(04/06/2020) The Justification Of Divinity

Today, reply is to the charge that divine judgment is in error when sinners are condemned to annihilation or to torment and the second death. While those living on the earth may receive benefit, grace, and privilege as offspring, heirs, and the children of GOD, none are granted dominion and consecrated righteousness above that of the divine fullness (i.e., Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). All created beings and living creatures exist as expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD; and the living can not make excuses or justify their continued existence in opposition to sacred law and person. Divinity is challenged to provide justification for the continued existence of those who have betrayed divine accord, covenant relationship with divinity, and the sacred imperatives of divine being. It is written: Isaiah 45: 18, King James Version (KJV): 18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

How do Christians justify the idea that all non-believers are going to hell?

I'm aware this is not something all (or probably even most) Christians believe in, but for those who do: do you really see non-believers as "deserving" of eternal suffering? How would you sleep at night with this philosophy?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17: 24-31, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Fullness Includes Wrath (02/23/2020); That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019); That GOD Is Judge (11/01/2018); The Elimination of Death? (05/13/2018); How Are We Justified? (03/05/2018); The Place of Torment? (08/21/2017); Called, Justified, and Glorified? (01/08/2017); Damnation And The Cross? (03/06/2016)

“Anonymous”, the elimination of mankind by death is not sufficient to eliminate sin and its consequences. As a result of Adam’s transgression against divine law, and mankind becoming subject to death, among Christian believers, justification is a sacred process performed by divine spirit that permits the continued existence of mankind, and their recovery from sin. Divine fullness (divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) who are the origin and source of all that exists and has life does not have to justify their existence and works to finite created beings and living creatures. The operations of sin promote nonexistence, and a return to the conditions of preexistence that include chaos, confusion, and movement without direction. The Creation that has been put forth by divinity is a material expression from operations of spirit that appear as sacred law, mechanical process, natural law, the frameworks of time and space, and much more. Christian believers are to acknowledge that the process and substance of GOD is a fullness of spirit matter that has put forth the spheres of life and all they contain, all eternal purpose, and all that has godly value. Inseparable aspects of the divine makeup are to exist within the awareness and self-will (willpower) of mankind. Included are balance, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As the origin and source for the sacred law and divine order that establish the universe, divinity exercises accountability, authority, commitment, impartial judgment, divine prerogative, and sovereign will. While GOD does not respond as subject to the desire and will of any greater being or power, mankind has been put forth as one of many created beings and living creatures whose abilities, nature, properties, and traits have been predetermined by GOD as the Creator. Man is to display the image of GOD, and is to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Dietrick Haddon:

(1.) Isaiah 51: 12-13, King James Version (KJV): 12 I, even I, am he that comforteth you: who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die, and of the son of man which shall be made as grass; 13 And forgettest the LORD thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where is the fury of the oppressor?

(2.) Isaiah 55: 7-11, KJV: 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.

(3.) Romans 8: 33-35, KJV: 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

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 6:00 PM, April 06, 2020 @ http://img.heartlight.org/cards/g/romans5_1-2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/02/2020) Grace Abounds Much More

Today, reply is on the operations of divine grace now being shared with mankind to counteract the consequences of sin. The law may tell a man right from wrong, however, the law can not change the character and spirit content of a man. Even though the first pair (Adam) was granted a priesthood on the earth to seek atonement and reconciliation with divinity that would display the image of the priesthood in heaven, in the fallen condition mankind became restricted to an inheritance of condemnation, mortality, spiritual limit, and continual influence and manipulation by sin. It is written: Romans 3: 10-20, King James Version (KJV): 10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: 11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. 12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: 14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: 15 Their feet are swift to shed blood: 16 Destruction and misery are in their ways: 17 And the way of peace have they not known: 18 There is no fear of God before their eyes. 19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

Have you ever lied, stolen, cheated, cussed, had perverted thoughts or anything similar?

