(12/29/2019) Irrevocable Gifts and Callings?

Today, reply is on the covenant blessings, process, and substance of GOD as final, immutable, and unchanging. The sons and daughters of GOD are to continue the ongoing conversation about the inheritance from GOD. It is written: Romans 4: 8-14, King James Version (KJV): 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 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: 12 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. 13 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. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Dean” (Level 1 with 11 points) posted the following:

Why is it the case that, " the gifts and callings of GOD are irrevocable"?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. (Romans 4: 15-22, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Now Are Ye Light (09/18/2019); That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019); The Interface With Christ (07/01/2019); One Of A Kind (04/21/2019); The Impartiality of GOD (03/18/2019); The Elimination of Sin (11/25/2018); What Divine Salvation Requires (05/15/2018)

“Dean”, the covenant of GOD with Israel is to be a “perpetual covenant” grounded in his promise to Abraham. GOD will not repent (i.e., change his mind) for the decisions that were made express the immutable and unchanging character of GOD; and they convey divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of divinity. The gifts of GOD spoken of among mature Christian believers are granted as aspects of divine judgment and a transformation of Creation that is final, impartial, inarguable, righteous, and thorough. Included are such sacred elements as dominion, grace, forgiveness, inheritance, personhood, priesthood, repentance, and escape from the second death. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ receive a fresh endowment of the life essence (breath; spirit; word) that resided within Jesus during his life and ministry on the earth. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of The King’s Heralds:

(1.) Genesis 27: 30-38, King James Version (KJV): 30 And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob, and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. 31 And he also had made savoury meat, and brought it unto his father, and said unto his father, Let my father arise, and eat of his son’s venison, that thy soul may bless me. 32 And Isaac his father said unto him, Who art thou? And he said, I am thy son, thy firstborn Esau. 33 And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, Who? where is he that hath taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed. 34 And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, even me also, O my father. 35 And he said, Thy brother came with subtilty, and hath taken away thy blessing. 36 And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? 37 And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son? 38 And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept.

(2.) Numbers 23: 19-23, KJV: 19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? 20 Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it. 21 He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: the LORD his God is with him, and the shout of a king is among them. 22 God brought them out of Egypt; he hath as it were the strength of an unicorn. 23 Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel: according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and of Israel, What hath God wrought!

(3.) Romans 11: 27-36, KJV: 27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins. 28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father’s sakes. 29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. 30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: 31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. 32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all. 33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! 34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? 35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? 36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXOC3r0aMkY.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:21 AM, December 29, 2019 @ https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GQZW-6f4f3Y/VvbzOkzS0zI/AAAAAAAAdWw/NWiiGWYFBpEML4dv0wjwSeFM6h_gvE4

Nw/s1600/Psalm%2B50%2B%2528KJV%2529%2B16%252C%2B17.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/19/2019) The Sower Went Forth

Jesus Christ shown as The Sower imparting divine seed

Today, reply is on judgment, the sowing of divine seed, and the selection of those who receive revelation. The principle described by the divine operations of election also are spoken of as divine prerogative, grace, eternal purpose, inheritance, promise, and the sovereign will of GOD. Thus, divine offspring, heirs, and the seed of GOD appear in the earth. It is written: Romans 9: 8-16, KJV: 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Susie” (Level 3 with 1,335 points, a member since June 09, 2018) posted the following:

Why does God only reveal himself to those who already believe? Why do Christians say you must already believe the Bible is true....?

to interpret it correctly?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (Romans 8: 5-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); Eating and Drinking Christ? (07/03/2017); A Rebellious Fig Tree? (12/21/2016); In Relationship With Divinity? (08/16/2016)

“Susie”, the Bible teaches that all men do not have faith that is a spirit substance within the full makeup of GOD; and all men have not believed the Gospel. Most Christians understand that GOD is exalted because he has put forth all things having consciousness, existence, and life. His authority, knowledge, power, and wisdom are that of one having dominion, and ownership. GOD is one who reigns and rules (we say, one who is sovereign); and has put forth law that expresses his will. Such believers acknowledge that GOD continues a process to assign value, determine what will be the duration of things as well as what things will be preserved forever to serve immortal divinity. In this, GOD is to be understood as one and who makes immutable decisions, and final dispositions as judge.

