(10/13/2020) The Foreskin And Circumcision?

A depiction of the parents of Jesus affirming his inheritance and offering their child to GOD through circumcision.

Today, the reply addresses the meaning and value of the foreskin and circumcision to thoughtful Christian believers. Through the household of Abraham, circumcision was a token of accord, covenant, and loyalty; even so, through the household of Jacob, circumcision became a token of condemnation, injustice, lawlessness, and wrath. As an aspect of the perpetual covenant shared by divinity with the Jews, circumcision continues to be acknowledged by many as a sign of divine commitments and promises to mankind, rather than a device for flawed judgment that expresses bias, partiality and prejudice, that accuses and condemns ones enemies, or that will reveal who is righteous before GOD and who is not. Through the life, death, and resurrection ministry of Jesus Christ, the meaning and value of circumcision has been transformed and made new. Consider again the following Scriptures that use language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps that appears below. It is written: Colossians 3: 9-14, King James Version (KJV): 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. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Why was god bothered with foreskins in the old testament?

If he hates foreskins so much, why did he create it?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. (Galatians 6: 14-16, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity (02/06/2020); Abraham In Divine Judgment (03/10/2019); Abraham Demonstrates Spiritual Growth (05/30/2018); The First “Chosen” People (05/03/2018); A Circumcision of Hearts (01/22/2018); Circumcision of Infant Boys (12/11/2017); Ye Are Abraham’s Seed (07/10/2015)

“Anonymous”, the covenant of circumcision began with the household of Abraham further signaled the divine transformation wherein mankind is to exist as the new creation. Many thoughtful Christian believers understand that removing the foreskin of the male penis is a representation of divinity refusing to depend on mechanical process among the living or that divinity must rely on natural law. Circumcision affirms the inheritance from divinity to mankind, and that man is to exist having continuous communication and interaction with the divine fullness. To that end, humanity is to receive fresh deposits and endowments of life essence (breath; spirit; word) and divine law imparted from the makeup of GOD. Circumcision serves as an assurance and sign that GOD is committed to those who bear this or other marks of his authority and image, and that divinity will fulfill all divine promise and prophecy. Created beings and living creatures are to exist as life companions to divinity, sacred offspring, and living vessels who contain divine substance. Removing the foreskin to identify those in covenant relationship with divinity makes visible their embodiment of spirit substance, and involves a mutual sharing of otherwise hidden revelation. Properly understood, circumcision foreshadows and is a step to the Incarnation where divinity appears on the earth using human form and life-process as Jesus Christ.

(1.) Genesis 18: 17-19, King James Version (KJV): 17 And the Lord said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; 18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

(2.) Genesis 34: 24-30, KJV: 24 And unto Hamor and unto Shechem his son hearkened all that went out of the gate of his city; and every male was circumcised, all that went out of the gate of his city. 25 And it came to pass on the third day, when they were sore, that two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brethren, took each man his sword, and came upon the city boldly, and slew all the males. 26 And they slew Hamor and Shechem his son with the edge of the sword, and took Dinah out of Shechem’s house, and went out. 27 The sons of Jacob came upon the slain, and spoiled the city, because they had defiled their sister. 28 They took their sheep, and their oxen, and their asses, and that which was in the city, and that which was in the field, 29 And all their wealth, and all their little ones, and their wives took they captive, and spoiled even all that was in the house. 30 And Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, Ye have troubled me to make me to stink among the inhabitants of the land, among the Canaanites and the Perizzites: and I being few in number, they shall gather themselves together against me, and slay me; and I shall be destroyed, I and my house.

(3.) 1^st Samuel 18: 25-29, KJV: 25 And Saul said, Thus shall ye say to David, The king desireth not any dowry, but an hundred foreskins of the Philistines, to be avenged of the king’s enemies. But Saul thought to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines. 26 And when his servants told David these words, it pleased David well to be the king’s son in law: and the days were not expired. 27 Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the king’s son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife. 28 And Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David, and that Michal Saul’s daughter loved him. 29 And Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and Saul became David’s enemy continually.