If so, do you agree that you deserve to go to Hell?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. (Romans 3: 23-26, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Trying To Stop Sins (04/01/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); “Sinners” And “The Righteous” (03/19/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); TWO Kinds of People? (02/21/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); Divine Fullness Includes Wrath (02/23/2020)

“Anonymous”, proper understanding of sin among Christian believers requires that our shared focus be on grace as an aspect of divine fullness appearing in the existence, forgiveness, life, and reconciliation provided mankind. The first pair (Adam) did not uphold the sacred law and standards they were given. The consequences of transgression by Adam included his offspring having to exist with finite limitations and restrictions. Expressions of divine grace were provided to comfort and encourage mankind as a great struggle against sin would go forward on the earth. Included were delay of punishment; expiation; hope; mercy for those found guilty in judgment; rebirth; and redemption. For many on the earth, the operations of sin are so inescapable, visible, and widespread that sin is regarded as an acceptable and normal condition. Sin is not properly recognized as contrary to the character, process, purpose, substance, and survival of both GOD and mankind. Influenced by sin, human desire and reason become destructive, distorted, exaggerated and warped. Attitudes, behavior and conduct become indifferent, irrational, selfish, and wicked. Sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and the universe that appears through divine order. Sin has not been created by divinity, expresses no divine purpose, and imparts no sacred substance from the makeup of GOD, yet, sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. Sin promotes nonexistence, and a return to the conditions of chaos, confusion, and flux that were in place before the founding of heaven and earth (we say, preexistence saw immaterial objects in motion without direction). The elimination of sin requires multiple operations that may only be completed by GOD. Included are atonement, repentance, covenant relationship, judgment, Incarnation, death, resurrection, sanctification, and the second death.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Luther Barnes:

(1.) Ephesians 2: 8-10, King James Version (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. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

(2.) Romans 5: 17-21, KJV: 17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

(3.) Romans 8: 1-9, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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=d6eltO17MbE.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:45 PM, April 02, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJb4MreCv5cpMjBMAgMMjdEyqzsgwogny0DRnt5ZghdlNRGPw4MdhWGerwGLuQ7ZtsNJNWV7oxTQU7E7ECUpkLkkBT4kWq_woSZHquAEATTENh9Aszbj4KtIXHR5YXE_8tQm0BWz7GPmU/w1200-h630-p-k-nu/Get.png

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/01/2020) Trying To Stop Sins

Today, reply is on breaking habits, overcoming lusts, and the elimination of sin. Sinners become “perfect” with divinity by relying on the righteousness of Jesus Christ, rather than their own efforts to change, or become a different person. Properly understood, judgment, redemption and salvation from divinity are acts of GOD that continue the works begun in divine Creation. The makeup, process, and substance of all things are to conform to the unchanging eternal purpose, existence, life essence, and sovereign will of GOD. It is written: Isaiah 64: 4-9, King James Version (KJV): 4 For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. 5 Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved. 6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. 7 And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities. 8 But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. 9 Be not wroth very sore, O LORD, neither remember iniquity for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Sherin Michael” (Level 1 with 50 points) posted the following:

It’s been 20 years I am trying to stop sexual sins ( porn & masturbation ) can anyone win this as Bible says?Or Christianity is cheating ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised:  that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. (Romans 4: 3-13, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Salvation Through Jesus Christ (03/25/2019); Appetite and Human Sexuality? (10/19/2018); When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018); Porn, Prostitutes and Salvation? (06/08/2017); Masturbation and Religion? (02/01/2015); GOD Does the Divine Part (01/05/2014); Sin in Mind not Deed? (01/06/2014)

“Sherin Michael”, eliminating sin is more than a matter of changing behavior (behavior modification) in response to desire. Mature Christian believers hold to revelation from GOD that proclaims the recovery of divine Creation from the effects and influence of sin will eventually include the full elimination of sin, however, the complete end of sin will occur only through a divine process that includes repentance, judgment, resurrection from death, sanctification, and the second death. Multiple benefits and spiritual gifts are being provided to mankind that supply cleansing, discernment, healing, and new life for those on the earth, however, the operations of sin are still able to dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. For the living, sin is an enigma and a puzzle that has no solution. Sin is not a creation of GOD and has no spirit content or sacred substance, yet, sin opposes the continued existence of god-given law, the Lawgiver, and the entire universe that appears by the divine order emanated from GOD. Finite human tools such as academic achievement, intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science are not sufficient to detect, destroy and remove all sin. What are otherwise divine extremes are in place that include forgiveness, forbearance, Incarnation (divinity using human flesh and life process to exist among men on the earth), monarchy (rule as king or emperor) and nation, priesthood, and the imparting of divine substance to indwell the believers, servants, and spokespersons who voluntarily acknowledge divinity. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are imparted to the sinners who become born again believers, and who then must “grow-up again” and mature while on the earth. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Micheal Talbot:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 50-56, King James Version (KJV): 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

(2.) Galatians 5: 18-25, KJV: 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 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. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

(3.) Romans 8: 1-9, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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=I7j10za_3gQ.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:43 PM, March 31, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunLGEKE930qiaVxVbRpPVN_JbNJ7b5BT18kMMYVo5JX5mArCfLCL-fdkaohF7kyYh7l5tx3-XCUlQf7GN2bqtReap2TGkqPRBo4r5FbABPLJRaY64cOi8QsvdgniRBoHU54ZS4xRgErM/s1600/Create-in-me-a-clean-heart.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/19/2018) Appetite and Human Sexuality?

The XV Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (CNS/Paul Haring - see reference below)

Today, reply is on appetite, celibacy, the flesh, and human sexuality. Given sexual experience and expression are held to be personal and private the errors that appear among Christians often include failure to practice according to divine standards, not relying only upon godly counsel and the practice of secrecy regarding our human needs and problems. Thus, for example, many have taught that the word “burn” in the counsel from the Apostle Paul (better to marry than burn) may be replaced with “desire”, “endure frustration,” and “lust” overlooking that it also means “despair”. That all have sinned and come short of GOD’s glory is true in part not simply because they have lost their virginity; rather, it is because so many have experienced defilement, loss of purity, and spiritual confusion through their own sexual experiences. Even so, it is the faith of mature Christian believers that through the grace of GOD in Christ along with redemption and salvation believers can receive correction, healing, reconciliation, restoration and willpower (mastery) over ones own human sexuality. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “johnsmith2025 ( Cavs Fan )” (Level 7 with 45,976 points, a member since October 14, 2007) posted the following:

Is masterbation acceptable? (please read the details)?

Is it okay if a single Catholic man of 35 masturbates?

If he has a healthy libido and needs frequent ejaculations (approximately 1,000 per year), and he is Catholic and happens to be single, is it Catholically permissible for him to engage in such masturbation for the relief he needs??

Update: I accidentally misspelled it. Sorry about that.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (Hebrews 13: 3-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Gift Of GOD (10/15/2018); Knowing What To Believe? (12/31/2017); Thoughts on Sexual Relationships (03/07/2017); Why Is Lust Condemned? (07/20/2016); Flesh Against the Spirit? (06/19/2016); On Controlling Lust (01/05/2016); The Mistakes In Youth? (08/24/2015); Masturbation and Religion? (02/01/2015)

“johnsmith2025 ( Cavs Fan )”, here are some points mature Christians are challenged to consider when focusing on human sexual behavior:

(1.) Among mankind the possibilities for existence and life on the earth permit diverse forms of expression that are animal, human, and divine (we say, anointed; Christlike; godly; sanctified) in their character, makeup, purpose, and substance.

(2.) Sexual desire gains strength and continues throughout ones development until they complete their own mortality.

(3.) Auto-eroticism (we say, masturbation; self-stimulation) and all sexual feeling incorrectly are judged and condemned as “sin” by many who acknowledge GOD through Christ. (For example, the counsel from the Apostle Paul to couples regarding fornication (i.e., defilement of ones spirit makeup through sexual joining) and premarital sex that often is used mistakenly to commend celibacy, “It is better to marry than burn.”)

(4.) Sexual expression as social behavior can be accounted (i.e., judging others) as infantile (i.e., driven by curiosity, ignorance, immaturity, and selfishness), or mature (balanced, disciplined, purposeful, and stable).

(5.) As explained by medicine and science, reproduction is both an animal and human function generated within the flesh by such elements as enzymes, hormones, organs, and tissues. Reproduction usually requires the imparting and transfer of cellular material through intercourse. However, the joining and outcomes that follow will be on multiple levels: emotional; physical; psychological; and spiritual.

(6.) Godly sexual expression acknowledges multiple realities of divine order, sacred intent, and eternal purpose. Included are family; inheritance; joining spirit substance; priesthood; and reproducing spirit substance. For desire responds to intellect and reasoning in a fixed and reliable way only where there is strong discipline and restraint.

(7.) The animal operations of appetite for sexual fulfillment are like those for hunger and thirst. They appear as aspects of ones carnal being from before their birth, and will increase their influence and presence within ones consciousness as well as their potency against a person’s self-will (willpower). In this way, sex operates like sin that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe: There can be the domination of consciousness and self-will.