It is an unchanging purpose of divinity (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) that men and women exist without interruption (e.g., condemnation because of sin; death; mortality; sleep). Humanity is to be a life companion with GOD who is Spirit, who is invisible, and who is immortal. The deeds and works of the living are examined for the sacred quality, process, and substance that must be in place as the fitness and readiness of created beings and living creatures to be in an ongoing relationship with GOD. There must be possibilities for communication, exchange, and interaction that display a meaningful connection to GOD; and inseparable aspects of the image of (we say, Christ-likeness; godliness; divine DNA; holy seed) must appear. Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. John 4: 23-24, King James Version (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.

2. Luke 8: 4-8, KJV: 4 And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: 5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

3. Luke 8: 11-15, KJV: 11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Psalms 50: 14-23, KJV: 14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: 15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. 16 But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? 17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. 18 When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. 19 Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. 20 Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. 21 These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. 22 Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. 23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:38 AM, August 18, 2019 @ https://blog.emergingscholars.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sower-went-out-e1528725109248.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/23/2018) "I Never Knew You"

Today, the reply is on the unimportance of “being a majority of humanity” to the sacred operations of divine judgment and salvation through Jesus Christ.  Christian belief is not on the basis of popular opinions, or practices that are in fashion as customs, traditions, and trends.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “STEVAN THE HEATHEN” (Level 1 with 34 points, a member since August 10, 2017) posted the following:


The majority of humanity do not believe in a christian god. Is the majority wrong?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:  and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.  Unto you therefore which believe he is precious:  but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,  And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient:  whereunto also they were appointed.  But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;  Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God:  which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.  (1st Peter 2:  6-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Being A Holy Nation (02/20/2018); Mankind’s Priesthood in Heaven (02/16/2018); Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); All Have Come Short (10/11/2017); Did Jesus Want Popularity? (06/11/2015); The Needs of the Many? (03/08/2015); What GOD Demands (05/10/2014); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014)


“STEVAN THE HEATHEN,” while the demonstration by Moses and those who left Egypt says that faith is required for deliverance and the salvation of GOD, coming into divine blessing is not a matter of a “head count,” and how many people are involved.  (Only 2 from the army of more than ½ million actually set foot on their portion of the Promised Land; neither Aaron nor Moses was one of them).  Here are some points and selected verses from the Bible to consider regarding the new creation that is being established by divinity through Jesus Christ:

1.  The process of judgment is a fixed, non-negotiable aspect of divine existence whereby created beings and living creatures will be assessed and examined in terms of their character; effect; preparation, readiness, and willingness to be perfected; and their fullness of substance required for existing eternally as a companion and joint-heir with Christ.

2.  The demands and righteous standards of divine judgment and sacred relationship discourage lawlessness and slackness.  Given that Adam (the male) was created to exist as a companion to immortal, incorruptible divinity, it was not until mankind (the pair) required permanent change to recover from transgression of divine law that Adam became mortal (subject to death), would multiply and reproduce as the animals, and would have to thrive under the dominion of forces and influences that were not divine. 

3.  The integrity of GOD (we say, majesty, glory, righteousness) requires that every utterance by divinity of proclamation, promise, and prophecy be properly executed and fulfilled.  Included are the sanctions and warnings within sacred law that describe punishments and rewards.  

4.  Satisfaction of eternal purpose and sacred process may be accomplished through operations by divinity on behalf of mankind (we say, grace), and often will not require direct action and participation by a crowd, a multitude, or all living.  There may be delay, expiation, forgiveness, hierarchy, joining for oneness without sameness, mercy, representative sacrifice, substitution, the use of emblems, and use of a part to represent the whole.  It is written:

(1.)  Judges 7:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Then Jerubbaal, who is Gideon, and all the people that were with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod:  so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley.  2 And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.  3 Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.

(2.)  Matthew 7: 21-23, KJV:  21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you:  depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

(3.)  Luke 13:  22-24, KJV:  22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem.  23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,  24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate:  for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. 

(4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 3:  18-22, KJV:  18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:  19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;  20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.  21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:  22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/02/2017) The Firstborn of GOD

Today, language in the Bible is considered that speaks of Jesus Christ as begotten and firstborn.  Saying that Jesus was “first created” (i.e., the first created thing) would not be correct, because that suggests his existence had a beginning (i.e., that he is not eternal), and his active presence began through the same process as that for all Creation.  Included would be that for beasts, fowl, insects, and physical objects that were either crafted or spoken into being.  Divinity has no beginning or end, however, Christ is associated with the beginning and end of Creation as the First and the Last, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending.  The Son of the Highest (also called, the Word) was revealed and made visible as an aspect of the full GODhead by using various created forms and materials that had been fashioned by divinity, yet, could only exist as mortal and as having temporal duration.  Christ appears through unseen sacred process in order to be known using flesh and blood.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “Lesley” (Level 5 with 6,880 points, a member since July 23, 2014) posted the following:

What is the meaning of the Bible word "firstborn" in Colossians 1:15 regarding Jesus in light of Jeremiah 31:9?

Are we to understand "firstborn" as literally meaning the person who was the first to be born? And why doesn't the Bible say Jesus was first created?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.  And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?  And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.  And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.  And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not:  behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.  And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.  And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.  And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof:  for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;  And hast made us unto our God kings and priests:  and we shall reign on the earth.  (Revelation 5:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014); Errors of King Solomon? (06/07/2014); Missing Information? (06/12/2013); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)

“Lesley”, the standing and status as firstborn pertains to specific requirements in sacred law and covenant relationship as well as preeminence over all in existence.  Jesus Christ comes to mankind as that aspect of divinity that fulfills all the demands of divine law on behalf of all Creation.  For the mortal to be in relationship with the immortal, there must be several devices (e.g., longevity, promise, family, inheritance, dynasty) to maintain continuity and stability that can not be interrupted by death.  Jesus appears on the earth using flesh and form that have been created, yet, appears through direct, unseen operations of the Holy Spirit (we say, Incarnation).  In the same way, the Lord appears as the image of GOD, he also is destroyed upon the cross as the embodiment of sin.  The Savior lawfully represents every creature that is the first child born to their own mother, for the first child inherits accountability, benefits, duties, and “life conditions” that include being in relationship with Deity as an offering and sacrifice as well as their being servants, priests and kings.  So to speak, Jesus redeems a portion of all that exists and all who lives by himself being the required payment for all liens and fines against the living.  Things from the earth that belong to and are offered to GOD must be “sent” to him using fire upon an altar.  Not placed on the altar, they must be utterly destroyed, or made to be a living sacrifice through redemption.  Reuben was the first child born to Jacob; however, Ephraim, the son of Joseph, came out of Egypt, and was adopted with his older brother by his grandfather Jacob, who blessed and promoted the younger as the firstborn, indicating election by GOD, not simply carnal birth.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Numbers 18:  15-17, King James Version (KJV):  15 Every thing that openeth the matrix in all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, whether it be of men or beasts, shall be thine:  nevertheless the firstborn of man shalt thou surely redeem, and the firstling of unclean beasts shalt thou redeem.  16 And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs.  17 But the firstling of a cow, or the firstling of a sheep, or the firstling of a goat, thou shalt not redeem; they are holy:  thou shalt sprinkle their blood upon the altar, and shalt burn their fat for an offering made by fire, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

(2.)  Hosea 11:  1-4, KJV:  1 When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.  2 As they called them, so they went from them:  they sacrificed unto Baalim, and burned incense to graven images.  3 I taught Ephraim also to go, taking them by their arms; but they knew not that I healed them.  4 I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  17-19, KJV:  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;

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Galatians 4:  1-7, KJV:  1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;  2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.  3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/16/2016) In Relationship With Divinity?

Today, Scripture points are shared on different relationships provided by divinity that embrace created beings and living creatures.  In addition to being carnal and material objects for divine activity and focus, the living also may experience direct exchange, interaction, and continuing personal relationships with the Creator.  An example of this is seen with the Patriarch Abraham, who is known in Scripture as “the Friend of God.”  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Molly” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since August 15, 2016) posted the following:

Did abraham have already a relationship with god?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:   Look down from heaven, and behold from the habitation of thy holiness and of thy glory:  where is thy zeal and thy strength, the sounding of thy bowels and of thy mercies toward me? are they restrained?  Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not:  thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.  (Isaiah 63:  15-16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD Within Christian Believers (07/31/2016); Access Through The Son (07/21/2016); Divine Inheritance and Resurrection? (07/06/2016); Many Sons of GOD? (06/28/2016); An Eternal Inheritance? (06/26/2016); Pie In The Sky? (06/23/2016); The Life Of GOD? (06/01/2016)

“Molly”, most mature Christian believers trust that all created beings and living creatures (including sinners) are in a relationship with divinity who has put forth duration (we say, eternity), existence, and form as well as spheres for life, and the frameworks of oneness, sameness, space, and time.  While GOD is the owner and sovereign authority over all that is, GOD has gone beyond divine law, formal and mechanical process, and impersonal separation to establish mankind as having genuine independence and integrity of being.  Such features as accountability, conscience, duty, performance under pressure (we say, trials to complete one’s formation, and establish their permanence), and privilege appear.  Also, the Creator has used personal relationships such as adoption, covenant, family, friendship, incarnation, and indwelling through Spirit to make Deity knowable and known among the living.  Multiple ongoing sacred operations were in place before the birth of Abraham that continue to this hour.  Included are admonition, affliction, calling, election, forgiveness, divine judgment, obedience, priesthood, repentance, and sanctification.  Consider how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 14:  8, King James Version (KJV):  8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord:  whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.

(2.)  John 8:  53-59, KJV:  53 Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead:  whom makest thou thyself?  54 Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing:  it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:  55 Yet ye have not known him; but I know him:  and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you:  but I know him, and keep his saying.  56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day:  and he saw it, and was glad.  57 Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?  58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.  59 Then took they up stones to cast at him:  but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

(3.)  John 8:  39-45, KJV:  39 They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham.  40 But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God:  this did not Abraham.  41 Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.  42 Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.  43 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.  44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own:  for he is a liar, and the father of it.  45 And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/08/2016) To Him That Hath...

Today, points are shared on receiving conviction, faith, and sacred knowledge as gifts from divinity.  Faith is the ultimate “evidence” for the active presence of GOD; and just as those who despise mercy will not be shown mercy, those who despise divine truth will not be given divine truth.  Until carefully built up and properly instructed, we do not expect an infant who lacks emotional and social skills to grasp all the benefits and possibilities from a large gift of money, place the correct value upon the gift, or respond to the giver of the gift showing gratitude and respect.  Being called, chosen, elect, and favored with divine inheritance only indicates there is advantage and opportunity that must be actualized and cultivated through works.  To apprehend the full benefit and power for believers in GOD through Jesus Christ, sinners must enter into a peculiar relationship of trust toward GOD, and a sacred process of gradual change, growth, and learning.  For a balanced, complete, and full experience of redemption and salvation, a sinner should become aware of specific information and truth from GOD available only by having fellowship with anointed and endowed believers, praise, prayer, unselfish service, sharing, and study of the holy writings.  In the same way Abraham became known as “the Friend of God” by continuing to demonstrate faith, hope, obedience and reverence, those who welcome the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD through Jesus Christ also may become embraced as adopted sons and daughters as well as joint-heirs of GOD.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (required profile information not shared) posted the following:

"we have evidence as presented by God for our belief and faith in him, this same evidence he withholds from you because you're a skeptic"?

So God only provides evidence to people after they already believe!? LOL.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  For by it the elders obtained a good report.  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.  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.  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.  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.  (Hebrews 11:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Discernment and The Cross? (05/29/2016); Sacred Knowledge and Christ (05/16/2016); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015); An Eternity Worshipping? (07/22/2014); Grace is Not Against Law (07/23/2014); Inheriting the Kingdom (06/27/2014); Points on Bible Study (06/28/2014); Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013)

“Anonymous”, as they begin, sinners are not expected to exhibit innocence or purity, yet, they are to make a commitment to GOD wherein Deity is welcomed to establish cleansing, healing, and permanent change.  Becoming mature as a disciple and follower of Jesus Christ involves more than hearing evidence to approve or condemn the existence, righteousness and truth of Deity.  Also, development as one who is “born again” is far from being a process of engaging “mumbo-jumbo”, mysticism, and the occult.  Those born again may begin like Moses, who was drawn to the burning bush by curiosity, however, all must “grow up again” by acquiring “sacred knowledge,” and continuing specific practices (we say, sacraments) to share otherwise hidden and intimate aspects of ones own character, nature and substance through an ongoing relationship with divinity.  Being able to place the same value upon the things from GOD that he himself places upon them, requires communion, exchange, and interaction that only becomes possible through GOD imparting inseparable aspects of the divine makeup.  Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  One-time events may provide satisfying experiences, however, they should be taken as “only the beginning” for lifetime growth and learning.  Christian believers are to become “ripe” for harvest at the appearing of Jesus Christ (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  The transformation to exist as immortal, incorruptible companions to divinity will be completed as they meet the Lord in the air.  Consider again how some of this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 50:  4-9, King James Version (KJV):  4 The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary:  he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.  5 The Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.  6 I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair:  I hid not my face from shame and spitting.  7 For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded:  therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.  8 He is near that justifieth me; who will contend with me? let us stand together:  who is mine adversary? let him come near to me.  9 Behold, the Lord GOD will help me; who is he that shall condemn me? lo, they all shall wax old as a garment; the moth shall eat them up.

(2.)  Matthew 13:  10-17, KJV:  10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?  11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.  12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance:  but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.  13 Therefore speak I to them in parables:  because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.  14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:  15 For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.  16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see:  and your ears, for they hear.  17 For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Luke 19:  26-27, KJV:  26 For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.  27 But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/29/2016) Discernment and The Cross?

Discernment, election, a prayer made by the Son to the Father, and schism among believers are topics, today.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Pyriform” (Level 7 with 48,417 points, a member since March 13, 2010) posted the following:

Why does it appear that Jesus' prayer in John 17:20-21 failed?

"Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me."

Since there are very many Christian denominations which are divided against each other (to the point of killing people, in the past), it is pretty clear that those who believe in Jesus are not as one, so it would seem that Jesus' prayer failed. As he specified this as the criterion by which the world should judge that he was sent by the Father, why should we believe that he was?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown:  And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them:  wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?  And when Moses heard it, he fell upon his face:  And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him:  even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.  This do; Take you censers, Korah, and all his company;  And put fire therein, and put incense in them before the LORD to morrow:  and it shall be that the man whom the LORD doth choose, he shall be holy:  ye take too much upon you, ye sons of Levi.  And Moses said unto Korah, Hear, I pray you, ye sons of Levi:   Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them?  And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee:  and seek ye the priesthood also?  For which cause both thou and all thy company are gathered together against the LORD:  and what is Aaron, that ye murmur against him?  (Numbers 16:  2-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Many Are Called… (10/15/2015); Adulterating Scripture? (10/06/2015); Many Forms of Christianity? (04/30/2015); Catholics, Protestants and the Trinity? (10/12/2014); The Gift of Life Despised? (10/13/2014); Why Jesus Used Parables (11/03/2013); Denying Baptism to Others (11/04/2013)

“Pyriform”, discernment is the ability to recognize the character and nature of spirit substance within events, other persons, purposes and statements.  Until they are born again through water baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth having divine DNA, so to speak) the living lack the fresh deposits of inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that are to be imparted to the followers of Jesus.  Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Discernment is essential to correctly acknowledge, apply, and comprehend the many subtle (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value) points of sacred knowledge, and divine process.  It is only by operations of divinity that we our made aware of a private conversation (prayer) between the Father and the Son prior to his death upon the cross, the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) being the only living person in witness.  Having discernment, mature Christian believers are able to “see” that, through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood, correction, and truth from the cross are flowing to here and now.  In the same way the promises of GOD to “all Israel” are answered by those who continue as a “remnant”, the church of Jesus Christ and the kingdom of GOD are achieved by those who are elect.  Simply put, we say, many are called, and few are chosen.  The genuine believers can be recognized on the basis of their spirit content and practice; however, they are to be known to the Father and Son, rather than to the World.  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 43:  9-11, King James Version (KJV):  9 Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled:  who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified:  or let them hear, and say, It is truth.  10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen:  that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he:  before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.  11 I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour.

(2.)  Acts 10:  40-42, KJV:  40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;  41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.  42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 9:  24-25, KJV:  24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.  25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 13:  24-30, KJV:  24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:  25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.  26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.  27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?  28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?  29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.  30 Let both grow together until the harvest:  and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them:  but gather the wheat into my barn.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/11/2016) A Self-Less Creation?

Today, points are shared on describing Christian believers as a “new creation” that is “self-less”.  Every believer must undergo profound changes within their individual makeup and substance as well as their sacred knowledge, practice, service and worship.  Those chosen and elect through operations of divinity all are dependent, and must be drawn into spiritual relationship to acquire aspects of Deity they otherwise could never experience.  Included are contentment, righteous desires, feelings, fellowship, intent, inner peace, piety, and understanding.  Consider again the following from Scripture, and the presentation below:

2nd Corinthians 5:  17, King James Version (KJV):  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Philippians 3:  8-14, KJV:  8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:  for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,  9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:  10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;  11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.  12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect:  but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.  13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:  but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Acts 4:  32-35, KJV:  32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul:  neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.  33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus:  and great grace was upon them all.  34 Neither was there any among them that lacked:  for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,  35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet:  and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 

The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “X” (Level 3 with 1,057 points, a member since February 21, 2013) posted the following:

Christians: would you say aiming for salvation and eternal life is selfish, even though it involves serving and helping others?

since the final goal is for oneself i mean

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,  Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,  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.  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  Meekness, temperance:  against such there is no law.  And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.  (Galatians 5:  19-25, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Not Through Human Will? (01/29/2016); Offspring of GOD? (12/23/2015); Put On Charity? (11/16/2015); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015); The Gift of Meekness (11/25/2014); Concerning Meekness (11/26/2014); How To Love GOD? (03/24/2013); A Second Adam? (03/25/2013)

“X”, mature Christians are free to say, Christ liveth in me, and account themselves as “selfless”.  This is because, among the many points difficult for some to understand are those that describe Christian believers as a “new creation” before GOD by their continual application of attitudes, behavior and conduct that are from the person of Jesus Christ through his imparted Spirit.  Family, friends, and co-workers more likely will attribute what they see to the believer’s own changing and developing character, and personality; yet, these are the indications that Deity is active and present.  Following the sacred operations of baptism (i.e., death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak) the disciple and follower of Christ more consistently desires and hungers for the things that come forth from GOD.  As those “born again”, believers gradually “grow up” to mature again acknowledging and embracing things preordained for created beings and living creatures; and enduring the same challenges and “growing pains” as all others upon the earth.  Their appetite, curiosity, emotions, self-will, and thoughts become increasingly focused upon the spirit content and origin for such features as events, lessons, relationships, and other persons.  All they say and do come under the influence of endowments from divinity that include awe, covenant, duty, law, divine process, sacred privilege, and eternal purpose.  Consider how this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)  Galatians 2:  20, King James Version (KJV):  20 I am crucified with Christ:  nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:  and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

(2.)  Romans 8:  9, KJV:  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

(3.)  Philippians 2:  5-8, 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.

There are many other verses that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and made a part of ones spiritual treasure.  (For example, (4.) Isaiah 58:  13-14, KJV:  13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:  for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX Washington, DC