(4.) Colossians 2: 8-12, KJV: 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dO2Jj2Bff_4.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:22 PM, October 13, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/DWHbKcmMYbE/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

Abraham, Christian Beliefs, Circumcision, Covenants, Incarnation, Inheritance, Revelation, Signs, The Flesh, benefits, blood, embodiment, foreskin, injustice, offerings, new creation, presence, testimony

(06/25/2019) Another Appearance of Divinity

Today, the reply is on the role of the church as an embodiment of divinity, and whether the church should provide messages on politics and social issues. Often the concerns and conduct we display surrounding such issues as crime, employment, poverty, and voting rights arise from fear, lack of faith, and secular entanglement that oppose the authentic work of Christian growth and spiritual development. By continually pursuing its agenda for redemption, salvation and eternal life the church addresses pressing unmet needs and life priorities that will be fulfilled by no other agencies, authorities, and powers. It is written: Isaiah 60: 14-22, King James Version (KJV): 14 The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee; The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel. 15 Whereas thou has been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. 16 Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. 17 For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness. 18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. 19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20 Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. 21 Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. 22 A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “JOE” (Level 6 with 21,612 points, a member since February 09, 2018) posted the following:

My pastor at church sticks to the scripture and refuses to make politics and issues part of his message, right or wrong?

Update: It's an evangelical church, he's a great orator, but will not go down the politics/religion messaging.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: (Colossians 1: 16-22, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Our Displays of Divinity (06/19/2019); To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); Scripture Has No Ethnicity (05/27/2019); Commitment To Jesus Christ (03/07/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018); Separation of Church and State (07/04/2014); The Point of Wisdom? (07/05/2014); Holy Ground (03/30/2014); The Temple Mount (03/31/2014)

“JOE”, for many developing and mature Christian believers, the church is to be acknowledged as a sacred process and a divine tool that is used to reveal and make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by those who are living on the earth. Like divine law that proclaims and makes present the grace of GOD (we also say, divine prerogative), eternal purpose, prophecy, and the sovereign will of GOD, the church is a physical and social embodiment of Jesus Christ who continues communication, exchange, and interaction with mankind by imparting fresh endowments of inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are balance, faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

In the same way the Bible is a record of GOD appearing through thousands of human and natural events, within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years, the church is an appearing of Jesus Christ today through godly character; commandments, determinations, and principles within sacred law as well as the resolution of conflicts and settlement of sacred disputes through applications of divine law; sacred events (we say, miracles); the endurance of sufferings; and the continuance and fulfillment of divine works. The members of the church will not be everyone whose name is listed as enrolled so much as those who voluntarily become sanctified (set apart to serve divinity) by their commitment, their devotion, their giving and financial support, their repentance, their lifestyles, and their daily living routines.

Those who become “born again” as members within the church must “grow up again,” and become mature/ripe for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his coming. Living on the earth as vessels of divine substance, the offspring of GOD, and heirs with Jesus, the church will face many intense life challenges and “growing pains.” even so, the church is reinforced with the promises of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 34: 17-19, King James Version (KJV): 17 The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.

2. John 17: 14-19, KJV: 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

3. 2^nd Corinthians 4: 6-11, KJV: 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Galatians 2: 20, 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:46 AM, June 25, 2019 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/VX0S2lhsa2Y/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/14/2019) The Virginity of Mary

A depiction of Mary

Today, the reply is on the holiness and virginity of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Ordinarily, a woman loses her virginity, and sheds her blood of innocence during her first sexual intercourse when her hymen (i.e., a small piece of flesh within her vagina that serves as a seal upon her womb) is broken by the penetration of a male penis. The hymen of the mother of Jesus Christ was broken at his birth, and his coming was by water and the blood. The importance of Mary is not due to her own merit, divine nature, and sacred accomplishments, rather, it is because she has been an instrument for fulfillment of sacred prophecy, divine promises, eternal purpose, and the revelation of Jesus Christ. As we ourselves also are to be, Mary appears as a vessel to contain spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD, and to whom sin is no longer imputed. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Nathan H” (Level 3 with 1,856 points, a member since April 17, 2008) posted the following:

Why does the people of the Catholics beleivesing that Mary was always virginized, when Mattnew says Joseph had sex with her?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1: 18-25, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); It Is Our Wisdom To Ask (05/18/2015); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014)

“Nathan H”, many mature Christians acknowledge that, in the same way Mary, who gave birth to their Savior Jesus Christ, experienced having gender as a human female, she also experienced human sexuality as a female with the birth of her other children. Even so, these same believers understand that her virginity was, and continues to be, a spiritual condition established through operations of the same Holy Spirit that performed to create heaven and earth. Inseparable aspects from the makeup of divinity appear that include faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, purity, and simplicty.

Mary is important to Christian belief as an instrument of GOD for the full revelation of divinity. The birth of Jesus was not through human reproduction and sexuality: Jesus was made to be and exist within Mary by operations of the Holy Spirit. Believers are to see the workings of divine authority, love, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The embodiment (we say, Incarnation) of divinity appearing as Jesus Christ, and using the human forms of flesh and mind, required both the birth and death of Jesus to establish his humanity as authentic. Similarly, the humanity of Mary is shown to be genuine, and displays the full range of human challenges, needs, and possibilities that include humility and covenant relationship with GOD.

There is no report in the holy writings, that Mary was baptized as Jesus was by John the Baptist. Even so, after fasting and prayer in the Upper Room, Mary received the gifts of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost along with the apostles of Jesus. She served as one of the witnesses to his crucifixion, and to his resurrection. To those of the early church, Mary was an evidence of things unseen, and a “foretaste” of things to come.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, because the character, makeup and substance of GOD are the actual focus, many Christians are comfortable with the Scriptures and teachings concerning Mary that can only be embraced correctly through operations of faith and of the Holy Spirit. Included are the ascension of Mary, the coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven, the acknowledgment of sacred mysteries from the lives of Jesus and Mary using the Rosary prayers, and the sanctification of Mary as a perpetual virgin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/30/2018) Divinity Embodied In Flesh

A depiction to describe the Spirit of peace with GOD that must indwell created beings and living creatures

Today, while many of us are continuing to celebrate the nativity of Jesus Christ, reply is on the appearance of divinity through both Creation and the birth of Jesus as Redeemer and Savior. The genealogy of Jesus, and the Patriarchs who came forth having the inheritance and priesthood of Adam come into view once again as we respond to a fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Faez” (Level 1 with 135 points, a member since September 10, 2018) who posted the following:

Who is more superior? Jesus, who was born without a father, or Adam, who had neither father nor mother ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor, Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God. (Luke 3: 34-38, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Increase of Christ? 12/07/2018; The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018); John Anointed To Prophesy (05/21/2018); Firstborn Of Every Creature (05/09/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013)

“Faez”, among mature Christian believers, where birth of a living child is to be understood as a sacred event (we also say, miracle) there must be (1) acknowledgment of divine authority, dominion, ownership of all that exists, and the operations of sovereign will; (2) there must be a clear fulfillment of eternal purpose that has been proclaimed and prophesied as an element of full divine revelation; and (3) there must be the realization that divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is diffuse active presence who can not be completely and correctly spoken of using the frameworks of carnal reason, logic, material objects, social relationships, time, and space. While Adam was fashioned from preexisting matter (i.e., soil from the earth) his life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) was imparted from the makeup of divinity. So to speak, it was this divine DNA, that made Adam a “living soul,” and allows him to be accounted as the first “offspring” of GOD. Because of the operations of sin, the children of Adam can not receive an inheritance of that first spirit endowment from GOD without multiple divine interventions and sacred events that include the appearance of the Word in flesh as Jesus Christ (we say, Incarnation). In the same way, mankind is to acknowledge through faith that the Creation has been accomplished through divine persons, process and substance, the birth of Jesus through a virgin is a matter of sacred knowledge, not secular knowledge, politics, science, or technology. Christian believers are to agree that divinity now is transforming mankind through operations of imparted, indwelling Spirit to exist as immortal and incorruptible. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. By his ministry in the earth and from the heaven, Jesus has provided the new creation whereby the living may receive the sacred inheritance restored. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Luke 1: 35-37, King James Version (KJV): 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

2. Hebrews 1: 1-6, KJV: 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? 6 And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

3. Acts 1: 4-9, KJV: 4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (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

(09/16/2018) Appearing Above In Flesh?

Jesus Christ depicted as Faithful and True, The Word of GOD

Today, reply is on Jesus Christ now appearing in heaven and continuing to use the flesh, image, and full body of mankind. The process of divinity for redemption, salvation, and the putting forth of a new creation has required that Deity appear as the Son of Man, a Man of Sorrows, and our consecrated High Priest within the Temple of heaven. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

Christians: The Bible tells us that Jesus rose body & soul into Heaven. So, is the Penis of Jesus also in Heaven with the rest of His body?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. (Revelation 1: 10-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); The Coming(s) of Christ (03/11/2018); A Circumcision of Hearts (01/22/2018); The Device of Incarnation (10/18/2017); Porn, Prostitutes and Salvation? (06/08/2017); The Flesh, Then Beyond (05/23/2017); Divine Appearances Using Form? (12/20/2016); Material Things in Heaven? (11/10/2016); Flesh An Obstacle? (07/29/2016); In The Image of Man (05/04/2016)

“Anonymous”, there are many unseen spiritual operations that are being made visible through carnal, material, and social features on the earth and in heaven. At a time when issues of church authority, practice and policy are under serious attacks by those demanding that matters of human sexuality and the flesh be given priority above those of the imparted Spirit, the most godly replies to your question will speak to (1) the sacred truths of divine covenant by circumcision, (2) the embodiment of divine fullness (we say, Incarnation of the Godhead; the appearing and revelation of GOD as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit); (3) the ministry and sacred priesthood that allows Christ to suffer, die, and make atonement on behalf of created beings and living creatures as well as (4) the resurrected and then perfected body of Jesus.

To fulfill multiple proclamations, promises and prophecies from GOD divinity had to appear, alive on the earth among the Jews, and minister displaying authentic humanity as Jesus Christ. Fulfilling the terms of earlier covenants, Christ instituted a new covenant in his own blood, and serves as High Priest within the heavens on behalf of all Creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Acts 3: 18-21, King James Version (KJV): 18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled. 19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: 21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

2. Colossians 2: 8-12, KJV: 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

3. Hebrews 9: 11-15, KJV: 11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

4. Hebrews 9: 24-28, KJV: 24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: 28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Revelation 19: 11-16, KJV: 11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/11/2018) Secular History, Sacred Revelation?

THE JERUSALEM NOW AND THE COMING HOLY CITY

Today, reply is on the shared sacred origin, eternal purpose, and ongoing process for both Christianity and Judaism.  Correctly understood, “new wine must be put into new bottles,” the focus must be on divinity, for it is that GOD has used mankind to accomplish specific sacred works, not that mankind has used GOD.  The establishment of the Tabernacle, the Temple, and Jerusalem as the Holy City were all done to make visible the pattern of things in heaven as well as to direct the minds of men to the things that are to come.  The embodiment of divinity in flesh and human form, and the death of Jesus Christ on the cross has served to affirm the divine commitment to Creation, and depict the utter destruction of sin.  Even so, for Christians, the same cultural and secular history that serve as an heritage and platform for social identity as a Jew is (1) a foundation for divine revelation that makes Deity knowable and known to created beings and living creatures; (2) a sphere of existence, life, and active presence wherein divinity appears and expresses sovereign will (e.g., judgment, divine law, sanctification, wrath against sin); (3) a device for redemption and salvation that allows the living to recognize and resist, yet, does not completely eliminate the operations of sin; and (4) the sacred knowledge vital for comprehending divine operations to transform those joined to divinity through the Son of GOD to exist as immortal and incorruptible.  The establishment, events within, and operations of Israel as a kingdom or nation on the earth must be understood as a very small part of a vast divine work intended to impart spirit content from the makeup of divinity.  GOD fashioned the first pair (Adam) to display the image of GOD, and continues to use the living to demonstrate and proclaim his character, nature, makeup, ownership, and sovereignty.  Through his fellowship, friendship and promises to Abraham; the covenant agreements from the time of Moses; and the commitments to the dynasty of David, GOD became a certain hope of the Hebrews, and would manifest as the protector of ancient Israel.  Even so, GOD is never to be regarded as having become a material thing, their chattel, their possession, or their private property.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Dr Yes level 9” (with 114,449 points on Level 7, a member since August 27, 2007) posted the following:
 

What does biblical history have to do with Christianity?

Jesus never said the gentiles could have the Jewish bible. Jesus also never said they could rename it the “Old Testament”.
Biblical history is Jewish history.

https://www.cnsnews.com/commentary/eric-...

So why do Christians feel vindicated when something from Jewish history is dug up?

Update: Atheists don’t deny Judaism because it is an actual culture. Whereas Christianity is just a religion.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:  Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.   Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid:  yea, we establish the law.  (Romans 3:  29-31, King James Version, KJV)   

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); One Root, One Harvest (11/12/2017); The Peace of Jerusalem (08/09/2017); Continuing A Perpetual Covenant (08/03/2017); A Threat Against Judaism (07/17/2017); One Complete Divine Revelation (07/09/2017); Proclaiming A New Kingdom? (04/13/2017); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017); More About the Trinity? (03/30/2015)

“Dr Yes level 9”, be careful not to confuse secular history and sacred revelation.  The GOD who made use of ancient Israel has sovereign authority and power over more than a single ethnic group having peculiar cultural traditions.  Consider the following that addresses the GOD of Israel as the GOD of the whole earth:

1.  For mankind on the earth to apprehend the existence and operations of divinity, there must be a consciousness and process among created beings and living creatures that responds to the existence of Deity as the origin and source for the spheres of life and all that appear within them.  While Deity (we also may say, the fullness of divinity; the GODhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) may appear occasionally, and not use a single, unchanging carnal, material, or physical form, there must be mechanisms among the living for recognition that divinity is an “active presence;” there must be aspects of personhood that allow communication, exchange, interaction, and continuing relationship; and the divine essence (we also say, breath, spirit, Word) must be manifest using the elements of continuum (we say, past, present, and future) from the finite frameworks of time and space.  Anything less would result in chaos, flux, and multiple streams of formless matter in place before the founding of heaven and earth.

2.  The living must manipulate a vast array of data from their senses (e.g., appetite, hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) and impose order on disparate experiences using features of the mind such as emotion, intellect, imagination, and recall.  They also are to contain deposits of spirit matter as aspects of their own finite makeup, whereby GOD is understood as knowable, accessible, and approachable.  The unchanging priorities and stability that describe divine “personhood” include the elements of immortality, incorruption, eternal purpose, purity, and truth.  Thus, a sacred process of revelation has been continuing on earth that may be spoken of for mankind as development, and unfolding spiritual progression.  In the same way there are multiple traits, behaviors, and expressions that distinguish individuals, Christian believers increasingly acknowledge that GOD is the sum and totality of all divine spirit substance.  Included are balance, completeness, faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

3.  Christians receive the Bible as a collection of holy writings that document the appearance of GOD (both in heaven and on earth) by using thousands of events within thousands lives over the course of thousands of years.  Where the Jewish people are named as the first guardians and keepers of this sacred library pertaining to holy gifts and tools that have come by revelation, Christian believers are the final recipients of these divine things as beneficiaries, heirs, and a new creation through Jesus Christ.  In addition to divine law, proclamations, promises and prophecy, the use of specific individuals as agents in service to GOD appear.  Bible reports also highlight the divine use of family, tribes, inheritance, and priesthood along with GOD’s use of assemblies and collectives such as nations, kingdoms, and one-world empire (e.g., Egypt, Rome, Babylon).  To continue mankind’s relationship with divinity GOD has required the participation of Gentiles as well as Jews; and has shown unwavering support that includes atonement, forgiveness, Incarnation, reconciliation, repentance, and even, resurrection from the dead.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended regarding the person of Jesus Christ.  (For example, 4.  Jeremiah 9:  23-26, King James Version (KJV):  23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:  24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth:  for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.  25 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will punish all them which are circumcised with the uncircumcised;  26 Egypt, and Judah, and Edom, and the children of Ammon, and Moab, and all that are in the utmost corners, that dwell in the wilderness:  for all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart.

Colossians 1:  16-22, KJV:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

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.

Washington, DC