(8.) The operations of animal sexual desire (we also say, lust; passion) are not simple. Desires that proceed as mechanical and natural process may be aroused, yet, not be satisfied through mental activity (e.g., fantasy; imagination; recall).

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (9.) The emotional, physical, and psychological process of sexual development compares to the process of new life in Christ for those “born again”, because both require discovery that may be through trial and error, gradual growth, focused practice, and even the enduring of disappointment, hardship and suffering.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

CNS photograph/Paul Haring published with “Letters from the Synod-2018: October 19” - Reports and Commentary, from Rome and Elsewhere, on the XV Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops by Xavier Rynne II: downloaded 11: 38 AM, 10/19/2018 from the Catholic Herald Internet site @ http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/commentandblogs/2018/10/19/letters-from-the-synod-2018-october-19/

https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20181019124459AAGRaGL

(06/10/2018) Why Jonah Willfully Disobeyed

Today, reply speaks to the account of Jonah and the great fish where multiple streams of sacred truth come together.  For there to be accord and agreement between the Creator and the created, the living must be joined to the oneness without sameness that exists within the GODhead.  To many, the primary focus of the account of Jonah is repentance by the city/kingdom of Nineveh, and by a servant of GOD.  (Jonah is a figure of all those who refused to heed the preaching of Noah, and is a figure of the High Priest of the tabernacle and the temple who must make atonement for the sins of the people, and for his own sins.)  To others, the major themes are resurrection and salvation.  Even so, it is written:  Hosea 6:  5-6, King James Version (KJV):  5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth:  and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth.  6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

Why did Jonah willfully disobey God?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish’s belly,  And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.  For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about:  all thy billows and thy waves passed over me.  Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.  The waters compassed me about, even to the soul:  the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head.  I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever:  yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God.  When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD:  and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.  They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.  But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD.  And the LORD spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.  (Jonah 2:  1-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  When Prophecy Opposes Desire (05/31/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Why Does GOD “Repent”? (04/06/2018); “I Am The Resurrection”  (03/25/2018); Mercy to the Merciless? (07/30/2017); Accepting the Divine Will? (12/06/2016); Justice Comes by Love (10/01/2012); A Daily Revelation? (10/02/2012)

“Anonymous”, a man may be dead to the world, yet, alive within the heart and mind of GOD.  Conversely, he may be alive to the world, yet, dead in spirit, defiant, and in rebellion to GOD.  Christian believers are cautioned to understand that, where they do not receive fresh endowments of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity, the operations of sin may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures.  The separation that permit’s the living to exist having integrity and soundness of their own personhood must be reinforced by deposits of sacred life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of the Creator.  Inseparable aspects of GOD are imparted to indwell those on the earth including faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The human condition displayed by Jonah included ethnic arrogance (Jonah, a Jew was sent to preach to the very Gentiles (the Assyrians) who would later carry the Northern Kingdom (Israel; Somalia) into exile); exaggerated pride; indignation; and self-righteousness (a holier-than-thou attitude).  The belly of a great fish was prepared to serve as a burial site and grave for Jonah.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Proverbs 16:  25, King James Version (KJV):  16 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

(2.)  Romans 10:  2-4, KJV:  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

(3.)  Romans 6:  2-7, KJV:  2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:  6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.  7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Galatians 5:  16-25, KJV:  16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh:  and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.  18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.  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.  25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05./31/2018) When Prophecy Opposes Desire

Today, reply centers on the acceptance and finality of prophecy, and on the warnings in Scripture against false prophets.  The disapproval, skepticism, and unbelief of created beings and living creatures have no power to annul divine utterance, or make it vain (empty; without spirit substance from the makeup of GOD).  Sacred prophecies declaring divine prerogative, eternal purposes, and the sovereign will of GOD all are certain of fulfillment, and are dismissed or ignored only at great risk.  Included are prophesies that address Advent (we say, the harvest; his appearing; the Rapture; the Resurrection; the Second Coming), the end times, the final judgment of the wicked, the second death,  the elimination of mortality and sin as well as the descent of the holy city, New Jerusalem, from heaven to the earth.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the  ID “Skittles” (Level 3 with 1,292 points, a member since May 12, 2012) posted the following:


What does this verse mean: “Whenever it is that they are saying, “Peace and Security!” then sudden destruction is to be instantly on them.”?

1 Thessalonians 5:3
Who says this? How is religion and government involved? How will it affect us?


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:  “The End Is Near” (03/14/2018); The Coming(s) of Christ (03/11/2018); Recognizing True Christian Prophets (02/26/2018); Sharing The Correct Message (01/30/2017); Why Is Lust Condemned? (07/20/2016); World Peace Is Coming? (05/08/2016); About The End Of The World (08/30/2015)
 

“Skittles”, many respond to prophecy with denial.  (For example, when Jesus prophesied that he would be crucified, the Apostle Peter insisted on voicing his own desire (it would not be so), and was severely rebuked by Jesus.)  Given the operations of the flesh will resist prophecy, the sacred wisdom developing Christian believers receive through the holy writings include multiple admonitions, advice, alerts, counsels, declarations of divine law, guidance, instruction, divine proclamations, warnings, and prophecies that provide comfort, edification, and exhortation.  Believers must practice discernment whereby they use their own spirit endowment from GOD as a standard to recognize, respond to, and connect with the same spirit content as it appears within events, exchanges, other people, relationships, the Scriptures, etc.  Often, legitimate messages announcing the will of divinity are despised, dismissed, and rejected because they do not agree with popular opinions, carnal reason, or material and social dictates.  Disbelievers, skeptics, and those bearing malice will contradict, distort, and oppose divine truth by offering alternative ideas and “what they want to hear” that are properly labeled and understood as “false prophecy,” even though they may contain useful information from such areas as philosophy, politics, science, and technology.  Consider again the following points that use language from the Bible:

(1.)  Jeremiah 23:  14-17, King James Version (KJV):  14 I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing:  they commit adultery, and walk in lies:  they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness; they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah.  15 Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall:  for from the prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the land.  16 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you:  they make you vain:  they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the LORD.  17 They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.

(2.)  Ezekiel 13:  1-3, KJV:  1 And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,  2 Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou unto them that prophesy out of their own hearts, Hear ye the word of the LORD;  3 Thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing!

(3.)  Ezekiel 13:  10-14, KJV:  10 Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered mortar:  11 Say unto them which daub it with untempered mortar, that it shall fall:  there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it.  12 Lo, when the wall is fallen, shall it not be said unto you, Where is the daubing wherewith ye have daubed it?  13 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even rend it with a stormy wind in my fury; and there shall be an overflowing shower in mine anger, and great hailstones in my fury to consume it.  14 So will I break down the wall that ye have daubed with untempered mortar, and bring it down to the ground, so that the foundation thereof shall be discovered, and it shall fall, and ye shall be consumed in the midst thereof:  and ye shall know that I am the LORD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Isaiah 30:  8-15, KJV:  8 Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever:  9 That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD:  10 Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:  11 Get you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us.  12 Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon:  13 Therefore this iniquity shall be to you as a breach ready to fall, swelling out in a high wall, whose breaking cometh suddenly at an instant.  14 And he shall break it as the breaking of the potters’ vessel that is broken in pieces; he shall not spare:  so that there shall not be found in the bursting of it a sherd to take fire from the hearth, or to take water withal out of the pit.  15 For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength:  and ye would not.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/22/2017) Fear, Revelation and Desire

Today, topics include awe, judgment, and having trust in relationships with divinity.  While sinners are being drawn, recruited, and welcomed into the kingdom of GOD, they also are being admonished, cautioned, and warned to “know their place” and not to become arrogant, irreverent, overfamiliar, presumptuous, proud, or self-promoting.  Salvation is provided as a free gift, yet, the sincere believer is expected to labor and toil sharing the Gospel and their abundance from GOD through their own ongoing lifestyle and daily routines as well as by their sacred practices, studies, and worship.  As new believers, many make the mistake of thinking that being in Christ means “have what you want, do as you please.”  For a long time they may fail to realize that their growth to spiritual maturity is primarily by resolving conflict, meeting challenges, enduring suffering, and preparing for the coming of Christ.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,889 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:


The bible says that God fulfills the desires of those who fear Him - so how does one fear God?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  It is as sport to a fool to do mischief:  but a man of understanding hath wisdom.  The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him:  but the desire of the righteous shall be granted.  As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more:  but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.  (Proverbs 10:  23-25, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Fullness of GOD? (05/21/2017); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); The Hope of Glory (03/02/2017); Hope That Is True (02/20/2017); Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016); Awe? (08/09/2015); His Authority in Judgment? (10/03/2014)


“Breakthrough”, effort, toil, and work are conditions for obtaining ones desires.  On the basis of shared agreement, covenant, meanings and values, GOD provides all the spirit process and substance necessary for the living to exist and operate within the spheres of Creation.  The genuine need of the living for gifts from GOD primarily has been for revelation and sacred knowledge, rather than for material goods, and the things of passing desire.  For created beings and living creatures to experience continuous intimate and personal relationships with divinity they must be “made in the image of GOD.”  That is, they must contain and display specific attributes and aspects of the divine makeup that will allow ongoing communication, exchange and interaction using such carnal, material, and social roles as children of GOD, the primary heir, a spouse to GOD, a steward in the divine household, and a trusted servant.  In addition to such features for sound relationships as affection, honesty, integrity, respect, and mutual trust, fruitful relationships with Deity require the living to have a correct awareness of the awesomeness of GOD (we say, fear of the Lord; reverence), gratitude, humility, unselfishness, and willing submission.  While GOD does not appear as having desire, lack, need or want, we understand Deity pursues direction, intent, and unchanging eternal purpose.  For a believer, a healthy fear of the Lord will appear as balance, self-discipline, self-government, and self-restraint.  Elements such as anxiety about the future, apprehension, being intimidated, dismay, panic and worry about the outcomes of judgment are not aspects of the Spirit that GOD will impart to a sinner for their rebirth and transformation.  In effect, the inborn spirit must die and be buried; and the sinner is “born again” having divine spirit substance from the makeup of GOD.  Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Psalms 7:  9-13, King James Version (KJV):  9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just:  for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins.  10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart.  11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.  12 If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready.  13 He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors.

(2.)  Psalms 140:  7-9, KJV:  7 O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.  8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked:  further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.  9 As for the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

(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 to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  28-32, KJV:  28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.  30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called:  and whom he called, them he also justified:  and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/21/2017) The Fullness of GOD?

 

Today, reply is made to the idea that GOD may be described as “nothingness”.  Rather than empty themselves to become free from covetousness, desire, carnal reason, and thought, sinners are to fill themselves with the life essence (i.e., breath, spirit, word) of GOD shared through Jesus Christ.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (Canada)” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


Is God Nothingness?

Nothingness, like God, is eternal and changless
- Nothingness, like God, is entirely beyond understanding and predication
- Everthing that is came from nothingness, and unto nothingness will return (like God). Nothingness is "the Father of All", and eventually everything is re-absorbed into the arms of Nothingness.
- Nothingness, like God, is paradoxically both absent and present, transcendent and immanent. It is outside of time and space, yet all around us.
- Nothingness is entirely invincible and impassible.
- Nothingness (the Void) holds all thing in 'Being', is everywhere and nowhere.
- Through nothingess, paradoxes like "The First will be Last, and the Last will be First" make sense, because eventually everything becomes nothing, poverty, riches, honour and humility are all levelled.
- God, like Nothingess, communicates with us most truly through Silence.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:  Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.  And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;  Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;  And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.  (Colossians 2:  8-15, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  That GOD Is Immutable (05/04/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); To Express the Fullness of GOD? (07/09/2015); Divinity Has Person? (05/19/2015); The Fullness of GODhead? (01/09/2014); World Without End? (01/10/2014); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013)


“Anonymous”, there are many belief systems that teach mankind must “empty” himself to escape from the flesh and from desire and to arrive at true balance or peace within the universe (enlightenment, nirvana, satori, etc.).  For mature Christian believers, GOD is the single aggregation of all spirit who is manifest as divinity (we say, the GODhead:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), and displays peculiar attributes that include character, direction, duration, existence, jealousy, majesty, nature, oneness without sameness, perfection, person, preeminence, presence, eternal purpose, and sovereign will.  Immortal, invisible GOD communicates with created beings and living creatures on the basis of imparted spirit substance and revelation.  To correctly discern, recognize, and respond to GOD, those who have been endowed with consciousness, sentience and self-will also must receive inseparable spirit matter from the makeup of Deity such as faith, gratitude, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  GOD uses multiple sacred devices (e.g., forgiveness, divine law, miracles, judgment, prophecy, rebirth, signs) and operations within the carnal, material, and social world that make divinity knowable, known, and “visible”.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Acts 17:  24-31, King James Version (KJV):  24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;  25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;  26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:  28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.  29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.  30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:  31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

(2.)  John 3:  5-7, KJV:  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  16-20, KJV:  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.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Romans 15:  13, KJV:  13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC