(12/24/2020) Correctly Acknowledging Divine Mercy

 

Law and divine order are to be understood as aspects of the process for creating existence, life, the heaven, and the earth. Grace, judgment, impartiality, mercy, and righteousness are displayed in the process for making known and revealing the character and nature of GOD. Forgiveness, redemption, and salvation are divine responses to the profound human predicament that results by mankind having discrete and separate existence from that of the Creator appearing as integrity through self-will. Sin is not a creation from GOD, and should not be regarded as a finite human problem that involves no more than the confession of wrong-doing and a sinner promising to change. Sin will not be eliminated or removed by sinners expressing emotion, refusing pleasures of the flesh, or altering human responses to sensation. Multiple operations of divinity are required such as atonement; the death, burial, and rebirth of the sinner’s inborn spirit; modeling authentic humanity using of mankind’s form and life-process (we say, Incarnation); and imparting a fresh endowment of sacred content from GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, oneness without sameness, wisdom, wrath against sin). It is written: Romans 7: 7-14, King James Version (KJV): 7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. 8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. 9 For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. 10 And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. 11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. 12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. 13 Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “cool” (Level 1 with 6 points) posted the following:

Imagine you make 1 sin you don't repent of, and you go to hell for it? Does that seem like a merciful god? I love god, religion seems harsh?

Updated 23 mins ago:

I'm talking of a sin you know is wrong and you do till you die.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken. Wherefore hear the word of the Lord, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place. And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it. From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day and by night: and it shall be a vexation only to understand the report. (Isaiah 28: 13-19, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Are Sinners “saved?” (10/11/2020); Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Chances To Determine Outcomes (06/07/2020); Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020); “Sinners” And “The Righteous” (03/19/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); Divinity Commanded the Void (01/28/2020)

“cool”, the profound challenges and consequences generated by sin are harsh, and sin must be made visible to Creation as corruption (we also say, decay, rotting). Sin is not a man-made problem, and can not be eliminated using finite human ability. All sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the continued existence of the Lawgiver, and the continued existence for the spheres of life established to support the living (i.e., heaven and earth; what we know as the universe). Sin has not been created or put forth by divinity, yet, the working of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. Sin promotes non-existence and a return to the conditions that were in place before Creation (e.g., chaos, lack of fixed form, and movement without direction). The mercy, righteousness, and wrath of GOD against sin are displayed through both divine judgment that is impartial, and through divine grace that expresses forbearance, forgiveness, love, repentance and sorrow for win within sinners, and reconciliation. Mankind was to be a companion to divinity who is immortal, incorruptible and invisible. Even so, the life essence (breath; spirit; divine utterance; word) that was imparted from the makeup of GOD to mankind has become altered by transgression, and now appears as mortality and death working upon the earth. The mercy of GOD is poured out as the blood and life of Jesus Christ that has provided atonement, opportunities, and possibilities for mankind that otherwise can not exist. Man now may become “the new creation” and may live on the earth eternally once perfected by GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Matthew 22: 29, King James Version (KJV): 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.

(2.) Ecclesiastes 9: 18, KJV: 18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.

(3.) Galatians 5: 19-25, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

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.

Image downloaded 8:00 PM, December 23, 2020 @ http://media.salemwebnetwork.com/cms/BST/40306-hope.400w.tn.png

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/19/2020) GOD Made The World

Confusion and error may result by using language as a name or title for GOD that identifies divinity as associated with specific ethnic groups, individuals, and geographic locations. When reading the holy writings, the preposition “of” can appear indicating a specific origin or source (e.g., the epistle of Paul = “from” Paul), or “of” will indicate an owner (gods of the nations = “from” belonging to). Such phrases as “the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob” and “the God of our fathers” suggest that divinity is a material property concieved, owned, possesed, and shared among mankind as ones inheritance. Today, Israel is used as the name of a modern democracy among the nations in the Middle East, the name of a foremost patriarch and heir from Abraham among the Hebrews as well as the name that was used for the Northern Kingdom (also called Samaria) that was established by the ten tribes who became a separate state when they rejected Rehoboam, son of Solomon, and refused further rule by the House of David. It is written: Revelation 14: 6-7, King James Version (KJV): 6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes” (Level 1 with 1 point) posted the following:

The God of Israel is the God of Israel. Why would you worship the God of Israel if you are a Canadian, American, etc.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. (Genesis 2: 1-3, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Both Existence and Life (12/11/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); “What if” and “Maybe” (10/20/2020); Why So Many Churches? (10/17/2020); Jews In Perpetual Covenant? (09/20/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Why Is Passover Important? (03/01/2020)

“Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes”, for many mature Christian believers the divine fullness we speak of as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit has created the heaven and earth as well as all that have existence and life. Existing as spirit in form and substance, GOD can not be defined using the same finite human measures used to describe insitutions that emerge through social exchange and interaction, such material objects on the earth as governments, kingdoms, nations, or the things within time and space (e.g., ages, eras, events, locations, periods). Consider again the following that presents Christian belief using language found in the Bible:

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

(2.) Ephesians 4: 4-6, KJV: 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:25 AM, December 19, 2020 @ http://hethathasanear.com/images/dove-priests.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/21/2020) Acknowledging And Confessing Sin

Like newborn babes require continuous contact and nourishment from their caretakers and parents, Christians should desire an ongoing relationship with divinity.

Today, reply is that mankind’s need for fellowship and ongoing relationship with divinity through prayer and confession of sin is more correct and necessary than self-reflection. Many men seek to escape having to face divine judgment because the tribunals of GOD must be complete, exacting, impartial, and incontrovertible; and outcomes can not be influenced or manipulated by created beings and living creatures. Because the goals of self-evaluation and seeking to judge oneself often focus on a desired outcome of self-approval, bias, prejudice, and subjective assessments of behaviors and goals repeatedly appear that skewer and disqualify the results that emerge by carnal soul-searching. Subtlety (barely visible differences; hidden meanings and values) may be ignored and given far less weight than is appropriate. Pursuing a mature relationship with divinity (e.g., the Father; the Good Shepherd; the Judge; the Son; the Redeemer; the Savior) requires taking accountability, communicating in prayer, commitment, discernment, focus, humility, integrity, obedience, responding to guidance, and willingness to apprehend divine expressions of joy, meaning, purpose, and value. It is written: Romans 8: 14-17, King James Version (KJV): 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Regwash” (Level 7 with 131,994 points) posted the following:

Might critical self reflection be just as good as confessing sins to Jesus or whatever?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Galatians 4: 3-6, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Multiple Relationships With GOD (06/16/2020); Chances To Determine Outcomes (06/07/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); The Purpose Of Worship (10//10/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Reasoning Together With GOD? (03/11/2019)

“Regwash”, it is not only important to Christians that we acknowledge the authority, power, and sovereignty of GOD, there also must be an affirmation of his goodness, grace, mercy, and righteousness. Those who are willing to receive the guidance and instruction that all things that have existence and that have life were created and put forth by divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) also are challenged to understand that GOD is not an abstraction, a mechanical device, or another phenomena that occurs by chance within the natural world. To have a full and correct consciousness of divinity requires there be sacred knowledge that comes through regular contact, ongoing exchange, and meaningful interaction with GOD whose process and substance are immortal, incorruptible, invisible spirit. Self reflection is a product of such finite human tools as intellect, introspection, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science. The flesh is subject to the operations of sin that may dominate appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), emotion/mind (e.g., anger, fear, recall), and self-will (willpower). At Creation mankind was endowed with life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) from the makeup of divinity. Similarly, through Jesus Christ, mankind is to receive a fresh endowment of the inseparable aspects of divinity. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Relationships allow affection, communication, discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice, and unselfish service. Relationships with divinity fosters and thrives by acknowledgments of error, forgiveness, sacred law, divine proclamations, promises, eternal purpose, repentance, suffering, and expressions of the sovereign will of GOD received as rebirth and the divine nature. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Jeremiah 9: 23-24, 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.

(2.) 1^st Peter 2: 1-3, KJV: 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

(3.) Ephesians 1: 3-11, KJV: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

(4.) Ephesians 1: 17-23, KJV: 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:10 AM, June 21, 2020 @ https://kenyasleeth.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/img_0841.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/11/2019) They Forgot His Name

Today, reply is on the name believers are to use when speaking of the true and living GOD, and on forgetting the name of GOD by pursuing false gods and idolatry. Divine names are memorials that mark and continue awareness of sacred events. Also, a sacred “name” proclaims the personhood and reputation divinity presents for communication, exchange, and interaction with created beings and living creatures. Forms of “forgetting GOD” include exaggerated pride, idolatry, presumption, exalting self-will above the divine will, and the worship of false gods. GOD is to be known and spoken of by acknowledging the divine achievements and works. It is written: Exodus 3: 14-15, King James Version (KJV): 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. 15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

Christians, what does God mean at Jeremiah 23:27 that they forgot his name through Baal worship?

Jeremiah 23:27: “Through their dreams that they tell one another, they plan to cause my people to forget my name as their fathers forgot my name through Baal worship.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint; Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that he might humble thee, and that he might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end; And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God. (Deuteronomy 8: 11-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Saying “In God's Name” (10/22/2018); Jesus Called “Almighty GOD?” (12/21/2017); Names For Sacred Persons? (08/01/2017); The New Testament Name (05/01/2017); Holy Fire From GOD? (04/27/2017); Warnings Against Forgetting GOD? (02/16/2017); True and Living GOD (08/03/2016); The Choice of Knowledge? (10/28/2015)

“Anonymous”, where false prophets and teachers appear who have not been anointed and sent from GOD, they often present dreams, interpretations, lies, and speculation about possible supernatural events. In so doing they encourage covenant believers to “forget” the sacred works whereby divinity is to be acknowledged, known, and continually respected. Prophets and teachers of error make false claims that the reputation and works that should be credited to GOD are from false gods, idols, or other men. Thus, they require the offerings, praises, sacrifices, thanksgiving, and worship that should be shown to GOD be given to another. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Proverbs 20: 11, King James Version (KJV): 11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

2. Isaiah 48: 10-12, KJV: 10 Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. 11 For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another. 12 Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Isaiah 42: 5-8, KJV: 5 Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: 6 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; 7 To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. 8 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:54 AM, August 11, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/564x/b1/02/10/b102103119e8c9a25d0e6f8995cfa41f.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/04/2019) Satan Rules Over Torment?

A postage stamp issued by Germany featuring Goethe's Faust as a cultural treasure (see reference below)

Today, reply is on the biblical origin of accounts describing Satan the ruler over “hell” as the place where divine torment is administered following final judgment. Not having the fresh endowment of spirit content that comes from the makeup of GOD, many outside of the church become entangled by error because, to them, their own inescapable emotions, feelings, imagination, and private thoughts are more authentic, real, and indisputable than anything that might come from another person. For Christians, the goal of the soul is to become Christ-like; and developing believers must become set apart and sanctified through their lifestyle and living routines in order to avoid the defilement and spiritual confusion that are widespread through fascination by such attractions as philosophy and skepticism; politics; science and secular knowledge; social activism; superstition; and the occult. Thus, even those among the body can be unaware that, written in the Book of Revelation, Satan will undergo what is called the second death (i.e., he is cast into the Lake of Fire) before the second resurrection, when the wicked will be privileged to appear before Jesus Christ in the White Throne judgment. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Communism Kills” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since September 25, 2017) posted the following:

Where did the belief that "The devil rules hell and his demons torture the souls that go there for eternity" come from exactly?

The Bible literally doesn't even say that.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was to hurt men five months. And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter. (Revelation 9: 10-12, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Solutions From GOD (04/03/2019); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); The Place of Torment? (08/21/2017); Hell and The Cross? (04/10/2016); Flammable? (05/25/2015); The Harrowing of Hell? (02/10/2015); The Adversary? (12/05/2012); “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012)

“Communism Kills”, mature Christian faith continues to affirm the truth that the life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD, and the holy writings that speak to the Creation, Judgment, Redemption, and Salvation of mankind are not a source for the many errors describing divinity that are shared among created beings and living creatures. Sinners who choose to become developing Christian believers, and those who seek to mix and match sacred knowledge with earthly customs, folklore, and traditions along with worldly and secular knowledge are often influenced by images and reports from epic literature (e.g., Dante’ Inferno, the poem Paradise Lost by Milton, the performance opera and theater play, Faust), and visual arts (e.g., paintings; motion pictures such as The Omen; television productions such as Supernatural). The creative arts apply principles of fantasy and imagination in order to amuse and entertain that include a “willing suspension of disbelief” that supports altering the Scriptures, contradiction of “common sense,” discrete/out of context episodes, fictions, outright lies, and the temporary acceptance of otherwise false and incredible (unbelievable) claims. By contrast, Christian belief is a sophisticated system of interrelated accounts from human experiences of divinity appearing within the awareness and self-will of the living recorded as thousands of events, over the course of thousands of years. Believers apprehend genuine biblical truth through such features as the practice of discernment (using ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD to recognize and respond to the godly Spirit substance within events, other persons, etc.), discovery, gradual growth, unselfish service, and suffering. The elements that men point to when they seek to dismiss their accountability to GOD, and justify error (I’m right when I am wrong, because...) often includes the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 4: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

2. Revelation 12: 7-10, KJV: 7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. John 8: 42-45, KJV: 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/31/2019) Recognizing Holy and Unholy

Today, reply is on discernment of the spirit content within oneself and others that is imparted from the makeup of GOD. Sinners who are born-again will become developing Christian believers, and will receive and display a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the divine fullness. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Through sacred process and operations of the imparted Spirit, developing Christians are to become increasingly Christlike. All within the body of Christ will gradually gain the sacred knowledge, maturity, spiritual truth, and the many skills and tools that equip believers for self-sacrifice, unselfish service, and suffering as the offspring of GOD, as joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and as the new creation. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Christians, how do you know if someone have Holy spirit or unholy spirit?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. (1^st John 3: 1-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Christians Are Following Jesus (01/24/2019); You Will Receive Power? (12/28/2018); The Discernment of Godliness (07/13/2018); When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018); Purity For Sacred Truth (12/17/2018); Divine Holiness and Sanctity (12/25/2017); Holiness (07/01/2015) 

“Anonymous”, here is some of the same guidance provided to developing Christian believers of the early church that uses language from the Bible where the Holy Spirit is also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Spirit of Truth:

1. 1^st John 4: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

2. 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.

3. 1^st John 3: 18-24, KJV: 18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. 24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Malachi 3: 13-18, KJV: 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/20/2016) Half Empty, Half Full?

Today, Excalibur (the sword of King Arthur), the Sword of Truth, deception, discernment, and judgment are in view.  Before sinners become committed as those who are reborn through Jesus Christ, there are many vain elements (i.e., features lacking sacred substance; things that should not be taken into account) from the flesh and the world that determine what they will focus upon and perceive as causes, explanations, justifications, and priorities among life experiences.  Those who are deceived attribute to the Adversary (Satan) authority, majesty, power and rule over duration, obedience, and worship.  Yet, the Adversary and his followers in heaven are created beings, who are neither mortal nor immortal, and continue having access to divinity, knowledge, and existence only at the discretion and prerogative of GOD.  Eternal life, glory, perfection, and sovereignty over all that exists should be regarded as belonging exclusively to GOD.  Thus, it is written:  James 2:  19, King James Version (KJV):  19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:  the devils also believe, and tremble.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anthony” (Level 1 with 102 points, a member since October 14, 2016) posted the following:


Why do people blame God for all of the trouble and deaths that's going on today I thought it was SATAN?

Isnt it SATAN, I think he should be the one to BLAME!!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.  Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.  Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so:  thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.  Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.  By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned:  therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God:  and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire.  Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness:  I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.  Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffick; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee.  All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee:  thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more.  (Ezekiel 28:  12-19, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:   About Lucifer in Scripture (02/18/2016); The Greatest Weapon? (12/17/2015); Holy Garments? (09/24/2015); Satan Should Stand Trial? (02/16/2014); The Right Place to Get Knowledge? (02/17/2014); Does Satan Know? (11/06/2013); Unguarded Chocolates? (11/07/2013)


“Anthony”, those who blame, condemn, and seek to contend against GOD are in error.  Such persons may have been deceived (we say, manipulated, tricked) by the Adversary; influenced by those who disbelieve (e.g., family, peers, and society); or their awareness and self-will may be dominated by sin.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and all Creation.  The will of GOD is not subject to sin, therefore, those created beings and living creatures among the angels and mankind who are overthrown by sin must regain the indwelling divine essence (we say, breath, spirit, word, utterance) that permits an eternal existence as a companion to divinity.

Often what people take to be the truth, or trust to be correct regarding divinity is anchored in popular culture, secular knowledge, and their own private expressions of creativity and mind.  Through “baptism” (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak), and various other sacred operations that can be completed only by GOD, sinners become “born again” and must “grow up again.”  Christian believers must acquire sacred knowledge along with new ways of assigning value, displaying and expressing their own spirit content, making choices, resting, speaking, and thinking.

Error and sin express more than simply a person’s likes and dislikes, their personality, or individual qualities and traits.  Aspects of cosmic and transcendent order come into view including unseen elements from ones character, nature, and substance.  While what appears upon the surface truly is an authentic indication of what is beneath, the frameworks of time and space always generate dimensionality so that, what you see now is not always what you get later.  A classic  example of this was shared through the 1981 motion picture, Excalibur, that centered upon King Arthur, who established a tradition of courtliness and knighthood in a territory where idolatry, elements from the Roman Empire, witchcraft, and Christian belief all coexisted in conflict.  Camelot became a model for nations throughout Christendom.  Sir Mordred was the king’s nephew and son; a bitter, impatient crown prince (like Absalom, son of King David) yet heir to the throne; and the king’s greatest enemy (the Black Knight).  Preparing to go into battle, we see the assassin choosing to wear a golden armor, and dressed to kill as “an angel of light.”

Among mature Christian believers the Adversary is acknowledged as one at the level of a servant, while the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are exalted and preeminent.  The Adversary was created to serve the GODhead, even through peculiar roles in the atonement, judgment, redemption and salvation of the entire earth and mankind.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/11/2016) Are All Debts Forgiven?

Today, focus is upon the idolatrous error that canceling debts, financial transactions, money, and profits are aspects of the divine process for sinners who become reborn.  While baptism can be thought of as a person’s “death” that releases them from indebtedness and sin, and their second birth that makes them known as a “new creation” through the blood of Jesus Christ, the actual changes that occur have to do more with their spirit content than their assets, credit score or net worth, and are to appear within the believer’s character, lifestyle, makeup, and nature.  Following water baptism, a new believer will have the exact same height, weight, and physical conditions for life upon the earth.  Even so, they also will have been given a deposit and earnest of the Spirit of GOD that includes divine assurance, certainty, clear expectations, new possibilities, eternal purpose, and sacred promises.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “SupaStar” (Level 4 with 3,923 points, a member since August 07, 2014) posted the following:

Say I owe you $20. I accept Jesus into my life, and become born again. Am I now forgiven from owing you that $20? How does the idea of ...?

...substitution atonement make any sense?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:  So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.  My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:  For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.  Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.  For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.  She is more precious than rubies:  and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.  Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.  Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.  (Proverbs 3:  9-17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  To Forgive is Divine? (04/06/2016); A Self-Less Creation? (02/11/2016); Christ Receives the Tithes? (08/04/2015); A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014); Why Blood? (04/13/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); Non-existent Debt? (03/07/2013); My Sheep Hear My Voice (03/08/2013)

“SupaStar”, the sinner who becomes “born again” is carried through a divine process of spiritual transformation, not one that is carnal, financial, material, and social.  Becoming a Christian believer is not a guarantee of earnings, income, prosperity, or wealth.  The debts, duties, liens, obligations and penalties that must come into view speak to the requirements that come by such factors as accountability to others within a community of faith (the church), voluntary commitment to divinity, dependence as divine offspring, sacred law, love, ownership by GOD, respect, trust, and the sovereign majesty of the Creator.  In water baptism there is death of ones inborn spirit and their rebirth having divine spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  What confuses many is that, those who are “born again” also must “grow up again” to become mature in Spirit while meeting the same life challenges that come against sinners.  Believers gradually acquire sacred knowledge through sacred practice of fellowship, forgiveness, praise, prayer, repentance, various sacraments, and unselfish service.  The imparted, indwelling spirit (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) provides inseparable aspects of our Maker that establish ability to conceive the unseen, comprehend the invisible, and be in harmony with the eternal.  Consider again the following Scriptures:

(1.)  Proverbs 16:  16, King James Version (KJV):  16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

(2.)  Ephesians 2:  4-6, KJV:  4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,  5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)  6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:  7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.  8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

(3.)  Romans 6:  23, KJV:  23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(4.)  1st Timothy 6:  17-19, KJV:  17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;  18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;  19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 5:  2-4, KJV:  2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.  4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/11/2016) Proud, Yet Not Mature?

Today, points are shared on humility, mercy and sacred knowledge vital to becoming fruitful as Christian believers.  While appeal is made to those who correctly realize there is need for a profound change in the fullness of divine Creation, Christ is not recruiting followers upon the earth who are to serve as blasphemers, covenant-breakers, destroyers, killers, promoters of sin, slanderers, or those who will abase, condemn, and ruthlessly torment others.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Catholic” (Level 1 with 101 points, a member since July 09, 2016) posted the following:

Isn't sinful for Christians to yearn for death and destruction of gay communities? Is it common for Christians to have that view?

I have a Facebook friend of age 70 who belongs to old oriental orthodox Christian. She considers that homosexuality is wrong and disagrees with gay marriage. I respect her view on that.

But what I found disturbing is that she has put posted a comment on facebook where she prays to God for destroying the LGBT communities of America ( especially those participating in the the gay pride parades) in Sodom and Gomorrah manner
When explained to her that yearning for death of something just because she disagrees with it is like having a terrorist mindset. But she proudly reiterated that she has that mindset.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them:  for this is the law and the prophets.  Enter ye in at the strait gate:  for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?  Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.  A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.  Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  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.  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?  And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you:  depart from me, ye that work iniquity.  (Matthew 7:  12-23, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); Presumption Is Never Helping (05/23/2016); Presumption, Pride and Sin? (11/24/2015); One Faith, One Lord? (09/26/2014); Healing is By Relationship? (09/27/2014); The Sin of Pride? (08/13/2014); Judged For Acts and Thoughts? (08/14/2014)

“Catholic”, many may be counted as “proud” Christians, who are not also “mature” Christians.  Often “the proud” are those who have approached Christian belief to obtain the free gifts and privileges granted to the disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, and who have no real appreciation of the duties, responsibilities, and works of faith required as aspects of GOD’s “new creation.”  Without the inseparable elements from the makeup of divinity imparted through such sacred experiences as baptism, fellowship, service, study and worship, a believer lacks the necessary spirit substance that releases the living from human error, ignorance, and spiritual confusion.  Included are balance, faith, forbearance, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Every “born again” believer, must also “grow up” again becoming mature by continuing life experiences upon the earth.  Because of the divine operations of rebirth performed by the Holy Spirit, believers are enabled to acknowledge Jesus as Son of the Highest, and a living sacrifice for atonement and propitiation of sin.  Believers are to undergo a transformation to exist as life companions of divinity (i.e., they are to become immortal and incorruptible).  The  permanent changes now being made in their character, nature and substance are gradually introduced and revealed through the church.  Diversity continues to appear among believers, and, while all are to be unified as a single body, all are not upon the same emotional, psychological, and spiritual levels.

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, believers are commanded to love one another, and even to love their enemies.  Forgiveness and unselfish ministry are to be practiced continually.  Even so, judgment is vital to the continued existence of Creation.  The operations of sin oppose the further existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the Creation put forth under law.  Thus, while life is the divine intent, death has been introduced as a sacred tool needed to expose sin, and ensure life through resurrection.  Those insisting they themselves may display the displeasure and wrath of GOD, usually do so as defiance, disobedience, presumption, and rebellion against the Most High.  Consider again how some of this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)  Hosea 6:  1-7, King James Version (KJV):  1 Come, and let us return unto the LORD:  for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.  2 After two days will he revive us:  in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.  3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD:  his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.  4 O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.  5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth:  and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth.  6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.  7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant:  there have they dealt treacherously against me.

(2.)  Titus 3:  3-7, KJV:  3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.  4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,  5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;  6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;  7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

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

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, 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.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.  20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us:  we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.  21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC