2014); A “Good” Verse? (05/09/2014); The Dead in Christ? (11/18/2013); Too Much Holy Spirit? (11/19/2013)


“Billy”, here are some points on the understanding of death that should be found among mature followers of Jesus Christ.  Because Christian believers are being given endowments of sacred substance from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin) along with such elements as gratitude, hope, humility and joy, their awareness and thoughts on death are always counterpoised against their conviction and thoughts on eternal life.  Where sinners will respond to sacred knowledge by becoming “born again”, by making commitment to the Gospel and other godly doctrine, by continually repenting of sin, and by practicing the fellowship, lifestyle and daily routines shared within the community of faith that is the church, “death” takes on new meaning as “sleep”, as “rest”, and as a brief  interruption of being a living companion of divinity.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Scriptures (Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.®) :

(1.)  Romans 14:  8, NIV:  8 If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

(2.)  Romans 8:  5-9, NIV:  5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.  6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.  7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.  8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.  9 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you.  And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 15:  50-54, NIV:  50 I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.  51 Listen, I tell you a mystery:  We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—52 in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.  53 For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.  54 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true:  “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Thessalonians 4:  13-18, NIV:  13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.  14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.  15 According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.  16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.  17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And so we will be with the Lord forever.  18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/11/2017) Actual Utterance From GOD?

Today, reply is shared on prophecy, divine revelation, and the holy writings as a record of utterances from the living GOD.  So to speak, the “signature” and “mark of GOD” that identifies statements made by Deity, personal utterances from GOD, and the Creator’s own spoken word is (1) that they convey divine substance; (2) allow discovery that the Holy Spirit is present and active; (3) make known eternal purposes; and (4) express the oneness without sameness that exists among the three persons of the GODhead.  The fighter at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” who uses the ID “Dange” (Level  1 with 135 points, a member since August 06, 2017) posted the following:


On what basis do you say that the book The Word Appears in the Flesh read by the believers in Almighty God is God’s personal word?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.  For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.  And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.  We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:  Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man:  but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.  (2nd Peter 1:  16-21, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divinity Appears Using Form (07/26/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); The Two-edged Sword (01/09/2017); Holy Writings and Spirit? (12/16/2016); Knowing The Divine Voice? (09/02/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); Jesus Known As Word (01/17/2016); GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016) 


“Dange”, in the understanding of Christian believers, our  Creator is a spirit who must use a divine process called “revelation” to make divinity knowable, known, and “visible” to all created beings and living creatures.  GOD has put forth  carnal, material, secular, and social objects along with their sphere of existence (i.e., the context, environment, and settings they must be placed in) as well as the principles, processes and standards for their duration (how long they may continue and survive).  While most things that exist display form (we also say, image and shape) that may be described using measures such as height, size, weight, etc., the living also are given consciousness and self-will that are immaterial, yet, are not also spirit substance (e.g., emotions, imagination, intellect, recall). 

Because GOD is an immortal, immutable, and unchanging active presence, the living must learn to “know” and recognize GOD as a cause, and through specific effects (consequences) that we identify as exalted and sacred.  In the same way, only learning to say their ABCs is not enough for small children to read and write, the living must acquire spirit content from the makeup of GOD (for example, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin) before they are able to participate in intimate and personal relationships with divinity (i.e., to be children of GOD, joint-heirs with Christ, offspring, and persons instead of abstractions and objects before GOD).  Sinners acquire sacred knowledge and practice specific meanings, qualities, and values whereby they receive GOD (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, word) within their own makeup.  Using the inner spirit imparted from GOD, believers are to develop discernment (ability to recognize the divine spirit they have been given as it resides within events, other persons, practices, purposes, the holy writings, etc.)

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, even more than ignorance, exaggerated pride, self-promotion and self-will are probably the greatest obstacles to men “hearing” the voice of GOD.  Divinity has used men as agents, embodiments of Deity, and spokespersons on the earth from the time of Adam’s creation.  Many forms of both non-verbal and verbal outreach to mankind have appeared.  Along with Incarnation that appears with Jesus Christ, included have been apostles, parables, patriarchs, praise, prayer, preachers, priesthood, proclamation, promise, prophecy, and personal testimony (i.e., statements made under oath during  judgment that serve as evidence like DNA, finger prints, and eye-witness reports.) )  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/01/2017) Names For Sacred Persons?

Today, focus is on the sacred names for persons among the GODhead.  Christian believers often are surprised to learn that the Holy Spirit is not an abstraction, the essence from someone deceased, or a “thing”.  He is a distinct active presence contributing to the fullness of divinity, and is to be respected and reverenced at all times as a divine person.  Created beings and living creatures are separated from divinity by their form that includes flesh, their finite consciousness, and their independent self-will.  That mankind is made “in the image of GOD” also declares that man has been fashioned to display sacred substance, and is to exist expressing perfected, unseen spirit.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Bryan C” (Level 5 with 5,318 points, a member since December 06, 2007) posted the following:


The Holy Spirit used to be called the Holy Ghost. Why change the name?

To not scare the kiddies?
To sound better on tv?
Why?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  My words shall be of the uprightness of my heart:  and my lips shall utter knowledge clearly.  The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.  (Job 33:  3-4, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The New Testament Name (05/01/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); The Holy Spirit "Begotten"? (02/27/2017); Known By Divine Revelation (06/16/2015); About Knowing the Name of GOD (09/21/2014); About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012)


“Bryan C”, for mature Christian believers the names and titles to be used when speaking of the various divine persons who are the GODhead are provided through revelation, through sacred practice (we say, sacrament), through praise, and through prayer.  So to speak, our faith, our sacred knowledge, our standing as sons and joint-heirs, and our need will determine the name.  Consider the following points:

(1.)  GOD is to be known and spoken of on the basis of shared oneness without sameness, unchanging commitment, eternal purpose, and sovereign authority.  With the Father and the Son, the Holy Spirit completes multiple sacred works.  In addition to burning (we say, judgment, cleansing, purging), there are Creation, deliverance, imparting existence and life, prophecy, rebirth, resurrection, sanctification, and salvation.  Genesis 1:  25-27, King James Version (KJV):  25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind:  and God saw that it was good.  26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:  and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.  27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

(2.)  Jesus used the name “the Comforter,” and thereby suggested that the Holy Spirit would minister to bereavement and a sense of loss that would linger among his followers following the Lord’s removal from the earth.  However, the Savior is alive, and with the Father, a cause for greater rejoicing.  Believers are to be active and busy with the works of ministry.  Thus, “Comforter” is in line with such other sacred names as the Spirit of glory, the Spirit of Grace, the Spirit of the Living God, the Spirit of Prophecy and the Spirit of Truth:  Acts 4:  31-33, KJV:  31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.  32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul:   neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.  33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus:  and great grace was upon them all.

(3.)  During prayer, the Holy Spirit may give utterance as tongues, as our confession, as consciousness, as the direct address to GOD, and as the substance of our petitions:  Romans 8:  26-28, KJV:  26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:  for we know not what we should pray for as we ought:  but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.  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.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  The present dispensation for the followers of Jesus Christ includes being buried and resurrected with the Lord through baptism, acquiring a new nature through the imparted, indwelling Spirit, and receiving spiritual gifts.  Even so, the outpourings to date have been only partial deposits and “an earnest” of the Spirit.  There is far more to be bestowed and revealed; and there are even elements that may never be shared:  Revelation 2:  17, KJV:  17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/04/2017) That GOD Is Immutable

Today, focus is on the revelation of GODhead as three persons that have always existed and operated as one active presence.  The writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “Jebus 4” (Level 2 with 258 points, a member since April 25, 2014) posted the following:

Christians was god always 3 in 1?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.  Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?  (Malachi 3:  6-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); Exalted By The Father? (01/26/2017); 3 Persons, 3 Minds? (02/03/2016); Bad GOD, Good GOD? (01/03/2016); Divinity Has Person? (05/19/2015); The Idea of Perfection? (01/20/2015); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014)


“Jebus 4”, GOD is immutable and unchanging, yet, may only be known by created beings and living creatures through events that occur and unfold gradually over time.  For Christian believers there is only one “revelation” of GOD, and it includes all the present and previous disclosures that mankind attempts to describe by using the finite frameworks of time and space.  Correctly understood, the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead) will never be exposed, or realized in every aspect and detail by created beings and living creatures.  Even when divinity will dwell among men upon the earth, there will be features that remain secret and unknown such as the origin of GOD, the nature and substance of righteousness, the putting forth of existence from nothing, and the unseen process that manifests as divine will. 

The holy writings declare GOD is a spirit.  The revelation of GOD continues as an aspect of infusing Creation with life essence (we say, breath, spirit, word) that also imparts awareness and self-will.  For the sake of the living, divinity has appeared in the person of Jesus Christ, however, GOD does not require Incarnation (the use of flesh and human form) to be known and recognizable to GOD (himself; themselves).  What startles and unsettles many is the idea that GOD may be as man, yet, continue as immortal and incorruptible.  Christ is the most complete and correct “image” of divinity projected from the full GODhead.  Through Christ, divinity is being made accessible, knowable, known, and “visible” through events and operations on the earth.

Mature Christian believers hold GOD willingly provides the sacred knowledge and practices (sacraments) necessary for created beings and living creatures to be in personal or intimate communication, exchange and interaction with divinity.  The living may have place as sons and daughters, the children of GOD, and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ; and must be transformed to exist as eternal companions to GOD.  Consider again the following from Scripture:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 29:  29, King James Version (KJV):  29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God:  but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

(2.)  Psalms 90: 1-2, KJV:  1 LORD, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.  2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.

(3.)  Isaiah 66:  1-2, KJV:  1 Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool:  where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?  2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD:  but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Colossians 1:  12-20, 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.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/21/2017) Teach Me To Pray

 

Today, selected verses on how to pray are shared from the Bible.  Prayer may be thought of as a return of the life essence (breath, spirit, word) imparted from the makeup of the Creator to indwell the figure fashioned by divinity that would become a living soul.  Included among the aspects of access and communion with GOD in prayer are acceptance, acknowledgement, awe, confession, gratitude, intercession, intimacy, petition, praise, reconciliation, repentance, submission, and trust.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “dingo” (Level 2 with 696 points, a member since October 07, 2016) posted the following:

 

Does the bible instruct Christians how to pray?

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); A Prayer to Read? (03/25/2015); Intercession (12/27/2013); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013); Prayer not Enough? (07/12/2013); A Tree Falls To The South (07/13/2013)

 

“dingo”, here are some important examples and lessons on prayer from the holy writings:

(1.)  1st Chronicles 29:  10-13, King James Version (KJV):  10 Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation:  and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.  11 Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty:  for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.  12 Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.  13 Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.

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

(3.)  Mark 11:  22-26, KJV:  22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.  23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.  24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.  25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any:  that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.  26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

(4.)  James 5:  13-18, KJV:  13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.  14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:  15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.  16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.  17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain:  and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.  18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st John 5:  14-18, KJV:  14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:  15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.  16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death:  I do not say that he shall pray for it.  17 All unrighteousness is sin:  and there is a sin not unto death.  18 We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC