(03/16/2021) Restoring Relationship With Divinity

 

Salvation is provided by divinity to the living that establishes and restores active relationships between the Creator and the created. In a remarkable miracle, Jesus restored mortality to a man named Lazarus, and continuing to live on earth as a mortal, Lazarus eventually died a second time. Salvation goes beyond divine works that focus on the flesh such as healing the sick and raising the dead, and salvation is not a one-time sacred event. Correctly understood, salvation continues Creation by amplifying, perfecting and restoring the communication, exchange and interaction GOD set out to share with mankind. Salvation is more than being restored to life having flesh and a material form after a person has completed their mortality. Salvation is provided to those living on the earth for their inborn spirit substance to become permanently transformed, for them to receive immortality, and for them to continue to exist as a companion to the divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). Only at the appearing of Jesus Christ to harvest from the earth those who belong to him as anointed, edified, purchased, redeemed, and saved will the living become perfected through operations of GOD. While they live, those who are being saved are being prepared to enter into full relationships with divinity that complete and realize conversion, rebirth, repentance, and new life that resembles, reflects and reveals the character and nature of Christ. Before Jesus restored Lazarus from the dead, the Savior had shared an ongoing relationship with his sisters, Mary and Martha, and everyone within the household of Lazarus. Lazarus was not raised as an act of salvation for a long-time disciple and follower, nor was Lazarus raised so he could face divine judgment. The figure of Lazarus appears like that of Abraham who is called the Friend of GOD. Raising Lazarus was an act of sacred demonstration that also expressed affection, friendship, love, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the performance of sacred promise. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 15: 51-54, King James Version (KJV): 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. A fighter in the Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Uncle Travus Top Pen Kuiper” (Level 3 with 1,330 points) posted the following:

Is it too late to be saved after death? then how do you explain the story of Lazarus according to Mark 6:11?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: John 11: 41-45, King James Version (KJV): 41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. 42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. 43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. 44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go. 45 Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Both Existence and Life (12/11/2020); When Does Resurrection Occur? (10/25/2020); Sacred Law Promotes Relationships (04/23/2020); Salvation Is Not Predetermined (03/15/2020); Only Divine Resurrection Saves (12/24/2019); (06/23/2019) Preserved As Life Companions; Repentance Must Happen Now (06/07/2019)

“Uncle Travus Top Pen Kuiper”, salvation must occur as an aspect of ones life experience through multiple sacred operations carried out by divinity on behalf of the living (we say, by divine prerogative and the sovereign will of GOD; by the grace of GOD). In addition to repenting for sin, the living are to experience rebirth, acknowledge atonement, and become ripe for harvest from the earth by Christ at his coming. Mature Christian believers receive the account of Lazarus returned from the dead as a sacred event provided to further prepare the followers of the Savior for his crucifixion and resurrection from the dead to appear in heaven. Life was restored to Lazarus to demonstrate that Jesus was endowed with divine authority and power; however, Lazarus was not lifted up to heaven for divine judgment as will occur in the resurrection of those who complete their mortality on the earth. In death, the dead do not continue to operate carrying on life processes, or having intent and purpose. Consider again the following:

(1.) Psalms 115: 15-18, King James Version (KJV): 15 Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth. 16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not the LORD, neither any that go down into silence. 18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.

(2.) Lazarus of the miracle

This personage was the brother of Martha and Mary of Bethania; all three were beloved friends of Jesus (John 11:5). At the request of the two sisters Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:41-44). Soon thereafter, the Saturday before Palm Sunday, Lazarus took part in the banquet which Simon the Leper gave to Jesus in Bethania (Matthew 26:6-16; Mark 14:3-11; John 12:1-11). Many of the Jews believed in Jesus because of Lazarus, whom the chief priests now sought to put to death. The Gospels tell us no more of Lazarus (see ST. LAZARUS OF BETHANY). [Downloaded 12:25 PM, March 15, 2021 from New Advent: The Catholic Encyclopedia @ https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09096a.htm].

(3.) John 12: 1-2, KJV: Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. 2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) John 12: 9-11, KJV: 9 Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death; 11 Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:15 PM, 03/15/2021 @ https://christianclipartreview.blogspot.com/2018/04/lazarus-come-forth.html

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/14/2021) Does Religion Teach Love?

 

In order to connect and interact with their Creator, all created beings and living creatures must share divine attributes of consciousness, love, and personhood. Love is to be carried out and performed as more than academic discourse, the scientific analysis of human communication, exchange, and social intercourse, or the expression of dreams, emotions, and romantic fantasies. Lovingkindness is an inseparable element within the divine fullness (i.e., the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) that is to exist within the created beings and living creatures who manifest sacred law, divine presence, and eternal purpose. The church founded by Jesus Christ is to be a sanctified community and sphere of life (set apart for the use of divinity). Faith, holiness, and other aspects of divinity that are otherwise invisible become clear and present there by the operations of love. It is written: Hebrews 10: 22-25, King James Version (KJV): 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Does religion teach love?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 2^nd Peter 1: 2-8, King James Version (KJV): 2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Scriptures To Provide Comfort? (09/27/2020); Pure Religion And Undefiled (08/07/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); A Reputation For Love (11/18/2019); Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Love Shown By Divinity (03/08/2019)

“Anonymous”, Christians are encouraged to know and practice love. In addition to forbearance, forgiveness, kindness, and unselfishness, love expresses accountability, integrity, respect, and reverence. Among mature Christian believers love is more than simply an emotion or feeling we may experience; and coming to understand and operate as those who love is more than a simple academic or intellectual task. Love is a sacred practice (we say, a sacrament), a process carried out and performed as an act of will in obedience to sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. More than this, love is itself a sacred substance inseparable from the other elements believers are to discover as the character and nature of divine fullness (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, oneness without sameness, personness, wisdom, and wrath against sin). Through the ministries of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, Christian believers are to receive love as a fresh endowment of life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD. Once “born again” (the inborn spirit dies, is buried, and replaced with divine DNA, so to speak), sinners are to develop, grow up, and mature as full offspring of GOD. Their transformation to exist as life companions to divinity will be completed in the twinkling of an eye at the appearing of Jesus (we say, the harvest; the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st John 4: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

(2.) Romans 13: 8-10, KJV: 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) 1^st Thessalonians 4: 16-18, KJV: 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:21 PM, March 14, 2021 @ https://steemit.com/love/@flamingbot/a-new-commandment-i-give-you-love-one-another-c2bf52a898e3a

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/25/2021I) The Growth Of Faith

 

Faith is described, today, as a divine substance imparted from divinity to transform the life-process and spirit-maturity of created beings and living creatures. It is written: Hebrews 11: 1-7, King James Version (KJV): 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. 4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. 5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. One of the writers at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

what exactly is faith in God? what causes faith to mature?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Ephesians 4: 11-16, King James Version (KJV): 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Recognizing Authentic Christian Believers (12/21/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); Why Are Sinners “saved?” (10/11/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Divine Protection Against Covid-19? (04/26/2020); Endure Trials Through Faith (03/31/2020); While We Are Growing (03/09/2020)

“Anonymous”, like existence and life, faith is a spirit-substance that exists among the inseparable aspects that are the makeup of GOD (we also say, the divine fullness; the Creator; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Where one appears, all the others appear, though not always in the same measure. Included within the complete array of sacred being are holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Faith as an element within the consciousness and makeup of created beings and living creatures should be understood as imparted or transmitted from divinity, and is spirit that manifests only its own authority, character, operations, and power. Thus, faith is only made up of faith, just as holiness consists only of holiness, righteousness consists only of righteousness. GOD did not create life as a separate element that could later be used to make mankind a “living soul;” life essence (breath; utterance; word) was provided to Adam and later to the female directly from GOD. Only GOD is immortal, and while the living may be consecrated and sanctified to have duration, exist as offspring to GOD, and to serve divinity, the living must become transformed to have eternal life. Faith and life exist as perfected, however, the life process for those on the earth now goes forward by degrees, and is progressive from birth to the completion of mortality. Water baptism depicts the death, burial, and rebirth/resurrection of ones inborn spirit. Those who become born again also must grow-up again (we say, must develop; be edified; gradually grow; become accountable, consistent, stable, etc.). Through the ministry of Jesus Christ, sinners receive a fresh endowment of the same spirit that was provided to Jesus while he served on the earth. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Acts 20: 32, King James Version (KJV): 32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

(2.) 2^nd Peter 1: 2-7, KJV: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

(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, eternal salvation with divinity is not determined by ones behavior, knowledge, service, and suffering so much as by their content of divine substance and their continuance under grace.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:05 PM, January 24, 2021 @ https://www.facebook.com/JesusChrististheonlyway100/photos/1347198372152438

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/23/2020) Sacred Law Promotes Relationships

Today, reply is on whether a child who undergoes parental neglect or other abuse must still honor their father and mother in response to the Ten Commandments. Sacred law promotes fruitful relationships with divinity; and laws that are righteous promote industry, security, and stability. Just as Christians are neither justified by their own sins nor by their own good works, in divine judgment the behavior and conduct of children are not justified by their own sins, nor by the sins of their parents. Grace, reconciliation, redemption and salvation are aspects of being in correct relationship with divinity through Jesus Christ and through the Holy Spirit. While divine law establishes a knowledge of sin and transgressions that otherwise would not exist, the law also provides a framework and structure that allow the living to acknowledge sanctification, resurrection life, and relationship with GOD as the new creation. It is written: Deuteronomy 7: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou; 2 And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: 3 Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. 4 For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. 5 But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire. 6 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. 7 The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: 8 But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. 9 Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; 10 And repayeth them that hate him to their face, to destroy them: he will not be slack to him that hateth him, he will repay him to his face. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile was shown) posted the following:

Since I hate my Dad and he has wronged me terribly through emotional neglect do I have to still honor him like the 10 commandments read?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Your eyes have seen what the LORD did because of Baalpeor: for all the men that followed Baalpeor, the LORD thy God hath destroyed them from among you. But ye that did cleave unto the LORD your God are alive every one of you this day. Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons; Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. (Deuteronomy 4: 3-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020); While We Are Growing (03/09/2020); Mankind A Divine Instrument (02/16/2020); GOD Also Uses Children (12/19/2019); More Required Than Crucifixion? (12/10/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); What Young People Need? (06/26/2017); Who Deserves Divine Love? (06/23/2017)

“Anonymous”, more than establishing and maintaining a correct relationship with your own parents, the law from GOD is provided to ensure your correct relationship with divinity. The Creator does not call children to act as judge, jury, and executioners against their own parents; and few offspring become connected to their caretakers as though their parents are equals, peers or playmates. Even so, for a child to become a complete person, a full adult, and someone who is emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually healthy before GOD, both their connection to mankind on the earth, and their connection to divinity must be sound. Things that have no meaning, and that seem only to be negative and wicked while we are minor children must become part of what we grasp in our maturity in order to experience the full release that comes through forbearance, forgiveness, and understanding of our shared human predicament.

The sacred law spoken to mankind as the Ten Commandments can be thought of as a divine tool used to transform the 12 tribes of Jacob and the mixed multitude of Gentiles and heathens that left Egypt along with Moses to serve as a new nation under GOD. In Egypt, the Pharaohs had dominion and ownership of the livestock, the land, and the Egyptian people; and only the Pharaohs could bestow or receive any inheritance. The law proclaimed to Israel was an infrastructure to guide Jacob as they would exchange, interact, and respond to one another through their lifestyles and daily routines; and was to serve as a framework for their ongoing relationship with divinity. Israel was to exist as an heir and a son to GOD who would carry out divine judgment against the seven tribes that occupied Canaan as the first covenant partners to GOD. More than this, Israel was to fulfill divine promises and prophecies that were not to be broken or forgotten that had been shared with the Patriarchs Adam, Noah, and Abraham.

Sinners who turn to GOD acknowledging Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior are to receive a fresh endowment of the same life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) that was in Christ. Those who become “born again” and will exist as developing believers are to “grow up again,” become mature/ripe while living on the earth, and be harvested by the Lord at his appearing (Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming). The inborn spirit must undergo death, burial, and resurrection (rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak). This occurs through operations among the inseparable aspects of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Included are balance, faith, forbearance, gratitude, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Believers undergo permanent change within their own spirit through discovery, gradual growth, sacred practice (e.g., discernment, forgiveness, praise, prayer), study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering. In addition to acknowledging accountability, maintaining godly commitments and performing ones duty, mature Christian behavior will display the image of GOD, and will 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 John Michael Talbot:

(1.) Ezekiel 18: 19-24, King James Version (KJV): 19 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. 21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? 24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

(2.) Colossians 3: 2-13, KJV: 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. 5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: 6 For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: 7 In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

(3.) Titus 3: 1-7, KJV: 1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, 2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. 3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

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 10:16 PM, April 22, 2020 @ https://darrellcreswell.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/titus-3-7-justified-covered-by-grace.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/21/2020) Testing That Nourishes Growth

Today, reply is on the process and substance of testing, temptation, and trials that mankind undergoes from divinity.   From Wuhan, China to New York City, America covid-19 death tolls are being published, without totals for those who have recovered. There have been multiple cases of recuperation from covid-19, yet, not a single successful treatment regimen appears to have been properly documented! In the same way discussion of testing for covid-19 continues in the United States to be a distraction to publishing the details for successful treatment of the disease, many confuse challenges that regularly accompany life experience on the earth with punitive interventions by the Creator to declare divine dominion over mankind. Among mature Christian believers, testing by GOD is understood as providing correction rather than punishment, and pertains to GOD completing sacred operations that establish immortality, eternal life, sanctification, and the expression of immutable permanence. Discourse properly centers on the outcomes of Creation, judgment, prophecy, redemption, sacred law, salvation, solemn promise, resurrection life, and the second death. It is written: Revelation 3: 10-13, King James Version (KJV): 10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

If millions of people catching a terrible disease is another test from our loving and benevolent God then is dying from it a pass or a fail?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: (2^nd Peter 2: 9, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); Jacob Wrestled With GOD? (09/26/2018); Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); Temptations, Tests and Trials? (05/12/2015); Is Sin a Matter of Temptation? (04/22/2015); The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014); Knowing the Spirit is Inside? (10/07/2014); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013); Chosen To Serve As Prophets (01/01/2014)

“Anonymous”, the Creator has continuing contact and exchange with mankind on the earth by appearing as spirit process and substance within human awareness and self-will (willpower). The testing that Christians undergo are stages in their cleansing, development and spiritual growth along with levels and phases in their becoming mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming. Divine testing is not opposition to entice, manipulate, or seduce someone to do evil. Your idea seems to be that GOD is administering challenges, temptations, tests and trials to the living as though they are students in a classroom where their knowledge and skills must be assessed and rated, and their achievement of grade-level standards must be determined and acknowledged. More correctly, sinners must undergo permanent change within covenant relationship through operations of divinity that include acquiring sacred knowledge rather than academic or secular knowledge; receiving fresh endowments of life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD; and becoming altered by multiple interactions among the inseparable aspects of divine fullness such as balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Rather than a focus on material objects and social behaviors, testing and transformation by GOD are through discovery, gradual growth, practice, and study of things sacred as well as by passing through divinely generated events and operations that call forth, display, and extend ones own spirit content. Thus, developing believers are to embody accountability, commitment, discernment, forbearance, forgiveness, gratitude, praise, prophecy (comfort, edification, exhortation), purpose, reconciliation, unselfish service, and suffering. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

(1.) Zechariah 13: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones. 8 And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. 9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 3: 11-15, KJV: 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

(3.) James 1: 13-15, KJV: 13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GznYI1aFolM.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:40 PM, April 20, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/BRdx6Mx79Ak/maxresdefault.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

(04/03/2018) Conversation In The World

A scene depicting the Prodigal son and the “riotous living” of youth.

Today, reply is on how aspects and stages of human development, sin, and repentance influence a person to embrace the operations of divinity that establish rebirth, discovery, growth, and Christian maturity.  Some of the most fruitful and productive Christians have been those “throughly furnished” who have had their “conversation in the world,” yet, were turned to serving GOD.  The benefits of receiving sacred knowledge and practice while we are young pertain to our development of empathy and compassion, our endurance of hardship and suffering, our ability to discern love and other spirit content from GOD as well as our willingness to continue existing and to survive.  Despite that our living substance permits expression of an animal, human, or divine nature, the character, makeup, and possibilities for living expression that we receive as our human endowment from the first pair (Adam) do not truly enable us to correctly recognize, reject and resist the operations of sin.  Even our practices for educating and socializing children often continue and introduce multiple flaws and infirmities that do not permit their true representation of the image of GOD that should appear.  With this in view, it becomes understandable to say, You must be born again from divine seed.  Children often grow up in the church as companions to their own parents, and leave the church before they are able to operate with adult accountability, balance, commitment, and stability.  Outside of the church community—in addition to challenges, disappointments, facing fears, growing pains and risk-taking with trial-and-error along with infractions and violations of divine law—youth will pass through a broad range of life experiences that provide little or no sacred benefit.  All must receive and build up their own endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD whereby they then will exist as the new creation through Jesus Christ.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “X” (Level 3 with 1,647 points, a member since February 21, 2013) posted the following:


Do most Christians first party a lot, have lots of sex and fun, and THEN decide to "become" a Christian when they are older?

Judging from some Bible passeges it seems that the reward is the same for everyone so is there a point in being a Christian when you are young?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that, when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them:  Then shall his father and his mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the elders of his city, and unto the gate of his place;  And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard.  And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die:  so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.  (Deuteronomy 21:  18-21, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  I Am The Vine (03/20/2018); Repentance A Lifestyle Event (02/09/2018); Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Choosing to be Reborn (01/29/2018); There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); Porn, Prostitutes and Salvation? (06/08/2017); Why Is Lust Condemned? (07/20/2016); Flesh Against the Spirit? (06/19/2016); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015)


“X”, it long has been normative and routine for the course of emotional, psychological, sexual, and social development of those who are youth to be very much determined by cultural factors outside their home and nuclear family (i.e., parents, siblings, grandparents, and trusted caretakers).  Similarly, growth and nourishment of their spirit content that first occurs within limited and secure settings such as the household of their father becomes transferred to their church schools and congregations as well as organized communities of faith.  When young people come to an age where they begin to demand independence for exploration and expression of their own self-interests, they often do so through distancing, separation, self-promotion, and immersing themselves in various alternative activities and lifestyles that have been forbidden and prohibited.

Given they have no income from employment, no savings, no self-discipline and reputation for accountability that would encourage others to extend credit, and are dependent upon the resources of others, most young people can be regarded as living in a condition of poverty that makes them vulnerable to consumerism, materialism, and their own growing sexual appetite.  Efforts by children and those who are immature who seek to throw off poverty can become frustrating and self-destructive, just as their efforts lacking guidance from experienced persons to manage gifts, great wealth, and money gained by chance and “windfall” repeatedly are disastrous.

The finite human tools of intellect, logic, philosophy, or science alone are not enough to establish the necessary willpower to always overcome desire, passion, and irrational impulse.  (Thus, there are college graduates, medical professionals, and scientists who also are sinners.)  The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and divine order for the entire universe.  While sin does not exist as a physical object you might keep in your pocket, sin may dominate consciousness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, for sin does not appear as contrary to ones own existence and makeup.  Until a sinner is “born again” and receives a fresh endowment of life essence from divinity (we say, breath, spirit, word), they will be comfortable thinking of sin as natural, normal, and an acceptable part of life experience.  The remedies for sin provided by divinity, therefore, include the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that permanently changes sinners so they may benefit from sacred knowledge and practice.  Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Luke 15:  11-14, King James Version (KJV):  11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:  12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.  13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.  14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

(2.)  Psalms 119:  9-11, KJV:  9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.  10 With my whole heart have I sought thee:  O let me not wander from thy commandments.  11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

(3.)  Ephesians 2:  1-6, 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:

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Ephesians 4:  22-27, KJV:  22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;  23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;  24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.  25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour:  for we are members one of another.  26 Be ye angry, and sin not:  let not the sun go down upon your wrath:  27 Neither give place to the devil.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/21/2015) Whatsoever Ye Shall Ask?

Acknowledging the visitation of Pope Francis to the Nation’s Capital and the United States of America, points are shared, today, on the widespread error among non-Catholics in criticizing Catholic expressions of faith, intimate relationship with Deity, and salvation through Jesus Christ.  In my experience, more often than not, those who condemn Catholic belief, practice, and worship do so having that profound ignorance that comes by dealing with subtleties (i.e., multiple barely visible differences or  unseen shifts in meaning and value), and are not a result of being entered into the lifetime of commitment for a Catholic believer with its continuous discipline, exhaustive study, and ongoing sacrificial practice.  While there are many who now claim title as atheists following years of experience within agencies and aspects of Catholic hierarchy, their anger, bitterness and complaints are not to be received as spiritual insight, revelation, and a critique from divinity that compares to those shared in the Bible for each of the seven churches of Asia.  Consider the following and the points appearing below:  Philippians 2:  5-15, King James Version (KJV):  5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:  7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:  8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.  9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:  10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;  11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.  12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.  13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.  14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:  15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw a new heaven and a new earth:  for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.  And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.  And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.  And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain:  for the former things are passed away.  And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write:  for these words are true and faithful.  And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.  (Revelation 21:  1-8, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Apocryphal Books? (08/07/2015); Catholics, Protestants and The Trinity? (10/12/2014); The Gift of Life Despised? (10/13/2014); Succession (02/05/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014); Hierarchy (11/14/2013); The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013); Confessing Only to GOD? (04/08/2013); Evidence of the Unseen Spirit? (04/09/2013)


(1.)  The proper business of Protestant believers is not to argue, condemn, debate, dismiss and question the benefits or weaknesses of doctrine and practice among Catholic believers.  Completing the work of sharing the Gospel, preparing the body of believers for the Savior’s Advent, and reconciling oneself to judgment through confession, repentance, and sanctification is more necessary.  Those who repeatedly speak condemnation regarding such things as confession, genuflecting, or the mysteries of Rosary prayer usually do so having no part in those things, and speak from ignorance and common disbelief.  Romans 14:  4, King James Version (KJV):  4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up:  for God is able to make him stand.

(2.)  Many argue that Catholic (we say, universal) belief is unacceptable, because it goes beyond the Hebrew canon, the Gospels and new testament holy writings, and embraces such non-biblical texts as the Apochrypha and the writings of Saint Augustine.  In addition to Apostolic succession and traditions from the early church (established by those who were directly prepared and appointed through Jesus and the twelve), Catholics also acknowledge writings by others regarded as appointed and endowed through the Holy Spirit (we say, Church Fathers), including historians and scholars that, in the early centuries following the resurrection of Jesus, established the authenticity of early documents and teachings.  John 10:  15-17, KJV:  15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father:  and I lay down my life for the sheep.  16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:  them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.  17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

(3.)  In addition to formal instruction (catechism) provided to all members, Catholics may depend upon formal writings developed by the Bishops, the Popes, and other men of faith (we say, churchmen).  Given that the household of faith  founded through the blood of Jesus may be spoken of as the Bride of Christ, for many Catholics the authority of the Church is understood to be similar to, where not equal to,  that of the Husbandman.  The church is not to be a clone, a copy, a counterfeit, or a replacement for Jesus.  However, his wife is to be respected as a peer in 50-50 relationship, not as a concubine or slave.  Therefore, the business of “running the household” permits fixing Sunday as a day of rest and worship as well as calling forth aspects of new dispensation for those already deceased.  Isaiah 54:  5-8, KJV:  5 For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.  6 For the LORD hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God.  7 For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.  8 In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.

(4.)  Where the church is seen operating upon a different platform of truth that seems to deny the things of the early believers this is often because the body of Christ must continue to respond as a ministry of reconciliation practiced by Jesus, and must answer to current aspects of human development, lapses or progress in ways that are not conservative, and that must display the peculiar risk-taking required by believers having to continue upon the earth.  John 14:  11-13, KJV:  11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works’ sake.  12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.  13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.)

(5.)  Where the church has been received as a body composed of the quick and the dead, it is neither impossible nor unreasonable that holy convocation would include the appearing of all believers from every age.  Clearly, the action and input from those in flesh will be different from those whose spirit aspect is separated from their carnal form through death; and many secret things known only to divinity will be in effect and present.  Romans 8:  5-14, 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.  10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.  11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.  12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.  13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die:  but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.  14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

There is far more to be considered, and carefully understood.  For example, (6.)  As among Catholics, Protestants acknowledge a principle that the church may receive the appointment of sacred officers and workers by the Holy Spirit.  Thus, just as Matthias was elected to serve as an apostle in place of Judas, such men as Martin Luther, Calvin, Newton and Zwingli are also being received as sent by GOD and his Christ.  Acts 1:  23-26, KJV:  23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.  24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,  25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.  26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC